7 Must-Have Skills for Becoming a Data Scientist [VIDEO]

Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on

Dreaming of a career in data science? It's a hot field with high demand and even higher salaries, but it requires a unique blend of technical expertise and soft skills.


[Video Thumbnail] 7 Must-Have Data Science Skills

This video breaks down the 7 ESSENTIAL skills you need to master to land your dream data science job:

  1. Programming (Python, R, SQL):

    The foundation for data analysis and manipulation.

  2. Statistics & Probability:

    Understand the math behind the data.

  3. Data Wrangling & Databases:

    Clean, organize, and manage data like a pro.

  4. Machine Learning:

    Build powerful models to predict outcomes and uncover insights.

  5. Data Visualization:

    Communicate your findings clearly with compelling visuals.

  6. Cloud Computing (AWS, Azure, GCP):

    Harness the power of the cloud for data storage and analysis.

  7. Interpersonal Skills:

    Collaborate effectively and present your insights with clarity.

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Pandas (Python Package), Unsupervised Learning, SQL, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Visualization, Feature Engineering, Data Literacy, Predictive Modeling, Jupyter, Generative AI, Matplotlib, Data Wrangling, Exploratory Data Analysis, Dashboard, Data Analysis, Plotly, Professional Networking, Data Visualization Software, Data Mining, Supervised Learning, Regression Analysis, Data Manipulation, Descriptive Statistics, Scikit Learn (Machine Learning Library), Data Cleansing, Statistical Modeling, Data Pipelines, NumPy, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Data Import/Export, Relational Databases, Databases, Query Languages, Transaction Processing, Stored Procedure, Dimensionality Reduction, Machine Learning, Decision Tree Learning, Classification And Regression Tree (CART), Applied Machine Learning, R Programming, GitHub, Application Programming Interface (API), Git (Version Control System), Statistical Programming, Other Programming Languages, Data Science, Version Control, Cloud Computing, Big Data, Data Synthesis, Predictive Analytics, Data Storytelling, Natural Language Processing, Data Modeling, Data Presentation, Data Ethics, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Data Structures, Python Programming, Web Scraping, File Management, Computer Programming, Restful API, Programming Principles, Interviewing Skills, Portfolio Management, Applicant Tracking Systems, Problem Solving, Recruitment, Presentations, Business Research, Job Analysis, Company, Product, and Service Knowledge, Communication, Professional Development, Writing, Talent Sourcing, Scatter Plots, Histogram, Box Plots, Seaborn, Heat Maps, Geospatial Information and Technology, Digital Transformation, Deep Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Data Collection, Machine Learning Methods, Data Processing, Business Analysis, Data Quality, Stakeholder Engagement, User Feedback, Analytical Skills, Peer Review

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