QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: MIT leads data science and AI, Carnegie Mellon close behind

QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: MIT leads US data science and AI; Carnegie Mellon is a close second

The 2025 QS subject rankings place MIT at #1 in data science and artificial intelligence, with Carnegie Mellon at #2 in the US. Both deliver elite research depth, strong hiring outcomes, and wide recognition across academia and industry. For scientists and research leaders, the signal is clear: you'll find top-tier labs, collaborators, and pipelines at either institution.

Ranking snapshot

• MIT (Overall: 98) - Employer reputation: 100; H-index: 100; Academic reputation: 96.9; Citations per paper: 94.8
• Carnegie Mellon (Overall: 95.5) - Academic reputation: 100; Citations per paper: 95.9; H-index: 100; Employer reputation: 87

MIT edges ahead on employer reputation, signaling stronger industry pull. Both are research powerhouses with top H-index scores and high citation impact.

Student mix and network effects

• MIT: 67% domestic, 33% international
• Carnegie Mellon: 59% domestic, 41% international

Expect broad peer networks and diverse collaborations. The domestic majority at both schools also supports US-based internships and placements.

Subject strengths and approach

• Core areas at both: machine learning, big data analytics, robotics
• MIT: strong theoretical foundation paired with applied projects and lab work
• Carnegie Mellon: interdisciplinary emphasis blending computer science, statistics, and cognitive sciences

Choose the environment that best matches your research style-deep theory with application (MIT) or cross-disciplinary integration (CMU).

Admissions signals

• MIT: strong background in math/CS or related fields, competitive GRE scores, evidence of research
• Carnegie Mellon: strong analytical skills and a track record of innovation in tech or engineering
• Both: English proficiency; leadership and problem-solving strengthen applications

Tuition and total program cost

• MIT: about $59,000 per year; roughly $236,000 for four years
• Carnegie Mellon: about $58,000 per year; roughly $232,000 for four years

Budget for fees, living expenses, and research-related costs. Financial aid can materially change the picture.

Scholarships for US students

• MIT Scholarship Program: need-based aid via the financial aid office
• CMU Scholars Award: merit-based aid via the admissions portal

Apply early and review eligibility criteria tied to academics and demonstrated need.

Why this matters for US researchers

• High employability-MIT's perfect employer score highlights strong industry links
• Intensive research training-both programs build skills valued by labs, startups, and agencies
• Strong domestic cohorts-useful for US-focused collaboration and hiring pipelines

Decision guide

• Pick MIT if you want maximum industry pull plus theory-first rigor and large-scale lab projects.
• Pick Carnegie Mellon if you prefer interdisciplinary AI that blends CS, stats, and cognitive sciences.
• Both institutions offer world-class mentors, citations impact, and competitive placements.

Next steps

• Check the official subject results on QS: QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
• Plan your upskilling path with curated programs: Latest AI Courses

Disclaimer

Fees, aid, and policies can change based on residency status, financial need, and program details. Verify current information directly with each university before applying.