Career roadmap
How to Become a Data Scientist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a data scientist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a data scientist: (1) build math and programming skills, (2) earn a quantitative degree, (3) do real projects, (4) start as an analyst or junior data scientist, (5) advance. Most people need about 4–6 years. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a data scientist
Build math and programming skills
Learn statistics, Python and SQL.
Earn a quantitative degree
Statistics, CS, math or economics.
Do real projects
Analyze public datasets and share your work.
Start as an analyst or junior data scientist
Apply skills to business problems.
Advance
Become a senior or lead data scientist, ML engineer or analytics manager.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in statistics, math, computer science, economics or a related field is typical, and many employers prefer a master’s. Bootcamps and portfolios help people transition from analyst roles.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 4–6 years |
Certifications and licenses
- Google Advanced Data Analytics Certificate: Training in statistics, Python and modeling.
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate: Certification for machine learning on Azure.
- AWS Certified Machine Learning: Cloud machine learning certification.
- Databricks certifications: Credentials for data engineering and machine learning on Databricks.
Skills to build now
Start with python or r, sql, and statistics, and practice curiosity and communication. Learning the data scientist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Data Analyst: Analyze and report on data.
- Data Scientist: Build models and analyses.
- Senior or Lead Data Scientist: Lead projects and mentor others.
- Analytics Manager or ML Engineer: Lead teams or build production ML systems.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Data Scientist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do data scientists need a master’s degree?
Not always, but many have one.
How long does it take to become a data scientist?
Most people need about 4–6 years of training. A bachelor’s degree in statistics, math, computer science, economics or a related field is typical, and many employers prefer a master’s. Bootcamps and portfolios help people transition from analyst roles.
Do you need a degree to be a data scientist?
Usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, and many data scientists have master’s degrees. Some move up from data analyst roles with strong skills and portfolios.
What certifications are available for data scientists?
Common credentials include Google Advanced Data Analytics Certificate, Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate, AWS Certified Machine Learning, and Databricks certifications. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 15-2051 (Data scientists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Data scientists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.