Pursuing a masters in data science can help you develop a strong foundation in data use and interpretation, big data, and machine learning.
Data science professionals have an analytic approach toward problem-solving, and they’re needed in a wide range of industries.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
If you’re an analytical thinker and hold a bachelors degree in a STEM field—such as computer science—you may be a fitting candidate for data science graduate programs.
Online Masters in Data Science Programs
As a field of study, data science is concerned with helping businesses thrive by creating systems that retrieve useful information from data. The information recovered may help an organization generate forecasts, learn about consumer behavior, or bolster security.
In a masters program in data science, you’re expected to learn key concepts from a range of fields, including statistics and computer science.
Some of the key concepts explored include:
- Software engineering
- Machine learning
- Data ethics
- Statistical modeling
In addition, an online master’s in data science program may also cover these course topics:
- Spreadsheet modeling
- Data management and SQL
- Digital marketing
- Machine learning methods and AI
- Finance and accounting
- Customer analytics
Although specific coursework does vary between institutions, your program should help build your decision-making and strategy skills. You can also develop a firm handle on a variety of technical skills, such as SQL and data interpretation.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
In addition to the technical skills you can develop, you will likely have the opportunity to strengthen your leadership abilities and gain practical experience through a final project.
Common data science careers include:
- Data scientist
- Machine learning engineer
- Application architect
- Data engineer
- Data analyst
Almost all major companies and organizations need employees who are experts in data science. Because these roles are generally accompanied by higher than average salaries, they are highly sought after. Earning your master’s degree in the field of data science is just one way that you can demonstrate your qualifications to employers during your job search.
A data science graduate program can also help you develop a number of useful skills:
- Creativity
- Statistics
- Predictive modeling
- Data visualization
- Information ethics
These versatile, in-demand skill sets can be employed in the field of data science and beyond.
Data Science Careers & Salaries
Many careers related to data science require a strong foundation in computer programming as well as an understanding of advanced mathematical concepts. A masters degree in data science can help you advance in your current role or potentially qualify for a new role.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are a number of career paths related to data science, along with their median annual salaries.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $159,010 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $131,490 |
| Software Developers | $120,730 |
| Data Scientists | $100,910 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $99,270 |
| Database Administrators and Architects | $98,860 |
| Statisticians | $95,570 |
| Operations Research Analysts | $82,360 |
| Financial Analysts | $81,410 |
| Market Research Analysts | $63,920 |
The median salary for computer and IT occupations overall is $97,430. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects 13% job growth for this field over the next ten years, which is faster than average growth.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
Salary ranges for specific positions vary between locations and companies. While a graduate degree may help qualify you for high-earning positions, earning a degree does not guarantee a certain role or salary.
Data Science Master’s Curriculum & Courses
The curriculum in a data science master degree program is designed to give you a strong foundation in statistics, data analysis, and finance. You may take courses such as:
- Data Visualization: In this course, you’ll learn about the tools needed to make strategic decisions based on data, covering areas like exploratory analysis and unstructured data.
- Data Management: A course on the foundations of data management systems will explore topics like query languages and data warehousing.
- Accounting Data Analytics: In this course, you’ll learn how to assemble data, understand the key domains of accounting, and analyze big data.
- Statistical Machine Learning: This course is an in-depth exploration of the methods behind machine learning, covering cross-validation, overfitting, and non-parametric regression.
- Probability and Statistics: This course provides a comprehensive look at foundational probability concepts, such as key distributions and continuous random variables.
- Scalable Data Systems and Algorithms: This course is designed to provide an understanding of how to use and manage big data systems, covering topics such as cloud computing.
- Software Design: In this course, you’ll learn the basic principles of software design and engineering, including testing and object-oriented programming.
- Artificial Intelligence: This course covers everything related to artificial intelligence, including how it is currently used, its potential applications, and specific concepts like neural networks.
- Customer Relationship Management: You’ll learn about the tools and techniques used to manage and maintain important relationships with customers and clients.
- Capstone Project Research: You’ll have the opportunity to select a topic, create a proposal, and begin researching.
Many of the key concepts learned in each course will be applied to tackle analysis and interpretation of big data.
Master of Data Science Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements do vary from program to program, but there are often overlapping criteria across applications.
Some common admission requirements include:
- GRE or GMAT scores (only some schools require them)
- Personal statement
- Official transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume
A growing number of schools no longer require standardized test scores to apply. When this is the case, though, a school tends to put more weight on the other pieces of your application. So, it is beneficial to try and make each item showcase your strengths and abilities.
Data Science Masters Programs Accreditation
Schools that are regionally accredited have been reviewed and recognized for providing excellent educational services. In order to receive an accreditation status, a college or university must pass a review by an outside accrediting organization.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
It’s strategic to attend a regionally accredited university to ensure that you receive a high-quality education. An accredited degree is also recognized as credible by employers. To verify whether a prospective school holds regional accreditation, you can visit the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) online and utilize their database of schools.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Applying for financial aid and scholarship programs may help you pay for upfront program costs. Most prospective students start their financial aid journey by completing the FAFSA, or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The deadline to fill out this form can differ depending on the college, so it’s helpful to research specifics.
You might also consider applying to scholarships. These can be offered by your school or by public or private organizations. Some scholarships are based on academic merit, while others are intended for students pursuing a specific area of study. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement programs to employees who are furthering their education.
What Can You Do with a Masters in Data Science?
Strong computer programming and mathematical skills can open up doors in a range of companies and fields. Common data science careers include machine learning engineer, computer and information research scientist, business intelligence analyst, and data scientist.
Some professionals even use their business skills and financial acumen to build a career in the world of finance, working as financial analysts. Because data science is a growing field, there is high demand for individuals with knowledge of big data. This expertise is needed in a variety of fields, including business, finance, and marketing.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Data Science Masters Degree?
A masters generally takes 1 to 2 years to earn with full-time enrollment. Earning your data science online masters degree can often be quicker than a brick and mortar option. If you attend a 36 credit hour program, you can typically finish your degree in 1 year with full-time, year-round study.
A thesis requirement can lengthen the amount of time it takes to complete an online degree. Thesis requirements do vary between schools, and specifics can be found by researching the curriculum for your programs of interest. Enrolling in school part-time can also lengthen the overall time it takes to complete your degree.
What’s the Difference Between a Master in Data Science vs. Data Analytics Degree?
A masters in data science and a masters in data analytics online or on campus both deal with data, but they have different overall goals.
| Master in Data Science | Master in Data Analytics |
|
|
Although these degree paths have different coursework overall, there are some overlapping skills and areas of study.
What’s the Difference Between an MS in Data Science vs. Computer Science Degree?
While there are common courses shared between data science and computer science degree programs, here are some key differences between the two masters programs.
| MS in Data Science | MS in Computer Science |
|
|
The degree path that’s best for you will depend on your interests and professional goals.
Is a Masters in Data Science Worth It?
Yes, a masters in data science is worth it for many professionals. There is a growing demand for professionals with an understanding of data science.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many data science careers have a projected growth rate higher than the national average. Employment of computer and information research scientists, for instance, is expected to grow 22% over the next ten years.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
In addition to a high employment growth rate, there are many professional opportunities within the field of data science. Because it is such a specific and advanced skill set, it often takes a trained and educated individual to qualify for these positions.
Universities Offering Online Masters in Data Science Degree Program
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Bay Path University offers an MS in Applied Data Science that can be earned 100% online. Bay Path provides small class sizes and hands-on instruction in common programming languages, such as Python and SQL. To accommodate the needs of working professionals, 1 and 2 year schedules are available.
Bay Path University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
CUNY School of Professional Studies offers an online program for a Master of Science in Data Science. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning and culminates with a capstone project. Bridge courses are available for students who need to refresh their math or programming skills before starting the main program.
The CUNY School of Professional Studies is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Eastern University offers an MS in Data Science that can be earned completely online. Courses are each 7 weeks long but are self-paced within this timeframe. New students can enroll at every term and can potentially finish within 10 months. Eastern uses a faith-based curriculum that emphasizes Christian values and ethics.
Eastern University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The New Jersey Institute of Technology offers an online MS in Data Science program. It consists of 30 credits and covers topics such as data mining, machine learning, and statistical inference. When finished, students are expected to be prepared to manage large data sets and solve complex problems for companies.
New Jersey Institute of Technology is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Northwestern University’s Master of Science in Data Science combines the study of technology and business strategy. The program covers programming languages, including Python, R, and Go. Five specializations are available: Technology Entrepreneurship, Data Engineering, Analytics Management, Artificial Intelligence, and Analytics and Modeling. There is also a general track.
Northwestern University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Syracuse University offers an online program for a Master of Science in Data Science. Students can choose from three tracks: Data and Business Analytics, Language Analytics, and Data Pipelines and Platforms. Courses include Applied Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics, Business Analytics, Financial Analytics, Natural Language Processing, and more.
Syracuse University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The Master of Information and Data Science program at the University of California—Berkeley provides a holistic, multidisciplinary curriculum. The program offers accelerated, standard, and decelerated paths to fit students’ schedules. Depending on the path chosen, the degree can typically be completed in 12 to 32 months.
UC Berkeley is accredited by the Western Association of Schools & Colleges.
The University of Colorado—Boulder offers an online program for a Master of Science in Data Science. CU Boulder uses a performance-based admissions process, and there are six start dates each year. The program’s self-paced, 8 week courses are designed to enable students to study on their own schedules. To graduate, students must complete 30 credit hours of coursework, but no thesis is required.
The University of Colorado – Boulder is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Illinois—Urbana Champaign offers an online program for a Master of Computer Science in Data Science. This is a non-thesis program. It includes courses such as Applied Machine Learning, Text Information Systems, Data Visualization, Cloud Networking, Theory and Practice of Data Cleaning and more. Applicants do not need to submit GRE scores.
The University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers a Master of Science in Data Science that can be earned 100% online. Students can choose a specialization in either Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning or Big Data Analytics. To graduate, students must complete 30 credit hours of coursework, including a capstone experience. Most students can finish in 5 semesters.
WPI is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Getting Your Masters in Data Science Online
A data science masters online program can help you hone your research abilities while you learn essential skills, such as data visualization and machine learning.
There are many benefits to earning your masters in data science online. For instance, you could have the opportunity to increase your earning potential, experience variety in your daily tasks, and make an impact through your work. Also, it may be worth noting that a growing number of universities also offer a PhD in Data Science online program for students seeking a doctorate in this field.
If you’re ready to begin your journey toward a masters degree in data science, you could start today by exploring accredited online programs that align with your career goals.
