Online Master’s in Data Science Degree

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Overview

Study Advanced Analysis Concepts With a Master’s in Data Science

A Master of Science in Data Science degree from Grand Canyon University can prepare those with a strong aptitude for mathematical reasoning and statistical computing for a career path in data analysis The data science career path may be ideal for results-oriented professionals who are skilled in data analysis, data mining, computer programming and problem solving in order to make effective data-driven business decisions. 

Students in the data science master’s degree program can gain a solid understanding and practical experience with the application of predictive analytics theory, principles, technical tools and industry-specific knowledge to a wide variety of problems in science, engineering and business. 

This is a profession that may require data science professionals to be able to handle the entire data lifecycle: 

  • Identify challenges/ask questions
  • Capture data from various sources
  • Interpret and organize information
  • Use intelligence to develop solutions
  • Apply findings to answer questions 
  • Drive business strategy
Why GCU

Benefits of Pursuing Your MS in Data Science From GCU

Earning a STEM degree from GCU can prepare you for careers in your field. By earning your data science master’s from the College of Engineering and Technology, you will study material instilled with a Christian worldview, promoting human flourishing while serving others as you work to become a leader in your field. The faith-integrated curriculum at GCU advocates ethical decision making.

Coursework

MS in Data Science Topics and Coursework Covered

Data science student writing equations on board

In the MS in Data Science online program, you will cover various topics and gain competence in areas designed to boost your knowledge of the field and set yourself up for potential advancement and opportunities.

The focus areas for the master’s in data science program include:

Predictive analytics and modeling

Computing

Statistics

Business intelligence

Machine learning

Software tools

Core Competencies and Capstone Project

The Master of Science in Data Science degree culminates in a capstone project course that provides an opportunity for you to develop an evidence-based practice project proposal that addresses a current problem, issue or concern in data science. You will have the opportunity to identify a problem amenable to research-based intervention, search literature, propose a solution and develop a plan to implement the solution, evaluate its outcome(s) and disseminate the findings. 

Master’s degree in data science students can gain competencies in these domains:

Data Science Analytics

Apply data analytics and statistical techniques to discover and deliver meaningful insights for problems, processes and decision making

Data Science Engineering

Use engineering principles and modern computer technologies to develop new data analytics applications

Data Management

Develop enterprise data management, protection and storage systems

Research and Applications

Formulate research questions, design experiments, analyze results and communicate research findings

Business Analytics

Gain knowledge in business analytics and business intelligence (BI) methods and develop business-oriented data products

Professionalism, Ethics and Sustainability

Demonstrate ethical judgement for new data-driven business processes

Careers

Career Paths for Master’s in Data Science Degree Holders

Graduates of the MS in Data Science program may take on roles within an organization such as: 

  • Natural sciences manager
  • Actuary
  • Statistician
  • Data scientist
  • Survey researcher
  • Mathematical science teacher (postsecondary)

$136,620

Median annual wage for computer and information research scientists in May 20221

Data Science Work Settings

The master’s degree in data science program is ideal for professionals who are interested in positioning themselves for possible career advancement, making discoveries with big data, working with new innovative technologies and pursuing research-oriented, forward-thinking leadership roles to impact business decisions. 

Potential work settings in the field of data science include: 

  • Web-based retailers
  • Social media companies
  • Hospitals
  • Primary care facilities
  • Large manufacturing corporations
  • Financial institutions
  • Insurance companies
  • Educational institutions
  • Technology suppliers
  • Consulting firms
  • Think tanks
  • Research facilities 
FAQ

Master’s in Data Science FAQs

Read through some of the most frequently asked questions to learn more about pursuing a master’s-level data science degree and furthering your career in the field.

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Start Your Journey Today

If you’re looking to advance in the field of data science, fill out the form on this page to learn more about earning your MS in data science from GCU.

Apply Now

The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Computer Information and Research Scientists as of May 2022, retrieved on Sept. 15, 2023. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may also impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the BLS. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers from across the country with varying levels of education and experience and does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as computer information and research scientists. It does not reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country. It also does not reflect a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. You may also wish to compare median salaries if you are considering more than one career path. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, and accept employment from, determines salary not only based on education, but also individual characteristics and skills and fit to that organization (among other categories) against a pool of candidates.

Payscale. (n.d.). Average Data Scientist Salary. Retrieved July 6, 2023.

COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as well.  Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2023, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Data Scientists, retrieved on Sept. 15, 2023.

United States Department of Labor. (n.d.). Data Scientists. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 6, 2023.

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