The field of data science is in high demand right now. In fact, job opportunities in this field are expected to grow by 35% from 2022 to 2032. As more and more companies are using data science to solve all sorts of problems, data scientists are in a great position when it comes to finding jobs and earning good salaries. If you’re reading this, you might be thinking about becoming a data scientist yourself. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to become a data scientist. So, let’s begin!
What Is A Data Scientist?
A data scientist is a professional who analyses data to find useful insights and solve problems. They use skills in mathematics, programming, and statistics to interpret data and make informed decisions. Data scientists help businesses and organisations make data-driven choices to improve efficiency and decision-making.
Data Scientist Job Specification
A data scientist collects and analyses data to uncover valuable information and solve complex problems. The data scientist job profile includes the following:
- Data Analysis: Analysing large datasets to extract insights and patterns.
- Machine Learning: Designing and executing machine learning models for predictions and classifications.
- Data Cleaning: Pre-processing and cleaning data to ensure accuracy.
- Statistical Analysis: Applying statistical techniques to draw conclusions from data.
- Data Visualisation: Creating visual representations to communicate findings effectively.
- Programming: Proficiency in programming languages like Python or R.
- Data Mining: Discovering hidden patterns and trends in data.
- Communication: Presenting findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Problem Solving: Addressing complex business problems using data-driven approaches.
- Data Ethics: Ensuring ethical and responsible data handling practices.
- Model Deployment: Deploying machine learning prototypes into production systems.
- Business Impact: Using data insights to drive strategic decisions and business growth.
Data Science Qualifications
Here are the qualifications required to be a data scientist:
Bachelor’s Degree
Start with a bachelor’s degree in a corresponding field like computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or economics. Many data scientists hold degrees in these areas.
Master’s Degree (Optional)
While not always necessary, a master’s degree in data science, machine learning, or a corresponding field can provide a competitive edge.
Steps to Become a Data Scientist
If you are planning to become a data scientist, here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Enroll in a bachelor’s program in a related field like computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or a similar quantitative discipline. During your undergraduate studies, focus on developing a strong foundation in mathematics, programming and statistics for data science.
Step 2: Learn Relevant Programming Languages
Data scientists typically utilise programming languages to handle, analyse, and manage substantial volumes of data. You need to learn Python, R and SQL for data science. Here are some common programming languages you need to master:
- Python
- R
- SQL
- SAS
Familiarise yourself with Python programming for data science and frameworks like NumPy, pandas, sci-kit-learn, TensorFlow and Tidyverse.
Step 3: Learn Related Skills
Acquire a range of skills crucial for data science, including:
- Data Manipulation: Learn how to clean, pre-process, and transform data.
- Statistics and Probability: Understand statistical concepts and methods for data analysis.
- Machine Learning: Explore data science and machine learning algorithms for predictive modeling.
- Data Visualisation: Master tools like Matplotlib, Seaborn, Tableau, PowerBI or Excel to create informative data visualisations.
- Big Data Technologies: Familiarise yourself with tools like Hadoop and Spark for functioning with big datasets.
Step 4: Earn Certifications
Consider earning data scientist certifications or related areas to demonstrate your expertise. You can find data scientist courses online or consider Indian educational institutes that offer programs and job placements in this field.
Certifications like the Certified Data Scientist or Artificial Intelligence and Data Science from well-known platforms like Hirist can boost your credibility. You can also take Python and data science certification.
Step 5: Complete Internships
Gain practical knowledge by participating in internships or personal projects that involve working with real-world data.
Internships offer a valuable entry point to companies hiring data scientists. Look for roles with keywords like data analyst, business intelligence analyst, statistician, or data engineer.
Step 6: Search for Data Science Entry-Level Jobs
Look for entry-level positions such as data analyst or junior data scientist at Hirist to start your career journey. These roles provide valuable hands-on experience in working with data and developing data science skills.
Step 7: Prepare for Interview
Data scientist interviews can cover technical and behavioural aspects, so prepare for both by practicing your responses aloud. Prior to interviews, review key data science concepts, practice coding challenges, and prepare for technical and behavioral questions.
How to Become a Data Scientist after 12th?
To become a data scientist after 12th in India, follow these steps:
1. Enroll in a bachelor’s program in a corresponding field like computer science, mathematics, or statistics.
2. Develop proficiency in programming languages like Python and R, commonly used in data science.
3. Seek internships or projects that involve working with data to gain practical experience.
4. Consider pursuing a master’s degree in data science or a related field for advanced knowledge.
5. Obtain certifications in data science to showcase your expertise.
6. Create a portfolio of data science projects to demonstrate your skills to potential employers.
7. Apply for entry-level positions like data analyst or junior data scientist to start your career.
How to Become a Data Scientist after 10th?
To become a data scientist after the 10th grade:
1. Choose a stream with mathematics in 11th and 12th grade, preferably Science (PCM).
2. Pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science or mathematics for data science.
3. Learn programming languages like Python and R.
4. Gain practical experience through internships or personal projects.
5. Consider pursuing a master’s degree in data science for advanced knowledge.
6. Obtain relevant certifications.
7. Build a portfolio of data science projects.
8. Start applying for entry-level data science positions.
How to Become a Data Scientist after BCA?
After completing a BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications), follow these steps to become a data scientist:
1. Build a strong foundation in programming and mathematics during your BCA.
2. Take online courses or pursue a master’s degree in data science or related fields to gain expertise.
3. Develop proficiency in languages like Python and R.
4. Work on data science projects or internships to apply your knowledge.
5. Obtain relevant data science certifications.
6. Create a portfolio showcasing your data projects.
7. Apply for entry-level data scientist positions to kick-start your career.
How to Become a Data Scientist with No Experience?
To become a data scientist with no experience, follow these steps:
1. Acquire a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and programming languages like Python and R.
2. Enroll in online courses and tutorials like Introduction to Data Science to learn the basics.
3. Work on personal data analysis projects to build a portfolio.
4. Obtain relevant certifications to validate your skills.
5. Attend data science meetups, conferences, and webinars to connect with professionals.
6. Apply for data-related internships or entry-level roles to gain practical experience.
How to Become a Data Scientist after 12th Commerce?
To become a data scientist after completing 12th grade in Commerce, follow these steps:
1. Choose a bachelor’s program in a related field like Statistics, Economics, or Commerce with a strong focus on mathematics.
2. Develop a solid foundation in mathematics, including statistics and calculus.
3. Learn programming languages such as Python and R, which are generally used in data science.
4. Master statistical concepts and methods for data analysis.
5. Obtain certifications in data science to demonstrate your expertise.
6. Work on personal data projects to create a portfolio.
7. Seek data-related internships or entry-level roles to gain practical experience.
How to Become a Data Scientist without a Degree?
Becoming a data scientist without a degree is possible by following these steps:
1. Start with online courses or free resources to understand fundamental concepts in mathematics, statistics, and programming.
2. Gain proficiency in programming languages like Python and R, which are essential for data analysis.
3. Work on personal data projects to build a portfolio showcasing your skills.
4. Earn relevant data science certifications to validate your expertise.
5. Connect with data science professionals through forums, meetups, and social media for guidance and opportunities.
6. Contribute to open-source data projects to gain practical experience.
7. Look for entry-level data analyst or junior data scientist positions that don’t require a degree but value practical skills and certifications.
Skills to Become a Data Scientist
To become a data scientist, here are some important skills you need to master:
Hard Skills:
These are the technical skills crucial for a data scientist:
- R
- Python
- SQL and NoSQL databases
- Statistics and mathematics
- Data visualisation
- Deep learning
- Machine learning
- Natural language processing
- Cloud computing
- Big data technologies
Soft Skills:
Apart from technical skills, you must also learn a few basic soft skills to thrive in the field of data science:
- Communication
- Critical thinking
- Storytelling
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Teamwork
What Is An Average Data Scientist Salary?
In India, data scientist pay can be anywhere from ₹3.7 Lakhs to ₹25.1 Lakhs annually. This makes the average data scientist income around ₹12.6 Lakhs per year. Compared to other professions in the IT sector, the data scientist wage is quite high.
However, the exact data science earnings can differ depending on aspects such as experience, location, and the industry. Individuals with more years of experience and expertise in the field can command higher data scientist compensation, especially in cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi, where the demand for data science professionals is higher.
Data Science Careers
Data science offers a wide range of rewarding career options due to its increasing importance in various industries. Here are some popular data scientist jobs:
· Data Scientist
· Data Analyst
· Machine Learning Engineer
· Data Engineer
· Business Intelligence Analyst
· Quantitative Analyst (Quant)
· Data Consultant
· Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer
· Data Scientist Manager/Director
· Research Scientist
· Data Journalist
· Healthcare Data Analyst
· Sports Analyst
· Government Data Analyst
· Academic Researcher
· Freelance Data Scientist
Conclusion
Data scientists are in high demand, and this field offers great career prospects. By becoming a data scientist, you not only earn well but also set the stage for a rewarding career. In this guide, we have listed the steps to become a data scientist in a simple way.
To kick start your data science journey, find the best courses on Hirist – an all-in-one platform for techies. Apart from courses, you can find the best job opportunities in the top tech firms for data scientists. Hirist has a wide range of opportunities, from internships and entry-level positions to experienced roles – it’s your ultimate platform for all your career needs!
FAQs
How long does it take to become a data scientist?
It typically takes about 2 to 5 years to become a data scientist, including education and practical experience. However, online data science course duration is just 6 to 12 months.
What are data scientist course fees?
Data science course fees can be between INR 3,00,000 and 7,00,000, while certificate courses typically cost around INR 50,000 and 1,50,000.
Data scientist vs data analyst – what’s the difference?
Data scientists focus on analysing complex data to uncover insights and build models, while data analysts primarily examine data to generate reports and summaries for decision-making.
Is data science better than data engineering?
When it comes to data science vs data engineering, one is not better than the other but serves different aspects of data processing and analysis.
Data science vs data analytics – which is easier?
Data analytics is generally easier than data science due to its focus on simpler techniques and descriptive analysis.
What is a data scientist salary for freshers?
On average, data science pay for freshers is approximately INR 3,70,000, with the highest going up to around INR 13,00,000 per annum.