Data science is one of the major domains to prosper in this era because numbers tell stories. Be it any field or degree; data scientists weave their stories through these numbers by being able to predict customer behavior, improve healthcare systems, or enhance major business decisions. In a nutshell, data science has been the engine behind innovation nowadays.   

This adds to the excitement of getting into the course and learning how it actually works. Hence, the number of individuals wanting to enter this field is quite large. But the biggest question is, should you go for a full-fledged data science degree, or if just a short-term certificate is good to go?   

So, by the end of this blog, learners will be able to fully understand what the degree and certificate in data science offer and how to make the right choice.   

Understanding the Two Paths 

Let us quickly have a run through of it: Data Science Degree and a Data Science Certificate 

What is a Data Science Degree?  

A Data Science Degree is a comprehensive bachelor’s or master’s degree that spans around three to four years if it is a graduate degree and 2 years if it is a postgraduate degree. This covers all the major areas from data visualization, statistics, and programming to machine learning.   

Further, it not only helps learners master the tools but also provides them with information to understand the logic and mathematics behind making insight-led decisions. It also opens the door to learning to handle massive datasets, providing a solid academic foundation.   

Also read: What is the data science lifecycle? 

Advantages of Data Science Degree Program 

Students can gain several benefits by pursuing a degree in data science. Here are some of the advantages of pursuing a data science degree program: 

Higher Career and Networking Possibilities 

The initial thing that recruiters will observe in your resume is whether you have a degree in the field, and a data science degree will significantly increase your job prospects. It also offers fantastic networking possibilities, as you may connect with industry leaders while developing a portfolio that can aid you in the practical world. 

Internship opportunities  

Degree programs provide fantastic internship possibilities that will significantly improve your prospects. Internships are one of the most common ways to get real-world experiences and create a data science portfolio that employers value. Those who have time and finances should seriously contemplate enrolling in a graduate program. 

Disadvantages of Data Science Degree Program 

More expensive than certificate program 

Completing a degree in Data Science comes at a steep price compared to a certificate program. Based on your location and institution, you may need enormous investment. This, combined with the program’s elevated demand, implies you’d be paying a lot of funds with no assurance of gaining employment right away.  

A degree in data science might take many years to complete, implying that you won’t be eligible to join the industry anytime until graduation is complete. 

Give this a read: Data Science Course Duration: Become Data Scientist Quickly! 

What is a Data Science Certificate Program?  

When it comes to a Data Science Certificate program, it is mainly designed to complete the specialization with speed. The courses span 3 to 12 months, during which learners are directly taught practical, job-oriented data science skills.   

Unlike a degree program, where everything under the sun is covered in data science, certificate programs mainly focus on particular tools and techniques, such as TensorFlow, R, Power BI, SQL, and many more, with high industry demand. These are created with the goal of upskilling or moving into a different career without committing years to a degree. 

Advantages of a Data Science Certificate Program 

Portfolio developer 

Without a suitable portfolio, you won’t find a career in data science. A data science certificate can assist you in achieving this goal. Even though the certification only provides core information, it will assist you in laying out the framework for solid portfolios in the future. 

Must read: How to build a data science portfolio? 

Fairly low cost  

Data science certificates can be achieved at a low cost, compared to data science bootcamps and graduate degrees, which demand tremendous investment. This is ideal for people looking to expand their level of expertise and portfolio on a budget. 

Time flexibility  

You can complete some certifications within just a few sessions. Students can expect to finish these credentials quickly without abandoning existing obligations because of the minimal complexity. 

Disadvantages of Data Science Certificate Program 

Basic curriculum and doesn’t help with careers immediately 

While data science certifications are excellent for people just starting in the area, they aren’t the best option for more complex IT positions because the information taught in these credentials is usually only basic.  

As a result, data science certificates do not immediately assist in a career as no firm will engage you just based on certification. Rather, you’ll require a lot of work expertise and further professional qualifications. 

Data Science Degree vs Data Science Certificate – The Key Differences 

The below listed table is a side-to-side comparison of the major differences of the certificate vs degree in the Data Science field.  

Factor	Data Science Degree	Data Science Certificate
Duration	2–4 years	3–12 months
Learning Depth	Covers theoretical + practical aspects	Focused on practical skills
Cost	Higher investment	More affordable
Career Scope	Broader, long-term roles	Quick entry-level or transition roles
Flexibility	Structured academic schedule	Self-paced or part-time options
Best For	Students, researchers, and deep learners	Working professionals and career changers

Give this a read: Reasons why data science is important 

Data Science Degree v/s Certificate – Which suits you the best 

It can still be a little confusing to decide what works best. Hence, the section below breaks it down for learners so they can make the right decision.   

Go for a Data Science Degree program If you want to:  

• Have a strong theoretical knowledge 

There is a science behind the data that needs to be understood in a full sense. By diving deeper, learners gain an understanding of the logic behind algorithms, mathematics, and powerful technologies such as artificial intelligence and data science. This will add to your curious cat, helping you explore the ‘why’ behind every insight.   

• Pursue research, analytics leadership or academic roles 

If pursuing a career working with a team of data experts, or wanting to create one, is your goal, then completing a degree is the best way to contribute to this breakthrough. It is a gateway to a high-level role in data-driven decision making, academia, and research. Further, it helps in designing experiments and guides organizations toward smarter, evidence-based decisions. 

• Aim for a long-term career in data or AI 

If you are passionate enough to dedicate your whole career to the data science field, then a degree will help you cement the foundation for sustained growth in the industry. Further, it not only develops technical expertise but also plays a key role in strengthening the analytical mindset, which is considered one of the two pillars that every data-driven industry seeks.   

Give this a read: Top 25 data science companies in India 

• Looking for formal education and credentials 

A degree carries academic weight and is recognized by employers worldwide. It signals that you’ve invested time and effort to build your expertise systematically. For many top organizations and international roles, a formal qualification remains a key requirement, and that’s where a degree gives you an undeniable edge. 

Choose a Data Science Certificate program if you want to:  

• Upskill quickly and acquire industry-ready skills 

A quick impact can be made on the resume with a certificate program in Data Science. It is a valuable shortcut for getting acquainted with the tools of trade, such as Python, R, SQL, TensorFlow, and so on. Additionally, one will be exposed to real-world data problems relevant to today’s world. All this knowledge will make you stand out from your peers.   

• Switch careers to data science 

If you are looking to shift gears in your career from IT, finance, marketing, or operations to Data Science, enrolling in a certificate course is what will work best for you. This transition will help working professionals manage both without really pausing their careers. Further, it provides the starter pack of what a recruiter is looking for, like Data Analyst or Business Intelligence Associate roles, slowly helping climb the data science ladder.  

Also read: Launching a Data Science career without coding 

• Learn specific tools or programing languages 

Data science is like a huge ocean. It can be noted that not everything needs to be known. This is what the certificate programs leverage. They focus on what’s most important while keeping current and future trends in mind. This way, learners can target those skill gaps and upskill themselves efficiently.   

• Showcase hands-on expertise to employees 

Employers love professionals who can do the work, not just talk about it. Certificate courses emphasize project-based learning, allowing you to build a strong portfolio of work from predictive models to visual dashboards. This hands-on experience demonstrates your readiness to handle real business challenges and gives you the confidence to stand out in interviews. 

TBR: Career opportunities after an MBA in Data Science 

Conclusion 

Both a certificate course and degree program in Data Science is beneficial for students to learn the foundations and land a job. Several institutes provide online degrees in Data Science courses that concentrate on the knowledge and methodologies that data scientists need currently in the workplace.  

Institutions have recognized the importance of giving a postgraduate program in Data Science because of the enormous expansion of this field across various industries such as retailing, health, banking, tourism, and governance. They’ve opened up multiple doors for anybody interested in learning data science and pursuing a prosperous future. 

It is always up to the learners to decide what works best for them. Online Manipal, through its various institutions, provides online courses to both students and working professionals. Below are some of the courses in Data Science that can be successfully pursued online:   

• Master of Science (MSc) in Data Science from MAHE 

• MBA in Analytics and Data Science from Manipal University Jaipur 

• Postgraduate Certificate Program (PGCP) in Data Science from Manipal Academy of Higher Education 

• BBA in Data Analytics from MUJ 

What is left is for you to decide. Own your moment and enroll in one of our courses. If you are looking to explore more, visit our course page.   

FAQs 

Is a data science degree better than a certificate course? 

It completely depends on the ambitions and aspirations of the learner. While a Data Science degree can give a solid foundation in the field, Data Science certificate will expose them to quick, practical and reliable skills.  

Can I get a good job with just a data science certificate? 

Yes. Good jobs can be bagged after a data science certificate degree such as  

• Data Analyst 

• Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst 

• Junior Data Scientist 

• Data Visualization Specialist 

• Marketing Analyst 

How long does it take to complete each program? 

A degree takes 2–4 years, while a certificate course usually takes 3–12 months. 

Can I pursue a certificate while working full-time?

 Yes! Most certificate programs are flexible and designed for working professionals. 

Does Online Manipal offer data science programs? 

Yes, Online Manipal’s universities offer flexible, industry-ready data science programs with practical learning.