In person; some online classes
Full time or part time
Two years (full time);
Three years (part time)
The M.S. in data engineering program offers comprehensive training in data acquisition, storage, management, security and processing. Through a blend of theory and practical application, students will delve into analytics, machine learning, statistics and database management, preparing them for the challenges of today and tomorrow.
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Our graduates consistently secure positions at leading companies and organizations in private and public sectors. SMU data engineering master’s students become leaders across industries, finding innovative solutions to some of today’s most pressing data system challenges.
Best National Universities
U.S. News & World Report (2026)
of M.S. data engineering graduates employed within six months of graduation (2024)
Average starting salary for M.S. data engineering graduates (2024)
Consulting-Specifying Engineer (CSE) Magazine’s 40 under 40, Bibek Karki ’11, ’13 believes in community engagement and networking.
Key dates and admissions information to help plan your application with confidence.
All the essential admission requirements international students need to know.
Find answers to Lyle application questions.
All applications are holistically reviewed.
Explore the cost breakdown of tuition for graduate programs.
Find information on scholarships and financial support available at SMU.
CS7350/OREM 7350
This course introduces algorithm design and analysis, advanced data structures and applications to computational problems.
CS 8330
An extensive investigation of distributed databases and implementation issues. Included are design, data replication, concurrency control and recovery.
ECE 8381
Survey of quantum logic and quantum computing from the viewpoint of a computer engineer or computer scientist.
Grow as an engineer with collectives that promote leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship.
Get practical experience to develop industry skills, build a professional network and gain valuable insights. Internships can open doors to future opportunities and contribute to long-term career success.
Explore interests, develop leadership skills and connect with like-minded peers.
Apply your classroom knowledge to real-world issues while making a positive impact.
Participate in graduate research opportunities and tackle real-world challenges in data engineering.
Lyle students and faculty perform research that has global implications, taking advantage of state-of-the-art facilities and funding from government agencies, foundations and private companies.
Our distinguished faculty are industry leaders and subject matter experts, bringing real-world experience and industry insights to the classroom. SMU Lyle maintains small class sizes, allowing students to develop meaningful mentorships with their professors.
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SMU Lyle students have access to state-of-the-art facilities where they can conduct research, meet with industry leaders, and gain skills on new and established technologies.
Combines research innovation and industry partnerships to explore how digital twins, AI, virtual reality and more will shape the future of manufacturing.
A co-venture of SMU Cox and SMU Lyle, the institute provides opportunities to create new products and processes for the marketplace, and business plans to determine how to take these products to the world.
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Graduates with a Master of Science in data engineering are typically hired as database administrators, ETL developers, data analysts or engineer data architects.
Data engineering incorporates a number of different fields, including acquisition and storage system design, analytics, machine learning, statistics, security and database management.
Yes, data engineering research opportunities include:
