Data Science Course

Data Science course helps you understand and use data in a meaningful way. This course teaches data handling, statistics, and machine learning so you can uncover insights and apply them to real-world problems.

Certificate in Data Science courses with GenAI integrated curriculum

Get to study with top-tier faculty at IIIT Bangalore and LJMU

Learn Python, Machine Learning, AI, Tableau, and SQL designed for industry needs

Online Data Science Course

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57% Avg Salary Hike

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Begin your DS course journey with our free courses, a perfect starting point before the full data science programs.

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Why Data Science Matters in 2025?

The world is producing data at an unprecedented rate, over 328 million terabytes every day! Every industry from finance and healthcare to marketing and logistics, needs professionals who can interpret that data.

That’s why data science has become one of the most sought-after career paths in 2025, with organizations actively hiring data analysts, scientists, and AI specialists.

Whether you’re a student looking for an in-demand career or a working professional aiming to future-proof your skills, learning data science can open doors to global career opportunities.

Who Can Pursue a Data Science Course?

One of the best things about data science is that it welcomes learners from diverse educational and professional backgrounds. You don’t have to be a coding genius or a math expert to get started, all you need is curiosity, logical thinking, and the willingness to learn how data works in the real world.

Whether you’re a student, working professional, or career switcher, there’s a data science course designed for your level.

Data Science Course Eligibility Criteria

While eligibility varies from one institution to another, here are the general requirements to enroll in a Data Science course in India:

  1. Educational Qualification:
    • A bachelor’s degree (in any stream: Science, Commerce, or Engineering) from a recognized university.
    • Having a background in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or Engineering can be an added advantage.
  2. Technical Skills:
    • Basic understanding of programming concepts (Python or R).
    • Familiarity with Excel, SQL, or data visualization tools is helpful but not mandatory.
  3. Professional Eligibility:
    • Working professionals from IT, finance, marketing, operations, or consulting who wish to upskill or transition to analytics roles.

Is Data Science the Right Career for You?

If you’re someone who enjoys solving problems, working with patterns, and drawing conclusions from numbers, data science might be your perfect fit.

Here’s how you can identify if this field aligns with your interests and goals:

You should pursue a Data Science course if you

Because it helps you

Love working with data and finding insights

Turn information into impactful business decisions

Are analytical or logical by nature

Learn structured problem-solving with real data

Want a high-growth, future-proof career

Enter one of the fastest-growing global industries

Are from a non-technical background

Transition smoothly with beginner-friendly online programs

Top Reasons to Learn Data Science in 2025

In 2025, data is the new currency. Every organization from startups to Fortune 500 companies, is leveraging data to make smarter decisions, improve customer experience, and gain a competitive edge. Learning data science now can put you ahead of the curve and open doors to exciting career opportunities.

Here’s why upskilling in data science is more important than ever:

1. Future-Proof Your Career

With AI, ML, and big data becoming integral to business operations, demand for data professionals is skyrocketing. Companies are constantly looking for people who can analyze trends, build predictive models, and derive insights from complex datasets.

Data science roles are expected to grow at 30–35% in India over the next few years, making it one of the most future-proof career paths.

2. Lucrative Salary and Growth Opportunities

Data science isn’t just in demand, it’s also highly rewarding. A certified data scientist in India can earn anywhere from ₹8–25 LPA, depending on experience and specialization.

Moreover, as you gain advanced skills like machine learning, deep learning, and cloud analytics, your earning potential grows exponentially.

3. Work Across Industries

Unlike some careers that are industry-specific, data science skills are universally applicable. You can work in:

  • Finance & Banking: Risk analysis, fraud detection, portfolio management
  • Healthcare: Predictive analytics, patient outcome modeling
  • E-Commerce & Retail: Customer behavior analysis, recommendation engines
  • Marketing & Advertising: Campaign optimization, segmentation, targeted outreach
  • IT & Technology: AI solutions, big data analytics

4. Solve Real-World Problems

Data science is not just about numbers; it’s about impact. From helping hospitals predict disease outbreaks to enabling banks to detect fraud before it happens, data science equips you with tools to solve meaningful problems.

For learners who love challenges and innovation, this makes data science a highly rewarding field both intellectually and professionally.

5. High Demand for Skills

Organizations are struggling to find professionals who can bridge the gap between raw data and actionable insights. This shortage of skilled talent means job security, competitive salaries, and abundant opportunities for certified data science professionals.

Data Science Course Fees and Duration

When choosing a data science course in India, one of the first questions learners ask is: “How much does it cost, and how long will it take to complete?” Let’s break it down clearly so you can make an informed decision.

Average Data Science Course Fee in India

The data science course fee can vary widely depending on the mode of learning, level of certification, and the institute's reputation. Here’s a quick overview:

Type of Course

Average Fees (INR)

Duration

Online Certificate / Bootcamp

₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000

3–6 months

University-Integrated PG / Diploma

₹2,00,000 – ₹6,00,000

6–12 months

Advanced / Executive Programs

₹5,00,000 – ₹10,00,000

12–18 months

Data Science Course Duration: How Long Does It Take to Learn?

The duration of a data science course depends on the depth of the program:

  1. Short-Term Certificates/Bootcamps (3–6 months):
    • Focus on core skills like Python, SQL, ML basics, and visualization
    • Ideal for working professionals wanting quick upskilling
  2. Postgraduate / Advanced Programs (12–18 months):
    • Comprehensive coverage including machine learning, deep learning, NLP, big data tools, and capstone projects
    • Best for career switchers or fresh graduates aiming for high-paying data roles

How to Choose the Best Data Science Course in India?

Choosing the right data science course can feel overwhelming; there are countless programs, certifications, and institutes promising “the best” curriculum. But the truth is, the best course is the one that fits your learning style, career goals, and schedule.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to make your decision easier.

1. Check the Course Curriculum

A strong data science course syllabus should cover:

  • Programming Languages
  • Database Skills
  • Statistics & Probability
  • Machine Learning & AI Concepts
  • Data Visualization Tools
  • Real-World Projects & Capstone Assignments

2. Evaluate Course Duration and Flexibility

Ask yourself:

  • Can I commit full-time or part-time?
  • Do I need a self-paced course, or do I prefer mentor-led live sessions?

3. Consider Certification and Industry Recognition

Not all certificates carry the same weight. A recognized certification can significantly boost your employability. Look for:

  • Industry-backed programs (partnered with top universities or organizations)
  • Mentorship from experienced data scientists
  • Alumni success stories

4. Placement Assistance and Career Support

The end goal of a data science course is often a career transition or growth. Ask about:

  • Resume building and LinkedIn optimization
  • Mock interviews and coding challenges
  • Job placement assistance

5. Check Reviews and Alumni Feedback

Finally, check:

  • Student reviews and testimonials
  • Success stories of alumni
  • Mentor quality and engagement

Data Science Course Syllabus Breakdown: What You Will Learn?

A comprehensive data science course syllabus is designed to take you from a beginner to a job-ready data professional. Here’s a detailed look at the modules and skills you can expect to master:

1. Programming and Data Manipulation

Every data scientist needs strong programming skills. In this module, you will learn:

  • Python or R Programming: Core syntax, functions, libraries
  • Data Wrangling: Cleaning, transforming, and preparing data for analysis
  • SQL & Databases: Querying relational and non-relational databases

2. Statistics and Probability

Understanding data requires a strong grasp of statistical concepts:

  • Descriptive & Inferential Statistics
  • Probability Distributions
  • Hypothesis Testing
  • Correlation and Regression Analysis

3. Machine Learning & AI Fundamentals

Machine learning is the core of predictive analytics. This module covers:

  • Supervised Learning: Regression, Classification
  • Unsupervised Learning: Clustering, Dimensionality Reduction
  • Advanced Topics: Decision Trees, Random Forests, Neural Networks
  • Introduction to AI & Deep Learning

4. Data Visualization and Business Analytics

A picture speaks a thousand words and data visualization is how you communicate insights. You will learn:

  • Visualization Tools: Tableau, Power BI, Matplotlib, Seaborn
  • Dashboard Creation: Interactive dashboards for business stakeholders
  • Storytelling with Data: Presenting insights effectively

5. Big Data and Cloud Technologies

Modern data often comes in large volumes, and understanding tools to handle it is critical:

  • Big Data Frameworks: Hadoop, Spark
  • Cloud Platforms: AWS, Azure, GCP basics
  • Data Engineering Concepts: ETL pipelines, data lakes

6. Capstone Project / Industry Case Studies

The capstone project is the highlight of the course:

  • Work on real-world datasets
  • Apply end-to-end data science workflow
  • Present insights to mentors and peers

7. Soft Skills

Soft skills are often the differentiator between good and great data scientists. Focus on:

  • Communication: Explain complex data insights in simple, actionable terms
  • Business Understanding: Translate technical results into business decisions
  • Collaboration: Work with cross-functional teams in analytics projects
  • Adaptability: Learn and implement new tools and technologies as required

Data Science Career Opportunities and Job Roles

Completing a data science course opens the door to high-demand roles across multiple industries. With businesses relying on data-driven decisions, skilled professionals are now essential for growth, innovation, and strategic planning.

Whether you’re a fresh graduate or a working professional, a data science certification can help you launch or accelerate your career.

1. Popular Job Roles After a Data Science Course

Here’s a snapshot of the most sought-after data science roles in India and globally:

Job Role

Top Salary in India

Data Scientist

INR 40 LPA

Data Analyst

INR 40 LPA

Business Intelligence Analyst

INR 13 LPA

Machine Learning Engineer

INR 36 LPA

AI Specialist

INR 24 LPA

Big Data Engineer

INR 20 LPA

Source: Glassdoor, Pay Scale, Ambition Box

*Salary figures are approximate and may differ based on location, experience, and industry

2. Industries Hiring Data Science Professionals

Data science skills are in demand across sectors, offering diverse career options:

  • Finance & Banking: Risk analysis, fraud detection, credit scoring
  • Healthcare & Pharma: Predictive analytics, patient care optimization, genomics
  • E-Commerce & Retail: Customer behavior analysis, recommendation engines
  • Marketing & Advertising: Campaign optimization, segmentation, targeted outreach
  • IT & Technology: AI solutions, big data analytics, cloud computing
  • Telecom & Logistics: Demand forecasting, supply chain optimization

3. Career Growth and Progression

Data science offers a clear growth path, from entry-level roles to senior leadership:

  • Entry-Level: Data Analyst, Junior Data Scientist
  • Mid-Level: Data Scientist, ML Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst
  • Senior-Level: Senior Data Scientist, AI Specialist, Analytics Manager
  • Leadership: Head of Data Science, Chief Data Officer (CDO)

Essential Resources to Navigate Your Data Science Journey

If you’re looking to make a well-informed decision about your data science journey, these resources cover everything from eligibility, syllabus, course fees, and placement support to career prospects and salary trends. Whether you’re a beginner or planning a career switch, these links will guide you step by step.

  • Understand what’s taught in a typical data science program - including modules on Python, machine learning, statistics, and real-world projects - to see how they prepare you for industry roles. Read more in detail here: Data Science Course Syllabus 
  • Most data science programs are open to graduates from any discipline, though over 60% of learners come from engineering, computer science, or mathematics backgrounds. Knowing eligibility helps you plan your learning path. 
    See detailed eligibility criteria here: Data Science Course Eligibility 
  • Data science course fees in India range between ₹50,000 and ₹3.5 lakh, depending on duration, university, and format. Understanding the cost and duration and timeline is important before enrolling. 
    Explore fees and duration in detail here: Data Science Course Fees and Duration 
  • With many learners' prioritizing job placement and mentorship, courses offering placement assistance can significantly improve your career prospects. 
    Find out which programs provide placement support here: Data Science Course with Placement 
  • The average Data Scientist salary in India is around ₹15 LPA (according to Glassdoor), with senior roles getting an average of₹24 LPA. Reviewing salary trends can help you estimate your return on investment. 
    Check detailed salary insights here: Data Scientist Salary in India 
  • Roles like Machine Learning Engineer, AI Engineer, and Data Architect are among the highest-paying data science jobs in 2025, reflecting strong industry demand. 
    Discover top-paying data science roles here: Highest Paying Data Science Jobs in India 2025 

Data Science FAQs

1What is the eligibility for a data science course?

Most courses accept graduates from any discipline. Having a background in computer science, statistics, or engineering helps, but it is not mandatory. Basic knowledge of mathematics and logical reasoning is useful to keep up with the pace of the program. 

2Can I do a data science course without coding knowledge?

Yes. Many beginner-friendly courses start with teaching Python and SQL from scratch. While coding is essential in data science, you don’t need prior knowledge to enroll. With structured guidance, even non-programmers can build proficiency. 

3Do I need a laptop for an online data science course?

Yes. Since most coursework involves coding, data analysis, and visualization tools, a laptop with at least 8GB RAM and stable internet is recommended. Higher specifications are useful if you plan to work with deep learning models. 

4Can non-technical graduates apply for a DS course?

Yes. Non-technical graduates can enroll if they are willing to learn programming and statistics. Many successful data scientists come from fields like economics, biology, and management after taking structured courses. 

5Do I need mathematics for a DS course?

Yes, basic knowledge of statistics, probability, and linear algebra is required. Most courses start with foundation modules to help learners brush up on necessary math skills before moving to advanced topics. 

6Is an online DS course suitable for beginners?

Yes. Most DS courses for beginners emphasize basics such as statistics, Excel, and Python, which makes them suitable for freshers and non-technical backgrounds. A beginner-friendly data analytics course also follows a similar approach.

7How do I choose the best data science course for my career goals?

First, identify whether you want to become a data analyst, data engineer, or data scientist. Then choose the best DS course or data analytics course that suits your aspirations, budget, and learning speed.

8What certifications should I consider in a data science or data analytics course?

Check for data science or data analytics course certifications from well-known institutions such as:

  • Executive Diploma in Data Science and AI from IIIT Bangalore
  • MS in Data Science from Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU)
  • Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science from O.P. Jindal Global University
  • Generative AI Mastery Certificate for Data Analysis from Microsoft

9Which are the best data science certification programs globally?

Leading institutions offering esteemed data science certification programs include: 

  • Harvard University – Offers a Professional Certificate in Data Science through edX, covering R programming, statistical concepts, and data analysis. 
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – Renowned for its advanced courses in data science and artificial intelligence. 
  • Google – Provides the Google Professional Data Engineer certification, focusing on data engineering and machine learning. 
  • Microsoft – Offers the Azure Data Scientist Associate certification, emphasizing cloud-based data science solutions. 

For professionals in India, upGrad collaborates with top universities and industry experts to offer globally recognized data science certification programs. These programs combine theoretical knowledge with practical projects and mentorship, helping learners gain the same caliber of skills and credentials as leading global certifications. 

10What are the best certifications for data science professionals?

Top certifications recognized globally include: 

  • Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate – Validates expertise in implementing and running machine learning workloads on Azure.
  • Google Professional Data Engineer – Focuses on designing and building data processing systems, machine learning models, and operationalizing data pipelines. 
  • IBM Data Science Professional Certificate – Offers foundational skills in data science, including Python, SQL, and data visualization. 
  • Harvard's Professional Certificate in Data Science – Provides a comprehensive introduction to data science concepts and tools. 

In addition, upGrad offers industry-aligned data science certifications in collaboration with leading universities. These programs combine hands-on projects, mentorship, and real-world applications, enabling professionals in India to gain globally relevant skills and certifications that employers value. 

11What are the best online data science courses in India in 2025?

In 2025, the most effective online courses in India focus on AI, machine learning, Python, R, and big data analytics:

  • IIIT Bangalore Executive Diploma in Data Science with upGrad – University-backed program offering a deep dive into data science concepts with hands-on projects and live guidance.
  • IIT Madras AI Courses) – Free online courses offering structured learning in AI, machine learning, and analytics to learners across India.

12What online data science programs are suitable for working professionals?

Working professionals seeking to upskill in data science can consider the following programs: 

  • IIIT Bangalore's Executive Diploma in Data Science – A 25-week self-paced program covering Python, data analytics, cloud computing, big data, and generative AI.
  • IIT Kanpur's Online MTech and PG Diploma Programs – Offers flexible, high-quality education combining digital learning with IIT-K’s academic excellence, preparing students for leadership roles in technology and emerging fields.

These programs are designed to provide flexibility and depth, catering to the needs of professionals balancing work and study. 

13How is upGrad's data science course different from IIT/IIM online courses?

upGrad provides hands-on training, mentorship, and career assistance-supported by IIIT Bangalore and international partners such as LJMU, making it among the top DS course in India.


14What is the best online platform for data science course in India?

Websites such as upGrad and others are widely used for pursuing online DS course. In fact, at upGrad, a learner excels with industry-oriented curricula, international degrees, and 1:1 mentorship for data analytics and AI-track students.


15Is it possible to find a job after an online DS course?

Yes. A DS course with projects enables you to take up positions such as Data Analyst, Data Scientist, and Machine Learning Engineer.


16Which organizations recruit data scientists?

Major recruiters are Microsoft, Google, PwC, JPMorgan, and Tiger Analytics. They prefer experiential project work and certifications from established institutions.


17Can a data scientist make ₹1 crore per annum?

Yes. Experienced folks with the right data science certifications can get salaries of over ₹1 crore per annum in senior positions in technology or consulting.


18What types of capstone or real-world projects are offered?

Anticipate projects on retail analytics, fraud detection, customer segmentation, and developing ML models, all working with industry use-cases across industries like e-commerce and banking.

19Which projects are included in all online courses for data science at upGrad?

All of upGrad's mid- to long-term DS courses have 16+ real-world industry projects, such as NLP, ETL pipelines, and dashboarding assignments. These are designed to make you placement-ready and provide practical exposure, particularly if you're taking a data scientist course with placement and career assistance.

20What is the IPL Visualization Assignment in a data analytics course?

This project entails working with movie and IPL data by applying tools of data manipulation, slicing, visualization, and dashboarding. It's particularly helpful in a data analytics course that emphasizes data storytelling, data analysis, and business intelligence.

21What do you gain through the ETL pipeline project in a data science course?

You will gain hands-on skills in cloud computing (AWS), data warehousing, and real-time data transformation, all of which are in great demand in data engineering and DS job positions.

22In what ways do capstone projects assist in landing a job after a DS course?

Capstone projects solve actual data challenge problems. Whether you are pursuing a data scientist course or an AI & ML specialisation, these sorts of projects prove your capability of using tools and techniques in real-world business problems, something that employers greatly appreciate. 


23How much time does it take to finish a course in data science?

A DS course takes anywhere from 3 to 24 months to finish. Short-term (3-6 months) certification courses are perfect for upskilling in a snap, while long-term (12-24 months) master's levels provide in-depth specialization and international credentials.


24What DS course is ideal for working professionals?

Professional working individuals can opt for flexible online courses such as the Executive Post Graduate Program from IIIT Bangalore (12 months) or MS in Data Science from LJMU (17 months). They provide part-time education, hands-on projects, and established data science certifications.

25Is 3 - 6 months sufficient to finish a DS course?

Yes, particularly for newcomers or rapid upskilling. upGrad has short-duration programs such as the Microsoft Generative AI Mastery Certificate and PwC Academy's Business Analytics & Consulting Program (3 months), both specialize in core technologies such as Python, SQL, and data visualization.


26What is the advantage of taking a 12-24-month DS course?

These courses suit advanced students or international careers. For example, Liverpool John Moores University's MS in Data Science (17 months) features deep learning, NLP, and AI systems, with dual certifications and placement assistance.

27Are there online data science courses with certificates in India?

Yes, several reputable institutions offer online data science courses in India that provide certificates: 

  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) – IITs offer various online programs in data science and artificial intelligence. For instance, IIT Madras has launched free AI courses on the Swayam Plus platform, catering to a wide range of learners.
  • IIIT Hyderabad – In collaboration with TalentSprint (part of Accenture), offers specialized programs in Generative AI and Prompt Engineering.

These courses are designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical experience in data science. 

28Are there online data science bootcamps with certificates?

Yes, several online data science bootcamps offer certificates upon completion:

  • AlmaBetter – Provides a Full Stack Data Science course with IIT certification, focusing on practical skills and job readiness.
  • IIIT Hyderabad's Generative AI and Prompt Engineering Program – In collaboration with TalentSprint (part of Accenture), offers specialized training in emerging AI technologies.
  • upGrad’s Data Science Bootcamps – Designed for working professionals and beginners alike, these bootcamps combine hands-on projects, live mentorship, and industry-recognized certification. They focus on real-world skills in data science, AI, and machine learning, helping learners transition quickly into data-driven roles.

These bootcamps are structured to provide intensive, practical training while ensuring participants earn a credible, career-boosting certificate.

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  1. upGrad does not grant credit; credits are granted, accepted or transferred at the sole discretion of an educational institution. upGrad is not a college or university i.