How to become a data scientist

If you want to become a data scientist, the first challenge is understanding what preparation the role requires. 

People often start by learning analysis tools or working with datasets. That helps you understand data. But it does not fully prepare you for how data is used inside real organisations. Data science work takes place within software systems, shared infrastructure, and production environments. This means you need to understand how those systems operate. 

One route into this work is a structured computing study. The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) at Aston University Online builds the technical foundation behind data-driven roles, so you can move from exploring data to building reliable solutions using it. 

This guide explains what data scientists do, the skills employers expect in 2026, and how postgraduate computer science study can support your career goals. 

Why data science roles still require deeper technical skills 

Data science work has shifted from isolated analysis to system-level responsibility. Models now run inside live platforms. Outputs influence services, pricing, logistics, and customer experience in real time. 

This changes your employer's expectations. You must be able to: 

• understand how data is collected and stored 
• work with production code 
• evaluate performance and reliability 
• collaborate with engineers and product teams 

The role requires computing knowledge as well as analytical skills. That is why many data science job descriptions reference programming, databases, and software development experience alongside statistics. 

Why technical capability matters in 2026 

Recent labour-market analysis shows that many data science job postings now require machine learning knowledge and the ability to work within software environments rather than with isolated tools (365 Data Science, 2025). 

This demonstrates how organisations use data in practice. Models run inside operational systems and influence live services. Employers, therefore, look for professionals who can collaborate with engineering teams and maintain reliable workflows. 

Research into AI adoption also shows organisations expanding the use of automated decision systems, which increases demand for people who understand how models are implemented and monitored in production settings (ScienceDirect, 2025; McKinsey, 2025). 

Employers frequently report difficulty hiring candidates who combine data understanding with system-level technical capability (Brolly Academy, 2025). The gap centres on working with code, infrastructure, and shared technical processes rather than tool familiarity. 

How Aston’s MSc in Computer Science prepares you for this work 

Our programme focuses on applied computing rather than pure tool-specific training. You learn how systems function so you can adapt as technologies change. 

Programming and software development 

You study object-oriented programming and software engineering principles. This helps you write structured code and understand how data solutions operate within applications and shared systems. 

Through applied exercises and feedback, you develop confidence working with code in environments like those used in technical teams. 

Algorithms, data structures, and databases 

Data science relies on efficient data processing. The Algorithms and Data module develops your understanding of data structures and database design so you can reason for performance, scale, and accuracy. 

This knowledge supports tasks such as handling large datasets and building reliable analysis pipelines. 

Project work and practical application 

During your major research project as part of your dissertation, you design and build a substantial software-based solution to a real problem. This demonstrates your ability to plan, implement, and evaluate a technical system from start to finish. 

Employers often look for this kind of applied experience when hiring for data roles. 

Professional capability  

The Aston Global Advantage module supports career planning, interview preparation, and professional communication. Data science roles require collaboration across teams, and these skills help you contribute effectively to technical environments. 

What this means for a data science career 

Graduates apply these skills across data-focused roles, including data analysts, data scientists, technical analysts, and software-supported analytics positions. 

In the UK, roles that combine data understanding with software capability tend to offer stronger progression because you can contribute beyond reporting tasks. You can build tools, automate processes, and support decision-making systems. 

The degree is BCS-accredited. This supports progression toward professional recognition, such as Chartered IT Professional status, and signals a recognised standard of technical competence to employers. 

Typical salary and progression context 

Salary progression in data science reflects the development of responsibility along a typical career path. 

Entry-level roles in the UK typically begin between £28,000 and £40,000, depending on location and technical expectations (Prospects, 2025; Indeed, 2025). As professionals take ownership of systems, pipelines, or modelling workflows, earnings typically fall within the £40,000–£65,000 range (PayScale, 2025; IT Jobs Watch, 2025). 

Senior and lead positions often exceed £80,000, particularly where the role involves designing solutions, overseeing technical decisions, or managing production environments (Morgan McKinley, 2025; Jobted, 2025). 

The pattern is consistent across sectors. Pay increases alongside technical responsibility rather than over time alone. Roles that involve building and maintaining systems tend to progress further than those focused on reporting or analysis. 

A suitable route for career changers 

The MSc in Computer Science is designed for graduates without a computing background. You do not need prior coding experience or A-level Maths. 

The programme builds knowledge step by step, starting with core programming before moving onto more complex systems. Studying one module at a time allows you to focus and retain material while working. 

Flexible admissions and online delivery make the programme accessible if you are balancing employment or transitioning from another field. 

Why this postgraduate pathway supports data science preparation 

The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) at Aston University Online focuses on applied technical capability. The curriculum covers software systems alongside core theory, and the major project gives you experience designing and delivering a substantial technical solution. 

The programme supports students who are new to computing through structured progression and academic guidance. Its BCS accreditation also demonstrates a recognised professional standard. 

Together, these elements prepare you to contribute to real technical environments where data science work takes place. 

Is this a smart investment in 2026? 

For data science careers, value depends on whether a qualification expands your responsibilities and future opportunities. 

A computer science master’s degree supports that by giving you the knowledge to understand systems. This allows you to participate in building and improving data-driven services beyond analysing them.  

For a broader comparison of postgraduate computing study and other routes, see Is a master’s degree in computer science worth it in 2026?. 

If you want to move into technical data roles and remain adaptable as technologies change, this pathway provides a clear and credible foundation. 

Speak to an advisor 

Speak with a Student Advisor to understand how the Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) Online fits your background and career goals.