Data Science vs AI vs Machine Learning Degrees in 2025: Which Has the Best Global Scope?
- Ayushi
- Sep 21
- 3 min read
One of the most frequently encountered dilemmas for students considering studying abroad is the choice between pursuing Data Science and Machine Learning, or specializing in data science and artificial intelligence. Every direction, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML), presents a promising opportunity. Nevertheless, the range, pay, and immigration packages vary with your specialization and destination. If you are wondering what sets data science and machine learning apart, here's the difference. If you're wondering what degree is best in 2025, the following guide can help.

Global Career Trends in 2025
ML and AI degrees are in high demand all over the world. Positions such as AI Engineer, ML Engineer, and Research Scientist tend to be among the highest-paid jobs. These roles are core to robotics, autonomous vehicles, and high-tech computing fields.
Data Science is immensely marketable. Machine learning in data science is used across all industries, including finance, healthcare, and in the optimization of decision-making.
Many employers greatly appreciate the interdisciplinary expertise. Frequently, the road to a leading position in data science or artificial intelligence starts with a solid background in Data Science.
Top Study Destinations and Salary Ranges
Country | AI/ML Salary Range (USD) | Data Science Salary Range (USD) | Why It’s Popular |
USA | 120,000 – 200,000 | 120,000+ | Highest growth, excellent visa options |
UK | 60,000 – 120,000 | 60,000+ | AI hubs in London and Oxford |
Canada | 90,000 – 150,000 | 80,000+ | Co-op programs, PR pathways |
Germany | 80,000 – 130,000 | 80,000+ | Berlin emerging as AI hub |
Australia | 100,000 – 130,000 | 100,000+ | Strong salaries, smoother PR |
Switzerland | 110,000 – 150,000 | 120,000+ | High-paying, research-driven |
Singapore | 65,000 – 110,000 | 70,000+ | Rapid AI and ML adoption |
Degree vs Specialization: Data Science vs ML
AI and Machine Learning Degrees
Focus on the application of automation, robotics, deep learning, and artificial intelligence.
Get to high-skilled roles such as AI Engineer, ML Engineer, and Research Scientist.
This job demands high-level technical skills; however, the rewards are future-proof jobs and high wages.
Data Science Degrees
More emphasis on analytics, statistics, and big data engineering.
Offer a variety of opportunities, including consulting and healthcare.
This is more accessible to students who are not necessarily in computer science backgrounds, and it provides them with an opportunity to move to AI and ML jobs later.
Responding to a widely used question: What is the difference between machine learning and data science? Data Science focuses on concluding data, whereas ML concentrates on developing data-driven algorithmic learning.
Post-Study Work and Immigration
Countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, and Australia provide long-duration post-study work visas to graduates in these areas.
Canada and Australia are the most successful in proposing PR career paths to AI, ML, or Data Science interns.
As data science and machine learning are among the priority tech occupations, the opportunities to work across the globe are on the rise.
Which Degree Should You Choose in 2025?
Select AI and ML for niche and specialized roles in robotics, autonomous systems, or high-end computing.
Choose Data Science for greater flexibility and job security across various industries.
To gain the broadest possible range, consider interdisciplinary programs that utilize data science and machine learning, alongside AI specialization. In this manner, you can enter the field as a data scientist and transition into a role as an artificial intelligence or ML professional.
Conclusion
The career path of a data scientist and artificial intelligence has one of the most lucrative career prospects in the global employment market in 2025. Although AI and ML degrees are considered an undeniable advantage in terms of high-paying positions and jobs, Data Science remains one of the most flexible and marketable choices on a global scale. Wondering what the distinction is between data science and machine learning? It is pretty easy to provide the answer: Data Science gives you the breadth, whereas Machine Learning and AI offer you the depth.
The decision will depend on whether to remain flexible and work across various industries or specialize to secure high-paying jobs in technology.
We understand that the application process can be overwhelming, so we're here to support you. The study abroad experts at Hello Study Global are there for you every step of the way. From preparing for entrance exams to college applications, we will guide you to success.
Feel free to reach out to us at Hello Study Global.
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