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MSDS Class of 2024: Celebrating Career Success in a Data-Driven World
The Class of 2024 Master’s in Data Science (MSDS) graduates achieved outstanding career outcomes, with up to 97% securing full-time employment within six months of graduation. Impressively, 61% of the MSDS Online program graduates transitioned to new, higher-earning roles, underscoring the transformative potential of the program.
Many MSDS Online students pursue the part-time, 100% online program while fully employed. They complete the program across five terms in 20 months. The 2024 graduates showed strong employment statistics. More than half reported using the degree to transition or pivot their career, and all agreed the program aligned with their career goals.
"The best part of my job, helping working professionals who are taking online courses at night to boost their careers, is seeing the outcome of their sacrifices," says Kristy Simpkins, Assistant Director, Online Student Success and Engagement. "For a year and a half, students work tirelessly in the online MSDS degree program, and when they reach the end, they have an achievement that can change their lives forever. The outcomes speak for themselves!"
Our 2024 MSDS Residential cohort pursued diverse opportunities upon graduation, gaining full-time employment in roles like financial data analyst, data engineer, data scientist, research computing scientist, quantitative trader, consultant, and machine learning engineer, among others.
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Graduates entered a wide array of industries, including technology, finance, government, healthcare, sports, and academia. They are contributing to renowned organizations such as Booz Allen Hamilton, Capital One, the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security, JPMorgan Chase, Mastercard, the NBA, NobleReach Foundation, Volkswagen, and many others.
“It’s rewarding to see organizations continue to return and recruit our students. It’s also exciting to see new organizations join our ranks each year, ever-expanding our partnerships and alumni network," says Reggie Leonard, Associate Director for Career Connections and Community Engagement. "We often speak about data science being applicable to any industry, and you really see that truth play out in where our students land.”
A Foundation for Success
The UVA School of Data Science equips graduates with an extensive skill set, encompassing data engineering, integration, modeling, visualization, analysis, and reporting. Throughout the rigorous program, students explore the ethical application of data science and develop core values of collaboration, integrity, knowledge, and curiosity. This robust foundation empowers graduates to excel in a competitive and ever-evolving job market.
As demand for data-driven solutions continues to rise across industries, the need for skilled data scientists is only growing. The UVA MSDS program consistently produces graduates prepared to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation in today’s data-centric landscape.
Career Services: A Key to Graduate Success
The exceptional career outcomes of MSDS graduates reflect the dedicated efforts of the School of Data Science Career Services team, which provides a comprehensive suite of resources, including:
- Personalized Support: One-on-one advising, career coaching, and skill-building workshops.
- Industry Connections: Networking opportunities with industry advisors, employers, and Virginia Alumni Mentoring.
- Exclusive Resources: Access to the MSDS Careers Job Board, featuring job and internship postings and information on career events.
Students also engage in career-focused programs that showcase the diverse applications of data science across industries while emphasizing strategies to design careers aligned with their values. These initiatives include networking meetups, Tech Night Takeover, Data Science and Analytics Night, Intelligence & Security Day, and various professional development experiences. Together, these events provide invaluable opportunities for skill-building and meaningful employer engagement.
“While we are looking at all of this aggregate data, behind the numbers is a student who is building a career in data science and beginning a new chapter in their life,” says Stephanie Joynes, Assistant Director of Career and Professional Development. “We are excited to support their journey as they apply the knowledge and experience gained at the School of Data Science.”
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A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, the UVA School of Data Science is set to introduce significant updates to its master’s programs in Fall 2025. These enhancements aim to enrich the curriculum, elevate the student experience, expand opportunities, and prepare the next generation of data science leaders.
First introduced in 2014, the curriculum is being modernized to keep pace with the rapid technological advancements shaping the field of data science. These updates reflect the School’s commitment to ensuring that graduates are equipped to meet the dynamic needs of both students and employers.
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Graduates Making a Difference
Building on their strong academic foundation and practical experiences, MSDS graduates are advancing their careers in fields such as sports, business, culture, medicine, and politics. The Class of 2024 is well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in their industries and contribute to the continued growth of data science. Explore more about UVA School of Data Science employment statistics here.
