Should I Pursue Data Science, Applied Machine Learning or Artificial Intelligence?

Data Science

Data Science is the study of how to model and store data, how to analyze and transform it to extract meaning and insights, and how to communicate those insights to stakeholders like policy-makers, decision-makers or the public at large. The relevant skills include statistics, data visualization, data mining and machine learning algorithms, data ethics, SQL and NoSQL databases, graph analytics, big data systems, data wrangling/preparation, data cleaning, and coding in programming languages like Python and R. This program is designed to prepare students for careers as data engineers, data scientists, business intelligence analysts, or data architects. 
This program is broader than the Applied Machine Learning or Artificial Intelligence programs, and will prepare graduates for a wide range of fields, including finance, healthcare, business, security, technology, and engineering. 

Learn more about our 30-credit Master of Science in Data Science

Learn more about our 12-credit Graduate Certificate in Data Science

Applied Machine Learning

Machine learning is a field focused on designing algorithms and systems that learn from data to make decisions or predict future trends. The relevant skills include a deep understanding of probability, statistics and linear algebra; a strong background in computer science including programming, data structures, and algorithms; reasoning about fairness and bias of models; and an ability to develop and deploy deep learning models, especially for natural language text, images, and videos. This program is designed to prepare students for careers as machine learning engineers or AI engineers, but also for careers as data scientists or data analysts where they can apply their skills to solve a wide variety of real-world problems.
This program shares some overlap with the Data Science and Artificial Intelligence programs, but includes more specific and technical coursework in topics such as optimization, computer vision, and robotics.

Learn more about our 30-credit Master of Science in Applied Machine Learning

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are rapidly evolving and being more integrated into various aspects of society and industry, leading to a growing demand for Artificial Intelligence professionals. AI is clearly making a big impact across society, and it’s becoming especially important to understand how it works, what is driving its design and development, and how it can be efficiently and safely deployed. The relevant skills include mathematics, statistics and computing, and an ability to take a broader view of human-centered AI and its societal implications. The program prepares graduates to develop AI solutions that enhance human well-being, promote fairness, and integrate seamlessly into social and professional contexts. Students will be positioned for careers across disciplines and they will develop skills to be collaborative, adaptable problem solvers in a rapidly changing field.
This program differs from the MS in Data Science and MS in Applied ML programs in its explicit focus on human-centered AI. As such, it’s a good fit for students who are interested in interdisciplinary applications of AI, as well as students who have expertise in a non-technical field.

Learn more about our 30-credit Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence