Best Data Science Programs in Bellevue Washington

Key Takeaways

• Bellevue, Washington sits in one of the strongest tech job markets in the United States, with direct access to Seattle-area employers like Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, T-Mobile, and hundreds of AI-driven startups.
• The top local options include Bellevue College and Bellevue University, offering bachelor’s and master’s pathways in data science, analytics, and data management.
• Students can choose from on-campus, hybrid, and fully online formats designed for working professionals.
• Affordable tuition, strong industry alignment, and regional job demand make Bellevue a strategic location to study data science.
• The median salary for data scientists in the Seattle-Bellevue-Tacoma metro area often exceeds $120,000 annually, depending on experience and specialization.

Why Study Data Science in Bellevue, Washington?

Bellevue is more than a suburb of Seattle. It is a fast-growing tech hub anchored by global companies and cutting-edge research. Amazon’s corporate offices, Microsoft’s Redmond headquarters, and hundreds of AI, fintech, and cloud computing firms are within commuting distance.

This matters for data science students because proximity to industry translates into:

• Internship and co-op opportunities
• Capstone partnerships with real companies
• Higher job placement potential
• Access to networking events and tech meetups

The Seattle-Bellevue-Tacoma region consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for demand in data analytics, machine learning, and cloud engineering roles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, data science roles are projected to grow much faster than average, and the Pacific Northwest stands out as a high-demand region.

Best Data Science Programs in Bellevue Washington

The following programs represent the strongest options based on curriculum depth, flexibility, regional reputation, and alignment with Bellevue’s tech ecosystem.

Bellevue College – Bachelor of Applied Science in Data Analytics

Bellevue College is a public institution known for affordable, workforce-focused education. Its Bachelor of Applied Science in Data Analytics is designed for students who want practical, hands-on skills.

Program Highlights

• Focus on data management, statistics, business intelligence, and database systems
• Emphasis on tools such as SQL, Python, and data visualization platforms
• Applied capstone projects with real-world scenarios
• Designed for transfer students with associate degrees

Format and Duration

• On-campus with some hybrid flexibility
• Typically 2 years after completion of prerequisite coursework

Why It Stands Out

This is one of the most affordable data analytics bachelor’s options in the region. It is ideal for students seeking an affordable data science program in Bellevue WA with strong employer alignment.

Bellevue University – Bachelor of Science in Data Science

Bellevue University is a private, nonprofit institution focused on adult learners and working professionals. Its Bachelor of Science in Data Science program offers a more technical foundation.

Curriculum Focus

• Machine learning fundamentals
• Data mining and predictive modeling
• Probability and statistics
• Programming in Python and R

Delivery Format

• Online and on-campus options
• Flexible schedules for working professionals

Best For

Students seeking an online data analytics degree in Bellevue with strong theoretical underpinnings and flexible learning formats.

Bellevue University – Master of Science in Data Science

For professionals looking to transition into senior data roles, Bellevue University offers a Master of Science in Data Science. This program targets advanced analytics, AI, and big data systems.

Advanced Topics Covered

• Advanced machine learning algorithms
• Big data technologies
• Data visualization and storytelling
• Ethical and legal considerations in AI

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Background in statistics or programming recommended
• Minimum GPA requirements

This graduate option positions students competitively for data scientist, machine learning engineer, and analytics manager roles in the Bellevue-Seattle tech corridor.

Side-by-Side Comparison of Leading Programs

FeatureBellevue College BASBellevue University BSBellevue University MSDegree LevelBachelor of Applied ScienceBachelor of ScienceMaster of ScienceFocus AreaApplied Data AnalyticsTechnical Data ScienceAdvanced Data Science & AIFormatPrimarily On-CampusOnline & On-CampusOnline & On-CampusBest ForTransfer students, budget-conscious learnersWorking adults, career changersExperienced professionals seeking leadership rolesCareer PathwaysData Analyst, BI AnalystData Scientist, Data EngineerSenior Data Scientist, ML Engineer, Analytics Manager

Tuition and Affordability

Cost varies significantly between public and private institutions:

• Bellevue College: Lower in-state tuition, making it one of the most affordable data science programs in Bellevue WA.
• Bellevue University: Higher tuition but offers flexible pacing and financial aid for qualifying students.

Students should evaluate total cost of completion, including technology fees, textbooks, and opportunity cost. Employer tuition reimbursement programs are common in the Bellevue tech sector.

Career Outlook in Bellevue and the Greater Seattle Area

The job market for data professionals in Bellevue is exceptionally strong. The region’s economy is powered by cloud computing, e-commerce, AI, gaming, biotech, and cybersecurity.

Top Employers Hiring Data Graduates

• Amazon
• Microsoft
• Meta
• T-Mobile
• Boeing
• Expedia Group

Salary Expectations

• Data Analyst: $85,000 to $110,000
• Data Scientist: $115,000 to $150,000+
• Machine Learning Engineer: $130,000 to $170,000+

Salaries vary by experience, technical specialization, and company size. Graduates with strong portfolios, internships, and cloud certifications often command higher compensation.

What to Look for in a Bellevue Data Science Program

When choosing among the best data science programs in Bellevue Washington, prioritize the following factors:

1. Curriculum Depth

Look for strong foundations in statistics, programming, machine learning, and database management.

2. Industry Alignment

Programs should incorporate real-world projects using current technologies like Python, TensorFlow, SQL, and cloud platforms such as AWS or Azure.

3. Internship and Networking Access

Proximity to Seattle-area tech firms is a major advantage. Investigate internship pipelines and alumni networks.

4. Flexibility

Working professionals benefit from online or hybrid formats. Bellevue University excels in flexible scheduling.

5. Career Outcomes

Ask about job placement rates, alumni roles, and employer partnerships. Strong institutions track graduate success data and maintain career services support.

Online and Hybrid Options for Working Professionals

Many aspiring data scientists in Bellevue are already employed in technical or business roles. Online and hybrid programs allow students to:

• Maintain full-time employment
• Apply new skills immediately at work
• Reduce commuting time
• Access flexible coursework schedules

Online data analytics degrees in Bellevue are especially attractive for professionals transitioning from IT, finance, marketing, or engineering roles.

How to Choose the Right Path

Your ideal program depends on your background and career goals:

• If you already hold an associate degree and want an affordable bachelor’s pathway, Bellevue College is strong.
• If you need flexibility and a broader theoretical foundation, Bellevue University’s undergraduate program may be better.
• If you aim for advanced AI or machine learning leadership roles, a master’s degree is often the strategic choice.

By aligning your education with Bellevue’s dynamic tech ecosystem, you position yourself for long-term career growth in one of the most innovation-driven regions in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions About Data Science Programs in Bellevue, Washington

Why should you study data science in Bellevue, Washington?

You study data science in Bellevue to be close to major tech employers like Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and many startups. This location gives you better access to internships, networking events, and data-focused jobs across the Seattle-Bellevue-Tacoma area.

Which data science programs are available in Bellevue?

You can choose from Bellevue College’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Data Analytics, Bellevue University’s Bachelor of Science in Data Science, and Bellevue University’s Master of Science in Data Science. These options cover applied analytics, core data science, and advanced AI topics.

Are there online or hybrid data science options in Bellevue?

Yes. Bellevue University offers online and on-campus formats for both its bachelor’s and master’s data science programs. Bellevue College also provides some hybrid flexibility, which can help you balance work and study.

How much can you earn as a data professional in Bellevue?

In the Seattle-Bellevue-Tacoma metro area, many data scientists earn over $120,000 per year, depending on experience and role. Typical ranges are about $85,000–$110,000 for data analysts, $115,000–$150,000+ for data scientists, and $130,000–$170,000+ for machine learning engineers, based on regional salary reports and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data (see: https://www.bls.gov/).

Is studying data science in Bellevue affordable?

Bellevue College offers lower in-state tuition and is often more budget-friendly, especially for transfer students. Bellevue University has higher tuition but provides flexible pacing, online options, and financial aid. You can also lower costs through employer tuition reimbursement, which is common in the local tech sector.

How do you choose the right Bellevue data science program for your goals?

If you have an associate degree and want an affordable applied path, you might choose Bellevue College’s BAS in Data Analytics. If you need flexibility and a stronger theory base, Bellevue University’s BS in Data Science may fit. For advanced AI or leadership roles, the Bellevue University MS in Data Science is a better match.