How to Choose a Data Science Boot Camp

Data science boot camps are intensive and immersive courses that teach advanced data science skills to individuals pursuing a career in the field. Offering a crash course in Python, SQL, data visualisation, Hadoop, and more, these boot camps can equip course takers with a deep knowledge of fundamental concepts and advanced techniques.

Learn more about the various data science boot camps and how to consider which is right for you. Explore the difference between a data science boot camp and a degree and the different ways to engage in a boot camp.

Data science boot camp vs data science degree 

Data science boot camps and degree programmes both prepare people for careers in the field. But, if you already have an undergraduate degree in an unrelated field, then a boot camp could be a great way to gain the skills you need to start in data science.

Many people who enrol in a boot camp hold an undergraduate degree in an unrelated field and want to get formally certified in data science so that they can pursue a career in data science. You can also earn a data science degree, but you’ll find considerable differences between the two. These differences include:

How to choose the right data science boot camp for you

The right boot camp is the one that helps you reach your career goals, build the appropriate skills you need to land a job, fits your current budget, and works with your personal time frame. Use the steps below to pick the right boot camp for you.

1. Outline your career goals. 

While many data science boot camps cover similar material, they each also have their own focus that can make a difference when you are pursuing a specialised career in the field.

To choose the right boot camp for yourself, then, you need to identify and outline your career goals so that you can match a programme to your own professional interests. Some questions that you might ask yourself include:

• Where do you want to be in five years?

• Are you seeking an entry-level position or an upper-level position?

• Are you already employed and want a promotion, or are you starting your career?

• What skills does your career goal require?

By answering these questions, you'll gain greater clarity on the kind of programme you can use to reach your career goals.

Data science is a broad field that includes artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, machine learning, and more. As a result, you’ll find many careers that you can pursue in the field. Some of the most popular data science careers include: 

- Data engineer

- Statistician 

- Data analyst 

- Machine learning engineer 

- Data scientist 

2. Research job requirements. 

Once you've outlined your career goals, you should now research the skills and qualifications you will need to perform the job. Many data science jobs require you to possess a skill set specific to that particular position, which may differ somewhat from those that you already possess. A few of the most common technical and workplace skills you may find in the field of data science include:

• Communication 

• Teamwork 

• Creativity 

• Perseverance 

• Problem-solving 

• Knowledge of programming languages, such as Python or R

• Databases 

• Machine learning 

• Data visualisation 

• Big data frameworks 

Research postings for desirable jobs and read the descriptions to get a good idea of what skills you’ll need before applying. 

3. Assess your current skills. 

You’ll find the most success with data science boot camps if you already have some core foundational data science knowledge. Boot camp instructors move fast, and you’ll likely be completing projects that require some background knowledge. Classes are usually limited to mastering key high-level skills and building your career toolbox. 

There won’t be much time for reviewing basic concepts, so assess your skills to know what type of boot camp would be the best fit for you based on your skills. If you need to focus more on the basics, look for a data science boot camp for beginners or consider taking an online course to either brush up or expand your current skills.

4. Research programmes. 

Most data science boot camp programmes last three to six months, and the cost varies by location and institution.

When researching programmes, consider what class structure works best for your schedule, what skills you need to learn based on your career goals, and the integrity of the institution or organisation offering the boot camp. Also, make sure to check for any prerequisites before applying for a programme.

5. Consider structure and location.

One of the key questions you will face when comparing different data science boot camps is whether you want an online, in-person, or hybrid programme. Each of these different educational approaches has its own benefits, depending on your goals, available resources, and personal circumstances.

In-person classes

Typically, in-person boot camps provide more structure in a hands-on environment with an instructor ready to help as you need.

In-person classes can also be a networking opportunity and a chance to build people skills like teamwork and collaboration. However, if you want to enrol in a boot camp that isn’t local or have a busy schedule, this option may not be flexible enough for you.

Online courses

Online programmes can be a convenient way of joining a boot camp without sacrificing a comprehensive education. Capable of being completed anywhere with an internet connection, you can often do an online boot camp at your own pace. While some may have an instructor on call when you need help, others may be more self-directed and independent. However, online courses may not provide as many opportunities for networking and team-building practice as in-person programmes.

Hybrid courses

Hybrid courses offer the pros of both online and in-person courses. With a hybrid-style data science boot camp, you can experience the immersion of in-person learning with the convenience of online learning. This is an excellent option if you live near an institution but have a busy schedule or want the flexibility of online learning in addition to in-person classes. 

6. Take note of relevant topics.

Some boot camps specialise in a specific field of data science or focus on a particular set of skills. However, you can expect to generally see a few of these topics in the course work: 

• Python programming 

• Machine learning

• Coding

• Statistics 

• A/B testing

• Intermediate Excel 

• Linear regression

• Databases (MySQL, MongoDB, etc.) 

Don’t expect to be taking notes all day in these boot camps. Most are project-based, hands-on programmes that offer you valuable skills to take into the workforce. Review the course content thoroughly to be sure it aligns with your career goals.  

7. Know the cost. 

Data science boot camps vary in price. As an example, a data science boot camp with Imperial College London costs £7495 [1]. You may be able to access the Skills Boot Camp Scheme if your employer signs up. With this, employers make a minimal contribution towards your boot camp costs and give you time off work to complete it.

8. Research institution reputation. 

Make sure that you choose a boot camp from a reputable institution or university. Characteristics of a quality program are likely to include:

• Alumni and student reviews

• Well-established (program offered for three+ years)

• Published CIRR (Council on Integrity in Results Reporting) outcomes within the past year

• Variety of financing options

• Vetted lending partnerships

• Other factors like the level of career support and selectivity of the application process 

These requirements might sound like a lot to consider but you’ll find free online resources that rank data science boot camps. Combine these resources with your own research to track down the top programmes relevant to your interests. 

It’s also worth mentioning that employers or individuals already working in the industry may have recommendations for reputable boot camps that they can share with you. 

9. Decide if a data science boot camp is right for you.

You’ll find many benefits to data science boot camps, but it’s important to know if this learning style is right for your overall career goals. Consider these common benefits and drawbacks to data science boot camps:

• Limited financial aid: Boot camps are typically much less expensive than earning a degree, but be aware that it’s rare to find financial aid opportunities to help you cover the cost of a boot camp programme. However, you may be able to access specific Skills Boot camps through your employer.

• Efficient but intensive: If you want to get into the field of data science fast, boot camps can be your fast rack in the door. Though the entire programme length runs for just a few months, expect to be immersed in all things data science during that time. This can be a problem if you already hold a full-time job.

• Career-focused: When you enrol in a data science boot camp, you’ll learn alongside like-minded individuals who are likely just as career-focused as you. You may also find career services and job assistance built into these programmes. 

10. Apply.

When you find a programme that’s right for you and matches up with your career goals, it’s time to apply!

Depending on the program, the enrolment process may include a call with a programme representative, application, and assessment prior to acceptance.

Alternative options to data science boot camps

If you decide a data science boot camp isn't right for your goals, you have options. The list below outlines a few similar offerings from industry leaders in technology:

• IBM Data Science Professional Certificate: This 100 per cent online, self-paced program is designed to cover all the latest job-ready skills and tools. Using real-world data sets, you'll work with open-source tools and libraries, databases, and the IBM Cloud. By the end, you'll have built a portfolio of projects and earned a Professional Certificate from IBM.

•  Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate: In this programme, you'll gain data cleaning, data ethics, and data visualisation skills while working with industry tools and platforms like SQL, Tableau, and R programming. Upon completion, you'll earn a Professional Certificate from Google for your CV.

Start learning data science today

Boot camps are a great option and alternative to a degree if you want to save money and complete a course faster. You’ll find a range of options depending on your budget, career choices, and experience level. 

When you're ready to advance your data science career, consider enrolling in the first course What is Data Science? of the 10-part series in IBM's Data Science Professional Certificate, both offered on Coursera. All you need to make a start is basic computer literacy and the willingness to learn online.