Advancements in technology, particularly in the field of information technology has propelled data science to evolve from a branch of computer science that deals with the mere collection, cleaning and analysis of data sets involving advanced mathematics and statistical probes to a far more advanced field that incorporates predictive analysis, data mining, artificial intelligence , business intelligence and deep learning. Working as a data scientist is one of the most challenging and intellectually demanding roles of the information technology domain. It is not everyone’s cup of tea and requires highly skilled and experienced professionals with advanced technological qualifications to do justice to their role. If you are someone interested in pursuing a career in data science, several questions would have crossed your mind regarding data science certifications. Should you consider getting a data science certification to succeed as a data scientist? If yes, which one is the best for you? Also, what value does it add to your career as a data scientist? This article will assist you in finding answers to your queries, as well as outline the benefits and provide a gist of some of the best data science certifications accessible today.
What is a data science certification?
Data science certifications are globally recognized industry-backed credentials that require aspirants to take and pass a qualifying exam before being awarded the certification. It demonstrates one’s advanced knowledge and skill sets in the tools and technologies of the data science domain. Since data science is a newly emerging field that is undergoing revolutionary changes with advancements in technology, it is pertinent for data scientists to stay abreast of the most recent industry reformations and standards and update their knowledge and add new skills to their repertoire, if they want to stay relevant. Thus, earning a data science certification can assist to hone specialized skills and maintain the status-quo. Furthermore, a data science certification assists its owner in learning the most complicated abilities that are difficult to come across in your industry, as well as demonstrating your interest and passion in your field.
Is it worth earning a data science certification?
A data science certification validates your competence and knowledge of the industry, which can help you stand out in front of recruiters among a pool of like-minded people. Certification shows recruiters how much commitment and effort a candidate has put in to complete the exam’s criteria, demonstrating a feeling of sincerity and professional aptitude. Also, you will learn about the most recent advancements in the field of data science and stay updated on the latest developments, thus proving yourself to be an indispensable part for any company or organization. Data science has multiple applications in a variety of fields, including government, banking and finance, media and entertainment, healthcare, and education. You will be able to work in positions such as solution architect, data scientist, project manager, and business intelligence expert across all these industries if you have a data science certification. Furthermore, credentials are an excellent way to advance in your career, earn more money, and broaden your job opportunities.
Data science certifications that are worth pursuing
The following Data Science certifications are worth pursuing.
1. The Senior Data Scientist (SDS) certification by DASCA
The Data Science Council of America (DASCA) offers the prestigious SDS certifications to professionals who aspire to become a data leader, data architect, or business intelligence expert. It is best suited for individuals having a bachelor’s or master’s in data science or a related discipline with four or more years of experience in research and analytics. The certification prerequisites include a deep awareness of 4IR technology trends, as well as an advanced understanding of data science’s interconnections with other areas of computer science, engineering, business, and industry. Candidates must have advanced knowledge of statistical analysis tools and techniques, analytics platforms like SPSS/SAS and R, quantitative methods, RDBMS, object-oriented programming languages like C++ and Core Java, as well as practical experience with Linux and Unix environments, database management, and spreadsheet handling. The exam covers everything from fundamental to advanced data science concepts such as Data Science Essentials, The Functional Framework of Data Science, stochastic modelling, data structures, machine learning and more. The $775 certification validates seven important knowledge aspects and 30 core professional knowledge subjects.
2. The Principal Data Scientist (PDS) certification by DASCA
For seasoned individuals with extensive expertise in data analytics and intelligence, the Data Science Council of America (DASCA) offers the coveted Principal Data Scientist certification, which is both a qualification-credential and a professional designation. Each of the four routes in this program requires at least ten years of professional data science expertise. The certification focuses on advanced technologies and complicated subject analysis. Although each path is more expensive than most tests, this certification has no expiration date.
3. Open Certified Data Scientist (Open CDS)
Open CDS is a vendor-neutral global certification based on independent experience developed for professionals with the technical prowess, knowledge, and expertise to address diverse business problems and drive your organization’s business to success. The Open CDS exam certification method is unique in that it does not need candidates to undertake any special training or written tests. Written applications and peer interviews are used to award certification, and candidates must demonstrate their knowledge and experience in compliance with a set of conformance requirements. As you advance through the CDS certification process, you will earn three certifications.
- Certified Data Scientist (Level 1)
- Master Certified Data Scientist (Level 2)
- Distinguished Certified Data Scientist (Level 3)
4. Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate
The Microsoft Azure Data Scientist Associate certification is a subset of the Microsoft Azure family that is designed particularly for data scientists and professionals who implement and run machine learning workloads on the Azure cloud platforms using data science and machine learning. To earn the Azure Data Scientist Associate title, one must pass the certification’s capstone exam, Exam DP-100: Designing and Implementing a Data Science Solution on Azure. Predictive analytics, computer vision, natural language processing, machine learning, and AI solutions are among the subjects, the exam tests your knowledge in. You must be proficient in several related tasks, such as developing and managing virtual networks, deploying and managing resources, managing identities and governance, installing and managing storage, and so on. The Azure Data Scientist Associate exam costs approximately $165 USD.
5. SAS Certified Data Scientist Certification
SAS Certified Data Scientist is a credential that combines several SAS data credentials. Pair the SAS Data Curation certification with either the Advanced Analytics Professional or the AI & Machine Learning Professional credential to complete the course work and qualify for the SAS Data Science credential. The credentials cover topics such as data science principles, data management, data analysis, and data manipulation, machine learning, programming skills, and predictive modeling. It is intended to be a practical certification for data scientists who use data visualization tools, as well as external analysis tools like Hive/HiveQL, Hadoop, and machine learning models, to extract insights from enormous amounts of data and then apply that knowledge to real-world issues.
