What Can You Do with a Data Science Degree?

From web development to software redesign to managing information systems and everything in between, data matters. With the importance of informative and comprehensive data to influence decisions, the career field of data science has soared in popularity and value. 

Data scientists are responsible for tackling this influx of information, translating it from a collection of facts and numbers into meaningful insights. A program in data science equips you with the knowledge and skills to advance in a growing job market that has high hopes for the future. 

In fact, Glassdoor.com has ranked data scientist as the top job to pursue from 2016-2019, now at No. 3 in 2020. With a high job satisfaction score and thousands of job openings, it’s an opportunity to not skip over too quickly if you’re interested in tech. 

Is a data science degree right for you? With so much opportunity available in the tech industry, there’s no one approach to a career. Yet being equipped with a practical, hands-on program can help set you up for success. As you navigate your next steps to gaining those key skills, we’re here to help. Here we share what a degree in data science entails and what types of jobs you can pursue. 

What Is a Data Science Degree?

As one of the most popular fields in tech, data science is focused on processing and learning from data. Key skills involved in this field include fundamentals in programming, math, and human behavior in drawing relevant conclusions. 

Through a degree program in data science, you’ll navigate through practical courses that set a foundation as you develop those key skills for effective leadership in data science. These skills include things like maths, problem-solving techniques, and programming language experiences. Discover key tools and methods of acquiring and organizing big data for application in the real world. 

Many data science degree programs explore a wide range of topics. Often, these courses incorporate a hands-on approach, giving you the opportunity to put what you learn into practice. Through project-based assignments and applying frameworks to real-world situations, you’ll grow in your experience of transforming data analytics into effective organizational value. 

Those who work with data science are involved in gathering, storing, analyzing, and applying data to support organizational decision-making and achieving goals. That data, although often overlooked by customers and other departments, is integral in mapping out the next steps for effective business and operations. 

Data science degrees are available at both an undergraduate and master’s level, giving you the opportunity to take the next step, wherever you are. At the bachelor’s degree program level, you’ll develop a foundation of data analysis and best practices in bringing meaning and value to data gathering. Through a graduate program, you’ll build upon that foundation to further your career and opportunities applicable across industries. 

In addition to a formal degree program, you can pursue bootcamp learning opportunities and other certifications in the field as you continue your professional development. 

What Can I Do with a Data Science Degree? 

With such a demand for data scientists and other data analyst roles, earning your data science degree can open the door for you to explore many career opportunities. Being equipped with a data science degree can help you ace your interview and move into your dream job in tech. While some roles may prefer or even require advanced education, getting started in data science can be a valuable step in advancing in tech. 

Here we share some of the career opportunities you can look forward to with a degree in data science. 

Data Scientist

A degree in data science leads naturally to a career path that includes the responsibilities of finding and organizing large amounts of data for your organization. Like other careers in tech, data scientists can look forward to impressive average salaries and positive job growth. 

Data Analyst

Very similar to a data scientist, a data analyst takes on a less technical approach that closely aligns with applying and transforming data for organizational goals such as A/B testing for websites or other applicable analytics. 

Statisticians 

With a heavy focus on math and analytics, statistics are integral to a data science degree. You can pursue this career path. Statisticians incorporate formulas and other data sources to develop and analyst statistical reports to influence organization processes and decision-making.  

Machine Learning Engineer 

As automation and machine learning incorporates a great deal of data gathering and organizing, these engineers work with software platforms to accomplish projects to meet the needs of the organization. 

Business Intelligence 

Empower businesses to find and utilize the information they need quickly and easily by developing systems and processes as a business intelligence developer. In developing versatile and data-informed resources, you can empower teams to accomplish their goals. 

Data Architect

Keep organizations in order and efficient by using your data science skills to develop software and structures to help users quickly and easily find relevant information. By combining experience in computer programming, data organization, and problem-solving skills, you’ll equip your teams to thrive in accomplishing their goals. 

Advance Across Industries 

From health care to business to nonprofit management, data is essential for operations in many types of departments. With data scientists in such high demand, acquiring the necessary skills to thrive in the field through a degree in data science can be a wise next step.