By In 2018, LinkedIn figured a shortage of around 151,000 data scientists in the USA. Now, as per a report by McKinsey Global, the number may increase to 250,000 by 2024.
That’s because companies are looking for data scientists for a myriad of digital projects. There’s a huge demand for skilled professionals, which can’t be completely filled by university graduates.
Fortunately, you can now enroll yourself in a data science bootcamp and catch up with the industry quickly. Although there’s no single path to a career in data science, bootcamps are the way to go if you’re looking to land a job quickly.
What are data science bootcamps?
Bootcamps are short programs and courses aimed toward skill acquisition. These deliver career-focused learning. This means you’ll learn all the skills required for the job, at great speed.
Data science bootcamps teach you how to extract meaningful insights from any given data. This involves using databases, programming languages, statistics, and models for extracting useful information.
These are offered on a short-term, more immersive basis than traditional education. You won’t be going through boring textbooks but will be learning experientially from seasoned professionals.
Who are these for?
These are generally for folks who’d like a data science job after graduation or who want to fill up skills gaps. Since these are geared towards accelerated learning, bootcamps range from a few weeks to a few months at most.
During a data science bootcamp, you partake in practical projects and perform in a team-driven environment. This way, you garner applied skills that you can use in a professional setting.
Types of bootcamps
A data science bootcamp is generally of two main types: part-time and full-time.
- Part-time: Requires an investment of 10 to 20 hours a week. Takes between 4 and 8 months.
- Full-time: Requires up to 80 hours a week. Takes between 1 and 4 months.
Both types are available either in person or online. An in-person bootcamp needs you to physically attend the classes, while the online one can be taken from anywhere.
Who teaches them?
Unlike degree courses taught by professors, bootcamps are designed by working professionals. Instructors have years of experience working in the industry and give you inside knowledge about data science trends.
You are trained to begin working on an immediate basis. Plus, some programs also offer placement options and interview prep. Some even partner with companies, so find the ones that meet your career interests.
