The numbers tell a remarkable story. Data scientist roles are experiencing rapid growth, with a projected 36% from 2023 through 2033, ranking fourth among the fastest-growing occupations nationwide, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This surge signals a fundamental shift in how businesses operate and compete. Companies that harness data insights gain a decisive advantage, while those that do not risk becoming obsolete.
For ambitious professionals, this creates an unprecedented opportunity to build lucrative careers at the intersection of technology and business leadership. The Pittsburg State University Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Data Science and Information Systems Online offers a strategic pathway into this high-growth field, combining business acumen with analytical expertise.
Break Into One of the Fastest-growing Job Fields in the Country
The data science revolution is reshaping entire industries. Beyond the impressive 36% growth projection for data scientists themselves, related fields and roles are experiencing similar explosive expansion. This unprecedented demand stems from businesses drowning in data but starving for insights. Companies generate massive datasets from customer interactions and operational processes, yet struggle to transform this information into actionable intelligence.
The artificial intelligence boom has intensified this need, as organizations race to implement machine learning algorithms and predictive analytics to stay competitive. To accomplish this mission, they need professionals who understand both the technical aspects of data analysis and the business implications of their findings.
5 Careers in Data Science and Management That Pay Six Figures
An MBA degree can help graduates advance in their professional goals. The following roles combine technical expertise with leadership responsibilities, positioning professionals for substantial earning potential:
- Computer and Information Systems Manager: The expected median salary would be $171,200 with an expected job growth of 17% through 2033. Key responsibilities include planning and coordinating computer-related activities, implementing IT systems to meet organizational goals and managing cybersecurity protocols. The strategic architects of organizational technology infrastructure analyze IT needs, justify technology investments and lead teams of specialists, including software developers and information security analysts.
- Data Scientist: The median salary for data scientists is $112,590 with a projected job growth of 36% through 2033. Some job responsibilities are to extract insights from complex datasets, develop predictive models and create data visualizations for stakeholder communication. Data scientists represent the core of the analytics revolution. They determine which data sources provide value, create algorithms for machine learning applications and translate findings into business recommendations.
- Information Security Analyst: These professionals can expect a media salary of $124,910 with a job growth rate of 33%. Key responsibilities include monitoring networks for security breaches, implementing protective measures and developing disaster recovery plans. As cyber threats multiply, these professionals become increasingly critical. They design security protocols while researching emerging threats to ensure organizational data remains protected. They also stay current on the latest attack methods to recommend enhanced security measures to management teams.
- Computer and Information Research Scientist: The expected median salary would be $140,910 with a project job growth of 26% through 2033. Job responsibilities range from designing innovative computing applications, conducting experiments using data science techniques and developing new programming languages and systems. These scientists push the boundaries of what technology can accomplish. They explore complex computing problems by collaborating with engineers on breakthrough solutions while specializing in areas like robotics or programming development.
- Operations Research Analyst: These professionals can expect a median salary of $91,290 with a rate of 23% job growth. These professionals will solve complex business problems using mathematical models, analyze organizational processes and provide data-driven recommendations to executives. These organizational problem-solvers use advanced mathematics and statistical methods to optimize business operations. They help companies make informed decisions regarding resource allocation through production schedules while handling strategic planning.
The Management Edge: Where Data Science Meets Leadership
What sets these careers apart from purely technical roles is their emphasis on leadership and strategic thinking. Modern data science is becoming increasingly collaborative, requiring professionals who can translate complex technical concepts into actionable business strategies.
Successful data science managers must be equally adept at handling organizational politics, securing funding for projects and communicating findings to diverse audiences ranging from technical teams to C-suite executives. This combination of technical expertise and management acumen creates professionals who are virtually indispensable to their organizations.
Launch Your Data Science Career
Pittsburg State University’s online MBA in Data Science and Information Systems provides a comprehensive foundation for entering high-growth management roles. This AACSB-accredited program combines traditional business education with specialized technical training. The curriculum covers essential analytics tools, including RStudio, SQL and Tableau, while building core business capabilities in marketing, financial planning and strategic management. Students learn to design integrated databases, apply predictive analytics techniques and transform data into compelling visual presentations that drive executive decision-making.
The program’s accelerated format and online delivery make it accessible to working professionals seeking career advancement. Dedicated faculty provide personalized support, ensuring students master both technical competencies and leadership principles. Graduates emerge with the rare combination of analytical expertise and business acumen that makes them ideal candidates for positions driving organizational growth and innovation.
Learn more about Pittsburg State University’s online MBA in Data Science and Information Systems program.
