Is a Data Science Degree Worth It?

What Do You Learn in a Data Science Degree Program?

Bachelor's programs in data science are designed to provide students with a broad foundation of technical knowledge. The curriculum is constantly evolving, just as computers and information technology are continuously changing, but courses typically cover data processing and management, data systems, computer science, statistics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Some programs may also emphasize data analysis.

Master's programs allow students to explore aspects of data science, such as data mining or engineering, in greater depth, and they typically focus heavily on research and analysis.

While taking data science courses, students also have opportunities to develop valuable skills that can be applied in almost any work environment. Specifically, coursework and projects are often designed to help students enhance their collaboration and communication skills, as well as their analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Is Data Science a Hard Major?

The data science major, like all majors, is more challenging for some than others. Students who have a strong aptitude for math and statistics, in addition to well-developed critical thinking skills, tend to do well in data science programs. A few of the characteristics of data science that make this field of study somewhat difficult for some include:

Do You Need a Degree in Data Science to Become a Data Scientist?

While some professionals have been able to enter the field without a degree, a bachelor's degree is still recommended for entry-level positions. Employers generally prefer to hire candidates who have a well-rounded education and demonstrated knowledge of data science. Higher-level roles in research and management may require a master's degree, and a doctorate is usually required for work in academia. A data science bootcamp is also an option and can offer classes to develop specific technical abilities.

The Bottom Line

From tracking product inventories to analyzing customer preferences, modern organizations rely on massive databases of information to make smart business decisions. In turn, they count on data professionals to determine how to collect, store, protect, and utilize this data both ethically and effectively. Because of their value to organizations of all sizes, data scientists with proven professional expertise are well paid and increasingly in demand.