Data science is a topic that has been buzzing in the education and professional worlds for quite some time now. With the increasing demand for data-driven decision-making in industries ranging from healthcare to e-commerce, it has become imperative for young professionals to upskill themselves in data science.
But where do you start? What qualifications do you need? Here's a guide to help you understand the eligibility criteria for data science, along with career prospects and job opportunities.
What is Data Science?
Data science is an interdisciplinary field that involves the extraction of insights and knowledge from data using scientific methods, processes, algorithms, and systems. The field of data science includes a variety of sub-disciplines like statistics, mathematics, computer science, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.
Skills required in data science
To pursue a career in data science, one must have:
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R
- Knowledge of databases such as SQL or MongoDB
- Expertise in big data tools such as Hadoop or Spark
- Solid foundation in statistics and machine learning
- Good communication skills to present findings effectively.
Some essential subjects for pursuing courses in data science include:
- Calculus
- Linear algebra
- Probability theory
- Statistics
Eligibility for Data Science Courses
If you're looking to pursue a career in data science after completing your 12th grade education in India, it's essential to have a strong background in STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
However, some institutes also accept students from non-STEM backgrounds but require them to complete additional coursework before starting the course.
Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor's Degrees in Data Science
To pursue bachelor's degrees in data science or related fields like business analytics or artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI and ML), students need to have completed their 12th grade with at least 50% marks (depending on the institute).
Some institutes may require students to have a background in mathematics or computer science at the Class XII level.
Here are three popular undergraduate courses one can consider:
Eligibility Criteria for Master's Degrees in Data Science
To pursue a Master's degree in data science or related fields, students need to have completed their undergraduate degree with at least 50% marks (depending on the institute).
Students from any background can apply for these courses, but some institutes may give preference to those with a background in STEM.
Here are two popular Master's courses one can consider:
Eligibility for Diploma Courses in Data Science
Diploma courses offer an excellent option for people who wish to upskill and gain knowledge in data science without committing to a full-time course.
Diploma courses usually take between six months and one year and cater to both students and working professionals. These courses require students to have a minimum Class XII pass percentage of 50%.
Here are four popular diploma courses:Postgraduate Diploma in Machine Learning (PGDML)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Business Analytics (PGDBA)
- Diploma in Data Science (DDS)
- Advanced Programme in Data Sciences (APDS)
Certifications and Upskilling Opportunities in Data Science
Certifications play a crucial role in enhancing one's skills and knowledge base in the field of data science.
Some popular certification options include:
- AWS-certified big data specialty
- Cloudera-certified data analyst
- SAS-certified predictive modeller
Upskilling is also an essential aspect of staying relevant in the ever-evolving field of data science. One can opt for various upskilling opportunities like boot camps, online courses, training programmes, or workshops to stay ahead of the curve.
Job Potential and Salary Prospects in Data Science
Data science is a rapidly growing industry with a wide range of job roles available, such as data analyst, business intelligence analyst, machine learning engineer, and big data architect, among others.
According to Glassdoor India, the average salary for a data scientist ranges from INR 6–12 lakh per year.
Be Part of a Thriving Industry
Data science is a booming industry with immense growth potential. As companies continue to harness data-driven insights to drive business decisions across industries including healthcare, finance, and retail, demand for skilled professionals continues to soar.
Speak to our experts at WIZR today to learn more about data science courses and upskilling opportunities that can help you achieve your career aspirations.
FAQs
1. Is data science better than computer science?
Data science is a subset of computer science that deals with analysing complex data sets. Both fields have their own unique applications and career opportunities.
2. Do I need to take any entrance exams for data science courses?
Entrance exams are not mandatory for all courses, but some universities may require GRE or GMAT scores.
3. Who earns more: a data analyst or a financial analyst?
Salaries vary based on experience, but as per Payscale.com, the median salary of a financial analyst is ₹5 lakhs per year, while that of a data analyst is ₹3.7 lakhs per year.
4. Can I pursue data science after 12th grade in the humanities stream?
Yes! A bachelor’s degree in computer science or statistics isn’t mandatory to pursue a career in data science; you can learn relevant skills through online courses or bootcamps.
5. Which companies have a high demand for data science professionals?
As per LinkedIn's Emerging Jobs Report 2020, companies like Accenture, Amazon, IBM India, Wipro, Flipkart, and Deloitte have the highest demand for data science professionals in India.
