Data Scientists
O*NET 15-2051.00 · SOC 15-2051
Data Scientist is a strong career choice. Median pay is $120k a year with +34.6% projected growth through 2035 (much faster than average) and about 24,800 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Clean and preprocess datasets
- →Build predictive models
- →Visualize data insights
- →Present findings to stakeholders
- →Deploy models to production
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Data Scientist roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Data Scientist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Data Scientist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Data Scientist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Data Scientists is projected to grow 34.6% from 2025 to 2035, much faster than average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·42% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·35% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·Strong projected growth suggests AI-complementary demand
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Data Scientist make?
The median Data Scientist earns $120k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Data Scientist jobs?
Our model puts Data Scientist at 35 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 42% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 35% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Data Scientist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 34.6% between 2025 and 2035, which is much faster than average. That works out to roughly 24,800 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Data Scientist?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Data Scientist roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become a Data Scientist?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Data Scientist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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