What Can I Do With a Major In Data Science?

UGA Specific Information for Data Science

The Bachelor of Science in Data Science degree will provide necessary background in mathematics and build a strong foundation in Data Science and is an interdisciplinary degree between Statistics and Computer Science. Students graduating with this degree will know how to develop software, design and maintain databases, process data in distributed environments, analyze the data using techniques from statistics, data mining and machine learning, provide visualizations of the data or the results of analysis, and assist decision makers. Graduates of the Data Science program will have the skills needed to pursue graduate studies or pursue careers in data roles in a variety of fields. Please see below for a more comprehensive list of potential career paths in data science.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW EMPLOYERS/POSITION TITLES and GRADUATE SCHOOLS/PROGRAMS REPORTED FOR THIS MAJOR

Class of 2023 Career Outcomes for Data Science*

** Includes Self-Employed

Campus Resources

CAMPUS RESOURCES:

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Online Resources:

Additional UGA Career Center Recommendations

Potential Career Paths in Data Science

  • Business Analyst - As a business analyst, you'll work within an organization, helping to manage change and plan for the future in line with company goals. This could be for one specific project, or as a permanent feature of the organization. You'll need to understand the current organizational situation, identify future needs, and create solutions to help meet those needs, usually (but not always) in relation to information and software systems. 
  • Clinical Data Manager - A Data Manager in a clinical setting applies their statistical knowledge in combination with a knowledge of health care to analyze medical data and identify trends. 
  • Cryptography - A cryptographer develops algorithms, ciphers, and security systems to encrypt sensitive information. 
  • Data Analyst - Data analysts are in charge of producing and tracking key performance indicators. Additionally, they gather, understand, and document business requirements using a variety of tools and techniques. Additionally, data analysts manipulate, analyze, and interpret complex datasets relating to the business they work for. 
  • Data Scientist- Utilize a combination of analytic, machine learning, data mining, coding, and statistical skills to explain the significance and understanding of large amounts of data. 
  • Database Administrator - Database administrators oversee an organization's information, and walk the fine line between optimizing data accessibility for the firm and defending digital property from hackers. Generally speaking, they protect existing databases by backing them up and developing airtight internal security measures. 
  • Economist - Professionals in this field are focused on the analysis of the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.  Economists work in many fields including academia, government, and in the private sector.
  • Financial Quantitative Analyst - Quantitative Analysts, or "Quants," use statistics in combination with financial knowledge to inform the finance industry.
  • IT Architect - IT architects are highly skilled developers who envision, design, and provide the foundation for new and improved information management and communication networks. They lead teams and work with designers and developers to create organizational systems that make information retrieval and use simple. 
  • Machine Learning Engineer (Artificial Intelligence)- is a method of data analysis that automates analytical model building. A branch of AI, it is based on the idea that systems can learn from code and data, identify patterns, and make decisions with minimal human intervention.
  • Market Research Analyst - Market research analysts study market conditions in local, regional, or national areas to examine potential sales of a product or service. They help companies understand what products people want, who will buy them, and at what price.
  • Mathematician - A mathematician conducts research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. They solve problems in various field using mathematical methods. 
  • Operations Research - Operations research analysts use advanced methods of mathematical analysis to help organizations solve problems and make better fiscal decisions. Most operations research analysts in the federal government work for the Department of Defense, which also employs a large number of analysts through private consulting firms.
  • Quality Analyst - A quality analyst evaluates, tests, and validates software and/or IT services. Analyzes deficiencies in service or performance and recommends product or service improvements to address problems. 
  • Risk Analyst - Risk advisors manage risk by identifying, measuring, and making decisions on a variety of risks within an organization. Some key responsibilities include documenting key risks, communicating risks, maintaining data quality of risk management systems, and making recommendations on ways to control and reduce risk. 
  • Security Analyst - Security analysts protect an organization's computer network from cyber threats and security breaches through defense planning and incident response. 
  • Software Developer/Engineer - Software developers create and maintain computer programs. They are the creative masterminds that give us systems to run devices and computer-related tasks. Software developers specialize in either applications or systems software. 
  • Statistical Consultant - A statistical consultant provides a range of services to clients including statistical advice, analysis, and training. Clients can come from a wide variety of subject areas including business, medicine, environment, and government. 
  • Statistician - A statistician develops or applies mathematical or statistical theories and methods to collect, organize, interpret, and summarize numerical data to provide usable information. May specialize in fields such as bio-statistics, agricultural statistics, business statistics, or economic statistics. 
  • Systems Analyst - Systems analysts evaluate an organization's computer systems and processes to help clients operate their businesses more efficiently. Most analysts conduct in-depth system testing, research emerging technologies, and prepare cost analysis reports for clients.  

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

When should I start looking for jobs? The tech industry has two main recruitment seasons- September/October and January/February. May graduates are encouraged to recuit during both seasons. To support your search, the UGA Career Center hosts the Engineering & Computer Science fairs in September and January every year. To see the specific dates, look on Handshake. 

What skills should I emphasize with employers? Your technical skills are valuable, but don't forget about your soft skills! Remember that programming languages can be taught, but it's much harder to teach someone skills like communication, work ethic, and leadership. Look at page 26 in the Career Guide to see a list of skills employers and graduate schools value. 

What should a data science resume look like? A data science resume typically follows a standard resume formatting. Focus on technical/analytical skills and projects in your resume! To see a good example, check out the UGA Career Center resume samples.

What are cover letters? Why do I need to write them? A cover letter is a business letter written to the employer that explains why you are qualified and a good fit for their open position. It accompanies your resume when you apply for a job. While your resume is an overview of your experiences, a cover letter directly address how those experiences have qualified you for the role. The cover letter “builds the bridge” between your resume and the position description so that there is no miscommunication regarding your qualifications. For example, “My experience in ____ and ___ have directly prepared me for this role.” Good cover letters are tailored to the job you are applying to. Even if a cover leter is not required for a role, submitting one demonstrates your initiative and excitement about the role. To see an example cover letter, check out page 36-37 in the Career Guide. 

Are internships important? Internships are great tools to help you achieve your goals for full-time employment. Data Science students typically complete an internship the summer before their final year, but you are welcome to search for an internship earlier if you would like. While they are excellent tools, they are not prerequisites for the workforce. You can demonstrate your skills and experiences through other mediums, like class and/or independent projects, part-time jobs, student leadership, and more. 

How can I meet with my career consultant for a one-on-one appointment? You can schedule an appointment with your career consultant by calling 706-254-3375 or logging in to Handshake. On Handshake, click on "Career Center" and then "Appointments." 

Supplemental Career Research Dashboard

Additional Career Research Resources

O*NET Online – The O*NET database includes information on skills, abilities, knowledge, work activities, and interests associated with over 900 occupations.  

My Next Move – An interactive tool for students and job seekers to learn more about their career options.  

Occupational Outlook Handbook – The OOH is a career resource offering information on the hundreds of occupations that provide most of jobs in the United States.  

Vault – Vault.com provides in-depth intelligence on what it’s really like to work in an industry, company, or profession – and how to position yourself to land that job.  

Candid Career – This resource provides you with access to thousands of informational video interviews with real professionals through an easy-to-use website.  

UGA Mentor Program – Connect with a mentor (alumni, faculty, staff) to research and explore industries and careers. Research industries and careers by connecting with a mentor for a quick chat or formal 16-week mentorship through the UGA Mentor Program.  

Interstride - Interstride is an interactive tool for both international and domestic students to enhance their international experience and employment potential. The platform consists of job-listings, hiring trends, employer information, self-assessments, and up-to-date immigration guidance. 

Glassdoor - Glassdoor is a free jobs and career community that offers an inside look at jobs and companies through "employee generated content" – anonymous salaries, company reviews, interview questions, and more – all posted by employees and job seekers.  

Steppingblocks - Research your future career with real-world stats about your major, your interests, and your dream job title with career and education searches designed to find your best path based on millions of others. It’s data-powered career exploration for doers like you.

Employment Websites

General  

  • Handshake (scroll down to the bottom of the page; login with your UGA MyID and password)  
  • LinkedIn (this popular networking site also has a job board!) 
  • Idealist (non-profit jobs) 
  • USAJobs (federal jobs) 

Major/Career Specific

Professional Associations/Resources

Employers/Position Title Reported by Class of 2023 Data Science majors

The information below represents employers and position titles from the Class of 2023 Career Outcomes Survey. To view historical Career Outcomes for this major, click here and select "Historical Data" from the navigation menu.

Employer Position Title(s)
ADP Associate Application Developer
Amazon Software Engineer
Booz Allen Hamilton Business Analyst
CIRT Software Architect
Deloitte Cyber Risk Advisory Analyst
KPMG Federal Advisory Associate
Macy's Technology Software Engineer
Synchrony Finance Data Analyst
Truist Data Scientist
* denotes no responses received.
*Source: Areas above marked with an Asterisk (*) have been created utilizing data taken from the UGA Career Outcomes Survey. The "Employers Hiring...," "Job Titles of...," "Career Outcomes for...," and "Graduate/Professional Schools and Programs..." information listed above represent UGA Class of 2023 Graduates. The lists are not exhaustive and therefore do not represent all potential career options. Click here for more detailed Career Outcomes information regarding this major.

Graduate/Professional Schools attended by Class of 2023 Data Science majors

The information below represents graduate/professional schools and programs reported through the Class of 2023 Career Outcomes Survey. To view historical Career Outcomes for this major, click here and select "Historical Data" from the navigation menu.

Graduate School Program(s)
Kennesaw State University Data Science and Analytics, MS
Rice University Data Science, MDS
Tsinghua University Global Affairs, MS
University of Cambridge Computer Science, MS
* denotes no responses received.

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