Is a Data Science Degree Right for Me?

Big data runs the world, from the algorithms that power search engines to the codes that enable the software and applications that people use daily for entertainment and work.

None of the data processing and analysis that makes all of this possible would happen without data analysts and scientists.

If you like working with numbers and turning those numbers and codes into function programs and stories, a data science degree might be right for you.

What Is A Data Science Degree?

It's possible to work in data analytics without a degree, but most employers prefer at least a bachelor's degree in data science.

A data science degree covers fundamentals related to the field of data science, such as interpreting datasets and statistics. Data scientists learn about programming languages.

It's possible to earn a master's degree in data science, but most earn a bachelor's degree before starting a data science job.

A data science degree also isn't the end of learning opportunities. Many data scientists pursue continuing education courses to stay up to date on new applications of data science and information technology.

What Does a Data Science Major Study?

Data science majors study multiple topics directly related to data, including data analysis, problem-solving, and more.

Because of the connection between data and technology, most programs will also include computer science and machine learning topics. The role of data science is quickly expanding to include artificial intelligence. AI only works due to the complex data systems set in place by data science professionals.

As the role of data scientists changes, curriculums also will adapt to cover the in-demand technical skills that data scientists need.

Some of the common skills that a student learns in a data science degree program include:

• critical thinking
• communication skills
• data collection
• data mining
• programming skills using Python and SQL
• data visualization
• analyzing raw data
• linear algebra
• predictive modeling and other data visualizations

Why You Should Consider a Degree in Data Science

Data science is a great career for people who enjoy working with numbers and datasets, but there are many other reasons that a data science career might be right for you.

Ever Changing Work Roles

The job opportunities for data scientists are constantly changing and expanding as new uses for data continue to arise. Data science skills allow graduates to work in multiple industries like business, healthcare, and growing industries like machine learning.

Practical and Consulting Work

A career path for a data scientist often takes one of two options: practical and consulting. In addition to working directly with the data, many data scientists find work in consulting roles to provide expert advice to leaders of different industries. Data-driven decision-making is a popular form of management, but not every business leader has the in-depth knowledge or skill set required to analyze their data.

To give themselves hands-on experience, many data scientists start with a more practical role before starting consultant work.

Positive Career Outlook

Choosing a degree program and career often is impacted by the future of the industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, data science careers are expected to grow by 35% by 2032. This is over 11 times the average for all careers and shows the health of the industry now and in the future.

As data continues to be used to make better decisions around business problems, set up machine learning models, and expand healthcare possibilities, the need for data scientists will continue to grow at high rates.

Work in Multiple Industries

The data science field extends into nearly every industry, which allows data scientists to work in just about any industry. There aren't many degrees that allow the diversity of career options that a data science-related degree does.

Opportunities for Continuing Education

Because the field of data science is always changing and evolving, data scientists can always continue learning and expanding their knowledge bases. The ever-changing landscape of this career might be a deterrent to some, but knowing you're entering a career that will always present new and different opportunities can be appealing to a lot of learners.

High Salaries

Having a career with stability is great, but one that also provides high earning potential is often the dream for most people. Data science careers have higher average salaries than a lot of career paths. The salary range also can increase for specific specializations like those related to machine learning.

Online Courses

Another benefit of a data science program is that many accredited degree programs can be completed fully online. Being able to complete a degree online often reduces costs and lowers burdens such as scheduling and commuting to campus. In addition to degree programs, there are multiple data science boot camps and other programs that can help expand your grasp on the technical and soft skills associated with data science.

Job Opportunities for Data Science Degree Majors

If you choose to become a data scientist, you'll want to know what career options are available to you. Career opportunities for data scientists are expanding almost daily as new uses for data are discovered.

Some of the most common data scientist jobs include:

• machine learning engineer
• data engineer
• computer systems analyst
• business intelligence analyst
• enterprise architect

Data Science Degree: Questions To Ask Yourself

Becoming a data scientist is a rewarding career with opportunities for growth and high earning potential, but that doesn't mean it's right for everyone.

If you're considering enrolling in a data science degree program, ask yourself a few questions to reflect on how the degree will fit into your career goals.

• Do I like working with numbers?
• Can I take raw data and find patterns and valuable information?
• Do I like communicating data to team members and stakeholders both inside and outside my organization?
• Do I want a career that will change and allow me to take on new roles often?
• Is a career that presents ongoing opportunities for deep learning appealing?
• Do I enjoy finding and making compelling data visualizations to convey information?