International study programs: Data Science
If you’ve chosen data science as your postgraduate international study program you can look forward to a multidisciplinary area of study that blends core concepts of computer science and statistics, among others.
Learn more about postgraduate data science programs, the popularity of this area of study, and the kind of careers and salaries an advanced degree in data science can unlock for you.
About data science programs
An M.S. in data science (MSDS) is a good option if you already have an undergraduate degree in a related field or are pivoting into a data science career. It typically takes about two years to complete and 30 curriculum credits, depending on your program’s requirements. You’ll develop a foundational knowledge of programming approaches, data structures and algorithms.
Advanced math and statistics courses are also generally required to understand concepts like regression-based modeling and predictive modeling. Since programming languages are an integral part of this area of study, you’ll build on your existing understanding of programming languages, like Python and SQL, and database languages. Depending on your program, you might also be required to take a course in data mining, deep learning or machine learning.
Toward the end of your program, you might have a required capstone project or thesis component to demonstrate your competency in the subject, which is necessary to earn your MSDS degree.
Data science might also be an attractive international study program among students, because it qualifies for the 24-month STEM OPT extension after earning your master’s degree.
If you still need assistance with your visa application for graduate school, MPOWER Financing’s Path2Success Program for students with approved loans offers F-1 guidance, including visa interview preparation. It also provides internship and job search support specifically for STEM OPT students who are looking for H-1B visa-sponsored job opportunities.
Demand for data science degrees
Among graduate-level international students, pursuing a math and computer science field of study, like data science, is increasingly popular. The Institute of International Education’s latest 2023 Open Doors Report says that 240,230 (22.7%) international students enrolled in a math and computer science-related study program in 2022-23. That’s nearly a 20% increase in enrollment compared to the previous academic year.
Demand for data science skills is also growing in the employment market. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects rapid growth among data-related professions between 2021-31, with data scientists leading at 35% of data-related job growth.
Five schools with data science master’s programs from our list of over 400+ eligible schools:
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- Michigan Technological University
- University of Maryland
- University at Buffalo
- University of Oklahoma
- University of the Pacific
5 jobs you can secure with a data science degree
Thanks to the multidisciplinary nature of MSDS programs, your job options outside of school are flexible. You can find many of the roles below throughout various industries, from health care, business, public policy and education.
1. Data scientist
Data scientists gather, organize and analyze data. You’ll be responsible for leveraging programs and statistical techniques to identify meaningful patterns and deliver impactful insights to key stakeholders in an organization. Although a master’s degree isn’t always required in this role, some employers require a master’s degree which typically leads to higher pay.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual salary for data scientists in May 2023 was US$108,020. Data scientists working in scientific research and development earned the highest median wage at US$126,430, annually.
2. Data analytics manager
As a data analytics manager, you’ll oversee a team of specialists, like data scientists, statisticians and business analysts. In addition to organizing and leading your direct reports to work cooperatively toward the organization’s overarching goals, you’re responsible for managing critical projects and communicating findings, in layman’s terms, to stakeholders.
Data analytics managers fall under the broad category of operations research analysts which, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, earned a median wage of US$83,640 in 2023. Specifically, those in roles within mathematical science occupations saw higher median wages at US$101,460.
3. Enterprise architect
Enterprise architects create a roadmap between the business objectives of large organizations and the software architecture needed to support their goals. Their main focus is on IT strategy and ensuring existing processes and systems support the organization’s objectives; if there’s misalignment, an enterprise architect develops solutions to address this disconnect.
Glassdoor data shows the median total salary of an enterprise architect at US$210,000 per year with US$262,000 at the high-end of the pay range for this profession.
4. Statistician
Using mathematical theories and statistical applications, statisticians leverage data to solve business problems. Like data scientists, they’re responsible for gathering data using surveys, polls or other collection methods. They interpret and analyze the data and communicate their findings to stakeholders within the organization. Typically, this role requires an advanced degree, like an MSDS.
In May 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that statisticians earned a median annual wage of US$104,100. Statisticians who worked in computer systems design or related industry had the highest median annual earnings at US$140,850.
5. Machine learning engineer
If you’re fascinated with artificial intelligence (AI) models, working as a machine learning engineer might offer a professional challenge you’re looking for. You’ll research and develop machine learning algorithms, perform systems tests and conduct analysis of their performance. You’ll also collaborate with other data science specialists and stakeholders to support projects that serve the organization’s greater goals.
A machine learning engineer earns a median total salary of US$165,000 per year, based on Glassdoor data. The most competitive wages for this role is a median salary of US$211,000.
Final thoughts: Earning a data science degree in the U.S.
There’s a lot of opportunity with a master’s of science program in data science. It’s an in-demand area of study that can open six-figure career opportunities after earning your postgraduate degree. To access this competitive and lucrative profession, however, you’ll need to pay your way through your postgraduate degree first.
Securing scholarships and grants is the best way to pay for your international study program, but these aid sources don’t always cover all of your expenses. Some international student loan lenders recognize the long-term value that STEM degrees offer students. MPOWER Financing is here to support you throughout every step of your postgraduate journey, including international student loans if you need additional financing. See what MPOWER Financing student loans can offer.
