Can I become a data scientist with an information technology degree?

The “Data Science” emphasis in this UMass Global IT degree positions you to become a data scientist upon graduation. That’s because our Data Science emphasis is comprised of 4 Subdomains and 8 Competencies, all specific to the world of data analysis. You’ll take courses in machine learning, database querying, spatial visualization, business intelligence, data analytics, and more. This focus will give you the tools to step into a career in data science upon receiving your degree. As with all areas of the technology world, you’ll need to continue to improve your skills and evolve with changes that come your way. Continuing education and earning additional certifications are a part of working in the IT universe.

Is data science a part of the IT industry?

Data science is a distinct and specialized part of the IT world. While information technology spans a wide range of activities, everything from software development to infrastructure management, data science focuses specifically on extracting insights from data through techniques such as data analysis, machine learning, and statistical modeling. Data science leverages information technology to make sense of vast amounts of data that would otherwise be too overwhelming and too broad based to make any sense out of.

Is information technology the same as data science?

No, information technology (IT) is not the same as data science. IT encompasses a broad range of activities related to managing, maintaining, and utilizing technology infrastructure, including computer systems, networks, software, and hardware. It focuses on the operational aspects of technology within organizations. Data science, on the other hand, is a specialized field within IT that deals specifically with data-related tasks such as data analysis, machine learning, and data modeling. Data scientists use IT tools and infrastructure to extract insights and knowledge from data, helping organizations make informed decisions. While IT provides the foundation, data science is a subset that focuses on extracting value from data.

If I’ve already earned a certificate or certificates, which certificates qualify for direct college credit with UMass Global?

University of Massachusetts Global accepts the following industry standard certification examinations for college credit in the competency-based Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree program: CIW: CIW Web Foundations Associate, CIW Database Design Specialist CompTIA: CompTIA IT Fundamentals, CompTIA Projects+, CompTIA Network+ Exam, CompTIA A+ 220-901, CompTIA A+ 220-902, CompTIA Security+ Microsoft: Windows Server Admin Fundamentals, MCP: Server Virtualization, MCP: Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012 MTA: MTA Database Fundamentals Topics, MTA Software Development Fundamentals, MTA HTMLS Application Dev Fundamentals

Academic Programs | UMass Global

Human Resource Fundamentals, Certificate

1 PDU

Learn HR solutions that fairly and effectively address challenges in staffing, performance management, and rewards by adapting an employee lifecycle approach.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

1 PDU

$450

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Human Resources, Certificate

Master's Pathway

This graduate-level certificate is designed to develop professionals in human resources who wish to broaden their conceptual knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Online

15 Credits

$730/Credit

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Next Start Date

Summer II (Jun 23, 2025)

Next Start: 06/23/2025

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Next Start: 06/23/2025

Human Resources, MS

Gain the skills and tools you need to maximize employee engagement and address cultural, regulatory, and behavioral issues in a diverse workforce. You’ll learn strategic management, staffing, training and development, conflict and negotiation, employee benefits, and legal issues.

Degree Earned: Master's

Learning Mode: Online

Online

36 Credits

$730/Credit

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Next Start Date

Summer II (Jun 23, 2025)

Next Start: 06/23/2025

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Next Start: 06/23/2025

Implement Data Ctr Core Tech

This course prepares students with the skills and knowledge needed to prepare for entry-level network data center careers.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

2 PDUs

$1,850

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Implement Enterprise Core Tech

This is the first in the Cisco CCNP Enterprise program series and equips students with the skills needed to prepare for entry-level network enterprise careers.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

2 PDUs

$2,995

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Implementing Advanced Routing, Course

Concluding the Cisco CCNP Enterprise program series, students will gain the skills needed to prepare for advanced-level network enterprise careers.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

2 PDU's

$2,995

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Inclusive Engage Development, Course

Designed for HR Professionals, this course explores strategies for transparent and inclusive decision-making.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

0.4 CEUs

$105

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Indep Study: Special Topic

Earn graduate-level professional development credit or CEUs for attending a seminar, workshop, training, online course, webinar, reading a book or other professional development experience.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

1-3 PDUs per course

$150-$400

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Inform Literacy Development, Course

1 PDU

Grant Funded

This course is an overview of how to use data to inform classroom and home literacy progress.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

1 PDU

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Information Technology (Data Science) *self-paced, BS

Self-Paced

Embedded Certifications

Earn a B.S. in Information Technology with a data science focus through this online, self-paced program. Learn about data analysis, visualization, and industry-relevant skills. Gain certifications like CompTIA A+, Cloud+, and more. Existing certificates can earn direct college credit.

Degree Earned: Bachelor's

Learning Mode: Online (Self-Paced)

Competency Based

120 Credits

$3300/Credit

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Next Start Date

Continuous Starts

Next Start: Continuous Starts

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Next Start: Continuous Starts