Could You Do A Data Science Degree?

Let’s just put it out there: a master’s in data science is hard work; it requires a commitment to learning and development, an analytical mind, and the passion for big data that will drive you to success. So, could you do it?

Why Data Science?

The world of computers and technology is chatting at an astounding rate. Never before has the word seen development at such a fast pace and, for data scientists, this is the tip of the iceberg into a world that is filled with daily new innovations.

For anyone who loves data and technology, this is a dream come true. However, data science isn’t all about technology. In fact, technology is more of an aid to the wider picture. The big picture thinking in data science is how to interpret the data you have and how to make recommendations based on those interpretations that will affect outcomes at all levels, both locally and nationally.

Students on the Merrimack College Data Science Degree learn to use big data in a way that benefits others and to organize data so that the most important information can become clearer. It is important that it is in a way that can be understood and acted upon quickly.

The Skills Of a Data Scientist

If you’ve been sitting there thinking data scientists are introverted nerds hiding in a dark office behind piles of charts and statistics… you’d only be half right! You don’t need to be a technical nerd to love data science, but you do need to possess a very keen eye for detail and a passion for numbers to carry you through.

Communication

If you thought it was all basement-dwelling, though, you definitely thought wrong. One of the key aspects of a data scientist’s role is the ability to communicate findings at all levels. After all, it’s fairly pointless being able to spot trends and answers to questions if you have no idea how to communicate that to others.

Interpretation

A data scientist’s best skill, aside from knowing how to interpret information, is knowing how to distribute it and help others see the same thing, especially others who might not be quite as data-minded as you are. Develop this skill well, and you should find more success in your career.

Risk Analysis

Another key skill that data management students need to develop is the art of risk assessment, and in some cases, it really is an art. It’s all very well being able to see an upcoming trend and trajectory, but if you can’t assess whether or not the risk is worth taking, you’re only doing half the job. Of course, not all risks are worth it, and the art is in understanding when to jump and when to hesitate.

Research

Research plays a key role in data analysis, and it; forms the backbone of some of the very lucrative careers that graduates from a data science degree program will undertake.

Being able to understand the context of your data through good research is like being able to understand the language the book in front of you is written in.

  • Sarah Toce

    Screenwriter & Journalist | Sarah Brusig (Toce) is an appointed member of the King County Women's Advisory Board and an elected precinct committee officer (PCO) in Burien, WA. As a healthcare worker, Sarah is represented by SEIU 1199NW. In 2010, Sarah created the online news source The Seattle Lesbian, LLC, which still receives upward of 100,000 readers per month. A recipient of McCormick's New Media Women Entrepreneur Award in 2012, Sarah was invited to the White House by President Barack Obama in 2015. That same year, GO Mag recognized Sarah as one of their Red-Hot Entrepreneurs in media.​ In 2016, the National Diversity Council honored Sarah with their LGBT Leadership Award. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) recognized Sarah's advocacy work with the Community Builder Award in 2017, the same year Curve Magazine named Sarah one of their Top Women in Media & Publishing. Sarah served a two-year term as president of the Society of Professional Journalists - Western Washington Chapter beginning in 2018 and was elected Communications Vice Chair of the King County Democrats in 2021.

    Related Posts

    Thinking of Moving to Portland? Here’s What You Should Know

    Portland is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It has amazing nature, some of the best food, and a vibrant art scene. But what should you know before moving to this city?

    Read more

    Continue reading
    How to Add the Missing Spark to a Relationship

    There’s always a chance a spark can fade or feel like it’s missing altogether, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get it back.

    Read more

    Continue reading

    Entertainment News

    First Look: Provocative Dramedy ‘Feeling Randy’

    First Look: Provocative Dramedy ‘Feeling Randy’

    WATCH: STARZ Releases First Look at ‘Outlander’ Season 7 Part 2

    WATCH: STARZ Releases First Look at ‘Outlander’ Season 7 Part 2

    Vancouver Queer Film Festival 2024 Awardees

    Vancouver Queer Film Festival 2024 Awardees

    Rocky Horror to Play 5th Ave Theatre with Original Cast Member Barry Bostwick

    Rocky Horror to Play 5th Ave Theatre with Original Cast Member Barry Bostwick

    Seattle Pride Seeks 2025 Parade Theme and Grand Marshal Noms

    Seattle Pride Seeks 2025 Parade Theme and Grand Marshal Noms

    Dolly Parton and Dancing Santas: SMC and SWC Holiday Shows Revealed

    Dolly Parton and Dancing Santas: SMC and SWC Holiday Shows Revealed