Bachelors Degrees in Data Science Online

Click to see more featured 100% online data science programs currently accepting applicants for 2024.

Overall, there are over 35 different Bachelor of Data Science programs in our database, offered at 30 different universities.

Are There Online Programs for Bachelor's Degrees?

Yes, a handful of Bachelor's degrees within the disciplines of computer science and data analytics are available online, but there are limited options with this level of education. Due to the heavy course load that requires approximately four years to complete, online courses may be limited in terms of meeting all general education requirements in addition to the major-specific classes. Many students who choose to pursue an online Bachelor's degree in data science will commit to a full-time schedule, but it is still possible to complete one of these programs on a part-time basis.

Do you need a Data Science Bachelors degree?

It depends. For the most part, your Bachelor's degree is what sets the foundation for your graduate work. In that sense, if a student knows for sure they want a career in data science, a Bachelor's in Data Science is a great first step. However, if a student is still undecided about their career and they choose to pursue data science later, it is still possible to catch up without the Bachelor's degree. At the Bachelor of Data Science level, students can gain introductory skills in data analysis, statistics, and database improvement. Some people can learn data science and analysis on their own. However think of these points:

  • Most Bachelor's in Data Science programs can prepare students for higher learning or introductory careers in the field of data analysis.
  • One of the highest-trending degrees to pursue in the United States is a BS in Data Science. According to BLS, computer and information research scientist careers are expected to grow 22 percent from 2020 to 2030, which much faster than the average for all occupations.
  • There is a growing need for data science positions with many companies, government agencies, and nonprofit groups relying on big data for strategic advantage, solving numerous problems, and to improve processes within the organization. According to O*Net, there are 63,200 data science employees as of 2020 and the projected number of job openings from 2020-2030 is 7,100.

Bachelor of Data Science Degrees

In depth review of some of the best Bachelors of Data Science degree programs

The search for the perfect program can sometimes result in long lists and confusing options that can be overwhelming for upcoming college students. Different universities often offer degree programs in varying formats, which can prevent difficulties for people that have little experience with choosing college programs. The goal of this guide is to provide you with relevant options that are suitable and beneficial to those seeking a Bachelor’s in Data Science.

The list below this section lists schools throughout the United States that are currently offering the Bachelors in Data Science. Depending on where you live or whether or not you want to pursue your degree online, one of these programs may be more suitable than another.

Northeastern University's BS in Data Science

The Khoury College of Computer Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Science. Students will be able to gain competence in multiple programming languages and working with big data through a variety of concepts, such as data mining, machine learning, and presenting information. Other related alternatives include the Bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science and Cybersecurity.

Length of the Program and Number of Credits

131 total credit hours are needed to complete the program, and this is generally completed in four to five years based on the type of schedule the student pursues. There is a Computer Science or Data Science option that students pursue in the beginning, with one emphasizing database design and programming while the latter dives into natural language processing and artificial intelligence.

Courses

Courses are separated into a variety of subjects, such as mathematics, ethics, and a presentation requirement. For example, students will need to complete two levels of calculus geared for scientific professions, linear algebra, and probability and statistics in the mathematics quadrant. There is also a computer science writing requirement where students can learn advanced technical writing.

Northeastern University offers many elective opportunities when pursuing this program. Students can utilize their electives to customize their experience, such as going into bioinformation methodology for health care, game design and modeling, or financial and marketing research to give the organization they represent an advantage over the competition.

Bellevue University's BS in Data Science

This streamlined program allows students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Data Science through an online format at the Nebraska-based institution. According to Bellevue University, their data science program focuses on Business analytics, Computer science, Statistics, and Gathering and analyzing valuable data. Bellevue University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which reviews 19 different states in the central and southwestern portion of the country.

Credit Hour Requirements

127 total credit hours are needed to satisfy the curriculum requirements, which breaks down into 37 credit hours for general education, 36 credit hours for the data science major, and 54 credit hours of elective opportunities. Students will gain exposure to various programming languages and data science applications, such as Python, R, Tableau, and PowerBI.

What Courses Would You Take?

Common courses in the major requirement include Computer Systems for Data Science, Applied Statistics, and Big Data, Technology, and Algorithms. All students are required to complete a set of three courses in the Kirkpatrick Signature Series. These are taken after the student has completed at least 60 credit hours and gives the student exposure to American philosophy and tradition, and reviewing social changes that have taken place.

Learning Environment

The Bachelor's degree in data science is one of 75 total programs available completely online at Bellevue University. Students set their own schedule for lectures and completing classroom assignments.

Maryville University's BS in Data Science

The Bachelor of Science in Data Science at Maryville University gives students an in-depth understanding of how to organize and interpret data. Maryville University is based in St. Louis, Missouri, but they do offer a 100% online program. Students will explore topics such as how to transition raw data into valuable information to other employees and clients with skills in computer programming and predictive modeling. There will be various courses in statistics and its connection with business success and the economy. Maryville University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and was listed on the 2019 Forbes America's Top Colleges.

128 total credit hours are needed to satisfy the curriculum requirements, with 46 credits specific and required for the major. There are also general education courses and general elective courses. Students may also choose to minor in Business or complete an Actuarial Science certification.

Having a data science degree from Maryville University will provide students with the ability to solve problems and find optimal business solutions for the organization they represent. They will be updated on the latest innovations in the industry and will apply them into the company. Communication with other workers is also key to thriving in the field, being able to clearly define and make their findings concise.

Eventual graduates can work in many different industries, including finance, education, and various levels of government. One popular profession is becoming an analyst that utilizes data science skills, such as a pricing analyst. They look to find the optimal price available where they maximize profits and remain competitive.

In order to be successful with the online program, students will need basic competence when running a Windows or Mac operating system, and using applications such as a web browser and word processing. There are typically no requirements to log in at certain times, but there are deadlines for assignments and group projects. Students will have access to 24/7 technical support throughout their studies.

Southern New Hampshire University's BS in Computer Science with Options for Concentration

Based in Manchester, New Hampshire, and accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, students can pursue the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with an option of four different concentrations: Data Analysis, Project Management for STEM, Information Security, and Software Engineering. This is an alternative example of a data science education that is available online, but does not specifically offer the discipline itself. Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by NECHE.

Summary of The Data Analytics Concentration

The Data Analytics portion of the degree offers similar courses that a student would find in data science education. This includes how to develop and organize database structures, being able to verify and clean data from a variety of sources, and using skills such as regression analysis and quantitative reasoning to analyze this information.

Length and Credit Hours

Typically, students will complete the program in four years, but this could be shorter with eligible credit. The total number of credits required for the degree is 120. Up to 90 credit hours will be allowed to transfer into the program for students that have pursued similar coursework elsewhere.

Students will learn to develop computer-based business solutions and follow legal and ethical principles regardless of what path they choose in the concentration. Programming languages that students can learn with this degree include Python, Java, and C++. As an alternative, students may consider the full Bachelor’s degree in Data Analytics.

Chaminade University of Honolulu - BS in Data Science, Analytics, and Visualization

The School of Natural Science and Mathematics offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Science, Analytics, and Visualization. This is an all-around program that prepares students to work with big data, use predictive analytics in order to support important business decisions, and being able to follow legal and ethical guidelines when using information.

Credit Hours Expectations

120 credit hours are needed to complete the program, which can be accomplished over a four-year time span. At least 45 credit hours must be within the upper division and all courses required in the major must be completed before receiving the degree. In addition, a 2.0 GPA or higher is required throughout the program.

Students must already have introductory knowledge of programming in Python and R, calculus, and be familiar with SQL in order to jump into the major requirements of the curriculum. Examples of courses that students will take include Data Journalism, Digital Humanities, and Bayesian Statistics. General education requirements include behavioral and social sciences, performing arts, and mathematics.

Admissions

For the admission process, prospective students should submit transcripts of their high school graduation or two-year college if transferring over. Those that have over 24 college credit hours will still need to submit high school transcripts and any testing scores that may help in the application process. Also helpful is the addition of any personal statements or letters of recommendation.

Marist College BS in Data Science and Analytics

The Department of Computing Technology offers the Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics, both as a major and minor. When pursuing the program, students will be able to extract information from various types of sources and they use statistical analysis to determine trends and patterns that will successfully make organizational decisions. 120 total credit hours are needed to complete the degree.

69 or 70 total credits are dedicated to the major itself, and examples of courses that students will take include three levels of Calculus, Applied Statistics, Software Development, and Data Visualization. Electives will further customize the degree with topics in business intelligence, artificial intelligence, and more. Core liberal arts courses will add philosophy, ethics, history, and social sciences to complete the curriculum.

Students will take foundational courses and many of the required mathematical courses over the first two years of the degree. Advanced topics, such as machine learning, and many of the electives that students select will be taken over the final two years. If the student selects an internship to go toward elective credit, this is typically completed in the senior year.

In order to gain the minor, 18 total credit hours are needed in foundational topics in data science, from mining information, computer programming, and calculus. This minor is designed for students that are pursuing a discipline in a different category that can be combined with analytical topics.

Saint Louis University BS in Data Science

Students can explore natural language processing, machine learning, and many other big data topics with the Bachelor of Science in Data Science that combines resources from the Department of Computer Science and Department of Mathematics and Statistics. One benefit students can utilize is the SLU Data Science Club that offers additional preparation of data science analysis, such as predictive modeling.

121 total credit hours are needed to complete the program, and students must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA throughout in order to continue advancing over the four years of academics. The curriculum is separated into core subjects required by the university, computer science, mathematics and statistics, and six total credit hours worth of data science practicum and capstone project sessions.

Students will need to select three total electives for the major, and there needs to be at least one computer science course and one statistics course.

  • Algorithms
  • High-Performance Computing
  • Software Engineering
  • Mathematical Statistics
  • Probability Theory
  • Time Series

At least a high school diploma is required to enter into the Bachelor's degree with high academic merit and the submission of ACT or SAT scores. These standardized testing scores will be phased out of the application process in the future. Students that are transferring with less than 24 credit hours completed will need to submit their high school transcript and testing scores.

Here are some other BS in Data Science programs:

  • Auburn University: BS in Data Science
  • California Polytechnics University: BS with Data Science minor
  • The University of California - Irvine: BS in Data Science
  • Luther College: BS in Data Science
  • The University of Evansville: BS in Statistics and Data Science

Click to see more online Data Science programs accepting applications.

Finding the right online Data Science program

The most popular method for obtaining a Bachelors in Data Science is through online data science programs. In the online setting, students may have the freedom to take courses at their own convenience and attend classes at a time that works for them. In current society, convenience with education can allow you to pursue your chosen degree without having to quit your job or miss out on time at home.

Online data science programs can be a convenient option that allows students to indulge in higher education without having to sacrifice the quality of their degree. One way that students can ensure that they are getting the best possible education is through verifying accreditation information about their university. Universities that have regional or national accreditation may be a great option, but students should always verify the accreditation status of their individual degree programs as well.

What is this Online Degree Like?

The online Bachelors in Data Science can have different components depending on which university you enroll in. Most programs require that students complete around 120 credit hours of coursework, which includes generalized topics in collegiate education as well as core components of the data science program. Courses in the online program may provide weekly due dates for assignments, which can allow students to complete work at their own pace.

Online degree programs in data science may also allow students to choose a minor to go alongside their bachelors program. A minor can help add crucial information that can help students attain more specialized positions in the professional field or simply expand their knowledge of their chosen subject. If you have a good idea of the field you want to work in, choosing a minor may help increase your skills within this area.

Online Programs for Bachelor's Degrees in Data Science

There are a handful of online Bachelor of Data Science programs. Click here to view 100% online featured bachelor of data science programs that are currently accepting applicants.

However, many institutions will require the student to pursue their studies on campus as it is difficult to maintain a full course load for multiple years that requires general education and other university requirements in addition to the discipline selected.

A few universities based in the Midwest have regional accreditation and offer a full Bachelor's degree completely online. These are available across the United States with little to no requirements for on-campus residency. The vast majority of Bachelor's degrees with a discipline in data science will be held on campus with some flexibility in online coursework with the major or in general education courses.

For online flexibility, individuals may consider data science concentrations or certifications that can be connected with a Bachelor's degree that is available online. For example, a discipline in Computer Science or Business Administration may have data mining, analysis, and visualization courses within the core curriculum or as elective opportunities. Many vendor certifications, like the IBM Data Science Professional Certificate, has coursework that is completely available online.

What you learn in an online Bachelor of Data Science degree

Fundamental knowledge in extracting and analyzing data are learned in these programs, along with the tools needed to accomplish various tasks that help in making organizational decisions. Not limited to just the discipline of data science, concepts can also be explored in business administration, criminal justice, and health care.

Bachelor of Data Science Degrees

Some colleges have online STEM degrees with data science courses or minors

Some programs may offer core data science courses online through the major or minor offered by the school. While a major in data science will offer more extensive knowledge about the field, data science minors are also beneficial to gaining skills in analytics and visualization methods that can combine with a different discipline of study, such as engineering or health care.

Online computer science degrees with data science concentrations are becoming more common

More institutions are offering computer science degrees with concentrations or electives that explore topics in data science. For example, UMASS Lowell was rated #1 for online computer science programs by the Center for Online Education, and this program offers a data science concentration for those who are focused on that field.

Some programs just have coursework concentrated around data analytics and related

Some programs may not have direct specializations in data science, but will contain topics associated with implementing systems that develop, maintain, and analyze big data. Other specializations and disciplines may include machine learning, information systems, network security, and software development.

Considering data science related certifications

An alternative for students that are looking for online data science education are college and vendor certifications. One example of a budding certificate program is Yale’s Undergraduate Certificate in Data Science, which was made available for the class of 2020 and subsequent years.

Graduate certifications provide advanced education in the field of data science, but these are generally restricted to those already obtaining a Bachelor’s degree and/or have multiple years of work experience.

Data science is a fairly broad field, involving everything from gathering and analyzing to visualizing information. There are many avenues to receive this type of education, both in the discipline itself or a concentration in the disciplines of Computer Science, Business Administration, or similar. Related disciplines or concentrations include Data Analytics, Business Analytics, and Statistics.

What Are the Steps to Getting The Bachelor’s Degree?

In order to get into a Bachelor’s degree program with a focus on data science and analytics, students should already have completed high school or have at least gained a GED or equivalent. Finishing high school studies with high academic merit is beneficial to the application process, but holding high standardized testing scores can supplement these studies.

Prospective students may need to hold prerequisites prior to entering the program. Some may require linear algebra and various mathematical or statistics courses, while others may offer the chance to complete these courses when pursuing the degree. However, students should review if this counts toward the curriculum. If students have an opportunity to complete college-level coursework in high school, this may be transferable to the undergraduate degree.

Typical Schedule for Bachelor’s Degrees

Students will need three to four years to complete their Bachelor’s degree in data science if they are pursuing this education on a full-time basis. The first two years will emphasize general education and provides foundational work that prepares them for advanced education when getting toward the major, and possibly minor, that the student has selected. Within the first two years, students will declare for their major.

For data science degrees, general education will consist of various liberal arts, mathematics, statistics, and science-related courses. For example, students can pursue college-level algebra or composition courses that prepare for statistical analysis and report writing that is explored within the major or minor in data science. Course offerings will change depending on specific discipline, such as health informatics and engineering.

120 credit hours are the average amount required to fulfill curriculum requirements for a Bachelor’s degree, which comes out to about 40 courses. Anywhere from 30 to 60 credit hours in the second half of the program will focus on the discipline and prepare students for the career being considered. Additional requirements include completing an internship or pursuing a capstone project that gives students the ability to apply what they have learned.

Considering a Discipline that is More Focused

Pursuing a general discipline in data science may not be the best route for an individual looking for a career in this field. There are many concepts that are covered, specifically in cleaning data from a variety of sources and being able to analyze and present this information to a different segment of the organization. Students looking at a specific position in that process, or building the architecture for data mining, should consider disciplines in data engineering or business analytics.

Other popular fields related to data science include Business Intelligence degrees and Clinical Data Management programs.

Who Should Study This Degree?

Data science is a growing field that calls upon data-savvy individuals that have an interest in providing insight and innovation to businesses from all realms of service. The use of data can be found within various forms of business, making it a great way to transmit information regarding sales and marketing for businesses or patient data and health information for healthcare facilities. Specialists that are trained to gather and translate large portions of data can be useful to many organizations that wish to improve their operation in accordance to its data.

If you are interested in pursuing a degree in data science, you might be pleased to learn that you can enter into degree programs at almost any educational level. More and more students are interested in enrolling in these educational programs in an attempt to become part of the ever-changing field of technology.

Specific Coursework in Data Science

Since data science is such as diverse and all-encompassing degree program, students are encouraged to review the curriculum of their school of choice prior to making the commitment. Most data science programs consists of a subtle blend of subject, especially at the bachelors level. Some students may find that the curriculum grows more defined and concentrated as they move closer to the end of their program.

The courses below represent some from the entire 120 credit hour requirement for this program. While the 1st and 2nd year of a bachelors program may have many prerequisite and general education requirements, it often contains a lot of entry-level information that is helpful to upcoming data science professionals. Take a look below at some of the common core courses found within this bachelors program.

Linear Algebra

Mathematical courses that focus on linear equations and using matrices are common at the undergraduate level of a data science program. Knowing these fundamentals prepare the professional for identifying any outliers or incomplete information when analyzing data.

Programming Languages

Fundamental and advanced knowledge of various programming languages are available with the data science discipline. The widely-used Python is most commonly found when majoring or minoring in the field, but other languages may be required in the core curriculum or offered as an elective option. Not all universities will offer all or multiple languages; R is recommended for statistical positions and SQL for individuals that will be querying and organizing information frequently.

Data Wrangling

One of the most important aspects of data science is being able to collect and clean the information gathered from a variety of sources. These courses will vary in titles and include subjects on data mining, unstructured and structured data, text analytics, statistical design, and more. In some cases, having a base understanding of programming, linear algebra, and statistics are prerequisites.

Predictive Analytics

One of the advantages of data science is being able to accurately predict scenarios based on the information gathered by the organization. This is applicable to a number of industries and can improve health care, sales, and engineering. At the Bachelor’s degree level, fundamental topics and skills are explored, like using existing models and how to adapt those to raw data in the student’s situation.

Data Visualization

In addition to cleaning data for analysis, transitioning the raw data into usable information and a story that is easily comprehended by other members of the organization is extremely valuable. These courses will generally explore what types of charts or reports are best suited in a variety of situations. They also give students the technical skills to create these visualizations on multiple platforms.

Here are more:

  • Applied Statistics: Students enrolled in this course can learn more about creating statistical models and implementing regression analyses. This course seeks to apply statistical methods to everyday environments, so that students can implement their learning into different fields of research.
  • Fundamentals of Data Mining: This course can help students learn how to identify specific patterns found within data. Through critical thinking and implementation of hypotheses, students can possibly use the knowledge gained throughout this course to help solve specific issues within their chosen field.
  • Database Design: Using tools and techniques used in previous computer information courses, students in this course can learn to create helpful databases that can be used in many different areas of business. This course can help students learn to create helpful databases that can assist in problem-solving and convenience.

Majoring vs. Minoring in Data Science

Picking between majoring or minoring in the field of data science depends on what type of position the student is looking for. For example, a business analyst that is aiming to work in management in the future will require plenty of training in business and leadership courses, and they additionally may pursue a minor in data science to gain skills in probability methods and computer programming.

Majoring in Data Science

Majoring in data science will be the discipline that is selected by the student, and provides a general overview of techniques in cleaning, analyzing, and visualizing information for an organization. Frequently, there are pathways that students select to satisfy criteria in the major, such as picking a programming language, what type of statistical analysis to explore, and how this type of information can be applied based on the industry they are planning to get into.

Students may be able to major in statistics or computer science with similar coursework that is found in a genuine data science curriculum.

The number of courses that are needed in a major or minor will depend on the university’s curriculum. Typically, at least 10 courses are required for the major in data science and there will be plenty of room for customization toward a specific profession. A minor will generally require half the credit hours and there will be certain types of courses that are selected by the student to complete.

Admission Requirements

To gain entry into a Bachelor’s degree program, students should have completed high school and received a diploma. Depending on the institution, they may require a specific GPA or graduate within a specific percentile of the class. There are different requirements for admission if a student is a first-year graduate from high school or if they are transferring from another institution.

First-Year Applicants

First-year students will need a high school diploma, GED, or graduate equivalent to be considered for a Bachelor’s degree. Additional requirements include submitting an SAT or ACT standardized testing score and submitting any work or volunteer experience. In some cases, these may be optional or are currently being phased out of the admission process.

Applicants that have a high GPA or have scored a certain amount on their standardized testing options may be able to enter directly into a school and declare for a program. For example, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis allows for direct admission for students that have a 3.0 GPA or have scored at least a 1200 on the SAT or 24 on the ACT for their Applied Data and Information Science program.

Evidence of high academic merit or financial need is needed if the student is looking for scholarship opportunities after getting into the program. Additional requirements for scholarships, such as writing an essay that details why the candidate should receive the award, may also be needed.

Transfer Applicants

When transferring from a different university, students will need to submit all transcripts. This includes any courses that were taken at community college or during the process of getting a Bachelor’s degree. Institutions will have different acceptance levels for transfer credits, but at least one-quarter of the total credit hours must be gained at the school the student is graduating from.

General education courses will often be accepted by many institutions if the credit is coming from a regionally accredited program and the student passed the course with at least a C grade or higher. This course must have been taken in recent years, and schools will have different time frames that are acceptable. Prospective students should review all coursework with academic advisors to determine what courses will count toward the curriculum.

Full-Time vs. Part-Time Education for Bachelor’s Degree

Three to four years are often needed to complete a Bachelor’s degree on a full-time basis with coursework in the fall and spring semesters. This can be shortened by pursuing courses in summer terms or loading up more credit hours in one semester. Students can also complete general education at an alternative institution, such as a community college, and transfer credits into the program.

Students unable to pursue a degree on a full-time basis will often have an opportunity to enroll part time. This lowers the course load for students to pursue data analytics while meeting other life obligations, such as continuing their career. If all courses need to be completed within the curriculum through the institution, part-time enrollment may require at least five to six years to complete.

Online or hybrid students have further flexibility by viewing lectures on-demand and completing assignments on their own time. A hybrid format may be available if the online and on-campus programs offered by the institution are identical. Students should review what courses are available in different formats and if the hybrid option is an opportunity to consider.

Optional Submissions

Other items that could help in the admission process include a personal essay or statement of purpose. This will detail what the student has accomplished so far in their academics and what their career goals in the future. Specifically, they can detail why they have chosen the university to pursue their studies, such as aligning with their mission statement or acknowledging the success rate of their program.

Having other achievements, such as volunteer work or accomplishing related projects, should be submitted here. For particular with a data science program, institutions will be impressed with any related projects they can review and utilize in a repo such as GitHub. These accomplishments do not have to be advanced, but relays to faculty members reviewing the application that the student has a fundamental understanding of data science.

Tuition Costs for Bachelor’s Degrees in Data Science

With over 120 total credit hours needed for the majority of Bachelor’s degrees, it can be expensive to pursue a data science discipline. At the University of Maryville, it costs $500 per credit for 128 total credit hours in the Bachelor of Science in Data Science curriculum. That equates to $64,000 for that particular degree, and that is prior to the $375 fee given each semester for online resources.

Adding up various housing costs, educational material to go with courses, and other fees that provide the many resources that institutions offer, prospective students should consider all potential costs in addition to the tuition rate. For example, Bowling Green State University in Ohio will cost approximately $21,750 annually when adding tuition, room, and meal plan. There is an additional $8,000 fee each year for students that are not Ohio residents.

Overall, students can expect to spend anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000 if they choose to complete a full Bachelor’s degree at a highly recognized university. These costs can be lower by considering alternative education and comparing different locations.

How to Decrease Tuition Costs

There are multiple ways that individuals can lower tuition costs instead of just relying on federal student loans or other avenues of borrowing money. First, they should consider any colleges in their area. Applying to a university in the state they are a resident in will generally have a significant decrease in the amount of tuition needed compared to a student gaining entry from out of state.

Students should consider completing their general education courses at a community college. This can lighten the course load by passing out of many courses within the Bachelor’s degree, and taking courses at a local community college is generally cheaper than at a university. It is important to review curriculum requirements to determine that the community college credit will be satisfactory for the university.

Online programs may be cheaper to enroll than a traditional method at the university. This can be due to a lack of available resources when compared to a student that is pursuing their degree on campus, and there are no fees for housing, meals, and other necessities. In some cases, universities may waive their additional out-of-state tuition fee.

In a completely alternative move, individuals may consider looking at certification. A number of vendors provide online education and a voucher to complete the certification exam at a fraction of the university cost. This method does have less completion rates as they are asynchronous learning experiences, and there will be additional costs if the student fails and later retakes the certification exam.

Internship Requirements for Data Science

Depending on the university, a Bachelor’s degree in data science may require the completion of a professional internship. With a broad discipline such as data science, this can open the door to a number of different opportunities in the field. For example, a student can choose to be a data analyst at a health care facility or a machine learning engineer in the transportation industry.

Many universities will have resources and networking opportunity for students to gain an internship position. It is highly recommended for an individual to consider taking an internship if possible during their studies. While data science positions continue to be in demand, getting into a particular industry could be difficult with increasing competition across the board.

Internship Alternatives

Students that elect not to pursue an internship if it is an optional decision will still have other resources to consider. Many institutions provide career building workshops, such as improving their work resume or enhancing their interview skills when looking for employment. They can also introduce students to various positions to expand their potential when reviewing their academic progress.

Job fairs also provide a solid opportunity for students or recent graduates to get connected with organizations in the area. Alumni associations also have potential for further networking opportunity with other established professionals, or having access to specific jobs that may not be as publicly available. Simply getting advice from a professor, who is often a current or former professional in the field they teach, can lead to employment potential.

Further studies at a higher level can also lead to better employment outlook. Gaining a Master’s degree in data science will provide the student with more advanced technical knowledge in many areas, gives more theory and research methodology when analyzing information, and more leadership and management skills. Graduates must have high academic merit, and should hold some professional experience, to apply.

Career Opportunities with Bachelor’s Degree in Data Science

Looking for data science jobs can be challenging as there are positions within the field, and there are also direct positions as a data scientist. Positions are based on the hierarchy of the data science process and what positions are available at certain organizations. Depending on the flow of data and information analysis, not all types of positions are available within a company’s information technology sector.

Jobs as a Data Scientist

Data scientists themselves can be found at numerous positions within the hierarchy structure. They may be tasked with cleaning data duties and preparing for analysis, analyzing and organizing the information, or implementing algorithms and transitioning this information to visualization for other company sectors. Depending on a company’s definition of data science, specific tasks will vary.

Before applying to job opportunities that are looking to hire a data scientist, review all tasks and requirements for the position. Even if the potential job promises high pay, there should be specific duties assigned. Organizations requiring multiple programming languages and asking for the data scientist to collect, prepare, analyze, and create algorithms would be impossible to maintain in a long-term career.

Various Positions in Data Science

Pursuing a degree in the discipline of data science opens up plenty of opportunities in the entire process. Programs will often have concentrations or electives that give students the capability for specialized education in an industry or particular segment of data science they are interested in working at. These duties may include the architecture of information systems, creation of data mining and applications, and data analysts.

Data architects are responsible for the implementation of these valuable systems into an organization, or already improving upon the structure by adding in latest innovations and detecting any problem areas that need to be fixed. For example, an architect may be responsible for transitioning a company to a cloud-based infrastructure when it comes to collecting and storing valuable information.

Architecture jobs focus on improving the information technology sector and giving capability to the organization and its workers to meet company goals. While duties and positions overlap, data engineers are generally responsible for building and improving upon the processes themselves. This means companies that are implementing more machine learning solutions are hiring data engineers to accomplish this.

Data analysis and statisticians will focus on the mining, preparation, and reviewing data from a number of different sources and transitioning it to valuable information for the organization. Statisticians themselves do not necessarily have to hold computer programming skills, but they should have a broader understanding of different research methods and predictive capabilities.

Architects, engineers, and software developers within data science will be paid higher than analytical positions on an average basis. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals make an average of $122,840 as the yearly mean salary for computer and information research scientists. These estimates tend to drop off when looking at data science jobs at the federal government or at particular educational facilities.

Online BS in Data Science Programs

Click to see more Online Data Science Programs accepting applications.