Have you been thinking about pursuing a career in data science? For many people, some of the requirements or fundamentals may seem intimidating, especially if you’re new to the field and don’t have any prior coding experience.
However, when you’re involved in a structured program that aims to teach you everything you need to know about data science — from the basics of Python to data visualization — you can more easily grasp the foundational knowledge you need to succeed.
We’ve put together a list of nine ways you can easily learn data science and the nuances that come with it. Kickstart your new career with Coding Dojo today!
What is Data Science?
Data science is an interdisciplinary field combining mathematics, statistics, programming, AI, analytics, and machine learning. Data scientists seek to make sense of raw and unorganized data, turning it into useful analytics that can help businesses make important decisions.
Data science is the practice of unraveling that data.
Why Learn Data Science?
Here are convincing reasons to learn data science:
- Data Science is a very in-demand career field, meaning there are plenty of opportunities to break into the industry and move your way up.
- Not only are data scientists sought after, but they are paid quite well — entry-level roles start at around $100,000!
- Every industry needs a data scientist, so the possibilities are limitless: healthcare, finance, retail, technology, automotive, etc.
- There is excellent job security because of the high demand and need for data scientists in various sectors. In fact, the field has boasted 6.5x growth in recent years, making it one of the fastest-growing careers.
How to Learn Data Science
We understand that learning something new can be overwhelming and difficult. That’s why we’ve put together nine easy ways that you can learn data science. By breaking concepts down or seeking out certain avenues for learning, you can make it easier by choosing the learning style that works best for you and using as many resources as needed.
1. Enroll in a Data Science Bootcamp
At Coding Dojo, we offer a part-time, online Data Science Bootcamp that helps you learn everything from the fundamentals to the application of your learning.
Whether you’ve never learned how to code (psst, we have a free course for that!) or have advanced knowledge of arithmetic, our data science bootcamp will teach you everything you need to know. And, you’ll have opportunities to solidify your understanding and build on them.
What You’ll Learn:
- Python for Data Science
- Data Modeling
- Data Visualization
- Statistics for Data Science
- Algorithms for Data Science
- Databases for Data Science
- Data Analysis Methods
- Machine Learning
- Deep Learning
- Neural Networks
2. Take a Free Python Course
Python is an essential skill for a data science career. You can use this programming knowledge to design websites, databases, and applications, as well as data visualization and machine learning models, all of which are essential pillars of data science.
Coding Dojo has a course for that, too! Reserve your spot in our free Intro to Python course.
Learn the fundamentals of Python with this simple 2 hour workshop.
What You’ll Learn:
- Python Coding Basics
- Python Libraries
- Variables, Data Types, Lists, and Conditional Logic
- How to Build a Game and Play vs a Computer
3. Watch Data Science Tutorials for Beginners
For some, watching videos is more engaging than reading an article. By watching online video tutorials, you can learn more about what data science entails and why it might be right for you. It may even help you grasp some fundamental concepts, giving you an edge when it comes to full studies for a career in data science.
These free tutorials are a great building block for your step into the field of data science, but it’s important to apply your knowledge and continue building on what you learn.
Check These Out:
- Data Science Tutorial for Beginners (Simplilearn)
- Learn Data Science Tutorial – Full Course for Beginners (FreeCodeCamp)
- Data Science Full Course – Learn Data Science in 10 Hours (Edureka)
4. Read Data Science Books for Beginners
If you’re somebody who enjoys reading, a data science book could be just the thing for you! Being able to refer back to concepts and search specific topics through the table of contents and glossary is exceptionally helpful compared to scouring through abundant information online.
Check These Out:
- Practical Statistics for Data Scientists
- Introduction to Probability, 2nd Edition
- Python Crash Course, 2nd Edition
5. Practice with Data Science Projects
There’s no better way to retain information than by doing hands-on learning! Once you understand basic coding, you can practice by completing data science projects on Github, an open-source, collaborative coding base.
6. Listen to Data Science Podcasts
Podcasts are a great way to get information while doing something else like cleaning, going for a walk, or driving. While podcasts aren’t the best for in-depth learning, they’re a great way to learn more about a subject and gain more knowledge of a topic.
Below are a few data science podcasts to check out in your free time.
Check These Out:
- Super Data Science
- Data Science at Home
- Women in Data Science (Apple | Spotify)
7. Join a Data Science Community or Group
Communities of like-minded, experienced people are a fantastic resource for new learners. Not only can you collaborate and get real-time feedback and answers to questions, but you can also get an inside view of people in the field.
Discord, Reddit, and Facebook are all places you can find communities talking about data science. Some groups to check out are:
8. Practice with Data Science Flashcards
Flashcards are the most effective way for learners to retain information, according to Brainscape. Studying with flashcards builds memories more quickly, allowing you to recall information more easily.
For effective learning, check out these flashcard websites that can help you learn data science:
- Data Science Flashcards for Beginners (Quizlet)
- Learn Data Science Flashcards (Brainscape)
9. Apply for a Data Science Internship
As you begin to learn the basics of data science and have the fundamentals under your belt, it’s time to begin looking for your first job in the industry. An internship is a fantastic way to propel your skills forward and get on-the-job training, mentoring, and experience.
Learn Data Science at Coding Dojo
Our programs are all-encompassing and focus on specific fields (compared to General Assembly), giving you all the information and tools you need to succeed in one bootcamp program.
Start learning Data Science at Coding Dojo today.
How to Learn Data Science FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions about data science.
Does Data Science Require Coding?
Yes, data science does require some coding knowledge. If you’re new to programming languages and you’d like to get a headstart, then check out our free Python course!
This isn’t totally necessary as we also cover coding in the first part of our data science bootcamp (and build on it throughout the course). We’re confident you’ll consider yourself a coder once it’s done.
Is Data Science Hard to Learn?
In and of itself, data science isn’t hard to learn. There are many concepts that can be challenging to grasp, however with time and dedication to learning, anybody can learn data science.
In fact, our courses are beginner-friendly. We will teach you the fundamentals then build upon them. As long as you’re ready to learn, apply your knowledge, and take the time to understand what the course is teaching you, you’ll be able to learn data science in our part-time Data Science Bootcamp.
Where to Learn Data Science?
There are many educational institutes out there that offer data science curriculums. From 4-year University degrees to short, intensive bootcamps that can kickstart your career, data science is a field that requires strong fundamentals.
At Coding Dojo, we have a flexible, part-time Data Science Bootcamp to whip you into shape for a career in data science! More information on that below.
How Long Does it Take to Learn Data Science?
Our virtual learning environment makes it easy for anybody to kickstart their career in data science. We also have flexibility in our Data Science Bootcamp, allowing you to finish your program in either 16 weeks or 20 weeks.
Life can get in the way, and that shouldn’t impact your ability to complete your coursework. That’s why we offer a flexible, part-time schedule.
Ultimately, learning the pillars of data science will take you a few months, but like with any field, ongoing learning and expanding your knowledge is important.