Data science has rapidly become one of the most sought-after and rewarding careers in Singapore. In 2024, salaries for data scientists surged by 11.3% year-on-year, outpacing many other tech roles and signaling strong demand across industries, from finance to healthcare to AI startups. For those aspiring to enter this profession, understanding the essential data scientist requirements is crucial.
This blog will give you a detailed overview of how to become a data scientist and will walk you through every step to launch your data science career in Singapore’s booming tech landscape.
Also Read: How to Earn Passive Income as a Data Scientist in Singapore?
What Is a Data Scientist in Singapore?
Data Scientists in Singapore leverage their expertise in Mathematics, Programming, and Statistics to extract valuable insights, resolve complex business challenges, and develop predictive models from large datasets.
This role enjoys high demand across Singapore’s prosperous tech ecosystem, which is strongly focused on innovation. The government of Singapore runs several programs to help the sector and that is immensely beneficial in this regard as well.
What Does A Data Scientist Do?
The following are the main tasks of a Data Scientist in Singapore:
- Problem Definition
- Data Preparation and Collection
- Exploratory Data Analysis
- Model Testing and Building
- Monitoring and Deploying
- Communicating Findings
These tasks each require distinct skills. First, Data Scientists collaborate with business stakeholders and leaders to define questions or issues that can be addressed with data. The most prominent examples of such areas are operational optimization and customer retention.
They also gather large datasets from various sources such as databases, social media, and application programming interfaces (APIs), to name a few. At times, such data can be messy as well. They then clean, validate, and organize the information to ensure it is complete and of high quality. This particular part tends to consume the most time of all the work that they do.
As part of their exploratory data analysis, they use data visualization and statistical analysis tools such as Tableau, Matplotlib, and Power BI to explore the data, test hypotheses, and uncover hidden patterns, anomalies, and trends.
They design, train, build, and test machine learning algorithms and models, such as regression, neural networks, and clustering, to automate decision-making and forecast future outcomes.
Necessary Skills for a Data Scientist
The skills necessary for a Data Scientist in Singapore may be enumerated as below:
1. Technical Skills
- Programming Languages
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Data Visualization Tools
- Big Data Technologies
2. Soft Skills
- Business Acumen
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
- Presentation and Communication Skills
- Data Storytelling
All these skills are necessary for different reasons. For example, Data Scientists must be good at Python, followed by R. Their knowledge in Structure Query Language (SQL) must be strong as well. This is because it wull help them query and manipulate relational databases.
They must have a deep understanding of different machine learning algorithms such as logistic and linear regression, clustering, decision trees, neural networks, and random forests. This also applies to frameworks such as TensorFlow, Scikit-learn, and PyTorch.
They must possess business acumen to understand the organization’s business objectives. This also helps them identify opportunities where data science can prove to be useful, and align data projects with the organizational goals.
Data Scientists need to be analytical and creative thinkers who are capable of breaking down complex problems into data-centric solutions that can be managed with greater ease.
Data Scientist Salary in Singapore
The following table reflects the salaries of Data Scientists at various stages of their careers in Singapore:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range |
| 1-3 Years | SGD 60,000 – SGD 84,000 |
| 4-6 Years | SGD 72,000 – SGD 108,000 |
| 7-9 Years | SGD 84,000 – SGD 120,000 |
| 10-14 Years | SGD 91,000 – SGD 158,000 |
| 15+ Years | SGD 100,000 – SGD 199,000 |
Sources: Glassdoor, as of September 6, 2023; May 21, August 24, and December 25, 2024; and October 29, 2025
The following table shows the salaries of these professionals based on their location:
| Location | Salary |
| Yishun | SGD 121,071 |
| Outram | SGD 103,818 |
| Tanjong Pagar | SGD 102,984 |
| Clementi | SGD 94,890 |
| Bedok | SGD 90,712 |
| Jurong Island | SGD 84,778 |
| Bugis | SGD 75,471 |
| Ang Mo Kio | SGD 75,321 |
Source: Indeed, as of December 7, 2025
Steps to Become a Data Scientist
Embarking on a career in data science can seem daunting, but with the right approach, anyone can break into this in-demand field. Here’s a clear roadmap for beginners exploring how to be a data scientist.
Step 1: Understand the Role
Before diving in, it’s crucial to learn what data scientists do. They collect, process, and analyze vast amounts of data to help businesses make data-driven decisions. Understanding this role sets the foundation for all future learning and skills.
Step 2: Build a Strong Educational Foundation
Most data scientists have a background in computer science, mathematics, or engineering. But if you’re self-taught, online degrees and bootcamps are also effective. This is an important first step in figuring out how to learn data science.
Also Read: Is a Master’s in Data Science worth it for a Career Switch in Singapore?
Step 3: Develop Technical and Analytical Skills
Being technically sound is non-negotiable. Learn programming languages like Python and R, work with databases using SQL, and master tools like Excel and Tableau. These are core data scientist requirements for any entry-level role.
Step 4: Master Mathematics and Statistics
A strong grasp of statistics, probability, and linear algebra is essential. These concepts help you build models, test hypotheses, and analyze results. Without these, your ability to interpret data accurately will be limited.
Step 5: Work on Projects and Build a Portfolio
Apply your knowledge by working on real-world datasets and uploading your projects to GitHub or Kaggle. This helps you stand out when exploring how to start a career in data science, showing employers you can apply theory to practice.
Step 6: Earn Relevant Certifications
Certifications in data science, machine learning, or cloud platforms can strengthen your resume. They prove you’re serious about your career and meet the professional data scientist requirements that employers look for.
Step 7: Network, Prepare, and Apply
Join LinkedIn groups, attend data science meetups, and connect with mentors in the field. Networking is a powerful way to understand how to be a data scientist in today’s competitive market and land your first role.
Also Read: Top Data Science Tools Every Singapore Professional Should Learn
Career Path and Opportunities in Data Science
Explore the dynamic career progression in data science, from foundational roles to advanced specializations. Here’s a quick overview:
| Career Stage | Roles | Skills and Experience Required |
| Entry-Level |
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| Mid-Level |
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| Senior-Level |
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| Specialised Roles |
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| Leadership Roles |
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Also Read: Data Scientist Demand in Singapore: Top Companies Hiring in 2026
Advancing Your Data Science Career with upGrad
upGrad’s tailored online data science programs are designed to fast-track your career with a blend of academic rigor and industry relevance. Learn from top global universities, gain hands-on experience through real-world projects, and benefit from 1:1 mentorship by industry experts. upGrad’s strong employer network and career support services ensure you’re job-ready, making it the ideal platform to advance your data science journey with confidence and credibility.
Explore these online data science courses through upGrad!
- Master of Science in Data Science (Liverpool John Moores University)
- Executive Diploma in Data Science and AI (IIT Bangalore)
- Post Graduate Certificate in Data Science and AI -Executive (IIT Bangalore)
FAQ on How To Become A Data Scientist
Q: What educational background is required to become a data scientist?
Ans: A strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and computer science is the ideal educational background to become a data scientist. Most data scientists hold degrees in fields like Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or Data Science.
Q: Which programming languages should I learn for data science?
Ans: Python and R are the most popular programming languages for data science. Additionally, knowledge of SQL for database handling and familiarity with tools like MATLAB, Scala, or Julia can be beneficial.
Q: What industries hire data scientists?
Ans: Data scientists are in demand across diverse industries, including finance, healthcare, e-commerce, technology, manufacturing, education, and even government sectors.
Q: How long does it take to become a data scientist?
Ans: It typically takes 6 months to 2 years, depending on your prior experience, learning path, and consistency. Structured programs and hands-on projects can accelerate your journey.
Q: How can upGrad help me in my data science journey?
Ans: upGrad offers industry-relevant data science programs in collaboration with top global universities. With expert mentorship, real-world projects, and 24/7 support, learners can build strong portfolios and transition smoothly into data science careers.
