Learn Data Science

In recent years, data science has gained a lot of traction across many different industries. From retail to government to healthcare—businesses and organizations are generating so much raw information these days, but they need the right resources to make something meaningful out of it.

This is where data science comes in. This fast-growing discipline helps companies to analyze raw data, and provides valuable information about consumers, the market, and employees.

Learning Data Science

Core skills that will pave the way for career opportunities in data science include:

Programming Languages: Java/Python/R

Python and R are open-source languages and are easy to learn due to their similarity to English. Java is also one of the oldest and most versatile programming languages. Numerous videos and technical blogs on the internet explain the basics of these programming languages for free. A candidate can also enroll in paid classroom sessions to gain a deeper understanding and hands-on experience in coding in these languages.

Applied Mathematics and Statistical Analysis

Data science hopefuls should understand the fundamentals of statistics and probability, as well as basic and advanced machine learning algorithms. For people with intermediate skill sets, knowledge of big data, deep learning, and reinforcement learning is expected.

Neural Networks and Machine Learning  

Neural networks strive to recognize underlying relationships within data sets, mimicking a human brain. Machine learning, on the other hand, involves the building of complex mathematical models based on sample data. It’s the study of computer algorithms designed to improve automatically through experience, giving it a predictive nature.

Proficiency in Deep Learning Frameworks

Deep learning has become highly valued in terms of accuracy with large amounts of data. It plays a big role to fill gaps in scenarios that would otherwise be challenging for the human brain. The commonly used tools are open source (available for free) and are based on Machine Learning and Neural Networks.  These include TensorFlow, Keras, and Pytorch.

Creative Mindset and Industry Knowledge

Industry experience will always be looked upon favorably in data science candidates, but perhaps even more important is a creative mindset and exploratory outlook. Data science is a highly dynamic field that’s suited to those who are self-motivated and have a lifelong passion for learning.

Study Options for Data Science

If you’re interested in learning data science via conventional means, several universities across the US offer graduate and undergrad level programs in data science.

Some prominent schools like MIT and Harvard also offer short-term internship and certification programs in addition to their regular four-year and two-year courses.

Some of these programs come with financial aid, as well as distance learning and part-time learning options.

Online Data Science Courses

Of course, a traditional degree isn’t the only way to get hired as a data scientist. Many individuals working in data science have self-trained themselves through free online resources and distance learning programs as a full-time college program isn’t feasible for them. So if money is a constraint or if you are transitioning from a different field of study, there are many free or subsidized online courses also available. These include:

Coursera – Coursera provides online data science courses through Johns Hopkins University. Their Data Science Specialization and Data-Driven Decision Making programs are quite popular.  

Thinkful – If you’re interested in a comprehensive program that’s tailored to your availability, we offer an online data science bootcamp. The part-time format offers plenty of flexibility so you can learn without compromising work or family time. You’ll get one-on-one mentorship and professional guidance to get you into the field of data science. You’ll learn how to use Python and SQL for analytics and experimentation.

Besides machine learning (supervised and unsupervised), you’ll also learn advanced skills in specialized areas of data science. If you want to start a career in data science as soon as possible, this course will get you on a proven path for long-term career growth.

Next Steps

Data science is a promising career option for anyone with a passion for tech and a mind for problem-solving. Your career options and chances to succeed are growing in this field by the day. You’ll never stop learning—and the healthy paycheck will be a nice bonus too.

If you’re looking for guidance on your journey to becoming a data scientist, Thinkful’s team is here for you. We’re dedicated to supporting you while you pursue a career that you’ll love in the field of data science. Schedule a call with our admissions reps to go through your options at a time that works for you to get started.