The profession of data scientist or data science consultant has become essential for modern businesses, especially those operating exclusively online. Data science combines various disciplines, such as statistics, computer science, and domain expertise, to extract valuable insights from data. As businesses continue to generate massive amounts of digital data, the demand for data science professionals who can analyze and interpret this information is rapidly increasing. What are the missions, skills to develop, salary, and training offered by emlyon business school? This text aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what it means to be a data scientist, the path to becoming one, and the role emlyon business school plays in preparing future experts in this field.
Data scientist : an expert in data analysis
A data scientist is an expert in statistics, computer science, and marketing. Their job typically involves collecting, processing, analyzing, and interpreting massive datasets, known as "big data." The aim of this work is to improve a company’s performance and boost its economic and organizational growth.
Data scientists are sought after by companies to transform data into actionable information. Strategic decisions for marketing, management, and communication are based on this information. They have the ability to extract meaningful patterns and insights from complex datasets, which allows businesses to understand customer behavior, optimize operations, and create new products and services.
Their goal is to address compliance, security, and competitiveness challenges. Data scientists are involved from analyzing the company's needs to deploying solutions through a comprehensive approach to data issues. They can focus on a specific project or collaborate on various projects simultaneously. In many organizations, the chief data officer oversees the data science team, ensuring that the insights derived from data align with the company's strategic goals.
In today's digital economy, the ability to effectively analyze and understand data is a critical skill for success. Companies like Google and other tech giants are continuously on the lookout for talented data scientists who can communicate complex findings in a clear and concise manner. Visualization tools and techniques are crucial in this process, allowing data scientists to present their findings in a way that is easily understandable to stakeholders at all levels of an organization.
Data scientists also play a vital role in education and training, often collaborating with professors to develop new methods and approaches to data science. emlyon business school offers a learning environment that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in this field.
What are the missions of a data scientist?
Here are the main missions of a data scientist:
- Processing data related to customers, sales, products, user journeys, and partners for marketing and financial purposes: They gather the most relevant data from various sources (servers, files, databases) and "clean" it. The data processing step is crucial in ensuring that the datasets are ready for analysis.
- Presenting results in the form of reports, graphs, tables, or applications (data visualization): This step involves using various tools to create visual representations of data that can be easily interpreted by decision-makers. Data visualization is an essential component of the data science process, enabling businesses to see patterns and trends at a glance.
- Structuring data governance and developing a data quality policy: Data scientists help organizations establish frameworks and policies to ensure data accuracy and integrity.
- Programming algorithms to facilitate the interpretation of information for non-experts: This involves using machine learning and statistical techniques to build models that can predict future outcomes or identify trends in data. Python and R are popular programming languages used in this context.
Data scientists often participate in boot camps or advanced training programs to stay updated with the latest tools and techniques in the field. emlyon business school offers such programs, preparing students for successful careers in data science.
Data scientist: skills and qualities
A data scientist must have a good mastery of various tools such as Apache Hadoop, Spark, MapReduce, NoSQL, and programming languages (SAS, R, Python). Applied mathematics, particularly statistics, should also be among their skills. These skills are crucial for data analysis and the development of predictive models.
Other required qualities for a data scientist include:
- Project management knowledge: The ability to manage complex projects and collaborate with cross-functional teams is vital for success in the field.
- Strong analytical skills: Data scientists must be able to analyze data effectively and draw meaningful conclusions from their analyses.
- Team management abilities: Leading teams and working collaboratively is essential for achieving organizational goals.
- Proactiveness: Being proactive in identifying opportunities and solving problems is a valuable trait for data scientists.
- Proficiency in technical English: As the field is global, the ability to communicate effectively in English is important.
emlyon business school provides a rigorous education that emphasizes these skills, preparing students to excel in the data science field.
Education at emlyon business school to become a data scientist
For students with a high school diploma
To acquire the necessary skills and knowledge for the profession of a data scientist, emlyon business school offers the Bachelor of Science in Data Science for Responsible Business program.
This four-year program provides high-quality education in mathematics, statistics, and computer science, entirely taught in English. It stands out with its hybrid teaching approach combining data science and management. The degree is jointly awarded by emlyon business school and École Centrale de Lyon. Students gain a deep understanding of data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, preparing them for various roles in the data science field.
For students with a bachelor’s degree
The Master of Science in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence Strategy aims to teach advanced methods and techniques to master essential concepts and skills for designing AI strategies. This program allows students to understand artificial intelligence and data science responsibly, combining a technical, strategic, and ethical learning approach.
If you want to master the skills that are essential for the profound digitalization of the healthcare industry, the Master of Science in Healthcare Innovation & Data Science will allow you to diversify your skills and acquire in-depth knowledge on healthcare ecosystems, big data processing, AI integration in healthcare, disruption management, while developing interpersonal skills and an entrepreneurial mindset.
emlyon business school also offers online courses and certifications, providing flexible learning options for professionals seeking to advance their careers in data science. These programs are designed to cater to different experience levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.
Salary and career evolution for a data scientist
A starting salary for a data scientist is around €3,500 gross per month. With several years of experience, they can earn about €5,000 gross per month. This career path offers substantial financial rewards, reflecting the high demand for data science skills.
With experience, a data science consultant can move into pricing services (revenue management) or become a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) department head or a chief data officer (head of data processing). Senior data scientists often take on leadership roles, managing teams of data analysts and data engineers.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job of the 21st century involves data science skills, as data scientists are expected to create and implement data-driven strategies that enhance business operations. As organizations increasingly rely on data to make informed decisions, the demand for data science professionals continues to grow.
Data scientists also have the opportunity to work in various industries, including finance, healthcare, technology, and retail. Their expertise in analyzing data and identifying trends makes them valuable assets in any organization. Companies are willing to invest in top talent to stay competitive in the digital age.
About emlyon business school
emlyon business school is one of the oldest French business school, established in 1872 by the Lyon Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Today, emlyon comprises:
Over 9,050 students from 125 nationalities in initial training; Around 6,900 executives and managers in executive education; 4 campuses (Lyon, Paris, Shanghai, Mumbai); 200 international academic partners; 45,000 alumni in 130 different countries; An action learning pedagogy based on the "learning experiences journey," allowing students to combine reflection and action; Three major accreditations: AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA; More than 160 highly qualified permanent professors.
emlyon business school offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in business and data science. With a focus on innovation and practical learning, the school provides students with the tools and skills needed to thrive in the 21st-century business landscape.
The School also offers specialized bootcamps and short courses in data science, enabling students to quickly acquire the skills needed for roles such as data analyst, data engineer, and data scientist. These programs are ideal for individuals looking to transition into the data science field or enhance their existing skills.
In conclusion, emlyon business school is committed to providing high-quality education and training to prepare students for careers in data science and beyond. With its innovative programs, expert faculty, and strong industry connections, emlyon is an excellent choice for aspiring data science professionals.