In the dynamic world of data science, the demand for skilled professionals has soared by a whopping 28% in just half a decade! Even in 2024, data science will remain pivotal for organizations seeking to extract value from their expanding data reserves. A well-seasoned senior data scientist could be ranking in well over $1,27,385 annually (Glassdoor). It's a clear sign that this field is not just on the rise but it's skyrocketing. And guess what? Data science certifications have emerged as the gold standard whether you aim to secure a data scientist job or boost your data science career. In this blog, we will talk about data science certifications— their benefits and requirements— and discuss how these certifications can elevate your data science career. Read along!
A Data Science Certification is a prestigious recognition of your expertise in data science careers. While "certification" and "certificate" may sound similar, they serve distinct purposes. Certificates, like the Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate, are primarily educational, signifying the completion of specific training or educational programs. In contrast, certifications, such as those granted by organizations like DASCA (Data Science Council of America), are globally respected credentials earned by passing standardized exams.
The significance of a data science certification lies in its ability to signal to potential employers an individual's proficiency in effectively managing and analyzing data, thus contributing to business growth and prosperity, with the primary aim of gaining a competitive edge in one's industry. These programs equip individuals with the advanced skills required to excel in the data science domain while validating their existing skill set.
When considering the benefits of a data science certification, it's vital to weigh the financial investment against the potential advantages it can bring to your career. Certifications can enhance your skill set, boost your employability, and potentially lead to increased earning potential. Presently, the cost of a data science certification can vary significantly based on the specific certification you pursue. Typically, these certifications begin at approximately $300, but expenses can escalate to over $1000, depending on the specialization. It's essential to thoroughly assess all associated costs before making your certification selection.
Moreover, some accredited universities offer a subscription model for certification, which typically involves a monthly fee, often around $40 per month. The decision to pursue a data science certification should be made after carefully evaluating both the costs and the potential returns, aligning your certification choice with your career goals and aspirations.
The key benefits of data science certification are:
Understanding the prerequisites for data science certification is crucial for those seeking to embark on a certification journey. Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional looking to transition into the data science realm, comprehending the specific requirements for data science certifications is the first step in charting your path to success.
These specific requirements for data science certifications vary depending on the certification program and the level of expertise it aims to assess. While the requirements are flexible, here are the common elements you may encounter when pursuing a data science certification:
Data science certifications can be worth it if they align with your career goals. Before opting for any certifications, you must thoroughly assess if they enhance your skills leading to better job opportunities and earning potential. However, they are not guaranteed employment on their own, nor do they come with a guaranteed high-paying job. It is always important to be aware of potential downsides, such as the cost of certification and the fact that, on their own, these certifications may not be enough to secure a job. Along with these certifications, real-world experience and practical skills are often equally, if not more, important.
The bottom line is that a data science certification offers external validation and credibility. However, the worth depends on your career goals and industry requirements. Keep in mind that certifications may not be sufficient on their own; practical experience is often equally crucial.
You must be wondering what these certifications have to do with your data science career, or how it accelerates your career. While a professional certificate alone might not guarantee you the desired position, the skills you acquire through a certification program are indispensable. These certifications serve as tangible proof of your expertise and dedication in the field, and their effects are multi-faceted.
Here are the four best certifications that you can enroll into progress in your data science career.
The Data Science Council of America (DASCA) provides the globally recognized Senior Data Scientist (SDS™) certification, which is ideal for those with a minimum of four years of research and analytics experience who are looking to progress into data scientist careers within large organizations. For the SDS™ credential, you have four track options, which can be selected based on your experience and education.
Prerequisites:
Track 1: Bachelor's in computer science or related field + 5 years' experience
Track 2: Master's in computer science or related field + 4 years' experience
Track 3: Bachelor's from a DASCA-recognized institution + 4 years' experience
Track 4: Master's from a DASCA-recognized institution + 3 years' experience
Cost: $775 (all tracks)
Exam Details:
Total Questions: 85
Question Type: Multiple-choice, single answer
Duration: 100 minutes
Exam Location: Online
Validity: Certification is valid for 5 years
Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate is an adaptable online program designed to equip learners for entry-level data analytics roles. These positions are in demand across diverse industries, including technology, retail, banking, agriculture, and government. Comprising eight courses that typically span six months, students acquire essential knowledge of the practices and procedures necessary for junior or associate data analysts.
Prerequisites: No prior experience, knowledge, or training is necessary.
Cost: $39 per month.
Time: 6 months at 11 hours a week
Geared towards absolute beginners, IBM Data Science Professional Certificate is accessible to anyone with a passion for data science. Comprising 9 distinct online sub-courses, this data science specialization covers Python, SQL, data analysis, visualization, statistics, machine learning, and more.
Prerequisites: Tailored for beginners
Cost: $59/month or $399 annually for Coursera Plus
Duration: Typically, 11 months, with a commitment of 4 hours per week.
Principal Data Scientist PDS™ certification from DASCA, compared to the Senior Data Scientist certification, targets highly experienced professionals in data science and analytics. The PDS™ program has four tracks to choose from, each involving three graded assessments to showcase advanced skills in statistics, data analytics, business intelligence, and beyond.
Prerequisites:
Track 1: Invitation-only, for data experts with 10+ years' experience, often holding a Ph.D. or Master's in data science.
Track 2: Employer-sponsored, requires a Bachelor's in computer science, data science, or related fields, plus 10 years' experience.
Track 3: Open to SDS-certified individuals with a Master's in computer science, data science, or related fields, and 10 years of experience.
Track 4: Available to those with a Master's in computer science, data science, or related fields, and either 10 years of experience or 8 years with a Ph.D.
Cost:
Track 1: $850 (invite-only)
Track 2: $1250 (employer-sponsored)
Track 3: $750 (upgrade from SDS)
Track 4: $1450 (open to all)
Exam Details:
Total Questions: 100
Question Type: Multiple-choice, single answer
Duration: 100 minutes
Exam Location: Online
Validity: Update professional achievements every 5 years.
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a data scientist is $1,27,385 annually. With a data science certification, your earning potential becomes quite promising. While there's no fixed ceiling, many data science certification jobs offer a minimum annual salary of around $78,000. On the higher end, some accomplished Data Scientists can earn well over $121,000 annually. It's advisable to explore various job opportunities to find the best fit for your career goals. The possibilities for income growth are substantial, making the data science career a lucrative field for those with the right skills and certifications.
