I have a masters degree in Applied Statistics and worked in Europe as a Data Miner. When I came to the UK nobody had even heard of data mining let alone studied for such a degree. Now it is common place and employers feel that a Phd is necessary for this job. However, it is the statistical knowledge and the modelling aspect which is important for this job. In my experience, most IT people do not understand statistics and are therefore unable to do the job well. I went into teaching and now am registering to do a Phd in Applied Statistics to satisfy these employers. I probably know more than most Phd graduates having studied for my Masters degree in 1980s when the level was very high. I think to be a good data miner, one has to have a background in Statistics.