Choosing a master’s degree: data science or artificial intelligence

With data and artificial intelligence (AI) playing major roles in organizations, from healthcare facilities to contact centers, the future looks bright for data scientists and AI specialists. But what skill set should you focus your graduate studies on? Learn about the nuances of a master's degree in data science vs. artificial intelligence.

Comparing master's in data science vs. artificial intelligence

You'll find some similarities between a master's in data science vs. artificial intelligence, as these disciplines often work together to create data-driven solutions.

Costs and admissions requirements for these two degrees are closely aligned, while curricula for each are quite different. A data science master's degree explores data collection, storage, and analysis processes, while a master's in artificial intelligence dives into the machine learning processes that drive data collection, analysis, and other tasks.

Browse the following section to discover similarities and key differences between the two degrees.

Admissions

A master's in data science and a master's in artificial intelligence have similar admissions processes and requirements.

The primary difference between the two is their recommended and required prerequisites. Data science master's degrees usually require previous coursework in statistics, calculus, linear algebra, and computer science. You may need similar undergraduate coursework for a master's in artificial intelligence in addition to physics, algorithms, and probability theory coursework.

Both programs generally request the following information when you apply:

• Official undergraduate transcripts
• 3.0 GPA, minimum
• Personal statement
• Three letters of recommendation

You can also submit GRE scores or work experience information to enhance your application.

Program costs

A master's in data science typically costs between $350 and $1,700 per credit, or $10,500 to $51,000 for a 30-credit program. An artificial intelligence master's degree has similar costs of about $350 to $1,600 per credit, totaling $10,500 to $48,000 for a 30-credit degree.

Some online data science and artificial intelligence master's degrees charge higher rates for out-of-state students than in-state learners. However, many schools provide an online tuition rate for all online students, which can make your degree more affordable if you live in a different state than your school.

Curriculum

In a data science master's degree program, you'll learn how to use tools to collect, organize, and analyze data to help organizations make informed decisions. The curriculum covers statistical computing, database management, data governance, and data mining. Some programs offer specializations, like analytics and modeling, data engineering, or artificial intelligence.

An artificial intelligence master's degree includes some data science concepts, like probability and data analytics, but focuses more on ethical AI, AI governance, and machine learning models. Specializations aren't as common for this degree, but you can usually choose electives, like data-driven decision-making or AI security, to round out your degree.

Program outcomes

Below, compare and contrast the potential outcomes of a master's in data science vs. artificial intelligence.

What you can do with a master's in data science

A master's in data science opens the door to roles providing data-driven decision-making for organizations, including:

• Data scientist
• Computer and information research scientist

These roles are available in numerous industries, including healthcare, financial services, and retail. Data science professionals often collaborate with multiple departments, like customer service, administration, and marketing, to solve business problems.

What you can do with a master's in artificial intelligence

Master's in artificial intelligence graduates develop, improve, and test the algorithms and AI models used in AI-driven tools and processes, leading to career opportunities like:

• Software developer
• Computer programmer

The nature of this work usually requires less cross-departmental collaboration than that of data scientists. Instead, AI professionals work closely with other IT specialists, like data engineers and software developers. However, they can also work in numerous industries, like software publishing, manufacturing, and finance.

Salary and career outlook for graduates

Graduating from a data science or artificial intelligence master's degree can pave the way for roles with high earning potential and projected job growth. Below are a few careers you can pursue, with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).