How to Become a Data Scientist
Develop and implement methods to analyze large datasets to identify patterns and inform decisions. It typically requires a bachelor's degree, with a median salary of $120,230 per year and much faster than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$120,230/yr
Typical range
$67,240 to $199,130
Job growth
7%
Openings / yr
23,400
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Statistical Analysis
- Machine Learning
- Python
- Data Visualization
- SQL
Helpful certifications
- Google Data Analytics
- IBM Data Science
- AWS Machine Learning Specialty
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
85/100
Work-life balance
75/100
Stress level
32/100
Satisfaction
80/100
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a Data Scientist make?
The median pay for a Data Scientist is $120,230 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). The typical range runs from $67,240 to $199,130, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Data Scientist?
The usual entry point is a bachelor's degree. Common majors are Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematics, and Economics.
Is Data Scientist a growing field?
The BLS projects much faster than average demand for this role, about 7% over the decade, with roughly 23,400 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Data Scientist use most?
Common skills for this role are Statistical Analysis, Machine Learning, Python, Data Visualization, and SQL.
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.