Data Science is a multidisciplinary field that uses scientific methods, processes, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from structured and unstructured data. It’s one of the most popular professions among young IT professionals in India & abroad. If you’re a student who has just completed your 12th grade and is interested in this exciting field, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to become a Data Scientist.
Subject Choice in 12th:
To start your journey towards becoming a Data Scientist, you should have a strong foundation in Mathematics and Computer Science in your 12th grade. These subjects form the backbone of Data Science and will help you understand the complex algorithms and statistical models used in the field. Hence, you should choose PCM over PCB and computer science as the optional subject.
Do you want to know about different Computer Science streams after 12th? Click here.
Undergraduate Programs:
After completing your 12th grade, you can pursue an undergraduate degree in Data Science or a related field like Statistics or Computer Science. Here are some of the undergraduate programs you can consider:
- B.Sc in Data Science: This is a three-year program that provides a comprehensive understanding of Data Science and its applications.
- B.Tech in Data Science: This is a four-year program that combines the study of Data Science with engineering principles.
- B.Sc in Programming and Data Science: Offered by IIT Madras, this program can be completed in 1-3 years. (Click here to know more about the BS in medical science program offered by IIT Madras)
- BCA in Data Science & Big Data Analytics: Offered by Manav Rachna Centre for Distance and Online Education, this is a three-year program.
Key Institutes Offering Undergraduate Programs in Data Science:
Several institutes in India offer undergraduate programs in Data Science. Here are some of them:
IISER: Some of the IISER have introduced the Data Science Major option. (Click here to know more about different options at IISER)
- IIT Jodhpur: Offers an undergraduate degree in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science.
- IIIT Naya Raipur: Offers a BTech in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence.
- SRM University: Offers a B.Tech program with a specialization in data science.
- Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT): Offers a B.Tech program with a specialization in data science.
- Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar: Offers BSc in computer science – data science.
- SP Jain School of Global Management, Mumbai: Offers 3-year full-time undergraduate courses.
Career Prospects:
Data science offers a wide range of career prospects in various industries, including finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and more. As a data scientist, you can work as a:
- Data Analyst
- Data Engineer
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Data Scientist in organizations such as IT companies, consulting firms, research institutions, and startups.
The demand for data scientists is expected to continue growing, providing ample job opportunities in the future.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Becoming A Data Scientist:
Advantages:
- Exciting six-figure salary. The average package for data scientists is 10 LPA.
- High Demand. Data Scientists are in great demand today.
- The career prospect is diverse. You can have several choices to choose from.
Disadvantages:
- The field is very competitive
- You will have to constantly learn new skills to remain in demand
Expected Salary:
| Job Profile | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
| Data Analyst | 4.72 L |
| Data Solutions Analyst | 11.51 L |
| Business Analyst | 6.00 L |
| Statistical Analyst | 6.02 L |
| Data Architect | 16.20 L |
| Business Intelligence Manager | 17.00 L |
| Data Scientist | 9.44 L |
| Data Administrator | 7.96 L |
Conclusion:
Becoming a Data Scientist requires a combination of technical skills, academic qualifications, and practical experience. By choosing the right subjects in 12th grade, enrolling in a suitable undergraduate program, and developing the necessary skills, you can set yourself on the path to a successful career in Data Science. Remember, the field of Data Science is vast and constantly evolving, so continuous learning and skill development are key to staying relevant and successful in this field.
FAQs:
- How to get into IISER to become a data scientist?
To get into IISER, you need to appear for an exam called IAT. Click here to know more about this. SciAstra offers several courses that can help you prepare for IISER. We have several selections in IISER. Click here to know more.
- What subjects should I choose in 12th grade to become a Data Scientist?
You should have a strong foundation in Mathematics and Computer Science in your 12th grade. These subjects form the backbone of Data Science and will help you understand the complex algorithms and statistical models used in the field.
- What undergraduate programs can I pursue to become a Data Scientist?
You can pursue an undergraduate degree in Data Science or a related field like Statistics or Computer Science. Some of the programs include B.Sc in Data Science, B.Tech in Data Science, B.Sc in Programming and Data Science, and BCA in Data Science & Big Data Analytics.
- Which institutes in India offer undergraduate programs in Data Science?
Several institutes in India offer undergraduate programs in Data Science. Some of them include IIT Jodhpur, IIIT Naya Raipur, SRM University, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, and SP Jain School of Global Management, Mumbai.
- What skills do I need to become a Data Scientist?
To become a successful Data Scientist, you need to master certain skills such as Database Knowledge, Statistics & Math, Programming, Machine Learning, and Data Visualization.
- What is the duration of the undergraduate programs in Data Science?
The duration of the undergraduate programs in Data Science varies. For instance, B.Sc in Data Science is a three-year program, while B.Tech in Data Science is a four-year program.
- What is the significance of continuous learning in Data Science?
The field of Data Science is vast and constantly evolving, so continuous learning and skill development are key to staying relevant and successful in this field.
- What is the difference between B.Sc in Data Science and B.Tech in Data Science?
B.Sc in Data Science is a three-year program that provides a comprehensive understanding of Data Science and its applications. On the other hand, B.Tech in Data Science is a four-year program that combines the study of Data Science with engineering principles.
About us:
SciAstra is a team of scientists and research scholars from the top research institutes around the world, like Oxford, Harvard, Cambridge, and so on. Our vision is to promote critical thinking and scientific temperament by helping students pursue careers in science.
We offer many free and paid courses where our mentors from the top research institutes like IISER, NISER, IACS, CMI, ISI, IISC Bangalore, etc., teach students in live classes, with study materials, mock tests, books, and everything needed. We have taught more than 10,000 students already since 2021 and achieved over 1000 selections with AIR 1, 7,10, 12, and 13 in IISc Bengaluru, IISERs, NISER, IACS, and so on. If you are looking to prepare for IAT / NEST 2024, you can check out our courses and get access to live classes, recorded lectures, study material, mock tests, doubt-clearing classes, and much more!
To know more about us, click here OR download the SciAstra App from the Play Store and App Store!
I discovered a great post today that was easy to comprehend and follow. Thanks a lot!