I work as a DS lead and have been as DS since 2016. I don't have a master's degree, only a bachelors degree in Econ and a bachelor's degree in Stats. However I code since I'm 14yo, so I'm very capable in the programming side of things.

I have missed carrer oportunities due to the fact that I don't have any further academic achievements besides a bachelors's degree. The small startup might hire you, but the large bank, or more "settled" company, or a large consultancy (big4) won't. That has been my experience so far.