How to become a data scientist in 2025

Becoming a data scientist has never been more popular, as data has become a critical part of decision-making by businesses and organizations from all sectors. If your dream is to be on top of everything that happens behind the numbers as a data scientist, in late 2025, this manual will equip you with skills and essential steps for entering such a fascinating profession.

Who is a data scientist?

If you’re Googling, “What is data scientist,” look no further! Let’s get into the details of everything that encompasses this role.

Data scientists are professionals who are skilled at drawing insights from intricate datasets employing techniques such as statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization aimed at solving business problems. In essence, they are the link between raw data and actionable intelligence. The first stage towards mapping out your career path in this vibrant field is knowing what a data scientist actually stands for.

Why the data science process matters

The data science process is fundamental to the operation of data scientists. It involves:

• Defining the problem
• Data collection
• Data cleaning
• Data analysis
• Visualizing outcomes

Having a mastery of this procedure is key to becoming a successful data scientist.

How to become a data scientist — Follow the academic path

The academic journey on how to become a data scientist starts with the acquisition of the right qualifications. These are the ways of academically becoming a data scientist:

Earn the appropriate degree:

• A bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or statistics is an adequate start.
• For high-level positions, one may need a master’s degree in either data science, machine learning, or artificial intelligence among other advanced areas.

Pursue certificates:

• Industry-approved certificates in Python programming, R programming language, and SQL software development kit amongst others are important.
• Taking courses on machine learning, deep learning as well as data visualization tools such as Tableau can be beneficial.

Web programs:

• Manipal Academy of Higher Education Online delivers Online Manipal’s machine learning blended with big data analytics and visualization techniques like those offered by MSc in Data Science programs relevant to future leadership roles in the domain.

A job title for a data scientist: Qualifications needed

Having the correct data scientist qualifications is crucial for someone who wants to stand out in today’s crowded job market. The following are necessary for this role:

1. Good analytical skills — These include comfort with statistical methods and algorithms.

2. Proficiency in programming languages like Python as well as SQL which is an essential skill of most data scientists.

3. The ability to translate findings into actionable business strategy from an understanding of business acumen.

4. Effective team player, with communication or problem-solving skills that help him/her collaborate with others.

Going through these credentials means having self-assured answers about how can one become a data scientist.

How to become a data analyst to serve as a stepping stone

How to become a data analyst may be a good beginning for those who find transitioning into data science challenging while starting as a data analyst. 

The difference between working in data analysis and data science is that unlike the former, the latter builds predictive models and automates processes instead of examining trends within them. Leveraging to become a data analyst can enable one to transition smoothly into data science through:

1. Getting programming skills basics founded on statistics principles.

2. Getting hands-on experience with different visualization programs associated with data analysis.

3. Inculcation of business thinking in oneself.

How Online Manipal helps those who aspire to be data scientists

Manipal Group’s Online Manipal has online degree programs that are in keeping with the traditional campus degree offerings accredited by UGC Moreover, the platform helps in developing aspiring data scientists through its Online MSc in Data Science from MAHE. This program targets professionals and equips them with:

1. Practical experience in applying big data sets from various industries.

2. Skills needed to work as a machine learning engineer.

3. An opportunity for working professionals to study as they continue working; this means a lot of flexibility.

4. Most importantly, the ambitions of data scientists can be realized faster if they use structured learning resources available at Online Manipal.

Wrapping up,

Being a data scientist requires a mix of technical skills augmented by analytical thinking – but no less important is continuous learning. The cornerstone steps include understanding who or what a data scientist is and mastering the process of data science itself. This preparedness that takes one from having the minimum data scientist qualifications on paper as described above right to gaining some hands-on skills prepares an individual adequately to make an impact on this tough job market.

Online Manipal’s cutting-edge curriculum and world-class faculty can invariably provide you with rewarding careers. If you want to step up your career game now, please enroll in Online Manipal’s online courses today!

Unlock opportunities with our top online degree programs

Bachelor’s Degree	Master’s Degree
Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)	Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)	Master of Computer Applications (MCA)
Bachelor of Arts (BA)	MSc in Data Science (MSc-DS)
Bachelor of Commerce (BCOM)- MUJ	Master of Commerce (MCOM)
Bachelor of Commerce (BCOM)- SMU	Master of Arts in English (MA)