Best Online Master’s in Data Science Programs 2024

Many employers in data science and related fields prefer job-seekers with graduate degrees; that’s because the work typically requires industry-specific knowledge that most four-year programs can’t provide. Even with a bachelor’s, you may not get many opportunities for advanced work beyond entry-level jobs in data science.

As with many technology-based career tracks, a master’s degree can expand the job market for you. A master’s education can equip you with the analytical, math, logical, and communication skills that many data science jobs require.

Another benefit of an online master’s in data science is the increased earning potential. According to March 2024 Payscale data, the average annual data science salary exceeds $100,000 annually.

Additionally, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that data scientists in research and development, management, and computer systems design earn some of the highest salaries in the field.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

The data science field is dynamic and includes jobs the BLS projects to grow by up to 35% between 2022-2032. With an online master’s in data science, you can gain entry-level employment as a statistician or machine learning engineer. According to the table below, people in these positions earned a 2022 median pay of $98,920 and $136,620, respectively.

Even for positions that require only a bachelor’s, such as management analyst or senior data scientist, a graduate degree can qualify you for higher-paying and more advanced work. According to the table below, data modelers, who usually require a bachelor’s, made a median wage of $102,240 in 2022. This figure likely includes earners who hold graduate degrees.

As an aspiring data scientist, you’ll need to keep up with the rapid changes in your field that drive your work. Keeping up with current trends, like the increasing demand for data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) can give you an advantage over other data scientists who don’t possess the necessary competencies.

Whereas data scientists use data to improve processes, decision scientists analyze data to support and maximize an organization’s decision-making processes. Their tasks typically include risk assessment, solving problems related to resource allocation, and helping leaders identify data trends.

These professionals also work in interdepartmental teams to develop and carry out strategies that increase organizational efficiency.

Many of these data science jobs require skills in machine learning, statistical analysis, data interpretation, and machine learning. Decision scientists should be able to make quick recommendations during time-sensitive situations. Limited April 2024 Payscale data reports that decision scientists earn an annual average of $63,290.

Structured query language (SQL) is one of the most prevalent programming languages data scientists need to use. SQL developers use their software development and database engineering training to manage and optimize databases, write code, and use stored data to perform various business functions.

SQL developers typically work with other IT personnel, business analysts, and database administrators to perform their jobs. Their work allows others in the organization to access data-based information that informs and supports key business decisions. According to April 2024 Payscale data, SQL developers earn an average salary of $81,477 each year.

Many organizations need data visualization specialists to present complex statistics so key decision-makers can understand and use them. These professionals typically work with data analysts, visual design specialists, and other individuals to create charts, graphs, tables, and other visual outputs.

In addition to analytical skills, most data visualization specialists need mathematics and computer science backgrounds. Data visualization specialists earn an average yearly salary of $80,000, according to April 2024 Payscale data.

Most people applying to a data science master’s program need a bachelor’s degree in data science or a related discipline. They also need to show completion of relevant computer science, math, and statistics classes.

An online master’s in data science requires a commitment of 1-3 years, depending on whether you enroll full- or part-time or if you incorporate an internship into your curriculum. Some programs offer accelerated courses, which can shorten the time you need to graduate.

As an online data science master’s student, expect to take up to 45 credit hours in such courses as data theory, data visualization, machine learning, and statistics, many of which provide hands-on learning opportunities. You’ll also need to learn programming languages like SQL and Python. Many online master’s students can choose a specialization, such as machine learning, business analytics, data security, big data informatics, or data engineering.

Most programs also require a capstone or thesis project that requires you to solve a problem or create a data-based model. Consider looking for a program that also offers a graduate certificate or certification.

In addition to a master’s degree, consider obtaining a data science professional certification. An extra credential allows you to acquire a specialized skill that employers desire, but few data scientists may possess. Here are five of the most popular data science certifications:

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed April 5, 2024.