Difference Between Business Analytics and Data Dcience

published on
Jul 2, 2024
4 Min REad
Table of Content

Are you a fresh graduate or a young professional in India trying to decide between Business Analytics and Data Science? You are not alone! 

Both business analytics and data science are related but distinct fields, and it is important to get a deeper look into both areas before making a decision on which path to take. In this article, we'll explore their differences, required technical skills, education and career paths, and specialisations to help you make a well-informed choice for your future.

 

Business Analytics vs. Data Science: An Overview

Business Analytics and Data Science are two rapidly growing fields that offer exciting career opportunities for fresh graduates and young professionals. Both fields involve the analysis of large sets of data to derive valuable insights and make informed decisions. However, there are key differences between the two.

Business Analytics vs. Data Science: Differences

Business Analytics

Data Science

Focuses on using data for strategic decision-making

Focuses on extracting insights from data using advanced techniques

Primarily uses statistical analysis

Utilises machine learning algorithms

Emphasises domain knowledge in business processes

Requires strong programming skills

Often deals with structured data

Handles both structured and unstructured data

Business Analytics vs. Data Science: Advantages

Despite being interrelated, both Business Analytics and Data Science have individual field advantages.

  • Business Analytics provides a deep understanding of business processes and helps organisations make informed decisions based on historical data.
  • Data Science, on the other hand, enables organisations to uncover hidden patterns in large datasets and make accurate predictions.

Business Analytics vs. Data Science: Skills Required

To excel in these fields, certain technical skills are required.

  • In Business Analytics, proficiency in statistical analysis tools like Excel or R is essential. Additionally, knowledge of SQL for database management is beneficial.
  • In Data Science, programming languages like Python or R are crucial for implementing algorithms and building models.
  • Strong mathematical skills are also important for both fields.

Business Analytics vs. Data Science: Education Paths

Both fields require a solid foundation of quantitative skills and analytical thinking. However, there are differences in the degrees and courses you can opt for. 

  • Business Analytics: Bachelor's degree in fields such as Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, or Engineering
  • Many universities also offer specialised Master's programmes in Business Analytics.
  • Data Science: Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Computer Science or related fields
  • Specialised Data Science programmes are also available.

Business Analytics vs. Data Science: Syllabus

Business Analytics

Data Science

Statistical Modeling

Machine Learning

Data Visualisation

Big Data Analytics

Predictive Analytics

Natural Language Processing

Database Management

Deep Learning

Business Analytics vs. Data Science: Job Roles

Both Business Analytics and Data Science offer ample job opportunities for freshers.

While Business Analysts focus on utilising data to support business strategies, Data Scientists have a more technical role involving advanced analytics and modelling techniques.

Business Analytics

Data Science

Business Analyst

Data Scientist

Market Research Analyst

Machine Learning Engineer

Operations Analyst

Big Data Engineer

Business Analytics vs. Data Science: Career Paths

Both fields offer promising career paths with ample opportunities for growth. As you gain experience in either field, you can progress into leadership positions such as Senior Business Analyst or Director of Data Science. With the increasing adoption of analytics-driven decision-making across industries, professionals in both domains are highly sought-after.

Business Analytics vs. Data Science: Salaries

When it comes to entry-level salaries, both fields offer competitive packages. However, Data Science professionals tend to command slightly higher starting salaries due to the technical skills and domain expertise required.

On average, entry-level Business Analysts earn ₹6-8 lakhs per annum. In contrast, entry-level Data Scientists earn ₹8-10 lakhs per annum. It is important to note that these

Business Analytics vs. Data Science: Specialisations

By choosing a specialisation within either Business Analytics or Data Science, you can gain a deeper understanding of your chosen field and enhance your expertise in specific areas that align with your interests and career goals.

Business Analytics

Data Science

Marketing Analytics

Machine Learning

Financial Analytics

Natural Language Processing (NLP)

Operations Analytics

Big Data Analytics

Healthcare Analytics

Data Visualisation

Upskill Your Way to a Successful Career

In conclusion, whether you choose to pursue a career in business analytics or data science, the opportunities are vast and rewarding. By acquiring the necessary skills through degree programmes or upskilling courses, you can position yourself as a valuable asset in today's data-driven world. 

At WIZR, we understand the importance of upskilling and offer guidance on relevant courses that can help you succeed in your chosen field. WIZR also provides financial assistance to support your career-focused upskilling journey.

 

FAQs

1. Can a business analyst become a financial advisor?

Yes, a business analyst can transition into a financial advisor role by gaining expertise in finance-related areas such as investment analysis, financial planning, and risk management.

2. Can I apply for data science jobs abroad with valid Indian certifications?

Yes, having valid Indian certifications in data science can boost your credibility when applying for data science jobs abroad.

3. Can I pursue a career in data science if I had a humanities stream in 12th grade?

Absolutely! While having a background in mathematics or computer science may provide some advantages, it is still possible to pursue a career in data science with a humanities background.

4. Which companies hire more business analysts?

Companies like Deloitte, TCS, Amazon, and HDFC Bank have a high demand for business analysts.

5. Which industries hire more data scientists?

Data scientists are highly sought after in industries such as finance, healthcare, e-commerce, information technology, telecommunications, and manufacturing.

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