Data Science Certifications vs Degrees: What Do Employers Prefer?
If you are an IT professional or a student who is confused about whether to choose a data science certification program or degree program, then we are here to help you. Both options help in building a career in data science but they serve different purposes. A data science degree program provides in-depth knowledge and credibility while a data science certification program focuses on industry skills and quick industry entry.
In this blog, we will explain everything in detail about data science certification programs and degree programs, and what do employers prefer.
What is Data Science?
Data science is the process of collecting, cleaning, analyzing and using data to find useful information. Data science involves scientific methods, algorithms and systems to extract data. Companies use data science to understand customer behavior, predict future trends, improve products and services, reduce risks and increase profits.
Overview of Data Science Degree
There are many universities and colleges that offer bachelor and master degree programs in data science. These courses are available in both regular and online modes of study. Data science programs are designed to build a strong foundation in data analysis, programming and machine learning. Here is an overview of data science degree program:-
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | BSc / BTech / MSc / MBA in Data Science |
| Duration | 3 years (UG), 2 years (PG) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 with Maths (for UG), Graduation in any stream (for PG) |
| Skills Required | Basic maths, logical thinking, interest in data and technology |
| Main Subjects | Statistics, Python, Machine Learning, AI, Big Data, SQL |
| Mode of Study | Regular, Online, Distance |
| Career Options | Data Analyst, Data Scientist, ML Engineer, Business Analyst |
| Average Salary | ₹4–6 LPA (freshers), ₹8–15 LPA (experienced) |
| Top Recruiters | Google, Amazon, TCS, Infosys, Accenture, Deloitte |
| Best For | Students who want a strong and stable tech career |
Overview of Data Science Certifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Type | Short-term Certification in Data Science |
| Duration | 3 months to 12 months |
| Eligibility | 10+2 or Graduation (depends on institute) |
| Skills Required | Basic maths, interest in data, computer basics |
| Main Topics | Python, SQL, Statistics, Machine Learning, Data Visualization |
| Mode of Study | Online / Offline |
| Learning Style | Practical and project-based |
| Career Options | Data Analyst, Junior Data Scientist, Business Analyst |
| Average Salary | ₹3–5 LPA (freshers), ₹6–10 LPA (with experience) |
| Best For | Skill upgrade and quick entry into data field |
| Cost Range | ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000 (varies by institute) |
| Placement Support | Provided by many institutes |
| Best For | Skills upgrade and quick entry into data field |
Data Science Degree or Certification- What Employers Prefer?
Career Options After Data Science Degree Program
Students can explore an ocean of opportunities in the data science field because every work requires data in the modern field of internet and technology. Check out the career options given that you can pursue after completing data science degree program from any reputable and UGC- recognized university/college:
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Business Analyst
- Data Engineer
- AI Specialist
- Research Analyst
- Consultant
Salary After Data Science Degree Program
Most of the people want to enter the data science field because of high salary and better career growth. This field is an emerging field and it is expected to grow at a very fast rate in upcoming years. After completing data science course, Students get salaries based on experience, role and industry:
- Entry-Level (0–2 years): ₹4–8 LPA
- Mid-Level (2–5 years): ₹8–15 LPA
- Senior-Level (5+ years): ₹15–25 LPA
- Specialist Roles (AI/ML/Big Data): ₹20–35 LPA
Career Options After Data Science Certification Program
There are a lot of opportunities in the data science field because the world has advanced so much on the data science level that many companies in government and private sector need such people who handle the data science field efficiently. Given below are the some of the popular career options that a certificate holder can pursue:-
- Data Analyst
- Business Analyst (BI) Analyst
- Machine Learning Associate
- AI Specialist (Entry-Level)
- Data Engineer (Junior Role)
- Analytics Consultant
- Project-based Freelancer
Salary After Data Science Certification Program
Data Science Certification programs work best for students who don’t have time to pursue a 2-3 year degree program, but they want knowledge related to data science. Given below are the salary range of data science certification holders:
- Entry-Level (0–2 years): ₹3–7 LPA
- Mid-Level (2–5 years): ₹7–12 LPA
- Senior-Level (5+ years): ₹12–20 LPA
- Specialist Roles (AI/ML/Big Data): ₹15–25 LPA
Top Universities/Colleges Offering Data Science Certification and Degree Programs in 2026
There are many universities and colleges in India that offer data science and degree programs in 2026. There are also some universities that offer flexible learning methods(online/hybrid/distance mode) to help working professionals. Given below are the list of top universities and colleges:-
Data Science Degree Programs
- Masters in Data Science Degree from IIIT Bangalore
- Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science from OP Jindal Global University
- BS in Data Science & Applications from IIT Madras
- B.Sc. in Data Science & AI from IT Guwahati
- M.Sc. in Data Science & AI from BITS Pilani
- e-Masters in Data Science from IIT Kanpur
- M.Sc. in Data Science from Manipal Online
- MBA in Data Science from Amity Online
Data Science Certification Programs
- Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate
- IBM Data Science Professional Certificate
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate
- AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty
- DASCA Senior Data Scientist
Is a Data Science Certification/Degree Worth it in 2026?
Yes, a data science certification and degree program is worth it in 2026 because the world is progressing at a very fast speed, everyday there is new invention, new technology and new market trend and the demand for skilled professionals continues to grow across all industries. Companies rely heavily on data to make better decisions. In fact, in upcoming years, the data science industry will rule the world. Both degree and certificate programs help students and working professionals to build a high paying career in the data science field.
Conclusion
Employers from the private sector look for skills, practical experience and problem solving approaches, no matter whether the person is a degree holder or certificate holder but government jobs require a well qualified person with a UGC recognized degree. So, it is very important to know your career goals before applying for admission in a certificate or degree program.
Apply now for a high paying career in data science and secure your future.
FAQs
- Is data science degree course recognized by UGC?
Yes, data science degree is recognized by UGC. Before taking admission in any university for data science program, check the approval first.
- What is the admission process of data science certification program?
The admission process depends on the mode of study, but most universities offer online admissions. Visit the official website of a university for updated admission related information.
- What is the difference between data science certification and data science degree program?
The main difference between data science certification and degree is in duration, cost and depth of syllabus.
- Who can apply for data science certification programs?
Students and working professionals who want to pursue their career in the data science field can apply for data science certification programs.
- Which is better Data Science or computer science?
Both fields have their own advantages, it totally depends on students interest and career goals. So, choose according to your own interest.
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