Overview

The Data Engineering programme at Southern Methodist University provides a rigorous academic foundation in the design and management of sophisticated data systems. Students engage with a multidisciplinary curriculum that integrates machine learning, statistics, and database management to solve modern technical challenges.

This degree is specifically structured to accommodate the schedules of both full-time students and active industry professionals. By focusing on the lifecycle of data—from initial acquisition to secure processing—the curriculum ensures that graduates are prepared for high-level technical roles in the evolving digital economy.

Applicants typically hold a bachelor's degree in a quantitative field such as engineering, mathematics, or computer science.

Why Data Engineering at Southern Methodist University?

The Lyle School of Engineering provides state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative environment that bridges the gap between theoretical research and practical application. Students benefit from a curriculum that addresses the critical needs of the global workforce, supported by expert faculty and advanced technical resources.

The programme offers distinct flexibility through various completion paths, including a coursework-only option, specialized technical tracks, or a research-focused thesis. This adaptable structure allows students to align their academic journey with specific career goals or doctoral aspirations within the engineering sector.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 1350 per credit
National fee: USD 1350 per credit
Local fee: USD 1350 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The core curriculum establishes a baseline of expertise in information systems and analytics. Modules may include:

Information System Design Strategies
Data Mining
Machine Learning in Python
Probability and Statistics for Scientists and Engineers
Microcontroller Architecture and Interfacing

Careers with Data Engineering

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles across industries that rely on large-scale data infrastructure and secure processing. Potential career paths include data architect, systems designer, and security analyst within sectors such as telecommunications, finance, and software development.

The programme's emphasis on both foundational engineering and advanced electives like cloud computing and artificial intelligence ensures graduates remain competitive. Many alumni pursue leadership positions in technology management or continue their research in specialized engineering laboratories.

Programme Structure

Courses:

Information System Design Strategies

Machine Learning in Python

Probability and Statistics for Scientists and Engineers

Statistical Design and Analysis of Experiments

Information Theory

XML and the Enterprise

Management of Information Technologies

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-05-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-07-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-10 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Dallas, United States

Disciplines

Data Science & Big Data View 469 other Masters in Data Science & Big Data in United States

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

A bachelor’s degree in one of the engineering disciplines, quantitative sciences, mathematics, or computer science.

A minimum of one year of college-level calculus and an introductory course in probability and statistics.

A minimum of two years of industry experience or submission of official GRE general graduate school admission test scores.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

40500 USD / year

≈ 40500 USD / year
Out-of-State

40500 USD / year

≈ 40500 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

40500 USD / year

≈ 40500 USD / year

Living costs

Dallas

United States

1140 - 1925 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Data Engineering.

Available Scholarships

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Dallas

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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