Data science is the study and examination of data for the purpose of understanding patterns. It uses tools, techniques, and theories to produce a meaningful interpretation of data patterns. The results are used to advise industries and businesses in decision-making and development. Data science is used to improve results and efficiency. You’ve probably heard of algorithms in the context of computer science, but they’re also used in data science to record, process, and analyse information.
Data science is categorised as a STEM subject and professional degree by most universities. It has several areas of focus, sometimes referred to as a cycle or a phase. It’s possible to develop expertise in one specific area, or all when studying for a degree in the subject. The phases usually associated with data science are:
- Collecting data
- Storing and maintaining data
- Processing data
- Analysing, testing, and interpreting data
- Communicating results and conclusions
As you can see, there are numerous areas of specialisation within the data cycle, making data science both a challenging and stimulating field.
What is the difference between a data scientist and a data analyst?
Although they both work with data, data analysts examine large data sets to identify trends and solve problems. They present their findings which in turn help businesses to make better strategic decisions. As seen above, data scientists focus on designing and building new processes for data modelling and production as well as analysing data.
What do data scientists do?
As is clearly seen in the video below, the main day-to-day activities of a data scientist include:
- ·Data cleaning
- ·Date transformation
- ·Exploratory data analysis
- ·Data modelling
- ·Presenting and communication findings
- ·Maintaining the data
Is data science a good career for the future?
According to a the US Bureau of Labor Statistics the demand for data scientists is expected to grow 36 per cent from 2021 – 2031 in the USA. This is much faster than average when compared to all occupations. Canada’s Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) identified data scientists as being one of the fifteen most in-demand occupations across Canada now and in the future. The same is true of post-study work in the UK, Australia, New Zealand and other destinations around the globe.
What are the benefits of a career in data science?
A career that is in-demand will mean that finding work shouldn’t be a problem. Here are some other benefits of a career in this field:
- Gives you transferable skills that you will be able to use across roles, fields, and sectors.
- It’s engaging and dynamic as it draws on many disciplines including, computer science, mathematics, statistics, business, and engineering.
- Data science can allow you to make a positive contribution to society by providing insights or designing systems that successfully help people improve their lives.
- It helps you to perfect collaborative, communication, analytical, and numerical skills.
- You’ll refine your agile thinking and problem-solving abilities.
What is the average salary for a data scientist?
For average salaries around the world please see the table below.
|
Data Scientist |
|
|
Country |
Average Base Salary per year |
|
UK |
GBP 50,458 |
|
Ireland |
EUR 74,938 |
|
USA |
USD 145, 668 |
|
Canada |
CAD 85,859 |
|
Australia |
AUD 120,721 |
|
New Zealand |
NZD 98,773 |
Indeed.com figures true at the time of writing.
If you now feel that a career in data science is for you after you finish university, then you should consider taking a degree in the subject. Read on to find out more.
What are the top data science courses?
There are many excellent data science courses around the world, the table below are just a selection of them.
|
University |
Country |
Study level |
Fees per year |
|
USA |
Undergraduate |
USD 43,522 |
|
|
USA |
Undergraduate |
USD 58,479 |
|
|
Canada |
Undergraduate |
CAD 59,320 |
|
|
Canada |
Undergraduate |
CAD 79,060 |
|
|
UK |
Undergraduate |
GBP 25,272 |
|
|
UK |
Masters |
GBP 35,900 |
|
|
Australia |
Undergraduate |
AUD 50,200 |
|
|
Australia |
Masters |
AUD 48,832 |
Fees correct at the time of writing.
If you’re interested in finding out about other data science courses our course matcher tool will help you. Make sure to use the filters to help you select the best course for you.
What will I study in a data science qualification?
While the curriculum for a data science qualification will be different at different universities, there are a number of common fundamental areas that you will learn. Data science courses aim to introduce you to specialist knowledge and skills for understanding data. For example, you will learn about databases and concepts in machine learning and artificial intelligence. You’ll also learn how to apply these skills in different fields and environments.
If you choose to study for an undergraduate degree in data science, then some of the modules that you’ll take can include:
- Programming fundamentals
- Data architecture and infrastructure
- Operating systems
- Computing
- Database development
- Data algorithms
- Machine learning
- Software engineering
- Cloud computing
- Business analytics
- System security
- Data privacy
The assessment methods used in a data science degree vary. However, course evaluation will include assignments, examinations, practical projects, and final year dissertation/project. Some undergraduate programmes may also include a work placement or internship component as part of your curriculum.
What can you do with a degree in data science?
Above you will have seen the average salary of a data scientist and because of the flexibility and wide applicability of a data science degree, you could find yourself working in industries including:
- Business
- Education
- Healthcare
- Finance
- Retail
- Manufacturing
- Engineering
- Research
- Insurance
- Advertising
You could work as a data analyst, business analyst, systems analyst or even a database manager, to name only a few roles.
As you can see, a degree in data science will open many doors for you in the future. A career in data science is guaranteed in both the short and medium-term future.
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