Earning a Master’s Degree in Data Science can be highly beneficial for career advancement. While a master’s degree isn’t compulsory to become a data scientist, it can help you with your professional growth. The best data science master’s degrees will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to qualify for executive, managerial, leadership, and specialist roles in the industry.
To help you explore different data science master’s degree programs, this article provides details on the top schools and programs for studying data science. It also includes information on the highest paying jobs for professionals with a Master’s Degree in Data Science. Learn more about the best Master’s Degrees in Data Science, the admission requirements, and more below.
What Is Data Science?
Data science involves collecting data from various sources using scientific processes to analyze and extract useful information that professionals can use to make decisions. It is primarily used to make predictions and better decisions for organizations to help them become more functional, productive, and profitable.
To put it quite simply, data science is the study of data. People who work in data science are extremely important members of any organization that employs them. These are the people who take a company’s data and make use of it to further a business’ goals. Through rigorous study and analysis, data scientists are able to record, store and use data to provide valuable insights to a company.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Data Science?
The best colleges where you can get a Master’s Degree in Data Science include University of Michigan, University of Rochester, DePaul University, and University of Washington. In fact, there are a variety of colleges across the US that offer data science master’s degree programs.
What Schools Offer the Best Data Science Master’s Degrees?
- Brown University
- Purdue University
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Columbia University
- New York University
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Data Science?
The admission requirements for a Master’s Degree in Data Science are having a bachelor’s degree, submitting letters of recommendation, and meeting minimum GPA requirements, which at some schools may be a 3.0 or above.
In addition, to meet other Master’s in Data Science requirements students may also need to provide other application materials such as GRE test scores, resumes, personal statements, and more. Further, aside from providing all of the necessary application materials, it is essential to adhere to the application deadline.
Data Science Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA (only for some schools)
- GRE test scores (only for some schools)
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
How to Get a Master’s Degree in Data Science
You can get a data science master’s degree by attending a graduate program and adhering to all of the school-specific graduation requirements. Though the precise graduation requirements may differ between schools, students will typically need to maintain a minimum GPA, complete a list of required core courses and elective courses, and complete a thesis or capstone project.
The best way to get a data science master’s degree is to attend the program in consecutive semesters until you have completed all of the degree requirements. This way, your education will not be interrupted. In addition, you need a qualifying bachelor’s degree before you can join a Master’s Degree in Data Science program.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Data Science?
You may need anywhere from 30 to 40 credits for a Master’s in Data Science. Each individual graduate school will have different requirements for its particular data science master’s program. However, you can expect that the total program can be completed in one to two years.
Data Science Degree Requirements
- Maintain a 3.0 GPA
- Fulfill all core class requirements
- Earn at least 30 credits
- Complete an internship, thesis, or capstone projects
- Maintain good academic standing within the university
Best Data Science Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Brown University | Master of Science in Data Science | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Master of Science in Computer Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Columbia University | Master of Science in Data Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| DePaul University | Master of Science in Data Science | Higher Learning Commission |
| Montana State University | Master of Science in Data Science | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| New York University | Master of Science in Data Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Purdue University | Master of Science in Computer Science | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Michigan | Master of Science in Data Science | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Rochester | Master of Science in Data Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Washington | Master of Science in Data Science | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
Best Schools for Data Science: Top Data Science Master’s Degree Programs
Many graduate schools offer master’s programs in data science, but you might not be sure where to start searching for the top data science master’s programs. We’ve compiled a list including some of the best schools for a master’s degree in data science. Learn more about the application requirements and tuition costs of the best data science master’s degree programs below.
What Is a Data Science Master’s Degree?
A Master’s Degree in Data Science is a program that prepares you for career growth. The program typically lasts for one to three years, depending on various factors. The program covers courses in data visualization, machine learning, statistics, artificial intelligence, programming languages, data mining, and data analysis.
A data science master’s degree is a good option for mid-level professionals interested in advancing in their careers. Students with a master’s degree will have higher chances of securing senior-level roles in the industry as completing the program proves their advanced knowledge and skills in the field.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Data Science?
It is very important to have a Master’s Degree in Data Science to establish credibility in the field and access higher-paying roles. One of the main reasons a data science master’s degree is important is that it helps students deepen their understanding of data science and refine their existing data science skills. In a competitive, technical career, having a master’s degree will help you set yourself apart from other candidates.
What Types of Master’s Degree Can You Get in Data Science?
You can typically get two different types of Master’s Degrees in Data Science, which are either a Master of Science or a Master of Arts degree. Both of these two data science master’s degree types will help students advance their data science careers. In addition, both of these programs will provide both theoretical and practical knowledge.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Arts in Data Science?
It is better to get a Master of Science Degree in Data Science because it will provide you with more direct math and science knowledge than a Master of Arts program will. However, one thing to keep in mind when deciding which is better, a Master of Science or Master of Arts in Data Science, is your specific career goals.
Though both of the two data science master’s degrees will expand on your existing knowledge, a Master of Science program is generally more technical. On the other hand, a Master of Arts program will focus on various humanities, in addition to core data science content.
What Is the Difference Between a Data Science Master’s Degree and a Data Science Certificate?
The main difference between a data science master’s degree and a certificate in data science is that a master’s degree is typically more intensive, respected, and longer than a certificate program. A Master’s Degree in Data Science is an advanced education program that requires students to meet specific academic standards. For career growth, it is better to get a master’s degree vs a certificate.
Certificates, on the other hand, are helpful for establishing qualifications once you have already established a career path. For example, if you already have a Master’s in Business Administration, you may later work towards a data science certificate.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Data Science?
According to NCES, the average cost of a graduate degree is $19,314 per year. Public institutions cost an average of $12,171, while private institutions cost $25,929. For-profit private institutions cost about $14,208 while nonprofit institutions cost $27,776 annually. However, there are many financial aid opportunities available for master’s degree students.
The typical data science master’s degree cost may also differ between in-state and out-of-state programs. In addition, the expected Master’s in Data Science cost may change if you choose to only follow a part-time rather than a full-time program.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Data Science Master’s Degree?
It takes anywhere from one year to two years to get a Master’s Degree in Data Science for full-time students. Many data science master’s degree programs offer accelerated options that allow ambitious students to complete the degree in as little time as possible. In addition, some programs also allow students to cut down on a Master’s in Data Science program length by taking classes during the summer.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Data Science?
A Master’s Degree in Data Science is hard to get because it is an advanced degree program. As with any master’s degree program, a data science master’s degree will require students to dedicate a significant amount of time to their studies and research. Overall, getting a data science master’s degree is hard because advanced degrees require students to perform at a high academic level.
Why Should You Get a Data Science Master’s Degree?
The benefits of getting a Master’s Degree in Data Science include establishing greater credibility in the profession and expanding your career opportunities. Earning an advanced degree, such as a data science master’s degree, allows you to refine your knowledge in the field. In addition, attending a master’s degree program is a great opportunity to build your network.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Data Science?
Core courses in a Master’s in Data Science program will often focus on the important technical aspects of working as a data scientist. As such, you can expect typical Master’s in Data Science courses to include programming, machine learning, and data analysis topics. To learn more about what to expect, read through the Master’s in Data Science course list below.
Database Systems
This course teaches students the various key elements of, and how to properly utilize, database systems. Students will practice building database management systems and also gain familiarity with prominent database models. They will also learn different methods of data management.
Data Visualization
This course will help students develop the essential skill of proper data visualization. They will learn about the common analytical tools and software used in data mining and visualization as well as the current issues the industry faces. Students will also gain experience working with applications for data warehousing.
Machine Learning
Machine learning is an important part of the data science profession. As such, a machine learning course will help students learn how to implement machine learning algorithms. A machine learning course may cover topics such as searching and ranking, useful distributions, predictive modeling, and automatic personalization.
Statistics
A master’s-level statistics course aims at deepening students understanding and implementation of statistical models and formulas. This course may cover topics such as the law of large numbers, hypothesis tests, central limit theorem, and more.
Data Engineering
A course on data engineering cover programming and computer science topics involved in data science. Students will learn about various data structures and algorithms as well as how to apply them through hands-on experience. Concepts such as graph databases, test-driven design, and distributed computing may also be covered.
Continuing Education Paths for Data Science Master’s Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a data science master’s degree is to continue studying to earn a doctorate degree or a PhD. Obtaining the highest level of education in the data science field will allow you to position yourself as a highly valuable job candidate. In addition, attending a doctoral program will allow you to do extensive research within the field of data science in order to develop a better understanding of the field.
Related Data Science Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Data Science Master’s Degree Programs
When deciding what to look for in a college for a Master’s Degree in Data Science, there are many different factors that you may consider. However, some factors may be more important than others. To learn more about how to choose a data science master’s degree program, read more about five key components below.
Employment Outcomes
Most people study for a master’s degree in order to unlock greater earning potential. As such, knowing the employment outcomes is a key factor in evaluating the quality of a master’s degree program. If graduates of a certain program are not able to find work, it may be a sign that the degree program didn’t properly prepare them for the workforce or that it is not respected by employers.
Cost
Higher education in the US can be very costly. It is important to not overload yourself with unreasonable debt just to obtain a degree. Therefore, you will need to compare the cost of a given program to the earning potential you will have after you graduate.
Accreditation
Programs that are accredited have been vetted by third-party institutions and have been proved to offer quality education. In order to ensure that your Master’s Degree in Data Science is respected within the industry, it is important to attend a program with the proper accreditation. This will also help you ensure that you learn the necessary skills to have a successful career.
Reputation of the School
As you will likely be paying a significant amount of money for a data science master’s degree program, you want to be sure that it will be worth it. If a school has a reputation of not supporting students or offering low-quality educational content, then it would be best to get your degree elsewhere.
Flexibility or Format
Many students that work towards a Master’s Degree in Data Science have already begun their professional careers. As such, it is important that master’s degree programs offer accommodating schedules such as evening classes and online learning opportunities. If you want to work while earning a master’s degree, make sure your program of choice offers flexible learning options.
What Is the Most Affordable Data Science Master’s Degree?
The most affordable Master’s Degree in Data Science is offered by Montana State University. Tuition for the Master of Science in Data Science program is just $2,783 per semester for in-state students. In contrast, some programs charge nearly $2,000 just for a single credit.
In addition, the program is still very affordable for out-of-state students at $8,844 per semester. This makes it one of the most affordable data science master’s programs regardless of what state you live in.
Salary and Job Outlook for Data Science Master’s Degree Graduates
Data science is a field with a lot of in-demand jobs. With many companies and organizations making the transition to new technology, data science master’s degree jobs are projected to continue growing for quite a while. Learn more about these jobs and the typical Master’s in Data Science salary in the sections below.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Data Science Master’s Degree?
It is not hard not to get a job with a Master’s Degree in Data Science as it is a growing field. In addition, being a holder of a data science master’s degree sets you apart from other applicants and makes you an appealing job candidate. Nonetheless, having an effective cover letter and resume will still be important in the application process.
What’s the Average Data Science Master’s Degree Salary?
According to PayScale, $80,00 per year is the average salary for someone with a Master’s Degree in Data Science. However, this figure can change depending on factors like location and educational and professional experience. The average salary for a Master’s Degree in Data Science will increase as you gain more experience in the field.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Data Science Master’s Degree?
Jobs you can get with a data science master’s degree include working as a database administrator, business intelligence analyst, infrastructure architect, and more. However, as a master’s degree holder, you will be a suitable candidate for a variety of positions in many industries.
Data Science Degree Jobs
- Data analyst
- Statistician
- Machine learning engineer
- Financial analyst manager
- Management analyst
Potential Careers With a Data Science Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Data Science?
You can make between $55,000 and $140,000 with a Master’s Degree in Data Science. However, the average money that data science may earn out of college can be influenced by many factors. These factors include what state they work in, what company they work for, and what the exact job title is, among others.
Highest-Paying Data Science Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Data Science Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Enterprise architect | $137,434 |
| Infrastructure architect | $112,995 |
| Machine learning engineer | $112,709 |
| Database administrator | $98,860 |
| Statistician | $93,290 |
| Data engineer | $93,276 |
| Management analyst | $93,000 |
| Operation research analyst | $82,360 |
| Financial analyst manager | $81,410 |
| Business intelligence analyst | $71,175 |
Best Jobs for Data Science Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for data science master’s degree grad include data scientist, machine learning engineer, infrastructure architect, and statistician. The best jobs for a Master’s in Data Science degree holder are those that offer great compensation as well as the ability to grow and be challenged. Learn more about the best paying data science master’s degree jobs and what their job outlook is below.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Master’s Degree in Data Science Worth It?
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Data Science is worth it if you are interested in career advancement. A master’s degree makes it easier for you to apply for senior-level roles and, most importantly, land jobs. People who have a master’s degree are more likely to earn managerial jobs like management analyst than those with only a bachelor’s degree or a similar undergraduate degree.
You also get to earn more as you move up the job ladder. Even better, the degree isn’t limited to those with an undergraduate degree in data science only. People with bachelor’s degrees in other science courses like computer science, statistics, and computer engineering can also apply for a data science master’s degree program to access greater career growth.
Additional Reading About Data Science
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Data Science Master’s Degree FAQ
A Master’s Degree in Data Science lasts for two years on average, though it depends on the individual and school. Some programs offer accelerated programs that allow students to learn a data science master’s degree in as little as one year.
Yes, you can get a job in several fields with a Master’s Degree in Data Science. Graduate students in data science can apply to any technical or educational field relating to programming languages, computational modeling, and statistics.
A master’s degree is not necessary for a career in data science and many coding bootcamps present an affordable alternative to gain basic knowledge. However, a master’s degree is great for professionals who want to advance in their careers.
A Bachelor of Science in Data Science is the best degree for those interested in a professional data science career. However, getting a Master of Science in Data Science is an excellent way to unlock higher-paying career opportunities and further refine your knowledge.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
