I'm considering of doing an online graduate program in data science. I'm doing this because i'm highly interested in the subject. However, I am not sure how would adcom would see this. What do you think? Should I consider in getting a master in data science?
MS in Data Science
- Thread starter bjt223
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Adcoms don't really value non-SMP type masters as they are seen as grade-inflating. Also, the fact that it is online makes it even less impressive.
I would say it's a waste of money unless you plan on using the degree during your gap year/ future career.
I would say it's a waste of money unless you plan on using the degree during your gap year/ future career.
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If you complete the program for yourself, that's fine. If you'd do it thinking it will boost a med school application, don't bother.
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I did this, primarily because I'd done computational biology research and wanted to strengthen my quantitative skills.
In terms of its impact on my apps, I'd say it was neither here nor there. I occasionally talked about it in interviews, and it led nicely into talking about my comp bio research.
I'd argue though that there may be faster and less expensive ways to gain the skills you're looking for. Most coding bootcamps are only a few months, and they do a good job at providing you a strong foundation in coding.
In terms of its impact on my apps, I'd say it was neither here nor there. I occasionally talked about it in interviews, and it led nicely into talking about my comp bio research.
I'd argue though that there may be faster and less expensive ways to gain the skills you're looking for. Most coding bootcamps are only a few months, and they do a good job at providing you a strong foundation in coding.
Thank you everyone for responding.
I was looking into computational biology research as well. Would you advise not to take a master program and just take a few languages for proficiency?
I was looking into computational biology research as well. Would you advise not to take a master program and just take a few languages for proficiency?
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Yes, that would be my advise.
At the end of the day it all depends on what your future goals are. If you don't plan on pursuing an MD and your goal is to work in industry for a company that does comp bio-related work, then the MS makes sense. It will open doors and is a useful credential.
If you're planning on pursuing an MD, I'd argue a coding bootcamp or a few undergrad statistical programming language courses + a nice GitHub portfolio are enough to show a PI that you've got sufficient coding and quantitative skills. From there, you'll be able to get research experience, maybe a publication or two, and that'll put you in a fine position for most comp bio-related opportunities that you're interested in.
