5 Reasons to get a Master´s in Data Science

In today´s business climate, managing big data through data science mastery has become one of the most valuable assets to any large, small or independent enterprise at a global level. Making critical decisions based on data analysis and programming allows specialists to lead rather considerable projects, for large multinational companies all over the world.

A data scientist is a professional in charge of collecting, examining, and interpreting extensive amounts of data by using advanced analytics technologies. Their role originated from businesses´ needs to gather various traditional technical skills, in a single position. Having a master´s in this field is advantageous in varied ways and there are many reasons to get one. Some of which can be found listed below, in no particular order of importance:

1.  To change career direction

Making a life changing decision like shifting career paths is never easy because of the uncertainty it entails. You may feel stagnated or perhaps underappreciated in your present job. Whatever the reason may be, data science is a great option for professionals who are searching for different and, ultimately, better career alternatives.

In case you have an undergraduate degree in related fields in the likes of engineering or mathematics and would like to work in positions related to data analytics, a Master’s is probably the most efficient way of opening more doors for you since it will equip you with solid skills, together with the necessary knowledge to venture into a new line of work that fits your background.

2. To become more proficient

A Master’s degree in Data Science is not only an excellent alternative to reaching new professional horizons; it is also a superb way to develop your proficiency in highly demanded data science skills. Undergraduate studies are meant to prepare you to properly enter the workforce. However, said studies tend to cover various subjects in a general manner.   

Getting a Master´s in Data Science will grant you a much deeper dive into more specific and specialized disciplines. Studying mathematics or programming in greater depths is a wonderful way to develop in areas that are fundamental to data science. This will help you become more proficient in various skills, which will make you more prepared as a professional in the end.

3.  To become more employable

Being more academically proficient is guaranteed to make you more employable in any line of work. Because of this, data scientists are intensely sought after by companies aiming for a powerful competitive edge. Therefore, there is an ever expanding demand from businesses, especially in the fields of healthcare, finances and technology, with thousands of vacant positions ready to be filled by data scientists.

Due to the fact that a growing number of companies are increasing their internal database on a daily basis, Data Science experts are highly demanded in areas such as: statistics, cyber security, predictive modeling, and machine learning, to name a few. As a result, employers tend to view candidates who possess a Master’s degree more favorably than those who do not.

4. It is a stepping stone to a leadership position

An undeniable benefit that comes with being more eligible than others for a particular job is that it makes it easier for anyone with a Data Science Master’s to reach higher positions within a company. Apart from adding much more credibility and clout to your résumé, it can help you attain a wide variety of leadership roles.

Having certified skills in data analytics guarantees you will be able to plan, inform and take actions regarding business decisions to implement effective strategies, something that is highly regarded by employers in every field. Managers, supervisors, and team leaders are some of the critical positions data scientists are being offered by important companies nowadays.

5.  To earn a higher salary

Although it might seem a bit too obvious, having the chance to receive a larger paycheck for your services and talents is, without a doubt, one of the biggest reasons for anyone to get a Master´s degree in Data Science.

The current lack of specialized professionals in the field has made companies more willing to pay higher salaries as an incentive. In fact, some positions in Data Science are now considered to be in the same level as a job for a bachelor with a Master´s in Business Administration, in terms of financial rewards and prestige. Consequently, “data scientist” has become one of the top ranked jobs in the United States.

Analyzing the gathered data

A Master´s in Data Science is more than a viable option for undergraduates who just want to pursue a different career path or simply wish to specialize in certain academic branches. It also represents an excellent opportunity for them to grow professionally and obtain more meaningful roles, which unavoidably will translate into greater responsibilities but into higher salaries as well.

Regardless of your motives for venturing into this field, getting a Master´s in Data Science is undoubtedly an outstanding tool to gain leverage in your professional career and allow you to completely change your life.