I am interested in a PhD in Data Science program that was recently started at my alma mater university.
I received my Master's in Health Informatics from this university, and following graduation I have been employed by the university as a Data Analyst, approaching two years now. The new Data Science graduate program has both a Master's and PhD level option. While I'm confident I would be accepted to the Master's program, I cannot in good conscience take on more student debt.
The PhD program however, has the chance of a tution waiver. I personally feel that I would excel in this program, but I am worried that the academic side of my application may look lackluster in comparison to applicants who have focused on data science their entire career.
My background was initially cognitive neuroscience, prior to switching my focus to data analysis while working in a lab, and later choosing to get my Master's in Healthcare Informatics. In this regard I feel like I may be outcompeted by CS/Data Science students.