6 Pros and Cons of a Career in Data Science

Featured article by Emily Peyton

While a career in data science can be fascinating, enjoyable, and lucrative, like any other role, being a data scientist comes with both advantages and disadvantages.

So, let us explore the pros and cons.

 Image source

What is a data scientist?

Before looking at the pros and cons of working in data science, you will want to know precisely what a data scientist does.

In the most basic terms, a data scientist uses data to solve complex business problems.

Using advanced techniques, you would take raw data from a broad range of sources and nurture it through programs, tools, and automated technologies in order to gain valuable insights.

Be aware that data scientists differ from data analysts. The latter operates with structured data that has already been gathered and organized and uses the data to identify patterns and spot trends.

Find out more about data analyst versus data scientist.

Pros of a Career in Data Science

Let us start with the good news. Here are three of the top pros of working in data science.

Pro #1: Data Science Has Excellent Job Prospects

Data scientists are in high demand, so there has never been a better time to work in data science.

And due to the high demand and high level of skill required, data scientists can earn good money. The median salary in the United States is $130,000 per year.

Furthermore, even if you start off on a lower salary, as a data scientist, you can advance in your career quickly.

In fact, at present, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects data scientist roles will experience a job growth rate of 16%, making it almost three times the growth rate of the job market as a whole.

Pro #2: A Career in Data Science Provides Versatility

Data science has numerous applications and is used in a wide variety of sectors. You could work with consultancy services or e-commerce industries; and change sectors when you want a new challenge.

A career in data science is very versatile and you will have the opportunity to work in various fields.

Pro #3: Data Science Involves Challenging and Varied Work

No one wants to be bored in their jobs. Well, a career in data science brings challenging work, so if you want to keep your brain active, like solving puzzles, and never want to be bored, becoming a data scientist could be the right option for you.

The work is pretty varied, so you will always have a new set of challenges and problems to solve, rather than doing repetitive work each day.

Cons of a Career in Data Science

Okay, now it is time for the cons. Here are three of the biggest drawbacks of working in data science.

Con #1: You Cannot Master Every Element of Data Science

Because data science is a very broad field, it is impossible to master every single element of data science.

That means if you become an expert in, say, statistics, you will probably not have expert knowledge in computer science; nor will you be able to master it on short notice. This brings limitations to the career.

Con #2: You Could Experience Ethical Issues

Data scientists are at the center of the controversial topic of online privacy.

There are lots of ethical issues surrounding the gathering and use of data, so if you become a data scientist, you could potentially lose some friends.

Con #3: Data Science Roles Require Continual Learning and High Commitment

Data science is a constantly evolving field. That means you will have to continually keep up with the latest advances and best practices.

So, you need to be significantly committed when you work in data science.