Data science has become one of the defining buzzwords of the century, with careers in the field skyrocketing in both popularity and demand. As this industry rapidly expands, so does the need for highly skilled and equipped professionals. Achieving that level of expertise often requires advanced education, and the Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Data Science and Applied Statistics at the Cornell Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science delivers exactly that.
This program provides thorough training in modern data analytical skills that is essential in nearly every field, including business, government, and scientific research. With the exponential growth of technology and machine learning, these sectors rely on data science to monitor performance, find efficiencies, and drive innovation. Due to the mathematical rigor of Cornell Bowers CIS’s MPS program in Data Science and Applied Statistics, graduates are exceptionally qualified for and prepared to excel in quantitative or data-driven roles across industries.
Let’s break down specific roles and career paths available to graduates of the MPS in Data Science and Applied Statistics, and the levels of success you can expect to see.
Careers in Statistics and Data Science
There are countless promising career paths in the data science and statistics fields. Whether you’re looking to analyze complex data or develop innovative solutions, you are sure to find a role that aligns with your career ambitions and challenges your expertise.
Statisticians and Mathematicians
| What does a statistician do? | Statisticians gather, analyze, and interpret data to aid in decision-making. They apply statistical methods to solve real-world problems in various industries. There are many types of statisticians, including research statisticians, educational statisticians, and industrial statisticians. |
| What does a mathematician do? | Mathematicians analyze data and design accurate models across a variety of fields from biology to finance. They use computational techniques, algorithms, mathematical theory, and the latest computer technology to solve complex problems. |
| How to become a statistician or mathematician | Becoming a statistician or mathematician requires a strong foundation in statistical software, mathematics, and data analysis. This typically requires a master’s degree, which can be completed in 1-2 years on average. |
Career Outcomes
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual pay for mathematicians and statisticians is around $104,860.
- Growth in the field is expected to hit 11% by 2033, much faster than the average growth rate of 4% for all occupations.
Alumni Highlight:
Dr. Irina Gaynanova (MPS ‘13, PhD ‘15, Applied Statistics) developed her passion for teaching while pursuing her degrees at Cornell. As a TA for Statistical Methods I and II, she valued helping students understand challenging material. Now an associate professor at the University of Michigan, Dr. Gaynanova balances research, teaching, and mentoring. She credits her Cornell advisors, Jim Booth, and Marty Wells, for shaping her identity as a scientist and igniting her curiosity.
Her advice to students: “The amazing thing about being a statistician is that there are many different career paths one can take, and even when you pick a path, it is possible to move to another as multiple examples show.”
Research Scientists
| What do research scientists do? | Research scientists mitigate risks for emergent technologies that could disrupt a company’s business foundation. They conduct product-oriented research and development, publish research papers, and file patents. Additionally, they engage in machine learning operations and engineering using data science and problem-solving. |
| How do you become a research scientist? | As a research scientist, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and expertise in experimental design and data interpretation. With a research scientist degree, such as an MPS in Data Science and Applied Statistics, you can pursue various research career paths across tech. |
Career Outcomes
- The median annual pay for research scientists is around $145,080.
- Growth in the field is expected to hit 4% by 2033, faster than the average growth rate of 4% for all occupations.
Data Scientist Career Path
Data scientists uncover patterns and trends in data sets, create algorithms and models to forecast outcomes, and use machine learning to improve data quality and product offerings.
Data Scientist vs Data Analyst vs Data Engineer
| Role | Focus | Skills Needed | Median Salary |
| Data Analyst | Collect, clean, and interpret data using tools like Excel, SQL, and Tableau to analyze trends and provide insights for decisions | Business Intelligence (BI); Power BI; data management; finance; Dashboarding; Tableau Software; data quality metrics; R programming | $108,020 |
| Data Scientist | Analyze large datasets to uncover insights using statistics, machine learning, and visualization to inform business strategies. | Artificial intelligence; Statistical analysis; predictive modeling; deep learning; Java programming; PyTorch (machine learning library); Tensorflow; Amazon Web Services | $151, 424 |
| Data Engineer | Build data pipelines for large datasets, optimizing systems and ensuring reliable data flow using tools like Hadoop and Spark | Business Intelligence (BI); Java programming; data analysis; Agile methodology; computer science; Apache Spark; Amazon Web Services; data quality metrics | $136,064 |
To pursue a career in data science, you will need strong skills in programming, data analysis, and problem-solving, along with a solid understanding of statistical methods and machine learning. Building on this foundation with an advanced degree in data science or applied statistics can deepen your expertise through hands-on learning, open doors to specialized roles, and shape your career trajectory. This is especially true when earning an interdisciplinary degree such as an MPS.
Career Outcomes
- The median annual pay for data scientists is around $108,020.
- Growth in the field is expected to hit 36% by 2033, much faster than the average growth rate of 4% for all occupations.
Alumni Highlight:
Jimi He, an MPS graduate from the class of ‘22, recounts his experience as a Cornell student and how it paved the way for his career as a data scientist at Microsoft. You can read similar experiences from graduates Minghan Liang ‘22 and Nirmal Srinivasan ‘23.
Quantitative Analysts
| What does a quantitative analyst do? | Quantitative analysts use advanced quantitative methods to help companies make business and financial decisions. They identify profitable investment opportunities and manage risk by developing computer software to evaluate financial data. |
| How to become a quantitative analyst | To become a successful quantitative analyst, you'll need strong skills in mathematics, programming, data analysis, and financial theory. The best degrees for quantitative finance are a Master’s in Applied Mathematics or a Master of Professional Studies with a statistical analysis focus. |
Career Outcomes
- The median annual pay for quantitative or financial analysts is around $99,890.
- Growth in the field is expected to hit 9% by 2033, faster than the average growth rate of 4% for all occupations.
Alumni Highlight:
Lauren Altman, an MPS graduate from the class of ‘03, used her degree to pursue a career in market research, managing quantitative and qualitative projects at Lieberman. She credits Cornell’s problem-solving and statistics courses for setting her up for success in her current position.
Operations Research Analysts
| What does an ops research analyst do? | Operations research analysts apply advanced analytical and mathematical techniques to solve complex problems in supply chain and inventory management, production planning, and logistics. They use mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and computer simulations to develop algorithms that assist in decision-making. |
| How to start your operations research analyst career | Operations research analysts work across industries such as logistics, healthcare, finance, and manufacturing, using analytical methods to improve decision-making and efficiency. To become an operations research analyst, you’ll need strong skills in problem-solving, mathematics, statistics, and computer modeling. While a master’s degree is beneficial, choosing the right operations research degree will depend on your career goals and area of focus. |
Career Outcomes
- The median annual pay for operations research analysts is around $83,640.
- Growth in the field is expected to hit 23% by 2033, much faster than the average growth rate of 4% for all occupations.
Industrial Engineers
| What does an industrial engineer do? | Industrial engineers design and optimize complex systems like factories, automobile assembly plants, space launch facilities, Amazon distribution centers, and more. They collect data on processes and production through observation, time and motion studies, and staff surveys by integrating workers, machines, materials, information, and energy. This is done to evaluate manufacturing, delivery, and customer experience to identify ways to improve productivity and quality. |
| How to become an industrial engineer | Industrial engineers work in industries with complex systems such as manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and supply chain management. To succeed, you'll need skills in systems analysis, optimization, and process improvement. A master’s degree in industrial engineering can be beneficial in providing the technical and practical knowledge needed for these roles. |
Career Outcomes
- The median annual pay for industrial engineers is around $99,380.
- Growth in the field is expected to hit 12% by 2033, much faster than the average growth rate of 4% for all occupations.
The ROI of an MPS in Data Science and Applied Statistics at Cornell Bowers CIS
For more than twenty years, the Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Data Science and Applied Statistics program at the Cornell Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science has provided world-class training in data science and preparation for the 21st-century workplace.
Why choose the MPS in Data Science and Applied Statistics?
As the only Ivy League school that offers a program of this caliber, earning your MPS from Cornell Bowers CIS is a wise choice for advancing your career.
The program offers two specialization tracks: Statistical Analysis and Data Science, both featuring an in-depth MPS project where you’ll collaborate with a team to develop solutions for a real client. Students are also paired with a designated career services advisor who provides support to expand your job prospects and career opportunities.
With a proven track record of success and numerous program benefits, the MPS in Data Science and Applied Statistics is a valuable investment with a tangible return on investment. Graduates report an average starting salary of nearly $83,000 with an average $8,600 signing bonus.
Ready to discover how an MPS from Cornell Bowers CIS can transform your career?