At the University of Michigan Program in Survey and Data Science, you will use survey methodology and data science to pursue careers and jobs in diverse fields that make our world a better place. Data is everywhere in our lives, and industries relying on research-need experts skilled in survey methodology and data science. Careers in this field are growing, with strong salary prospects—master’s degree holders earn on average 15% more than those with just a bachelor’s degree (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Industries Hiring Survey and Data Science Professionals:

• Academia: Universities worldwide employ experts to conduct, direct, and teach survey research. Working titles could include: Data quality and survey methodology manager, Director of sampling operations
  
• Global Organizations: Entities like the UN and WHO need professionals to analyze critical data on global trends. Working titles could include: Mathematical statistician, Research director, Survey statistician
  
• Government: Federal, state, and local agencies employ thousands of survey and data scientists to analyze economic and social data.
  
• Private Sector: Market research and nonprofit firms, plus corporations, seek skilled survey methodologists and data scientists. Working titles could include: Data analyst, Data scientist, Director of survey research, Sampling statistician
  
• Social Media: Platforms like Facebook and Twitter increasingly hire data science experts to guide growth and strategy. Working titles could include: Head of data science and analytics, Research manager, Qualitative research

MPSDS alumni are working at places like:

What Are the Salaries Like?

According to Glassdoor’s most recent statistics, the survey and data science salary outlook for survey and data science jobs are:

• Quantitative Researcher—$153,720
• Data Scientist—$116,041
• Research Scientist—$106,722
• Survey Methodologist—$91,758
• Survey Statistician—$86,075

Jobs with Strong Growth Potential:

• Data Scientist: One of the fastest-growing roles, focusing on data modeling, algorithms, and stakeholder insights.
  
• Quantitative Researcher: Expected to grow steadily, analyzing data trends and informing decisions.
  
• Research Scientist: Growing by 13%, working across industries on experiments and data analysis.
  
• Survey Methodologist: Designing and improving surveys with the latest methods; demand remains strong.
  
• Survey Statistician: Expected 30% job growth, focusing on sampling, survey design, data adjustment, and analysis.

The Michigan Program in Survey and Data Science offers a unique integrated program taught by world-renowned experts, preparing you for a strong career with excellent earning potential.