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

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Check out some fast facts on why going back to school is a good option.

$1.2M

in additional lifetime earnings — that’s the average boost for bachelor’s degree holders compared to those with only a high school diploma

20%

more pay for having a master’s (or higher) instead of just a bachelor’s

60%

of workers will require training before 2027

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University of Massachusetts Global is a member in good standing of the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), a national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation

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Information Technology (Data Science), BS

Information Technology (Data Science), BS

Information Technology (Info Self Design), BS