This Fall I started the Master of Science in Data Science from the University of Washington as a part-time student. One common question I get is: why? Why are you doing a Master in Data Science if:
- you already did a bootcamp in Data Science
- you already work as Data Scientist
- you already have a Master’s degree
Here are my top 5 reasons for doing this Master’s degree.
- Bootcamps are not enough
I am very supportive of boot camps! I did Galvanize’s Data Science Immersive program, which is their 3-month program, and it was one of the best decisions of my life. One misconception is that you will be done in those 3 months. Bootcamps are a jump-start but there is still a lot to learn after that.
Galvanize is a great way to get started, but they say they are just teaching us how to learn. We don’t go deep on anything (except maybe our capstone projects). Galvanize provides the tools to begin, but it is up to the students to continue on with their learning journey and their careers.
2. You have to keep learning
As a Data Scientist, you have to keep studying and learning. If you believe you will ever stop studying in this career, you are fooling yourself. I have been studying using online classes, books, and in-person lectures. I know I learn best in a more formal setting and from mentors. I need structure, deadlines, and clear goals.
3. I want my resume to be more appealing
I have a Master of Science in Administration focusing on Behavior and Decision Making from Fundacao Getulio Vargas, a top school in Brazil. This degree was fundamental for starting my career in Data Science as it gave me a solid statistical foundation. However, this degree was not technical enough and it does not convey my statistical knowledge.
Usually, big companies are looking for Data Scientists with a technical background such as Computer Science, Math, Physics, or Engineering. And often, these companies prefer candidates with Ph.D.s and Masters’ from good schools. I believe having credentials from the University of Washington will open many doors for me in my career.
4. Networking opportunities
I chose UW over another school (online) because of the networking opportunity. I will have access to a big pool of smart intelligent people interested in data that I can learn from (professors, students, and guest speakers).
5. My company helps pay for tuition
Getting an education in the United States is expensive, thus it’s a really big incentive to have Microsoft help pay for it. This is a big incentive to profit from this amazing benefit they provide. Not doing this would be passing up a great opportunity.