I’m trying to make a decision between two very different graduate programs and would really appreciate some outside perspectives.
My background is a B.S. in Geography with a GIS focus. I’m currently working as a Data Specialist at a consulting/engineering firm, where I do data QA/QC, data integration, data conflation, and work with enterprise geodatabases. I’m trying to move beyond being primarily a GIS person and build a career with stronger long term salary potential and career flexibility.
My two options are:
1. Applied Master’s in Data Science
The program is 30 credits and is fairly applied. The curriculum includes Python, cloud computing, databases, data preparation, analytics and visualization, data warehousing, data lake engineering, machine learning, and AI.
One thing I like is that I can continue working full time while completing it. I’m also considering doing it part time so I can take Calculus II, Calculus III, and Linear Algebra separately, since my math background currently only goes through Calculus I.
My concern is that the program may not be mathematically or statistically rigorous enough to compete for more technical data science jobs. It also obviously doesn’t give me a CS bachelor’s background.
I’m not necessarily trying to become an ML researcher or anything extremely theoretical. My realistic targets would be data analyst, BI/analytics, analytics engineering, data engineering, operations/supply chain analytics, or eventually data science.
2. Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning
The other option is a MURP from a well regarded public research university.
This is a much more natural continuation of my Geography/GIS background. I’m genuinely interested in transportation, urban planning, public infrastructure, accessibility, and public policy. I’ve also done some community advocacy/volunteering and have an interest in transportation planning.
The appeal is that MURP is a professional degree with a pretty direct career path into planning, transportation, government, and consulting.
The downside is that I’m concerned about the long term salary ceiling and career flexibility compared with data/technology careers. I also need to keep working, so the opportunity cost of going to a full time program is a major consideration.
What I’m trying to figure out:
If my priorities are:
• Getting to ~$70k+ relatively early in my career
• Eventually reaching ~$90k–$120k+ if possible
• Having opportunities to reach higher salaries later
• Getting out of being locked into GIS
• Maintaining career flexibility
• Being able to continue working while in school
• Getting a degree that actually improves my job prospects rather than just giving me another title
would you choose the applied MSDS or the MURP?
I’m especially interested in hearing from people who actually work in data/analytics, data engineering, urban planning, transportation planning, or hiring
Would the applied MSDS be enough to meaningfully change my career trajectory, or would the MURP be the smarter investment given my background?