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Interested in a Career Change? How to Get Started in Data Science

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The ideal is to find a career that we are interested in and passionate about that we are good at and pays well. For those who currently work in IT, a great career change moves from IT and troubleshooting to data science.

There are so many interesting roles that you can apply for, and as every company and organization in the world had data it needs to interpret, you can choose a field that you are passionate about.

Data science is a great field to get into. It is growing, it pays very well, and it allows you to better understand the world in ways that we haven’t previously been able to. There is so much to learn from the data that we currently have available, and you can be a part of that by following this guide to change your career into data science:

What You Need to Apply to an MSc in Data Science

You will need a few key qualifications to qualify for an MSc in Data Science.

1.     A Bachelor’s in Science

You will need a bachelor’s in ideally a science-related degree. Computer science, mathematics, and statistics are all great backgrounds to have to then easily get started in data science.

If you don’t have these, then you may be able to take foundation courses to help qualify you, though you will have to get in touch with the admissions team to learn what options you have.

2.     Experience with Programming Languages

Programming Languages

You will need to have experience with at least one programming language, though to succeed as a data scientist you will want proficiency in several languages. A good computer language to start with is Python.

Python is very simple and straightforward, making it useful for those just starting out. The good news is that Python is used a lot with data science algorithms and is an essential tool used with databases.

There are online tools, workshops, and courses that you can take to learn and become proficient with Python and all the other coding languages. Adopt a proactive stance in learning these programming languages so that you can continually stay on top of new updates and expand your repertoire as the years go on.

3.     References

You will often need to send in a resume as well as three references to get accepted to the top schools. This is why an MSc in Data Science is such a great choice for those looking to change their careers; because they are primarily designed for working professionals.

What to Look for From Your MSc In Data Science

data science

A great MS Data Science online degree is going to have many key benefits. It will help you master database management, teach you analysis techniques, and give you an essential foundation in creating algorithms for machine learning and data mining.

In addition, you will learn how to use a diverse range of data-analysis software and know-how to improve your own interpersonal skills to convey better the information you have extracted from the data and sell your ideas on how the business or organization can improve based on the data.

What you need from your MSc in Data Science will depend on what you specifically want to do, yes, but all the best Master’s programs feature:

100% Online Learning

Your degree should be entirely online and have the option to be taken part-time. This way, you can continue to work while you study, allowing you to better support yourself and further your career at the same time.

Top Careers Service

The entire point of a Master’s is to help prepare you for higher-paid, more executive positions. 1 in 4 employers looking for a data scientist prefer you to have a master’s degree, and the skills you will learn will help you apply for a specific set of job roles.

That being said, it can still feel like a minefield. That is why having a talented and dedicated careers service is essential so that you can bridge what you have learned to help you acquire a great job after graduation.

Dedicated Student Success Advisor

A great careers center is a good start, but what is even better is a dedicated student success advisor. These advisors help you get the most out of your degree and help you transition into the job market.

Capstone Experience

Proving what you can do is an important part of getting the job you want, especially at a highly competitive wage. The Capstone Experience allows you to prove your skills. In addition, the project in question will be centered around the kind of work you will want to do in the future, so you will have working and proven examples of your skills by the time you graduate.

Getting Your First Job

Your First Job

A great MSc in Data Science is a great place to get started with a career change into data science, but there can still be a hiccup between graduating and getting your first job. To help you, use these tips:

Use Your University’s Network

Your careers service and your alumni network are two very powerful tools available to you while you are a student and after you graduate. They are there to help you bridge the gap between graduation and your first job and can continue to help you with your career goals long after you graduate.

Apply, Even if You Aren’t a Perfect Fit


One thing to always remember when looking for your first job is that every tech-related position will read more like a wish list. There are only a few companies out there that will post a job listing and genuinely require you have all of the requirements.

However, everyone else knows that the people hiring won’t have a clear idea of what a data scientist can do or what they should ask for. Apply, then let them know what you can do and what price you will do it for.

Being firm and being confident in your abilities will help you find a job at a workplace that respects you.

Be Social Online

Finally, be social online. Grow your network and engage with people in your field online and, eventually, in person at events and conferences. Networking is always important, so get out there!