BOONE, N.C. — Appalachian State University has been recognized by Fortune in its list of “Best Master’s in Data Science for 2025.” The business magazine ranked App State seventh in the nation for its Master of Science in applied data analytics (MSADA) program — a four position increase over the university’s 2024 ranking.

Additionally, Fortune recognized the university in its “Most Affordable Master’s in Data Science for 2025” rankings list, placing App State’s MSADA program as No. 13 in the nation for affordability.

The 36-hour degree program, offered by App State’s Walker College of Business, was created in 2016 and provides students with the technical skills to work with data — and to do so within a business context. Graduates of the program understand and can apply data analytics concepts, techniques and tools to promote effective organizational decision-making and problem-solving.

“App State stands as a national leader in higher education for innovative academic programs that prepare students to excel in dynamic and emerging fields,” said App State Interim Chancellor Heather Norris. “These accolades attest to the quality of App State’s Walker College of Business, whose graduates go on to serve their communities as business executives, data scientists, accountants and more.”

Fortune ranked the top 35 universities with the most exceptional data science master’s programs, based on eight criteria:

• Previous ranking/participation
• Annual search volume (online search queries for the program)
• Total program cost for out-of-state U.S. residents
• Acceptance rate for the 2023–24 academic year 
• Number of admitted students for 2023–24
• Average undergraduate GPA (2023–24)
• Graduation rate (considers 2021 through 2024)
• One-year retention rate (2023–24)

The rankings place the most significant weight on graduation and one-year retention rates. In the 2023–24 academic year, the retention rate for the App State program was 90%, and the graduation rate from 2021 to 2024 was 95%.

The rankings in the “Most Affordable Master’s in Data Science for 2025” list are based solely on the approximate total program cost for out-of-state U.S. residents, which for App State is $44,295.

“We are committed to aligning our business programs with student needs and industry demands in the rapidly evolving fields of data analysis and technology management,” said Dr. Sandra Vannoy, dean of the Walker College of Business. “We are pleased that our Master of Science in applied data analytics program is proving its merit not only through the achievements of our students and graduates but also through rankings like this one from Fortune.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, data science is the fourth-fastest growing occupation in the country, and many companies are willing to pay competitive salaries even for entry-level candidates. The bureau reports that the current mean salary for data scientists is $108,020.

“The Fortune ranking underscores our commitment to providing exceptional and accessible graduate education that prepares students to excel in data-driven careers,” said Dr. Jason Xiong, associate dean for advanced studies in App State’s Walker College of Business and associate professor in the college’s Department of Computer Information Systems.

Learn more about the M.S. in applied data analytics and other App State graduate programs at appstate.edu/academics/graduate.

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Applied Data Analytics: Master of Science Degree (MS)

Big data is shaping our lives and creating high demand for data scientists and analysts. Now is the time to capitalize on this growing opportunity and become job-ready with a Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics from App State.

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Walker College of Business

The Walker College of Business at Appalachian State University delivers transformational educational experiences that prepare and inspire students to be ethical, innovative and engaged business leaders who positively impact our community, both locally and globally. The college places emphasis on international experiences, sustainable business practices, entrepreneurial programs and real-world applications with industry. Enrolling more than 4,000 undergraduates in 11 majors, Walker College has the highest enrollment of full-time undergraduate students in the University of North Carolina System, and more than 250 graduate students are enrolled in the college’s three master’s programs. App State’s Walker College is accredited by AACSB International — the premier global accrediting body for business schools.

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About Appalachian State University

As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, affordable education for all. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu.