Data Scientist
65AI USED FOR65%moving to95%
THE DOOR, NOWC
THE DOOR, 20 YRSE
STARTING PAY£30,000 - £40,000
NO MOATNo physical, legal or personal barrier protects this work from software.
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CAREERMASH (EN)FROM COMPUTER SCIENCE →
Data Scientist
Data Scientists are the architects of the data-driven future, transforming raw data into actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making across industries. In the UK, where data is the new oil, this role is crucial for businesses aiming to stay competitive and innovative in a rapidly evolving market.
THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years
This work is being absorbed by AI
AI already does much of this work and nothing structurally requires a human: no licence, no physical task, no relationship at the core. Expect fewer people in higher-judgment roles: enter as the person directing the tools, not competing with them.
Career progression path
1FIRST STEPJunior Data ScientistIn this entry-level role, you will assist in data collection and analysis, gaining hands-on experience with data tools and methodologies.£30,000 - £40,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-level Data ScientistAt this stage, you will lead projects, develop complex models, and mentor junior team members, contributing significantly to data-driven strategies.£50,000 - £65,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Data Scientist/Head of DataIn a senior role, you will oversee data strategy, manage teams, and drive innovation, playing a key role in shaping the organisation's data vision.£75,000+
1 live apprenticeship vacancy →
The degree route
Real courses in this career's subject, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.
🎓Computer Engineering with Industrial StudiesUniversity of Southampton · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£47,000 median
🎓Computer Science with Artificial IntelligenceUniversity of York · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£40,000 median
🎓Computing Science (Cybersecurity)University of Aberdeen · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£40,000 median
🎓Computer Games Design with AnimationAshton Sixth Form College · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£39,000 median
🎓Computer and Electronic SystemsUniversity of Strathclyde · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£33,000 median
🎓Software Engineering (with Placement)Queen's University of Belfast · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£33,000 median
All Computer Science courses as cards →
Real apprenticeship standards
Live UK apprenticeship standards that lead into this career, from the Institute for Apprenticeships register.
L6Data scientist (integrated degree)36 months typicalnot published
There is more than one way in
You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely.
Recommended UK degrees
Real courses that qualify you for this career, from the same register that priced the degree above.
Computer Engineering with Industrial StudiesUniversity of Southampton · DegreeComputer Science with Artificial IntelligenceUniversity of York · DegreeComputing Science (Cybersecurity)University of Aberdeen · DegreeComputer Games Design with AnimationAshton Sixth Form College · DegreeComputer and Electronic SystemsUniversity of Strathclyde · DegreeSoftware Engineering (with Placement)Queen's University of Belfast · Degree