Masters Data Science

[mahaganapati]

Several years ago I got a BA in liberal studies with a concentration in math and natural science from TESU. At the time, I just needed a degree and it helped me in opening more job opportunities. Since then, I earned a certificate class in software engineering and have been working as a software engineer. I'd like to move on to data science. I've been taking some data science classes and really enjoy it but a masters is really required for data science. 

I'm be open to a Masters in computer science with a concentration in data science. Data analytics is out because it's a related but different job.

I have found a few degree programs that would work. 

Truman State University - $12,750
https://www.truman.edu/majors-programs/g...a-science/

University of Sunderland - $9,300
https://online.sunderland.ac.uk/online-c...a-science/

I'd like to keep tuition under $20,000 for the program, so under $700/credit. I'm okay with international programs as long as they're accredited in whatever is local to the program. I haven't seen any competency based data science grad programs, but I'd be interested in them if anyone knows of one.

Since you already have software engineering experience, you may also consider a Master's in something like Statistics. Depending on the role, Data Science roles can be very statistics/math heavy and that could complement your experience in SWE. It's something I'm considering for myself actually - though I haven't looked much into specific DS roles - have you seen that they're looking for an actual DS degree? DS degrees seem quite new but maybe I'm out of the loop.