Why Pursue Data Science?

The demand for skilled data professionals in India is growing exponentially. As of 2025, tech hiring is projected to grow by over 30%, with data science and AI roles topping the charts. According to recent industry estimates, the median salary for entry-level data science professionals in India is around ?10.2 lakh per annum, and for those with 5–8 years of experience, this figure can exceed ?20 lakh. Major sectors including finance, healthcare, agriculture, e-commerce, and sustainability are increasingly data-driven, creating rich and diverse opportunities for graduates.

Furthermore, the future of Data Science is incredibly promising. As generative AI, automation, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies become more mainstream, the role of data scientists will only evolve to become more central. Experts who can not only manage and analyse data but also ensure its responsible and ethical use will be in high demand.

Who Can Pursue Data Science?

One of the most exciting things about Data Science is its accessibility. Students from diverse academic backgrounds can successfully enter this field—as long as they have a strong grasp of mathematics and logical thinking. Here's how you can begin your journey into Data Science at various educational stages:
After Class 12 (Science Stream): Students who have studied science stream with Physics, chemistry, mathematics or computer Science can opt for undergraduate courses such as B.Sc. or B.Tech in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, or related domains. Admission is typically based on entrance exams like JEE Main/Advanced, CUET, or other institute-specific tests

Postgraduate Pathways:If you hold a bachelor's degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Economics, or Computer Science, you can pursue postgraduate programs like M.Sc., M.Tech., or MBA in Data Analytics or Business Intelligence to build a strong career in this growing field. Admissions are generally based on competitive exams such as GATE, CAT, CUET-PG, or entrance tests conducted by individual institutes.

Certification & Online Courses: Students from non-technical backgrounds can gain essential skills by enrolling in MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) offered by platforms such as Coursera, edX, and NPTEL. Additionally, short-term certification programs from IITs, ISI, or reputed private institutes can help bridge knowledge gaps in areas like programming, statistics, and analytics.

Career Opportunities in Data Science

Data Science offers diverse career opportunities across several specialized roles. Key positions include Data Analysts, who interpret and visualize data to support business decisions; Data Scientists, who build predictive models and conduct statistical analysis; and Machine Learning Engineers, who deploy models and focus on automation. Data Engineers design the infrastructure for managing large-scale data, while AI Research Scientists explore new algorithms through advanced research. With experience, professionals can advance to senior leadership roles such as Chief Data Officer or Director of Analytics, driving data strategy at the organizational level.

Where Will You Work?

Data scientists are employed across almost every sector today. In India, prominent employers include global tech companies (Google, Amazon, Microsoft), IT services giants (TCS, Infosys, Wipro), startups (Swiggy, Zomato, CRED), and even government bodies working on urban planning, health-tech, and agritech. Roles are also emerging rapidly in ESG (environmental, social, and governance), climate risk assessment, and policy think tanks that require a strong data background.

Your Data-Driven Future Starts Here

Data Science is more than just number crunching—it’s about turning raw data into meaningful insights that can transform industries, impact lives, and shape tomorrow’s world. As India gears up to become a global leader in AI, there’s no better time to explore this dynamic and rapidly growing field. Whether you're a student, a college-goer, or someone looking to make a career shift, Data Science offers a promising path filled with innovation, challenges, and long-term growth.

Need help planning your journey?
 
At Right Mentors, we specialise in guiding students through every step of their career—from subject selection and college admissions to specialisation and job-readiness. Connect with our experienced career counsellors and let’s build your data science roadmap together.