A data science bootcamp can be a great way to upskill and fast-track a new career. However, programs vary widely in price, expected time investment and course prerequisites.
To make an informed decision, prospective students should consider program structure, instructors and mentors, cohort makeup, curriculum, professional portfolio projects and outcomes and support services.
Coursework
In the course, students will learn to program in Python, a common language for data science, and tackle practical projects that will form part of their professional portfolio. The curriculum also covers in-demand technologies, including machine learning and Hadoop. Visit for Data Science Training in Pune.
The application process begins with a technical assessment, designed to help the admissions team understand each applicant’s thought process and programming experience. Applicants may then be asked to complete an interview, which allows both parties to see if the bootcamp will be a good fit for their backgrounds and career goals.
This online program is suitable for experienced STEM majors and aspiring data scientists who want to learn the latest skills in machine learning, artificial intelligence, natural language processing, big data, and more. It’s one of the pricier options on our list, but it includes a job guarantee and extensive career support. It also offers flexible payment plans to suit students’ budgets and work schedules. Students will be able to earn a verified certificate of completion upon completing the course.
Mentorship
Data science is a field that uses specialized math and technology skills to store and interpret information for key decision-makers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for these professionals have a median salary that is nearly twice that of the national average.
Bootcamps can last a few months and offer intensive, hands-on training in the most in-demand tech tools, software and programming languages. While they aren’t as comprehensive as an associate or bachelor’s degree, they provide valuable experience that can help aspiring data scientists secure entry-level positions.
Springboard offers a thorough curriculum, one-on-one mentorship, and career coaching services. It is ideal for students who want to learn how to code and develop Python programs to gather, analyze and interpret information. It’s also a great option for complete beginners who are looking for a program that is both affordable and structured. Students will work on 16 portfolio projects over the course of nine months and leave with a strong professional resume.
Industry Connections
Many bootcamps function as talent pipelines, funneling graduates to eager partner companies. Look for programs that offer plenty of career support, such as mock interviews and internships, along with instruction in how to build your professional network and negotiate salaries.
Ideally, choose a data science bootcamp that offers a hybrid course. This allows you to experience the immersion of in-person learning with the flexibility of online classes. General Assembly, for example, offers this option. They claim to place more graduates in high-paying tech jobs than any other data science program, and their curriculum includes Python programming, machine learning, software engineering, and data wrangling.
It’s also important to check whether a data science bootcamp has instructors with industry experience. Generally, these professionals are well-connected and will provide valuable feedback on your models and visualizations. In addition, you’ll be surrounded by other aspiring data scientists, which can help you form the beginnings of your professional network in the field.
Career Support
Some bootcamps even set up talent pipelines, funneling students into jobs at eager partner companies. However, be wary of programs that claim high job placement rates; a higher number doesn’t necessarily mean more quality jobs or better starting salaries.
In addition to providing the core knowledge and skills for a career in data science, quality boot camps offer valuable career services like interview prep, peer networking opportunities and job search guidance after graduation. If you’re worried about the cost of a full-time program, some online and in-person data science boot camps allow students to pay in installments, easing the burden on their wallets and allowing them to upskill alongside their current jobs.
Overall, while data science boot camps are considerably less expensive than a bachelor’s degree, they require a significant amount of time and commitment. However, if you are intrinsically motivated and self-accountable, these programs can be a powerful pathway to a new career in the data industry.