Best Online Data Science Degrees 2021

A relatively new area of study, data science professionals provide vital services for businesses in diverse industries. These professionals enjoy high earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), data scientists earn a median salary of $94,280 per year.

This guide covers important information for anyone interested in earning a degree in data science, including common courses and scholarship opportunities for data science students.

Top Best Online Data Science Degrees

How Much Does a Data Science Degree Cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, full-time students attending a four-year private institution paid an average of $51,900 in tuition and fees for the 2018-2019 academic year. Students at public colleges and universities paid an average of $24,900.

However, several factors impact the total cost of a degree, including delivery format, enrollment status, and field of study. For example, online students often save on many of the expenses that on-campus students incur, such as housing and commuting costs. Additionally, in-state students at public schools receive a substantial tuition discount compared to out-of-state students. However, many programs allow all online students to pay in-state tuition regardless of residency.

Calculating the Cost of a College Degree

Students can use this calculation tool to compare the cost of attendance between several schools. In calculating the cost of a college degree, it is important to remember that the cheapest alternative may not always provide the best value. Students should weigh the cost of attendance with factors like faculty qualifications, program options, and professional opportunities.

Courses in Data Science

Data science programs include highly technical, science-oriented coursework on topics such as predictive analytics, interactive data visualization, and integer and nonlinear programming. A well-developed data science curriculum also includes classes in business, sociology, and financial risk modeling.

Courses vary by program, but the following list outlines courses commonly found in data science programs.

• Data and Society
• Probability, Statistics, and Machine Learning
• Statistical Learning

Data and Society

This class explores the philosophical, political, and social impact of data science. The course covers the philosophy of science and technology and the sociology of knowledge. Students also examine the practical consequences of data science in the modern era.

Probability, Statistics, and Machine Learning

This course examines mathematical methods and tools commonly used in data science. Students learn how to retrieve and organize information from large data sets. Topics covered include density estimation, cross-validation, common distributions, and probability spaces.

Statistical Learning

This course covers the foundations of regression-based statistical approaches and how to appraise the methodologies and assumptions underlying them. Learners study topics such as dimension reduction, variable selection, and causal inference.

Certifications and Licensure for Data Science

Certifications allow data scientists to highlight their skills and broaden their knowledge in specific subfields. Many credentials in this field, including the three below, receive worldwide recognition.

Scholarships for Data Science

Data science students can take advantage of scholarships to help offset the cost of their degree. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid. The following list outlines several scholarship opportunities for data science students.

Best Online Data Science Degrees 2021