First things first, let’s talk about what data scientists do. These professionals come up with questions and hypotheses that data analysts can answer by looking at big data. Data science often uses machine learning and algorithms to answer complex questions. With that in mind, the average data scientist may be tasked with the following:

The average salary for a data scientist job is between £30,000 and £70,000 per year, according to the National Careers Service. Of course, how much you actually take home will depend on a variety of factors. For example, when you are new to the sector, you likely won’t go in at such a high salary. However, as you start to climb the career ladder, you can expect to make more and more until you reach the top end of earnings in the sector.

If you want to become a data scientist, you will first need a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree. For example, you may choose to undertake a degree in computer science or a similar subject matter. Alongside that, you may need specific training in computer languages. 

Keep in mind that these languages change all of the time. When you have landed your first data scientist job, you will still need to keep your finger on the pulse. Taking regular refresher courses will help you stay up to speed on these languages. 

Of course, the formal education route is not the only way to become a data scientist. Let’s say you are already working as a data analyst (and have been for some years). You can transition from this role to that of a data scientist by adding a few more feathers to your cap. 

To do that, you may want to take some online courses in data science or look for ways that you can enhance your digital skills. By investing in yourself, you can show potential employers that you are serious about a data scientist role within the data science and analytics world. 

If you work in any area of computing, it may be savvy to look at the ways that you can transition. The more you learn about the realms of big data, deep learning, and machine learning, the better. Luckily, you can take a look at a range of online courses to determine which route works for you and your existing skill-set. Investing in your education is never a waste of time. 

Taking a dedicated course, such as the Data Analyst to Data Scientist Pathway, is ideal for those who already have a background in data but want to move into a purely data science-focused role.

Now that you understand what courses you can take to be a data scientist let’s delve into the skills that you will need. Armed with the above certifications, you can start applying for roles. However, you will need the following strengths if you want to make it in this field:

If you already have the above skill-set, you should find that there are plenty of data science roles out there for you. These data science skills, along with mentioned soft skills, will put you in the perfect position to start your data science career.

Before you can start applying for entry-level jobs, it may be worth getting some work experience. There’s a high demand for data scientists, which means that you should find it straightforward to land your first position.

However, you may not be able to go into a role as a data scientist right away. First up, it may be worth going for a job as a data analyst, statistician, data engineer, or business analyst. These roles will help you to strengthen your data science skills so that you can take a step up on the career ladder in time.

When you have got some years of experience in your data scientist career, you will be able to look at ways to progress. For example, you may be able to become a team leader or run projects yourself.

When you do so, you can expect to make a higher data scientist salary than before. Learning the fundamentals of this career will help you to take your first steps. Once you have done that, you can look for ways to progress in the sector.