Top 3 Data Science Programs in Washington 2025
University of Washington
Leading public research university with direct connections to Amazon, Microsoft, and Google. Strong machine learning and AI research programs with $125K median starting salary.
Washington State University
Growing data science program with emphasis on agricultural and environmental data applications. Strong industry partnerships and affordable tuition.
Seattle University
Small class sizes and personalized attention in heart of Seattle tech scene. Strong focus on ethical AI and social impact of data science.
- 1.Washington has 25+ data science and related programs across public and private institutions (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.University of Washington ranks #1 in Washington with 91% graduation rate and direct recruiting from Amazon, Microsoft, and Google
- 3.Data scientists in Washington earn median $140,250 annually—21% above the national median (BLS Washington 2024)
- 4.Seattle metropolitan area hosts 45,000+ data science and analytics jobs across tech, healthcare, and aerospace industries
- 5.In-state tuition at public universities averages $11,759—significantly below national average for top-tier programs
Data Science Education in Washington State
Washington state offers exceptional opportunities for data science students, anchored by the University of Washington's world-class program and Seattle's position as a global tech hub. With Amazon, Microsoft, Google, and hundreds of other tech companies headquartered or maintaining major operations in the region, Washington provides unmatched internship and career opportunities for data science graduates.
The state's data science programs range from research-intensive universities to applied, industry-focused programs. For national context, see our best data science bachelor's programs ranking. Students interested in affordability should review our most affordable data science programs guide. Career-focused students can explore our data scientist salary guide for Washington-specific compensation data and growth projections.
Washington's unique advantages include proximity to major tech employers, strong research funding, and a collaborative ecosystem between universities and industry. The state's focus on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning creates additional opportunities for data science students to specialize in cutting-edge fields.
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS Washington May 2024
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 data
Class size and accessibility to professors
Washington-specific salary data from BLS OEWS
Undergraduate research programs and faculty expertise
Washington Data Science Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Washington | Seattle | Public | $12,092 | 91% | 21:1 | 95.8 |
| 2 | Washington State University | Pullman | Public | $11,426 | 72% | 15:1 | 88.2 |
| 3 | Seattle University | Seattle | Private | $51,300 | 78% | 11:1 | 85.4 |
| 4 | Western Washington University | Bellingham | Public | $8,025 | 69% | 19:1 | 82.1 |
| 5 | Central Washington University | Ellensburg | Public | $8,655 | 67% | 17:1 | 79.8 |
| 6 | Eastern Washington University | Cheney | Public | $7,632 | 58% | 21:1 | 76.5 |
| 7 | Pacific Lutheran University | Tacoma | Private | $49,650 | 74% | 11:1 | 75.9 |
| 8 | Gonzaga University | Spokane | Private | $50,950 | 85% | 11:1 | 75.2 |
| 9 | University of Puget Sound | Tacoma | Private | $59,850 | 79% | 10:1 | 74.6 |
| 10 | Whitman College | Walla Walla | Private | $59,950 | 89% | 9:1 | 73.8 |
| 11 | Seattle Pacific University | Seattle | Private | $48,300 | 72% | 13:1 | 72.4 |
| 12 | The Evergreen State College | Olympia | Public | $7,416 | 58% | 21:1 | 70.1 |
| 13 | University of Washington Tacoma | Tacoma | Public | $12,092 | 68% | 18:1 | 69.5 |
| 14 | University of Washington Bothell | Bothell | Public | $12,092 | 72% | 20:1 | 68.9 |
| 15 | Washington State University Vancouver | Vancouver | Public | $11,426 | 65% | 16:1 | 67.3 |
University of Washington
Seattle, WA • University
Program Highlights
- • 91% graduation rate - highest among Washington public universities
- • $125,000 median starting salary for data science graduates
- • Over 200 tech company recruiting partnerships
- • 15+ specialized data science research labs and centers
Program Strengths
- World-class faculty with expertise in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and big data systems
- Direct partnerships with Amazon, Microsoft, and Google for internships and research opportunities
- Access to cutting-edge research labs including the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering
- Strong alumni network throughout Seattle tech industry and Silicon Valley
- Comprehensive curriculum covering statistics, machine learning, data visualization, and ethics
Why Ranked #1
The University of Washington leads Washington state in data science education with its comprehensive undergraduate program that combines rigorous academics with unparalleled industry access. Located in the heart of Seattle's tech ecosystem, UW students benefit from direct recruiting pipelines to Amazon, Microsoft, Google, and hundreds of other tech companies.
Student Reviews
"The combination of rigorous academics and real-world applications through industry partnerships prepared me perfectly for my role at Amazon. The faculty are world-renowned and genuinely invested in student success."
— UW Data Science Graduate, Class of 2024
"Having Amazon and Microsoft literally down the street creates incredible networking and internship opportunities. I had three job offers before graduation thanks to the connections I made through UW."
— Current UW Senior
Washington State University
Pullman, WA • University
Program Highlights
- • $11,426 in-state tuition - among the most affordable in the nation
- • 15:1 student-faculty ratio ensuring personalized attention
- • Growing alumni network in Pacific Northwest tech industry
- • Specialized tracks in agricultural and environmental data science
Program Strengths
- Unique focus on agricultural and environmental data science applications
- Strong partnerships with regional businesses and government agencies
- Affordable tuition with excellent student support services
- Research opportunities in precision agriculture and sustainability analytics
- Small class sizes enabling personalized faculty mentorship
Why Ranked #2
Washington State University offers a rapidly growing data science program that emphasizes practical applications in agriculture, environmental science, and business analytics. With affordable tuition and strong industry partnerships, WSU provides excellent value for students seeking comprehensive data science education outside the Seattle metropolitan area.
Seattle University
Seattle, WA • University
Program Highlights
- • 11:1 student-faculty ratio - most personalized attention among major programs
- • 78% graduation rate with strong post-graduation employment
- • Unique curriculum emphasizing ethics and social responsibility
- • Prime Seattle location with tech industry access
Program Strengths
- Strong emphasis on ethical AI and responsible data science practices
- Small class sizes with 11:1 student-faculty ratio
- Located in Seattle with easy access to tech industry opportunities
- Focus on social justice applications of data science
- Comprehensive liberal arts foundation supporting technical skills
Why Ranked #3
Seattle University's data science program stands out for its emphasis on ethical AI and social impact applications of data science. Located in Seattle's tech hub with small class sizes and personalized attention, SU provides a values-driven approach to data science education that appeals to students interested in using technology for social good.
Washington University Systems and Data Science Options
Washington's higher education landscape offers diverse pathways for data science education across both public and private institutions. The University of Washington system, with campuses in Seattle, Tacoma, and Bothell, provides the state's flagship data science programs with varying focuses and specializations.
The Washington State University system offers more affordable alternatives with strong regional connections and unique specializations. WSU's main campus in Pullman focuses on agricultural and environmental applications, while satellite campuses provide access to data science education across the state.
Private institutions like Seattle University, Gonzaga, and University of Puget Sound offer smaller class sizes and personalized attention, often with unique approaches to data science education. These programs typically emphasize liberal arts integration and ethical considerations in data science applications.
For students considering alternative pathways, Washington also offers strong cybersecurity programs and computer science programs that provide foundational skills transferable to data science careers. Additionally, the state's robust software engineering programs can serve as stepping stones into data engineering and analytics roles.
Career Paths
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets to derive business insights and build predictive models for tech companies, healthcare systems, and government agencies
Machine Learning Engineer
SOC 15-1221Design and implement ML systems and algorithms for Amazon, Microsoft, and other major tech companies in the Seattle area
Data Analytics Manager
SOC 11-3021Lead data teams and strategy for major corporations, overseeing business intelligence and analytics initiatives
Business Intelligence Analyst
SOC 15-2041Transform raw data into actionable business insights for Seattle's thriving startup ecosystem and established companies
Research Scientist
SOC 19-1042Conduct advanced research in AI and machine learning at university labs, Microsoft Research, or Amazon Science
Data Science Programs by State
California
Texas
New York
Massachusetts
Florida
Illinois
Washington In-State vs Out-of-State Tuition Comparison
| Factor | In-State Resident | Out-of-State Student | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public University Tuition | $11,759 average | $38,000+ average | In-State |
| Private University Tuition | $52,000 average | $52,000 average | Tie |
| Living Costs (Seattle) | $18,000/year | $18,000/year | Tie |
| Financial Aid Eligibility | State grants available | Limited state aid | In-State |
| Total 4-Year Cost | $119,000 public | $190,000+ public | In-State |
Which Should You Choose?
- Direct access to Amazon, Microsoft, Google, and major tech companies
- Strong job market with 45,000+ data science positions in Seattle metro area
- Affordable in-state tuition at top-tier public universities
- Access to cutting-edge research at University of Washington
- Networking opportunities in one of the world's major tech hubs
- Beautiful Pacific Northwest lifestyle with outdoor recreation opportunities
- Lower cost of living (Seattle has high housing costs)
- Warmer climate year-round
- More diverse industry sectors beyond tech
- Larger selection of private universities
- International study abroad programs
- Major financial or healthcare industry presence
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington Data Science Programs
Related Data Science Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Official government database providing graduation rates, tuition costs, and enrollment data for all accredited institutions
Washington state-specific salary data for data scientists and related occupations, updated May 2024
Federal research funding data and graduate school placement statistics for data science programs
Post-graduation employment and salary data from individual university career placement offices
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.