Computer Science & Data Science Education Options at Bradley University

Technology is progressing at breakneck speed; smartphones are gaining more capabilities, artificial intelligence is automating and sometimes eliminating jobs, and massive amounts of data are being collected, analyzed, and optimized every second. As almost every aspect of our lives becomes digital, the demand for tech-minded professionals to help us navigate this new landscape is more apparent than ever.

But anyone who works in cybersecurity, information technology, data science, or a similar field will tell you that it takes a highly intelligent, well-trained individual to correctly manage, train, and effectively leverage new technologies. Undergraduate degrees in computer science and data science can certainly provide a strong foundation for this work, but many employers prefer (if not require) a master’s degree for their higher-level positions.

If you want to learn more about advanced data science and computer science education, keep reading to see which path may be right for you.

What is Computer Science?

Before discussing the field of computer science, we first must establish what a computer is, especially because what people consider a computer has changed drastically over the last few years. While some might think of a traditional desktop computer or laptop, the broader definition of a computer is “an electronic device that manipulates information, or data…[and] has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data.”¹ These days, a computer can be as small as a fingernail or as large as a semi truck. People can use a computer to create documents, store files, send emails, play games, browse the Internet, host virtual events, watch videos, and much more.

Just as the computer itself has evolved tremendously since its first model in 1938, so has the field of computer science.² Today’s definition of computer science is that it is the study of computers, including computational theory, hardware, software, algorithms, and the ways that humans interact with technology.³ More simply, it’s the study of the various parts that make up a computer and the numerous activities that you can do with them.

Computer science has become increasingly popular in the past decade, now accounting for eight out of 10 of the best technology jobs and five out of 10 of the most in-demand skills for 2024.^4,5 Thus, tech professionals can find a lot of opportunity in a field as vast and diverse as computer science. There are many different focus areas to explore, such as software engineering, computer security, databases, and information security. Computer science can also overlap with elements of data science (e.g., artificial intelligence and data engineering), another large discipline within technology-focused fields.

What is a Master of Science in Computer Science?

A Master of Science (M.S.) in Computer Science is a graduate level degree in advanced computer science topics. It typically attracts those with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computing, data science, information technology, or software engineering. A master’s degree is longer and more in-depth than a certificate or bootcamp, with rigorous training in more nuanced focus areas. Master’s degree graduates usually earn a postnominal, i.e., a professional suffix, to highlight their educational achievement.

At Bradley University, the online Master’s in Computer Science is made up of eight courses (33 credits) and can be completed in as few as 18 months. The curriculum is technically intensive and directly informed by faculty experiences and job market demands. The online MS is also accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and focuses on the key qualifications employers are seeking today.

Learning Outcomes

An online M.S. in Computer Science is best suited for professionals who want to dive deeper into computer science, engineering, information technology, and related fields.Throughout your education, you will gain an in-depth understanding of computer science concepts and theories. The courses, led by faculty who work and study in computer science as well, will give you a comprehensive understanding of:

• Advanced Programming
• Algorithms
• Fundamentals of Software Engineering
• Advanced Computer Architecture
• Database Management Systems
• Software Project Management
• Requirements Development
• Agile Software Development
• Fundamentals of Data Science
• Machine Learning
• Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining
• Information Technology Infrastructure

Career Prospects with MS in Computer Science

24% of U.S. jobs are in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and the number of positions is rising every year.⁶ This is not only due to the increased demand for tech-savvy workers, but also because of the new applications for STEM in previously untapped markets. For example, data analysts are now working in advertising, and AI scientists are employed in arts and entertainment. Depending on your interests, you could apply your computer science and STEM-related skills in healthcare, finance, education, insurance, agriculture, retail, and big tech.

Potential job opportunities after a Master’s in Computer Science include:

• Information security analyst
• Web developer
• Network/database administrator
• AI scientist
• Software engineer
• Computer and information research scientist
• Cybersecurity specialist

A graduate-level computer science degree will also help you earn higher salaries than those with only a bachelor’s degree. On average, computing master’s degree graduates earn $30,000 more than those with only an undergraduate degree in computing and $60,000 more for those who transition from a field outside of computing.⁷ This impressive designation will help you qualify for higher-level positions and prepare you to lead a team of other tech professionals.

What is Computational Data Science?

Computational data science combines elements of data science, statistics, machine learning, and mathematics. These elements can apply to the full life cycle of a data analysis project: data mining, organization, analysis, and reporting. Computational data science includes many of the fundamentals of data science, but seeks new applications in computing and computer science projects.

What is a Computational Data Science Certificate?

A computational data science certificate is a form of a data science postgraduate certificate. Unlike a master’s degree, a certificate is a shorter, less intensive program that usually covers a smaller breadth of topics. This option is ideal for people who want to upskill in specific focus areas, or those who want to change careers and gain an entry point to larger, more complex disciplines.

The online Computational Data Science Certificate program at Bradley is an accelerated pathway to learning essential data science concepts, theories, and applications. In less time (and for less money) than a master’s in computational data science or computer science, you’ll gain practical skills in computing, data science, and machine learning to move up in your current career or pivot into new fields.
The benefits of a computational data science certificate program include new skills, more deeply developed skills, hands-on training, flexibility, networking, and personal growth. However, one of the biggest benefits of this cutting-edge data science education is that you do not need a computer science or data science background to complete the program and find success in the field. A bachelor’s degree is required, but a certificate is a more manageable commitment that allows you to continue working while you learn. This means you can receive some of the same learning outcomes in a shorter amount of time and have a more immediate impact on your resume.

Learning Outcomes

Even the most experienced data science professionals will need to learn new skills and technologies, as disciplines like AI and machine learning continue to evolve. To help you stay ahead of the latest advancements, Bradley’s online computational data science courses are directly informed by what’s currently being sought in the job market. They are also the exact same courses in the online M.S. in Computer Science program and are fully transferable to that program.

In the computational data science certificate program, you will learn:

• Advanced Programming
• Database Management Systems
• Fundamentals of Data Science
• Machine Learning
• Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining

Career Prospects With An Online Computational Data Science Certificate

Any ongoing education after your undergraduate studies shows a commitment to growth and improvement. Although you won’t receive a postnominal at the end of your name, a computational data science certificate will distinguish you from other professionals and help you qualify for lucrative jobs.

For example, a graduate certificate from Bradley could help you land these sought-after positions:

• Technical support specialist
• Data scientist
• Junior developer
• Cybersecurity analyst
• Data analyst

Find The Program That Fits Your Goals

Bradley University is proud to offer a new online Master’s in Computer Science and online Computational Data Science Certificate to working professionals who want to advance their career in a flexible, convenient format. Whenever it works best for you, you’ll be able to log on to watch lectures, join discussions, complete activities, and interact with your professors and peers. From software engineering and data science, to mobile computing and web technologies, these 100% online ​ programs will develop your analytical, technical, and managerial skills to excel in some of the highest-paying tech careers.

Reach out to an Admission Advisor for more information on these online programs.