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Data Science

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An online data science degree expands your analytical skills and enables you to solve real-world problems. Take online data science courses delivered through edX.

What is data science?

Data science is a multidisciplinary field that combines mathematics and statistics, specialized programming, advanced analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning to transform raw numbers into actionable insights — empowering business decision-making, strategy, and scientific discovery.

John W. Tukey is credited with developing the first data analysis techniques in 1962, allowing statisticians to form conclusions from partially flawed data.^{Footnote 1} As data generation continues to evolve in terms of speed, volume, and variety (otherwise known as big data), modern data science requires a robust technical skillset.^{Footnote 2}

Data scientists rely on a strong working knowledge of computer programming, data mining, AI, and predictive analytics to effectively organize, analyze, and extract meaningful insights from data.

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Why learn data science?

Whether you want to improve business strategy or solve complex, scientific problems, data science helps professionals make sense of various kinds of information. This is invaluable in the era of big data, when data sets are often too large and complex to fit into the memory of a single computer.

A data science degree can expand your analytical skills and sharpen your knowledge of statistics and mathematics, enabling you to address real-world problems across multiple sectors — from retail and social sciences to agriculture, finance, and health and fitness.^{Footnote 3} An online data science degree also means learners can absorb data analysis and machine learning concepts at their own pace.

Data science course curriculum

Learning data science is a springboard for learners eager to master big data, develop their analytical skills, and open up multiple career avenues. There are numerous online data science courses available — whether you’re looking to dip your toes in programming languages and exploratory data analysis or eager to dig deep into natural language processing. There are also self-paced options to study data engineering concepts or focus on the visualization components of data science. The outcome remains the same whichever course of study you chose — you will learn to leverage technology to interpret and predict complex data.

A typical curriculum for data science or data analytics includes courses in math, statistics, computer modeling, programming, and big data and data science.

These courses will introduce you to a variety of new skills and concepts, including R programming, statistical analysis, regression analysis, data structures, neural networks, Structured Query Language (SQL), TensorFlow or other machine learning platforms, basic data analysis with Excel, and data visualization with Tableau or Power BI.

Explore data scientist jobs

Companies hire data scientists with the expectation that they will identify patterns, analyze structured and unstructured data, and create and deploy algorithms. In other words: data scientists possess a unique skill set that is valuable across disciplines.

A degree in data science can open the door to various career opportunities including data analyst, data engineer, machine learning scientist, applications architect, business intelligence developer, academic researcher, survey researcher, statistician, economist, and financial analyst.^{Footnote 4} Data analysts, engineers, and machine learning scientists in particular can benefit from a strong foundation in data science. This helps them to perform advanced duties within their roles. One way to gain this knowledge is through intensive boot camps.

It’s also important to note that learning data science on its own does not mean you automatically have the skills required for all the jobs listed above. Some may require additional know-how and a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

How to become a data scientist online

Having a bachelor’s degree in computer science and/or a master’s in data science or related fields such as science, statistics, and mathematics can be helpful in your job search. If you don’t have a bachelor’s or master’s, you’ll still want to work on acquiring some coding and analytical skills for your desired data science role.

You may learn data science and its prerequisite skills, like data analytics, in another educational setting, such as a boot camp. However, it’s important to bear in mind that every job is different and each company will have unique hiring requirements, so consider that when planning out your educational journey.

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Data science FAQ

What does a data scientist do?

A data scientist conducts research to identify patterns in data, organize and analyze structured and unstructured information in large quantities, leverage technology to predict complex data sets, and create algorithms to collect and dissect data.

What skills are required to be a data scientist?

Data scientists have a deep technical understanding of computer programming, data mining, AI, and predictive analytics, helping them to organize and analyze information. While technical ability is important to this profession, data scientists should also consider honing strong soft skills like effective communication.

Is data science hard to learn?

With the right resources, courses, and instructors, you can learn the ins and outs of data science with ease and at your own pace. While learners with prior knowledge of coding and mathematics may be at an advantage, someone with no prior experience may be able to get up to speed in an introductory course or boot camp.

How long does it take to complete a data science course?

In a typical introductory course or boot camp, learners can absorb data science basics in a number of weeks. However, more in-depth courses like undergraduate or master’s degrees may take 2-3 years, diving deeper into core concepts as well as programming languages and machine learning.

Does data science require coding?

While many data science job titles require some level of coding experience, learners do not need to be expert coders to advance in this field. That said, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with coding basics prior to or while you learn data science so you know what to expect on the job.

Are data analytics and data science the same thing?

Not exactly. While there is overlap between the two, data analytics is a branch of data science that focuses on examining data sets to find trends and draw conclusions. Data science takes it a step farther, using programming, math, and statistics to identify recurring trends, spot problems, and create organizational solutions. In fact, many data scientists begin their career as data analysts.^{Footnote 5}