What can you do with a data science degree?

One of the many fields experiencing growth — especially due to the rapid expansion of machine learning and artificial intelligence — is data science. Data scientists play an extremely important role in harnessing the power of large amounts of information to help make companies profitable. But what is data science, and what career options exist for those who pursue degrees in it?

While the tech sector may not be immune to downsizing, generally speaking it experiences strong and steady growth. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment in computer and information technology occupations to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033. About 356,700 openings are projected each year, on average, over the decade. 

BLS Occupational Employment Projections, 2022-2032 is published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects BLS’ projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to University of Phoenix students or graduates.

Data is everywhere. Practically every smart device can automatically collect and store information. Online systems, payment portals, and mobile and desktop applications capture data for many purposes. Companies collect text, audio, video and image data in such vast quantities that they need professionals to help comb through it and make it usable.

What they do: An information systems (IS) manager is a professional who oversees and leads information technology (IT) teams. They may manage a variety of activities, such as workflow processes, troubleshooting, digital infrastructure maintenance and implementation of updates. This role may be found in any organization that employs an in-house IT team. 

Salary: As of May 2024, computer and information systems managers earned between $104,450 and $239,200, with a median wage of $171,200, according to BLS.

Job outlook: Employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to grow 17 percent from 2023 to 2033. About 54,700 openings for computer and information systems managers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Salary ranges are not specific to students or graduates of University of Phoenix. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. University of Phoenix does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website.

What they do: A data analyst is a type of data scientist who focuses on processes for collating and understanding information. Typically, a data analyst uses existing tools to compile and organize data before analyzing that data for patterns and other points of interest. This analysis is then passed on for review and implementation. 

Salary: As of May 2024, data scientists earned an annual salary between $63,650 and $194,410, with a median wage of $112,590, according to BLS.

Job outlook: Employment of data scientists is projected to grow 36 percent from 2023 to 2033. About 20,800 openings for data scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

What they do: Another career for someone with a data science degree is that of a database architect who develops, manages and maintains models, policies and procedures related to organizational data management. These professionals often work alongside software designers and analysts to optimize data architecture.

Salary: As of May 2024, database architects earned between $81,630 and $209,990, with a median wage of $135,980, according to BLS.

Job outlook:  Employment of database administrators and architects is projected to grow 9 percent from 2023 to 2033. About 9,500 openings for database administrators and architects are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

What they do: Computer and information research scientists conduct field research and seek to reproduce phenomena under controlled conditions. This allows them to find patterns and produce relevant innovations. In the context of data science, these professionals may seek to achieve goals such as monitoring machine learning tools to determine how they operate in practice or utilizing data sets to more effectively test hypotheses.

Salary: As of May 2024, computer and information research scientists earned between $80,670 and $232,120, with a median wage of $140,910, according to BLS.

Job outlook: Employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 26 percent from 2023 to 2033. About 3,400 openings for computer and information research scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.