Do you need a master's or PhD to work in data science?
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With the growth of new artificial intelligence (AI) technology, data scientists are in high demand. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 10-year job growth over nine times higher than average, with one of the highest projected growth rates of any career.
But do employers prefer data scientists to have a master's degree, or do you need to earn a PhD to work in data science? In this guide, learn what you need to succeed in this field.
Find the right data science courses for you
Industry demands for data scientists
Data scientists collect and analyze data to draw conclusions. As a data scientist, your day-to-day work may involve finding new sources of raw data, organizing and visualizing it, and conducting tests using algorithms and databases. These tests can reveal insights that help business leaders better understand a market or consumer base.
According to the BLS, data scientists earned a median annual salary of $108,020 in May 2023. Additionally, BLS data projects a 36% job growth for data science jobs between 2023–33. Much of this increase is likely to come from the development of AI and machine learning technology.
Data science is integral to AI functions. Machine learning programs, which are a type of AI, determine outcomes by extracting trends and probability from the data. As a result, data scientists are increasingly necessary to find usable datasets, develop algorithms that probe the data, and assess the algorithm's effectiveness.
Pathways to getting into the data science field
Getting a job in data science requires high-level knowledge of mathematics, statistics, and programming. You generally need experience that proves your proficiency in these subjects to get hired, even in entry-level jobs.
While some companies ask that applicants have a master's or PhD, many only require a bachelor's in subjects like mathematics, computer science, or statistics. According to a 2022 report from the Harvard Business Review, machine learning technology allows “citizen data scientists" to work in the industry with less formal training than in previous years.
For example, Christopher Olah is a co-founder of Anthropic and a former technical lead at OpenAI. He achieved these positions without a formal degree, opting instead for independent research and internship experience. In his blog, he recommends exploring your resources and assessing your personal goals to decide whether formal study, experiential learning through internships and startups, or independent research will best help you achieve them.
| Master's level | PhD level |
|---|---|
| Programming | Research delivery |
| Data visualization | Legal compliance |
| The ethics of data science | Data interaction |
| Linear algebra and statistics | Computation cognitive monitoring |
| Algorithmic development | Time-dependent probability |
Balancing self-study and formal education
Although an advanced degree in data science can garner lots of attention from potential employers, not everyone has the time or money to earn one. But you don't have to give up your dream of becoming a data scientist — many programs, including the MITx MicroMasters® data science and statistics program offered on edX — combine self-study and flexible traditional education to give your résumé the boost you need to get hired.
MicroMasters programs focus on helping working professionals gain new skills and qualify for higher-paying positions. These courses offer credits toward a degree from the issuing institution, potentially creating a pathway to earning a master's or PhD at institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Because machine learning technology is progressing so rapidly, data scientists may need to continuously gain skills as the field evolves. MicroMasters programs can help you stay up-to-date with trends and advancements without committing to an advanced degree program.
Conclusion
Data science is a growing field with a high demand for skilled workers. While a master's degree or PhD in data science can help you stay competitive in the job market, you can also enhance your résumé by gaining practical skills through work experience and nontraditional education.
Sign up for a data science course on edX today and discover how flexible education can provide a pathway to new opportunities.