What is a Master's in Data Science?

The MS in Data Science program equips you with the tools and techniques to turn raw data into real-world impact.

You'll dive into the full data science lifecycle—learning how to collect, clean, model, and interpret data using today’s most in-demand tools. Along the way, you’ll sharpen your skills in analytics, visualization, computer science, and applied statistics—bringing your natural curiosity to life in meaningful, practical ways. In this article we’ll break down what it is, what topics are typically covered, and a few of the degree paths it can lead to.

Understanding the Master’s in Data Science Degree

Whether you're looking to solve complex problems in healthcare, business, tech, or another industry, the Master’s in Data Science program helps you unlock insights that drive smarter decisions.

The foundation of data science lies in mathematics, statistics, and programming. Data Science can be used to solve problems and answer critical questions in any industry domain. While many programs emphasize programming or statistics, the Bellevue University Master’s in Data Science strikes a balance between the two to prepare you for this quickly-changing field.

No data science or computing experience is required, but having some background in math, computing, and statistics is helpful. We will teach you everything you need to know about information processing and programming. You will apply skills by gathering, preparing, analyzing, translating, and presenting insights to clients – either in case studies, simulations, or actual clients.

A Master’s in Data Science may be available either in a traditional in-person classroom or online. The Bellevue program is entirely online, allowing you the flexibility you need for your career and life.

As a DSP [Digital Signal Processing] engineer, having a data science background is essential because technology is advancing and turning into machine learning and adaptive systems, primarily related to data science. Nowadays, organizations are collecting large data sets, and knowing how to use this data is beneficial in many engineering applications.

– Daniel Carbajal, MS Data Science, MS Cybersecurity, Bellevue University

What You’ll Learn in a Master’s in Data Science Program: Core Curriculum

What will you learn? A master’s in data science program consists of courses in the foundations of data science, data preparation, data modeling, and applied data science. To develop qualified professionals who are skilled in data science, the curriculum includes, but is not limited to, coursework in the following areas:

• Python programming language
• R programming language
• Frequentist and Bayesian statistics
• Grouping
• Merging and filtering data sets
• Predictive analytics through techniques like data mining

In addition to these critical skills, you will learn and practice how to translate, present, and visualize various complex topics for non-technical audiences such as stakeholders, and how to scale up all of the previous skills through the tenets of big data.

Bellevue University’s data science curriculum is grounded in both theory and hands-on application, so you’ll be ready to lead data-driven innovation in nearly any industry.

The portfolio aspect of Bellevue University's data science program takes it to the next level. It makes sure students have exposure to the same tools and technology that businesses are using today.

– Catie Williams, Bellevue University Program Director

Why is This Degree Important? Benefits of Earning a Master’s in Data Science

With a Master’s in Data Science, you benefit by having the skills to answer the important questions asked in business and industry by curating and using large sets of data. The ideal student seeks to develop their technical and professional skills in modeling and analyzing data sets. A data science program may be a good fit for those in many technical or nontechnical fields (business, healthcare, science) who would like to advance their career. The program also aligns nicely for individuals working in the analytics field but who lack the training and/or academic credentials to move up in their career path.

Data science is important because data-enabled digital transformation will eventually force every industry and organization to evolve their business models, processes, capabilities, and skills, to find more and more applications.

The applications of data science are widespread.

• In healthcare, for example, data science can be used to analyze patient records, predict patient admissions and disease outbreaks for better resource allocation, and optimize treatment plans.
• In finance, data science aids in fraud detection, risk assessment, and portfolio management.
• Retailers use data science to discover who their customers are, forecast demand for products, and to personalize marketing efforts to enhance the shopping experience.
• Geospatial data science is used by geoscientists, engineers, and architects who can integrate data into a machine learning model for everything from oil and mining operations, seismic analysis, natural disaster planning and mitigation, to clean air and water analysis.

Data science is also pivotal in industries such as manufacturing, transportation, energy, and education to shed light on trends, make smart decisions, and analyze user data. These industries and more have bought into the power of data to drive innovation, improve operational efficiencies, add sustainability, and raise profitability.

With a Master’s in Data Science, you will become qualified to work in roles that require these skills, at entry- to mid-level or higher positions depending upon your experience:

• Gathering, organizing, interpreting, and communicating insights gathered from data
• Developing meaningful, actionable findings based on those insights
• Creating software and using mathematical modeling to support software
• Translating insights across domains, techniques, and industries

Career Paths with a Master’s in Data Science

A Master’s in Data Science helps students develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities in a variety of career fields that need data scientists, data engineers, and analytics managers.

What can I do with a Master’s in Data Science?

Graduates of the data science program are prepared for high-growth roles such as:

• Data Scientist
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Data Analyst
• Business Intelligence Developer
• AI Specialist
• Data Engineer

Students will solve problems using Python, visualize data with R, Tableau and PowerBI; conduct data analysis using statistical models, machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI); and tackle Big Data storage and management problems with solutions like Hadoop, Spark, Deep Learning and more. When they graduate, students will be able to use data to tell a story. They’ll be extremely familiar with the tools, and be confident presenting to an executive team or a stakeholder group.

– Catie Williams, Bellevue University Program Director

Your Questions, Answered By The Experts

Q: How long does it take to earn a Master’s in Data Science degree?
A: Most students complete a master’s degree in 2-3 years, depending on several factors, including how many credits you take per term and how many are required (part-time students may take longer). Bellevue’s graduate program in data science requires 30 credit hours. At a pace of 2 courses per term (3 terms per academic year), it is possible to finish in 5 terms if you are continuously enrolled and progress according to the degree plan.

Q: What are the requirements to enroll in a Master’s in Data Science program?
A: Depending upon the school, you may need to submit scores from the GRE or GMAT exam. (Bellevue University does not require test scores.) You will typically be required to 1 ) Apply, 2) submit all official transcripts from previous accredited colleges, and 3) submit grades from your most recent 60 credit hours from a conferred bachelor’s degree or from a completed master’s degree. 4) Some programs may require a resume, letter of recommendation, or other documentation.
See Bellevue University’s graduate admission requirements. No data science or computing experience is required, but it would be helpful to have some background in math, computing, and statistics. The master’s program will teach you everything you need to know about information processing and programming.

Q: Are there any additional certifications that complement a master’s in data science?
A: Data science students may consider pursuing a credential like the Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) which can enhance your credibility and demonstrate your expertise in the field. Other popular options include a certificate of completion in IT Project Management, education, or training. Certificates in data visualization tools like Tableau, Microsoft PowerBI or Matplotlib; or certificates in Data Analytics with Google and AI (specific industry-recognized examinations and prerequisites may apply) are other complementary certifications.

Q: Can I earn a master’s in data science online?
A: Yes, you can earn the Bellevue University Master’s in Data Science entirely online. See the degree page for more information.

Are there scholarships available for master’s in data science students?
A: Yes. Graduate students are eligible for various scholarships and federal student aid. Some scholarships may target students in STEM-designated subjects including data science. Apply for scholarships here.

Explore a Master’s in Data Science at Bellevue University

Bellevue University believes the best method of building the critical skills in high demand in data science is to integrate hands-on, applied learning with theory, engaging you in heightened interaction throughout your learning experience. Strengthen your leadership skills and become a data-driven decision-maker who can guide your organization through whatever changes the future holds.

Learn more about the Master’s in Data Science today.

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