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

SEARCH FOR ANYTHING

Aggregated Type

Paragraphs

Academics

Earn your bachelor's degree, master's degree or certificate at UMass Global, a regionally accredited university. UMass Global offers 55+ online programs for our students.

Academic Programs
- Degree Types
- Professional Development
  - Certificates & Courses
  - Credentials & Authorizations
- Schools
- Other Information
  - Academic Catalog
  - Information Sessions
Tuition & Aid

UMass Global puts education excellence within your reach at competitive undergraduate and graduate tuition rates.

Tuition & Aid
Admissions

Applying to any university is a process – one that we try to make as painless as possible. UMass Global welcomes students from all backgrounds and experience levels, offering flexible programs designed for working adults.

Admissions
About UMass Global

From our beginnings serving the Marine Corps to today’s fully online, future-focused programs, UMass Global is dedicated to meeting students where they are and preparing them for what comes next.

About
- Facts & Figures
- More UMass Global

Scholarship & Tuition Discounts for Partners

Partner with UMass Global to offer flexible tuition benefits for employees and their families. Strengthen retention, recruitment, and workforce development with accredited programs.

Offer a Meaningful Benefit That Pays Off

A partnership with UMass Global allows your organization to offer a high-value, low-cost education benefit that supports employee growth, retention, and satisfaction. Depending on your partnership level, your employees—and in many cases, their spouses and dependents—can receive 10–20% off tuition on our career-focused degree and certificate programs. It’s an easy-to-implement perk that demonstrates your commitment to workforce development while helping you attract and retain top talent.

Below you will find a sample of organizations that’ve seen the value firsthand, as well as a directory of degrees and certificates available through this partnership model.