Make sure that you get at least a basic education in Python, R, and SQL, since they are the basic programming languages you’ll be using for the rest of your career. [3] X Research source Python is a no-frills programming language that allows data scientists to focus on their research questions rather than code syntax. [4] X Research source R is a programmable environment that is used to store complex data-analysis in command-line script. [5] X Research source SQL (Structured Query Language) allows researchers to manipulate and query data in related databases. [6] X Research source
You should also consider asking your guidance counselor for advice, contacting departments to which you’re considering applying, and corresponding with data scientists themselves. [8] X Research source Earning an undergraduate degree in data science or a related field will most likely require 4 years to complete. [9] X Research source During your time as an undergraduate, you should focus in particular on taking statistics, business, and computer science courses. [10] X Research source
Graduate school can be expensive and time consuming, but it does add structure and can help with networking. [13] X Research source
You can use your data science degree in a wide variety of fields like technology, pharmaceuticals, government, retail, and gaming so cast a wide net in your job search.
Once you’ve mastered Python, R, and SQL, you should consider taking courses in other programming languages with more specific uses to round out your skill set.
Data scientists often have need of public speaking skills and business savvy. Consider taking some MOOCs in those fields as well.
The work in your portfolio should be made up of work from your MOOCs, from any freelance jobs you may have completed, and your personal website if you have one. Feature personal, in-depth projects you’ve done in your portfolio, not minor datasets. The work you feature in your portfolio should be publicly available. Do your work on sites like Kaggle and Github. Accompany your work with an online presence on a blogging platform and social media.
If you took a MOOC program in data science, it will provide you with documentation certifying your completion of its courses. Include this documentation in your resume.
Consider either taking a few massive online open courses in those areas or studying on your own time. [20] X Research source If you do study on your own time, make sure to set concrete, achievable goals to track your progress and keep you from getting discouraged. [21] X Research source
There may be bootcamps in your area, but there is a good chance you will need to travel to a larger city to attend one. This makes scheduling and finances particularly important.
Ask your instructors at your bootcamp for help putting together your portfolio.
Your MOOC courses and bootcamp will most likely provide you with documents certifying your completion of them. Include those documents in your resume.
