Master’s in data science programs

Q: Is an online master's in data science worth it?

Yes, an online master's in data science is worth it. Professionals in the field earn higher-than-average salaries and can expect steady job growth. Data scientists with a master's degree can work in fields outside of computer science, such as insurance and scientific research. This flexibility can help you find a job that aligns with your professional interests.

An online master's in data science prepares you to work at the crossroads of mathematics and computer science. Explore how this degree can prepare you for an in-demand career.

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Why earn a master's in data science?

Explore careers in different fields

Organizations across industries collect and analyze data, so there are many different ways for a data scientist to make an impact.

Gain critical data knowledge

Master the skills to manage, visualize, and interpret data in different contexts.

Join a fast-growing field

Businesses depend on skilled data scientists to gather valuable insights and develop action plans for decision-making.

Key Takeaways

An online master's in data science builds advanced skills in statistics, algorithms, machine learning, and data visualization.
Data scientists earned a median of $112,590 yearly in 2024, according to the BLS.
With edX, you can earn your master's in data science entirely online from a globally recognized university.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the need for data scientists to grow by 34% between 2024 and 2034. The BLS also reports that these professionals earned a median annual salary of $112,590 as of May 2024. An online master's in data science can train you in the latest in-demand knowledge and skills.

Dive into what makes an online master's in data science a wise investment.

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What to expect from a master's in data science

An online master's in data science features a rigorous curriculum. Before committing to a program, compare . The latter may better align with your education and career goals if you want to focus on AI and machine learning.

Curriculum

At the master's level, required courses may include:

Data structures and algorithms
Probability and inference
Regression and predictive modeling
Deep learning
Machine learning

The latter two courses on this list emphasize recent AI advances. Consider programs that offer these courses if you want an online master's in data science program that can prepare you to work with AI.

With electives, you can further tailor your education to your career goals. Your program may offer electives in:

Principles of data science
Optimization
Reinforcement learning

Program outcomes

An online master's can do more than increase your salary potential. The curriculum may also help you:

Master new programming languages.
Learn the latest advances in AI and machine learning.
Heighten your problem-solving skills.
Improve your communication skills.
Adapt to new technologies.

A master's degree program may also qualify you for management-level positions. In a management role, you can use your knowledge, skills, and experience to mentor junior employees. Typical with an online master's in data science include:

Software engineer
Data modeler
Data analyst

Admissions requirements

Online master's in data science programs' admissions requirements vary by university. Typical requirements include:

A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
An academic background in computer programming and applied math
A personal statement
A current résumé
Recommendation letters

Some programs require applicants to have a . If you have a bachelor's in another field, see if you can substitute education with relevant experience. The university may also offer a bridge program so you can and skills before starting the degree.

Tuition and financial aid

Expect online master's in data science programs to charge a per-credit tuition rate. You can reduce your tuition burden in many ways, such as by applying for:

Federal grants
Private scholarships
Institutional aid

Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Through these programs, your employer pays your tuition as long as you agree to remain with the organization for a set period of time after graduation. Speak with a manager or human resources specialist to learn whether your employer offers tuition reimbursement.

What jobs can you get with a master's in data science?

Graduates of online master's in data science programs can apply their skills in countless ways. Data scientists extract insights from data sets using advanced tools like technology. Nearly any organization that prioritizes efficiency, customer relationships, and business goals can benefit from hiring a skilled data scientist. Below are some common characteristics of data science roles:

Work settings

Most data scientists work full time in an office setting.

Responsibilities

Their daily duties include collecting, categorizing, and analyzing data; creating and testing algorithms; visualizing data; presenting findings; and consulting with stakeholders.

Similar roles

, , and share similarities with data science.

Salary expectations for data science professionals

Since there are many different career options for master's in data science graduates, earning potential varies. Your salary as a data scientist depends on several factors, including your industry, previous work experience, employer, and location.

According to the BLS, data scientists earned a median annual salary of $112,590 in 2024. The lowest 10% of data scientists earned less than $63,650, while the highest 10% earned more than $194,410. Top-paying fields include:

Scientific research and development services
Computer systems design
Management of companies and enterprises
Insurance carriers
Management, scientific, and technical consulting services

Career outlook for data science professionals

The BLS projects data science jobs to increase by 34% between 2024 and 2034, much faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. This growth is likely due to increasing demand across industries for data-driven decision-making.

As our digital footprint grows, so does the amount of data. As a result, organizations will likely rely on data scientists to mine and interpret these large sets of quantitative and qualitative data.

Frequently asked questions

Is an online master's in data science worth it?

Yes, an . Professionals in the field earn higher-than-average salaries and can expect steady job growth. can work in fields outside of computer science, such as insurance and scientific research. This flexibility can help you find a job that aligns with your professional interests.

Can I do a master's in data science online?

Yes, you can earn a master's in data science online. Many schools offer 100% online programs with asynchronous education. This learning style lets you complete coursework on your own schedule.

Not all online programs employ an asynchronous format. In a synchronous program, students attend online classes with other learners at set meeting times.

Is an MS in data science better than an MBA?

Whether an MBA or an MS in data science is better for you depends on your goals, professional interests, and strengths. An equips you with general business skills like , , and . While some MBA programs teach computer science concepts like , a master's in data science is more specific and technical. If you plan to enter the data science field, a data science degree may be more appropriate.

Is a master's in data science difficult?

A data science master's program may indeed challenge you, but the difficulty of the program depends on factors like study time and existing knowledge. Data science programs combine courses that teach technical concepts like linear algebra with soft skills like communication. While this can be demanding for some, those who enjoy using data to solve problems may find data science master's programs rewarding.

Not ready to start a full Master's program yet?

Earn a MicroMasters® program certificate instead. MicroMasters programs are a series of graduate-level courses from top universities designed to advance your career. MicroMasters program certificates showcase deep learning and in-demand skills to employers and can help you get started on a path toward completing an advanced degree.

Last updated July 15, 2025