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Master of Science (M.S.)

Data Science

Every data point tells a story. With a Master of Science in data science from Bowling Green State University, you’ll acquire the skills to tell that story – and write your own.

Graduates of data science master’s programs are shaping the future of entire industries – from healthcare and education to the environment. With constant advancements in AI, blockchain and quantum computing, there’s never been a more exciting – or opportune – time to pursue a master’s degree in data science. 

Imagine using predictive analytics to prevent global food shortages, designing algorithms to improve patient outcomes or leading cybersecurity efforts to protect vital infrastructure. 

Employers are increasingly looking for data scientists with advanced degrees to step directly into leadership roles and provide critical, actionable insights. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports data science is one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying career fields. Demand is expected to grow by nearly 40% over the next decade. 

Program highlights

  • Cutting-edge curriculum. Data science is synonymous with innovation. Our broad, interdisciplinary curriculum keeps pace with industry demands. It provides in-depth knowledge in computer science, mathematics and statistics, and applied statistics and operations research. 
  • Expert faculty. The data science M.S. degree is a multidisciplinary program taught by experienced faculty in three departments: computer science, mathematics and statistics, and applied statistics and operation research. 
  • Roles in research. BGSU data science professors are active researchers. Our data science graduate students have extensive research opportunities in analytics, business and computer science. 
  • State-of-the-art resources. BGSU data science M.S. degree students have access to advanced computing labs, cloud platforms and data visualization tools. Our partnerships with industry leaders also provide students with the tools and datasets needed to tackle real-world challenges. 
  • Supportive community. Join a vibrant, diverse cohort of peers. From student organizations to mentorship programs, you’ll find a community that both supports and inspires you. 
  • Marketable experience. A master’s degree in data science will provide you with sought-after skill sets for prime professional opportunities, pay increases and promotions or to begin Ph.D.-level work in data science

Average median salary for data scientists in general is nearly double the median in the U.S. for all occupations. Salary potential can rise considerably for data scientists with a graduate degree.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Career opportunities

Data science is a field for people who are problem-solvers, visionaries and life-long learners. While many find the financial rewards compelling, the true allure lies in the ability to drive innovation and create meaningful change. 

In our thriving digital age, data is sometimes referred to as the “new oil,” because it drives the engines of modern society. Data collection is now common practice in fields from finance to entertainment to environmental sustainability. 

But raw data is meaningless without interpretation. That’s where data scientists take the wheel.

Graduates of the BGSU data science master’s program go on to exciting careers in a range of industries, as well as the government and nonprofit sectors. Some work as data engineers, building infrastructures that collect, store and process vast quantities of data to ensure seamless operations. Others work as chief data officers, shaping the strategic use of data within organizations and providing key insights for smarter decision-making.  

Increasingly, data scientists are also landing roles in AI, designing and training algorithms to improve automation, robotics and AI-driven services. 

Career paths

  • Data scientist
  • Machine learning data scientist
  • Data framework engineer
  • Risk model data scientist
  • Simulation data scientist
  • R & D data scientist
  • Supply chain data scientist
  • Clinical data analyst

Quick Facts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

View average salaries

Curriculum 

Students in the data science master’s degree program will learn to:

  • Acquire, model and organize structured and unstructured data sets
  • Develop appropriate techniques to analyze dynamic and live data sets

The culminating experience involves a data science project in which students obtain, clean and analyze data from one or more sources.

Required courses

Professor with Data Science student looking at laptop

Sample courses

  • Artificial Intelligence Methods
  • Database Management Systems
  • Data Science Programming
  • Probability Theory
  • Regression Analysis
  • Time Series Analysis
  • Data Mining
  • Linear and Integer Programming 

BGSU College of Arts and Sciences

The Master of Science degree in data science is part of the Department of Computer Science and BGSU College of Arts and Sciences.

Updated: 12/05/2024 10:16AM