The latest trend in the education sector across the world is data science. The scope of data science is exploding. It is growing both in terms of the exposure within the field and also with the number of students enrolling in the programs. Data science is a field of study that focuses on multiple disciplines and skills. You will learn statistics, mathematical algorithms, and technology to create new programs and tools to automate manual activities.
Do note that the world is rapidly adapting data-driven strategies. Hence, the continuous need for quality data scientists. All segments require data scientists. The field of medicine require data scientists to structure better tools to conclude diagnosis. Additionally, data scientists help the automobile industry make safer cars by evaluating the data from accidents.
Scope of Data Science
Specifically in Pakistan, various sectors including finance, healthcare and telecommunications require data scientists to move into the digital transformation. Through data science, companies can understand the industry, customers and create value driven services.
Some examples of data scientists and their critical roles. Banks hire data scientists to help detect fraud and personalize the experience. All of this goes through data and processing of information. Many layers and work is required to get the complete picture. Hence, data scientists need to be exceptional in data and tools.
Additionally, telecom companies use data science to streamline the customers into different segments and provide unique experiences. E-commerce companies are hiring the majority of graduates with a specialization in data science. Careers for computer science majors also work on similar lines. Majority of tech companies hire both graduates. Though the ones interested in the data side hire data science specialists.
Furthermore, hospitals are hiring fresh graduates to help bridge the divide and make them digital transformation leaders.
You will also find amazing opportunities in the government sector as well. Government organizations need data scientists to solve the current problems. Finding solutions will help the government money and time. Government of Pakistan is taking different initiatives to promote digital transformation and data sciences. In fact, many of the colleges and universities are now offering many diplomas, certificates and degrees specializing in data sciences.
Another benefit of pursuing a degree in data science is that you can work as a freelancer. All you need is a comprehensive understanding and use your time to build your skills.
Some of the most known universities of Pakistan are offering stellar programs. You can now pursue a degree in data science from National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), and COMSATS Institute of Information Technology.
Top Careers after graduating with a bachelor degree in Data Science
- Data Engineer: Responsible for designing and maintaining databases consisting of data models.
- Data Scientist: Responsible for data collection, analysis and domain knowledge of solving problems through data inputs.
- Machine Learning Engineer: Responsible for developing algorithms and models for predictions.
- Business Intelligence Analyst: Responsible to collect, monitor and categorize data for better decision-making.
All of these are specialized fields. However, all are graduates from a data science degree. Basically, these students branch out to their passion and zeal. One of the main wins of this degree is that it opens doors to opportunities that were not there 10 years back.
Additionally, these graduates have a higher income and salary benefits since they are in demand. These are the highest paid engineers in the global market today.
BS Data Science Scope in Pakistan
Data science is a growing field all over Pakistan. In fact, many of the colleges and universities are now adding new courses around data science. Some of the programs are different names. However, they are focusing on data science as a major.
With a degree in data science, you get to become a part of the most in need skill in the market. You need to learn data programming, basic business logic and ample data mining techniques. 4 years of education provides a good foundation for data science.
After graduating with a BS in data science, you become a specialist in a particular domain and field.
Challenges and Opportunities in Data Science
Since this is an evolving and adaptive science, students in Pakistan might not have direct access to the latest professors and knowledge base to learn data science first hand. However, easily accessible videos, lectures, research, articles and books are available online to learn more about data science.
Additionally, the technological infrastructure needs to be in place to help students learn about data science. The technology infrastructure is also expanding and evolving.
Thirdly, universities and colleges need to promote advancements in data science. This will help learning and facilitating change.
Fourthly, the country needs to invest in the people and academic prowess. This will enable making a country a hub for advancement in data science.
