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Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, MS
Master of Science in Data Science and AI
* Tuition:
$17,220 | 30 Credit Hours | Finish in as little as 18-24 months
Begin as soon as: January 11, 2027 or May 17, 2027
Why Choose UCM for Your Master’s in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence?
Data scientists and artificial intelligence specialists who can harness data-driven decision-making are in high demand across commercial, institutional and nonprofit organizations. The University of Central Missouri’s HLC-accredited MS in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence prepares you to lead in this ever-evolving tech field.
Designed for working professionals and ambitious graduates, UCM offers flexible course options, including online, in-person, daytime, evening or weekend. Advance your career without sacrificing your personal life. Build advanced expertise in machine learning, data visualization and big data analytics. Tackle complex challenges in healthcare, business and beyond.
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UCM's Data Science and Artificial Intelligence MS at a Glance
Degree Type: Master of Science | Credit Hours: 30 Hours
Degree Can be Taken: Warrensburg | Lee's Summit | Online | Hybrid
- Ranked a Most Affordable Online Master's Degree (Online Master’s Colleges, 2026), a Best Online Master's in Artificial Intelligence Program (Online Master's College, 2026) and a Top 10 Online Master’s Programs in Missouri (Academic Influence, 2026)
- Opportunities to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge research projects in AI tech and data analytics
- Online and on-campus classes available during the day, in the evening or on weekends
- Access to state-of-the-art tech and computer labs
ContactDr. Belinda Copus Questions after hours? Call/Text Mo, our AI Graduate Recruiter: 660-628-5025
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Explore admissions requirements, learning outcomes, degree requirements, course options and more.
What will you learn in UCM’s MS in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence?
At UCM, you’ll dive into a comprehensive program that pairs theoretical foundations with practical, hands-on skill development. You will learn to extract actionable insights from complex datasets and build advanced intelligent systems across key focus areas:
- Machine Learning & Deep Learning: Develop and train predictive models and transformative algorithms.
- Data Visualization: Translate raw data into clear, compelling visual insights for organizational decision-making.
- Big Data Analytics: Process and analyze vast datasets using advanced data science and machine learning tools.
- Natural Language Processing: Enable computational systems to process, analyze and interpret human language.
Unique learning opportunities in UCM’s Data Science and Artificial Intelligence MS program
UCM provides experiential learning opportunities that extend well beyond traditional classroom instruction:
- Stay Close to the Action: UCM's Lee’s Summit campus is surrounded by tech companies, startups and research institutions, which keep you near internships, networking events and industry partnerships.
- Research Collaborations: Work directly alongside faculty members on cutting-edge research projects in AI technology and advanced data analytics.
- Hackathons & Competitions: Test your problem-solving abilities, showcase your creativity and collaborate with peers.
- Cutting-Edge Facilities: Work with vast datasets and modern computational equipment in state-of-the-art laboratory environments.
- Student Organizations & Networking: Connect with guest speakers, attend tech conferences and build professional relationships through the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) student chapter and Upsilon Pi Epsilon (UPE) computing honor society.
Fast facts about UCM’s MS in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence program
- Recognized Value & Quality: Ranked a Most Affordable Online Master's Degree (Online Master’s Colleges, 2026), a Best Online Master's in Artificial Intelligence Program (Online Master's College, 2026) and a Top 10 Online Master’s Programs in Missouri (Academic Influence, 2026)
- Flexible Learning Formats: Online and on-campus classes available during the day, in the evening or on weekends
- Institutional Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredited
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Financial Aid and Scholarships for UCM’s Data Science and Artificial Intelligence MS Students
As a UCM student, you’ll have a financial aid advisor as part of your six-person student support team to help you find the best way to finance your college education.
UCM helps keep student debt low by offering competitive tuition rates alongside paid on-campus work opportunities, such as tutoring or teaching assistant roles, that allow students to earn income while gaining valuable leadership and subject-matter experience. Take the next step by exploring the UCM Scholarship Finder to review award criteria and connecting directly with your dedicated financial aid advisor to find the best way to fund your degree.
The next steps to your Data Science and Artificial Intelligence MS degree at UCM:
① Request information about Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at UCM.
② Schedule a visit or Connect virtually with a UCM admissions rep.
Career opportunities and outcomes for UCM Data Science and Artificial Intelligence MS graduates
Earning your MS in Data Science and AI from UCM opens doors to high-impact career pathways across industries like business, finance, technology and healthcare. Graduates from UCM's computing programs have secured positions at top Fortune 500 companies, including Boeing, Garmin, IBM, J.P. Morgan, Mastercard and T-Mobile.
Whether you aim to design neural networks, manage enterprise big data or lead AI transformation initiatives, UCM provides the technical preparation and industry connections to help you maximize your professional potential.
Apply to UCM's Data Science and Artificial Intelligence MS program
The UCM Career and Life Design Center
The UCM Career and Life Design Center is here for undergraduate students, graduate students and alumni from all majors, identities and interests. We are a hub for career exploration and career readiness. We offer resources and support for:
- exploring career options
- life design (explore and build career and life journeys, designing next steps)
- job and internship searching
- document reviews (resumes, cover letters, personal statements, etc.)
- interviews (coaching and mock interviewing)
- Professional Clothing Studio
- preparation for graduate school (application materials, exploring programs)
- and more!
Make yourself more marketable.
In addition to your master’s degree in Data Science and AI , you can enhance your career opportunities by specializing with a:
Explore programs related to data science and AI.
With more than 50 master’s degrees, UCM has a graduate program for you. We also offer degrees in:
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll master advanced technical subjects, including machine learning, deep learning, big data analytics, data visualization and natural language processing. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing you to develop algorithms, analyze complex datasets and lead data-driven decision-making across diverse industries.
This program prepares you for advanced roles in data science, artificial intelligence, big data analytics and machine learning across industries like healthcare and business. Graduates from UCM's computing master's programs have been hired by top Fortune 500 companies, including Boeing, Garmin, IBM, J.P. Morgan, Mastercard and T-Mobile.
Yes. UCM’s MS in Data Science and AI is designed for maximum flexibility. You can take your courses online or in-person, with scheduling options available during the day, in the evening and on weekends, so you can complete your degree without interrupting your personal or professional life.
UCM offers competitive tuition rates and holds national recognition, including rankings among the most affordable online master's programs (Online Master’s Colleges, 2026). Additionally, students can apply for on-campus roles as tutors or teaching assistants to help finance their degree and can work with a dedicated financial aid advisor to explore funding options.
