What kind of jobs can you land with an online bachelor’s in data science?
These days, companies in nearly every industry depend on data science to guide their decisions. The field combines statistics, computer science, and applied mathematics, and earning this degree sets you up for careers in business, finance, biomedicine, and technology.
As a data scientist, your day-to-day tasks could involve analyzing large datasets, fine-tuning algorithms for better results, or designing clear data visualizations. You might also use your findings to suggest business strategies.
To succeed in data science, you’ll need both technical expertise—like programming and statistical modeling—and soft skills, such as communication and teamwork.
Salary and career outlook for data science professionals
Careers in data science tend to offer higher-than-average salaries and strong job growth projections. Many bachelor’s programs let you specialize in lucrative, in-demand areas like finance, healthcare, or business analytics. With this degree, you’ll qualify for entry-level roles in the field.
Here are a few job options, along with salary figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
| Job | BLS Median Annual Salary (2023) | BLS Projected Job Growth (2023-33) |
| Data Scientist | $108,020 | +36% |
| Financial Analyst | $99,890 | +9% |
| Management Analyst | $99,410 | +11% |
What do you study in an online bachelor’s in data science program?
An online data science degree helps sharpen your math and analytical skills. You’ll dive into subjects like applied statistics and data analytics while mastering statistical modeling and probability forecasting.
Some common undergrad courses include:
- Probability theory
- Applied statistics
- Computer programming
- Machine learning
- Business analytics
Beyond core data science classes, you’ll take general education courses and may pick a minor or electives. Some programs also offer specializations in fields like business analytics, computer science, behavioral science, finance, or biomedicine.
Most bachelor’s degrees require at least 120 credits. If you’re a full-time student, you can finish in about four years—or sooner if you transfer eligible credits.
Related bachelor’s degrees in data science
- Bachelor’s in Business Administration: Focuses on finance, marketing, and management to build analytical and decision-making skills. These programs often include hands-on internships.
- Bachelor’s in Data Analytics: Covers analytical, computational, and applied statistics—many courses overlap with data science majors.
- Bachelor’s in Computer Science: Teaches programming, data science, and machine learning, blending theory with practical computing skills.
Further education in data science
A bachelor’s in data science opens doors to advanced degrees in various fields.
You could pursue a master’s in data science, or branch into related areas like computer science, artificial intelligence, or data analytics. If business is your focus, an MBA or a master’s in data analytics with a business specialization could be a great fit.