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Data Science

How to transition into a data science career after your graduation?

Blog Date
September 22,
2024

Due to technological advancement and the large amount of data created every year, over the past years, the data science career has seen significant growth. Due to its ability to draw valuable insights, data science has been used in several industries: healthcare, e-commerce, agriculture, entertainment, and more. Data science is one of the highest-paid IT jobs owing to its ability to develop better business strategies, make predictions, analyze trends, and increase profits. Since 2019, there has been an upsurge in the number of data science positions available. More than 18,000 data science jobs were opened in India’s BFSI industry in 2022.

Given the importance of data science, it is understandable why there is a constant need for data science experts. Thus, transitioning into a data science career after graduation is a great choice, given the field’s growth and demand. A transition to a data science career provides professionals or recent graduates a chance to stay on the cutting edge of technology while also carving a bright future. So, if you’re thinking of transitioning to a data science career, this is the right time. Stay tuned with us, as in this blog, we will discuss data science careers in detail, data science jobs, and data science career tips for graduates.

An overview of a data science career

Data science is one of the fastest-growing fields. Without a doubt, today’s organizations depend heavily on data science for their performance, which is also the reason for the extraordinary rise in the number of jobs in data science. Data scientists’ employment is expected to expand by 36% between 2023 and 2033, which is substantially faster than the average for all occupations. A fascinating career in data science comes with a variety of options, challenging work, and a strong demand for qualified individuals. As data continues to play a pivotal role in shaping strategies and innovations, those in the field will find themselves inspiring technological advancements and business transformation.

Career transition to a data science role

Transition to a data science career can be exciting and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this transition smoothly and effectively.

  • Assess yourself

This is the first step in the transition to a data science career. You must evaluate your background and current skills, as data science roles require you to have a basic understanding of mathematics, statistics, and programming. Moreover, you must research and clearly define in which industry or job role you’re more interested than others. This self-assessment will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, leading to a better transition plan.

  • Gain relevant skills and knowledge

Some foundational concepts are essential to master if you wish to work as a data scientist, data analyst, or business analyst. So, seek formal education in computer science, statistics, data science, or related subjects if you haven’t studied them. Gain expertise in essential programming languages and tools (such as Python, SQL, Excel, and Tableau). Moreover, study data cleansing, statistical analysis, and machine learning methods to easily understand and apply concepts in your future data science career.

  • Gain practical knowledge

Once you are done with theoretical knowledge, the next important step is to have practical exposure. Acquire real-world experience through side projects or internships. Try solving real-world issues or take part in online competitions for data science like Kaggle. While working on projects, you can also test out various tools and methods, strengthening your understanding and pointing out any areas you might need to focus on.

  • Create a strong portfolio

The most important stage in your career shift is to showcase your skills. Creating a skill-focused portfolio is one of the best ways to make an impression on potential employers. Using every new skill you learn on real-world projects and adding them to your data science portfolio is a great approach. You should decide which skill or project is most crucial to highlight and how best to demonstrate it based on your professional goal. To display your work, create a website on platforms like GitHub.

  • Build networks

The most challenging aspect of securing a job in data science is navigating the highly competitive application screening process. However, networking with the right people can provide job leads, insightful tips, and mentorship. To this end, you should participate in data science communities offline, such as local conferences and meetings, and online, such as LinkedIn groups and forums, to create a strong network with professionals. You can also attend data science workshops and seminars to meet experts in the area and remain current on industry trends.

Job roles in data science

Data science job roles available in the market are:

  • Data Scientist 

Data scientists are responsible for large-scale data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Their primary responsibility is to deliver useful, actionable business insights based on data analysis.

  • Data Engineer

Data engineers are responsible for creating, building, and overseeing data pipelines. Their proficiency in managing and optimizing data infrastructure depends on the effective execution of data-driven strategies and decision-making procedures.

  • Business Intelligence Analyst

Business intelligence analysts collect and analyze data to oversee daily operational management within a company. They gather data on current operations, optimize workflows, and provide reports that support decision-making and strategic planning. It is anticipated that employment growth for business intelligence analysts will increase by 21% between 2018 and 2028.

  • Data Architect

In the field of data management, data architects play a crucial role. They are in charge of planning, developing, and managing a company’s data architecture. They also play a critical role in creating reliable and effective data frameworks as companies increasingly depend on data to gain a competitive edge.

  • Data Analyst

The significance of a data analyst’s job is growing as businesses use data to drive strategy and decision-making. Their capacity to analyze information and offer useful insights is essential for strategic planning and corporate operations. Organizations employ data analysts for various purposes, such as financial analysis, operational efficiency, customer insights, and market research.

  • Data Science Consultant

Data science consultants collaborate with clients to analyze their company requirements, evaluate their data assets, implement data-driven initiatives, streamline operations, and apply data to address challenging issues. Consultants are frequently asked to offer their knowledge in areas where internal teams may be lacking or to handle particular, challenging problems.

How Online Manipal may help you move smoothly into a data science profession

Online Manipal offers specialized online programs from reputed universities that can significantly streamline your transition to a data science role. By enrolling in the Online MSc Data Science or MBA Data Science programs at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), you position yourself to gain both the technical expertise and business acumen needed for a successful transition. Here’s how our MSc Data Science and MBA Data Science programs can support your career change:

  • MAHE’s MSc and MBA in Data Science provide you with a strong foundation in business management while also equipping you with data science skills. This combination prepares you for roles that require both technical and managerial expertise.
  • You will learn how to leverage data science to drive business decisions, optimize operations, and create strategic advantages.
  • The program often includes real-world business projects that require applying data science to business problems. This experience is valuable for building a portfolio and demonstrating your ability to bridge the gap between data science and business.
  • The program offers opportunities to engage with industry experts and participate in industry events, providing valuable exposure and connections in the data science field.

Check out the importance of MSc Data Science in the AI era.

Conclusion

It takes perseverance, consistency, and patience to make the transition to data science. Nonetheless, graduates moving into data science can accomplish their aim and get the first job in the industry with careful planning and diligence. After graduation, pursuing a career in data science is an informed choice that combines developing specialized skills, getting real-world experience, and using your prior knowledge. You may successfully transition into a data science career and set yourself up for success in this quickly expanding field by following the transition steps we have mentioned in the blog.

Disclaimer

Information related to companies and external organizations is based on secondary research or the opinion of individual authors and must not be interpreted as the official information shared by the concerned organization.


Additionally, information like fee, eligibility, scholarships, finance options etc. on offerings and programs listed on Online Manipal may change as per the discretion of respective universities so please refer to the respective program page for latest information. Any information provided in blogs is not binding and cannot be taken as final.

  • TAGS
  • data science
  • Online MSC Data Science

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    Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
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