Do you have a full time job, but want to get a degree in data science? It's possible! A lot of people think that getting a degree in data science is impossible if you have a full time job. But that’s not true! There are ways to make it happen.
In this blog post, we’ll share some tips from our experience and give you more tips on how you can get a degree in data science while working full time. So if you’re ready to learn more about how to make your dreams of becoming a data scientist come true, read on!
Look for online programs that offer flexibility in scheduling
If you're balancing your job and pursuing a degree, it's essential to look for an online program with plenty of flexibility. This allows you to work on your classes around your work schedule, instead of having to compromise quality and commitment in one or the other.
Many of these types of programs also include flexible payment plans, and some even offer accelerated courses if you're looking to complete them faster. Study when it works best for you and reach your educational goals without sacrificing your current career path.
Find reputable certificate programs
If you’re looking to get a degree in data science while keeping a full-time job, thankfully there are many reputable certificate programs available. Y
ou don’t have to be stuck with outdated or unreliable content—by searching for and ultimately enrolling in the right program, you can receive a high-quality education that will help you launch your career in this growing field. Before enrolling in any courses, research the school behind them and read through previous student reviews.
Sometimes, you can even find courses from accredited universities, such as NUS micro-credentials, where you can find professional, executive, and graduate certification courses. Finding the perfect program takes some due diligence, but doing so could make all the difference in accelerating your understanding of data science concepts.
See if your employer will reimburse you for tuition costs
Another helpful tip to get a degree in data science is to see if you're able to get tuition reimbursement from your employer. Many companies offer great benefits that include tuition reimbursement for college courses, which can help you achieve your educational goals without having to worry about the financial cost.
It’s always worth researching and asking around in the HR department to see if your company has any tuition reimbursement offerings – it could make getting your degree much more feasible!
Check if there are any night or weekend classes available
If you’re able to fit in a few nights or weekends of classes while you juggle the demands of your full time job and family, then investigate which universities offer night or weekend classes that can be used to get a degree in data science. If you can manage your other commitments and make it work, then this could be a great alternative and allow you to gain that degree without having to quit your job.
If the night or weekend classes have an online learning component then this is even better as you can decide for yourself when, where and how fast or slow you learn.
Ultimately, if you are dedicated enough, taking night or weekend classes could mean that with the right combination of courses, dedication and lifestyle changes, you could someday unlock the path to a data science degree and discover new opportunities.
Find a mentor who can help guide you through the program
One of the most beneficial things you can do when seeking a degree in data science is to find a mentor who can help guide you through your program. Having someone who you trust and respect that can offer advice and support throughout the process is invaluable, as they will be able to provide insight from their own experiences and wisdom that may not be available in any other source or classroom setting.
Additionally, having someone knowledgeable about data science as well as academia and the corporate world, can be immensely helpful for understanding all aspects of your degree acquisition journey. Investing time into finding an appropriate mentor is crucial for making sure you succeed in achieving your goal of earning a degree in data science while still navigating your current job’s demands.
Make use of online resources, such as forums and online courses
Our last resort for earning a data science degree while working full time? Making use of online resources, such as forums and online courses. While nothing can quite compare to being in a traditional college setting surrounded by peers, taking advantage of the many tools available to us on the internet can be just as beneficial.
You want to join a forum where you can ask other data scientists or experts anything related to your pursuits, or search for opinion pieces and blog posts that shed light on certain topics. You’ll even find numerous reputable websites offering comprehensive academic programs and modules which will systematically guide and prepare you every step of the way. All you need is a little extra effort and dedication and you’ll surely succeed!
It is definitely possible to pursue a degree in data science while still having the demands of your full-time job. By researching tuition reimbursement from employers and exploring night or weekend classes, you can make sure that getting an education doesn’t have to take away from other commitments. Finding a mentor who has experience with both academia and corporate life will provide invaluable support during this journey as well.
Finally, don’t forget about all the online resources available such as forums and courses which can help guide you every step of the way! With dedication and effort, there are many ways for working professionals to get their degree in data science without sacrificing too much time or money. Hopefully, this has shown you that it is indeed possible to have a successful career and pursue your goal of getting an education in data science. Good luck with your educational endeavors!
