Data Science Careers Overview

We often see students in our office interested in careers in data science. We’ve compiled this tip sheet with basic information on the field and ways CUNY GC students can learn more. We invite you to meet with one of our career advisors to talk more about how this information applies uniquely to your own career planning.

 What is a Data Scientist?

According to the US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, data scientists work to:

  • Determine which data are available and useful
  • Collect, categorize, structure, and analyze data
  • Create, validate, test, and update algorithms (a set of instructions to tell computers what to do) and models
  • Use data visualization software to present findings
  • Make business recommendations to stakeholders based on data analysis

The DOL reports that employment of data scientists is projected to grow 35% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Which Skills are Important for Data Scientists?

There are both technical and nontechnical skills that are important for data scientists to have to support in the work of collecting data, optimizing data, analyzing data, and reporting on results. ONET Online offers an excellent overview of on the job skills.

Software engineering, mathemathical skills, and statistical tools often required in job descriptions can include (but are not limited to):

  • Programming, data acquisition, data modeling (Python, PySpark, R, C++, Java, Excel, OOP, SQL, SAS, SQLAlchemy)
  • Machine learning (scikit-learn, Pandas, NumPy)
  • Big data (Hadoop, Spark)
  • Deep learning (Keras)
  • Data visualization (Tableau, Microsoft Power BI, PowerPoint)
  • Statistics and mathematical skills

According to the DOL, non-technical skills needed are analytical, communication, logical-thinking, and problem-solving. Interpersonal skills/collaboration, project management, an ability to work under deadlines, and business acumen are also important. It is quite helpful to look at current job descriptions to get a sense of industry language/terminology, key words, technical skill sets desired, and other requirements.

How Can I Gain Experience in Data Science?

In addition to taking courses, working on projects, and seeking out internships, there are a number of organizations where you can use your data science skill sets and include these experiences on your resume. Samples:

Volunteer-based

Competition-based

Virtual Simulation Experiences

Contributing to Open Source Projects on GitHub:

What is Unique about Data Science Resumes?

Data science resumes should follow the principles of any strong resume, with the addition of:

  • Including and detailing course projects or personal projects that demonstrate your data science skills in a Technical or Related Projects section
  • Ensuring your prior experiences highlight transferable skills relevant to the data science field (e.g. both technical and non-technical/soft skills)
  • A link to a portfolio of your projects &/or GitHub presence with READMEs (check out this blog for ideas)
  • Featuring your technical skills clearly, potentially toward the top of your resume

Where Can I Learn More?

Follow blogs, newsletters and sites like Toward Data Science, KD Nuggets and Data Science Weekly. Explore joining Meetups (search Data Science or core technical skills and your area), and follow news relevant to the industry you want to work in to stay up to date on trends. Consider joining professional associations like Women in Data Science, Association of Data Scientists, INFORMS, American Statistical Society, and Academic Data Science Alliance, many of which have student membership rates. ONET offers a more expansive list of organizations.

Related Posts:

Alumni Alouds (podcasts featuring GC CUNY Alumni):

Additional Resources:

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