Florida Poly’s Data Science Program Ranks Top 10 Nationwide
Florida Polytechnic University’s undergraduate data science degree program has been ranked No. 9 in the nation for 2026 by TechGuide.org, placing it among elite institutions such as Stanford University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and Duke University.
The ranking, released as part of TechGuide’s Best Campus Bachelor’s in Data Science Programs for 2026, places Florida Poly ahead of programs at several nationally recognized universities, including Caltech, Penn State, Northwestern, and Yale. The recognition highlights Florida Poly’s growing reputation as a leader in high-demand STEM education.
“This ranking underscores Florida Poly’s emergence as a national leader in core STEM disciplines,” said Dr. Brad Thiessen, the University’s provost. “Our data science program equips students with the analytical and technical skills required in today’s data-driven economy.”
Florida Poly’s curriculum integrates applied mathematics, computer science, statistics, optimization, data mining, and machine learning to provide students with a comprehensive and market-ready skill set. Graduates commonly pursue careers as data analysts, data engineers, data scientists, and research analysts across a wide range of industries.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, data scientists earned a median annual salary of $112,590 in 2024, with employment projected to grow 34% between 2024 and 2034, reflecting strong demand for graduates with advanced data skills.
“Our program emphasizes hands-on learning, close faculty mentorship, and real-world data applications,” said Dr. Paul Hettler, chair of Florida Poly’s Department of Data Science and Business Analytics. “Students learn not only how to work with data, but how to translate it into actionable insights that drive decision-making.”
In addition to its academic strength, Florida Poly’s data science program is the most affordable among the top 20, with four-year in-state tuition and fees totaling $19,760. University leaders note that affordability remains central to Florida Poly’s mission of delivering accessible, high-quality STEM education.
TechGuide based its rankings on U.S. Department of Education data, evaluating factors such as admissions selectivity, class size, financial aid availability, graduation outcomes, and total enrollment.
Read more: Florida Poly’s data science program ranks Top 10 in the U.S. – Florida Polytechnic University