Master of Science in Data Science vs Data Analytics: Key Differences Explained

Data is growing exponentially in today’s digital age. Organizations produces and collect large amounts of data through various online activities, transactions, social media, mobile devices, sensors, etc. Read on to understand the key distinctions between data science and data analytics regarding their focus areas, required skill sets, job roles, and career prospects.

Data Science vs Data Analytics: An Overview  

Data science adopts a broader scope, leveraging predictive modeling, machine learning, advanced statistics, and algorithms to discover hidden insights and patterns from raw data. The focus is on forecasting and predictive analysis to drive innovation and optimize processes. 

Data scientists work at the intersection of programming, mathematics, statistics, database engineering, and business to uncover actionable intelligence.

In contrast, data analytics applies basic statistical and quantitative analysis to interpret data for historical insights, diagnose inefficiencies, and provide recommendations based on the findings. Data analysts utilize BI tools and SQL queries for reporting and visualization. 

Key Differences Between Data Science and Data Analytics

The following are key factors of differences: 

1. Focus Areas

Master’s in Data Science involves predictive modeling and forecasting through advanced machine learning and statistical methods. The focus is on innovation and optimizing products, services and processes.

In contrast, Data Analytics applies descriptive and diagnostic analysis to provide insights into past performance and trends. The goal is to enhance existing operational processes.

2. Techniques and Tools

Data Science leverages more complex techniques like machine learning, artificial intelligence, neural networks, algorithms and programming languages like Python and R. Data Scientists also use Big Data platforms like Hadoop and Spark.

Meanwhile, Data Analytics relies more on conventional statistical analysis, data mining and business intelligence tools like Excel, Tableau, SQL and Power BI for data workflow and visualization.

3. Types of Analytics

Master’s in Data Science deals with sophisticated predictive analytics and prescriptive recommendations based on future probabilities. Data analytics is confined to descriptive analytics, which describes what has already happened through historical data reporting.

4. Job Roles

Data Scientists perform predictive analysis to identify trends and patterns. They also develop ML models, optimize data pipelines, and translate analysis into solutions.

Data Analysts collect, clean, analyze, and visualize data to interpret historical trends and provide recommendations to business stakeholders.

5. Experience Levels

Data Science requires advanced skillsets and an academic background, such as a Master’s or PhD in quantitative disciplines and programming. However, Data Analytics is an entry-level field accessible to graduates with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, or computer science.

6. Salary Range

Data Science offers a significantly higher salary range than Data Analytics at all stages of career progression.

7. Key Responsibilities

Data Scientists focus more on predictive modeling and devising data products and solutions to unlock innovation. Data Analysts present insights from historical data to enhance and diagnose issues in existing business processes.

Conclusion

Data analytics focuses on historical data analysis, while data science leverages advanced analytics techniques for predictive modeling and devising data solutions. Though some of the underlying skills overlap, the roles, responsibilities, and salaries of data scientists and data analysts differ markedly. Understanding these core distinctions provides clarity for aspiring professionals on which career path best aligns with their interests and strengths.

To learn it in depth, explore upGrad’s industry-relevant PG programs in Data Science and Analytics, which are approved in partnership with top universities like Liverpool John Moores University.

FAQs

1. Is data analytics a part of data science?

Data analytics can be considered a subset of data science focused on descriptive and diagnostic analysis, while it also encompasses predictive analytics and machine learning.

2. Is a data analyst an entry-level job compared to a data scientist? 

Yes, data analysis is generally an entry-level job compared to a data scientist’s more advanced and specialized role.

3. How much higher are data science salaries compared to data analytics?

On average, data scientists earn 30-50% higher salaries than data analysts, and the gap widens as they gain more experience.