Data science apprenticeships are a great way to step into a career in tech. They offer invaluable on-the-job training, mentorship, and a pathway to employment in the field of data science. For graduates of data science coding bootcamps or degree programs, a data science apprenticeship can be a crucial first step to a lucrative career.
This guide on the best data science apprenticeships today will explore what a data science apprenticeship program entails and what benefits it offers to graduates or career switchers. It will also cover common data science apprenticeship jobs available and how to get a data science apprenticeship in 2023.
What Is a Data Science Apprenticeship?
A data science apprenticeship is a training program that allows newcomers to the field to work alongside experienced data scientists in a professional environment to gain practical experience and hands-on skills. Data science apprenticeship jobs are paid positions that usually last around one year and often include a mix of on-the-job training and traditional classroom learning.
What Does a Data Science Apprentice Do?
A data science apprentice uses their growing skills in statistical analysis, data visualization, and machine learning to collaborate on real-world projects as a part of a company’s data science or information technology team. They work alongside experienced professionals to gain hands-on experience in data science processes and procedures such as data analyses and interpretation.
The goal of this type of role is to learn on the job and to make more and more meaningful contributions to the team over time through guidance and feedback. In many cases, data science apprentices are perfectly positioned to transition into full-time roles in their company after completing their program.
The 8 Best Data Science Apprenticeship Jobs
Each of the data science apprenticeship jobs featured below provides comprehensive training, hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, and will open doors to long-term career growth. Many of these programs are offered by some of the most well-known tech companies in the world, which means you’ll be working alongside highly knowledgeable industry experts.
| Program | Company | Location | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twitch x Onramp Data Science Apprenticeship | Twitch | San Francisco, Seattle, New York, and Salt Lake City, Remote | 6 months |
| Junior Data Scientist Apprenticeship | IBM | Across the US | 2+ years |
| Data Science Apprenticeship Program (DSA) | Uber | San Francisco, US | 6 months |
| Engineering Apprentice – Data Science | San Francisco, US | 1 year | |
| Data Science Apprenticeship | Meta | London, UK | 18 months |
| Data Science Apprenticeship | AstraZeneca | Cambridge, UK,Macclesfield, UK | 4 years |
| Data Scientist Apprenticeship | BP | London, UK, Budapest, HU |
Not available |
| Work-Study Data Science Apprenticeship | Noventiq | Barcelona, SP | 1 – 3 years |
The Best Data Science Apprenticeship Jobs: A Closer Look
1. Data Apprentice – Twitch
This immersive program offered by Twitch is ideal for graduates of data science bootcamps, community college courses, or people who gained their data science education online. To be accepted in the program, applicants must have a novice or intermediate-level knowledge of Python, SQL, R, and statistics.
The data apprenticeship at Twitch is offered in San Francisco, Seattle, New York, and Salt Lake City, and can also be done remotely. The apprenticeship starts with a one-month project-based training period before the six-month program begins. Apprentices have the opportunity to gain full-time employment with Twitch after successful completion of the program.
2. Junior Data Scientist Apprentice – IBM
As an IBM Junior Data Scientist apprentice, you’ll jumpstart your career in data science by employing data science practices such as data cleaning, statistical modeling, and translating data insights to address business needs. This full-time, paid apprenticeship is available nationally and lasts up to 24 months.
IBM promises to develop their apprentices with key skills needed to succeed in a career in data science, including programming proficiency in Python and R alongside soft skills such as presenting and communication. Upon completion of the program, junior data scientist apprentices will earn a certification from the Department of Labor.
3. Data Science Apprenticeship Program – Uber
Uber’s Data Science apprenticeship program, undertaken from its San Francisco headquarters, offers apprentices hands-on experience working on real-world projects. To qualify for the program, applicants must have a Bachelor’s Degree in STEM fields such as Computer Science, Engineering, or Statistics or two years of professional experience in data, engineering, analytics, or research.
This program is designed for people with a passion for data analytics who lack the hands-on experience to land jobs in the field. The program begins with three months of classroom instruction and then another three months of on-the-job training and mentorship. Those who complete the program are fast-tracked through the hiring process for job vacancies at Uber.
4. Engineering Apprentice: Data Science – Twitter
Twitter’s Engineering apprenticeship program for data science provides a streamlined route into a role within a team at Twitter. This program is aimed toward people from non-traditional tech backgrounds, such as coding bootcamp graduates, veterans, and self-taught coders. People from underrepresented groups in tech such as women, Black, and Latinx are also encouraged to apply.
This year-long program based in San Francisco will see data science engineering apprentices collaborate with Twitter engineers to solve technical challenges and enhance the platform’s user experience. Apprentices will also gain exposure to the product development lifecycle and execute data science responsibilities such as applying statistical models and communicating findings.
5. Data Science Apprenticeship – Meta
The 18-month data science apprenticeship program with Meta is hosted by the company’s London, United Kingdom location. This paid, full-time program is developed for people newly entering the field of data science such as graduating students or individuals switching careers. The program consists of work on real-world projects and formal, focused training by Meta mentors and managers.
Applicants should have an interest in data analytics and a background in IT. They should also be interested in working with tools such as Excel and Tableau, and have a basic understanding of data science programming languages such as Python and SQL.
6. Data Science Apprenticeship Programme – AstraZeneca
Biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca offers a comprehensive, four-year apprenticeship opportunity to work among many of its teams. While working in a role with AstraZeneca, apprentices will also study to complete their data science degree. The format of the apprenticeship program is delivered both in-person and virtually, with the third year spent in a bootcamp learning format.
Desired applicants for the AstraZeneca data science apprenticeship program are individuals who are passionate about data and enthusiastic to learn. They should be self-motivated with strong organizational skills and the ability to work well in a team environment.
7. Data Scientist Apprenticeship – BP
Leading energy company, BP, provides a data science apprenticeship perfect for innovative thinkers with a STEM degree. Each apprentice is paired with a lead developer and assists with real-world projects by coding and creating new data models, testing data connections, and setting up data extractions.
BP asks that applicants be excellent team players with strong interpersonal, planning, and organizational skills. Overall, this data scientist apprenticeship focuses on developing well-rounded and business-ready digital talent.
8. Data Scientist Apprenticeship – Noventiq
Noventiq and Harbor.Space University have partnered up to offer aspiring data scientists the opportunity to jointly gain a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Data Science and work alongside industry experts through a data science apprenticeship. The program takes place in Barcelona and lasts between one and three years.
Data science apprentices at Noventiq receive a monthly living stipend and are expected to work six hours per day. During the course of their employment, apprentices learn how to create AI and IoT solutions and improve their data mining, statistical analysis, and programming skills.
Data Science Apprenticeship Salary
The average data science apprenticeship salary in the US is $44,773, according to ZipRecruiter, but this number will largely depend on what company you work for and where your apprenticeship is taking place. For example, Glassdoor reports that the average base pay for a data science apprentice at IBM can range between $79,000 and $125,000.
Once you complete your apprenticeship and have the training and mentorship you need to start progressing in your career, you can expect to earn a comfortable salary. ZipRecruiter reveals that the national average salary for a data scientist is $127,128.
How to Get a Data Science Apprenticeship
Getting a data science apprenticeship job can be a challenge, as there are not many positions available and you might be up against other passionate applicants. Luckily, there are a variety of educational resources available to help you gain the background knowledge you need to stand out to hiring managers and improve your resume. Here are some training options you can consider if you are hoping to become a data science apprentice.
1. Bootcamps
Data science bootcamps are short training programs that focus on hands-on skills and career preparedness. Bootcamps usually last between four and nine months, depending on if you attend full-time or part-time. During that period you will learn all the data science skills you need to qualify for entry-level jobs. Most coding bootcamps also provide a range of career services to help you get hired.
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2. Trade Schools
Trade schools are similar to coding bootcamps in that they provide hands-on training, usually with a focus on the skills you need for a specific career path. Data science trade school programs tend to include workshops, labs, and practical exercises on technical skills, and most programs last between a few months and two years.
3. Vocational Training
Vocational training can take many different forms. Colleges and universities often offer certificate programs and online courses that students can complete for less time and money than it takes to earn a full degree. In some cases, the credits you earn completing an undergraduate certificate can be transferred if you decide to earn a data science associate degree or bachelor’s degree later on.
4. Internships
Internships are the perfect way of preparing for a data science apprenticeship because they will provide you with relevant job experience as well as hands-on training. Internships are typically shorter than apprenticeships and can be easier to come by because there are more available. You can read about some of the best data science internships below.
- Data Science internship – Blizzard. Blizzard Entertainment internships last 12 weeks over the summer. The exact programs offered vary each year, but positions in data science and data analytics are common. Blizzard is interested in passionate and creative individuals, so make sure to include examples of your projects in your application.
- Energy, Data Science internship – Tesla. Tesla internships last three months, during which interns are treated as full-time employees, working alongside experts on innovative new projects. Data science interns work with a range of teams, collecting, analyzing, and summarizing data while building new software and statistical tools.
- Data science internship – JP MORGAN. JP Morgan offers over 40 internship programs in locations all over the country. Data science interns are placed on teams based on their interests. Options include machine learning, AI research, quantitative research, marketing, and asset management. To apply, you must be an undergraduate student.
Is a Data Science Apprenticeship Worth It?
Yes, a data science apprenticeship is worth it if you are looking to start a career in this field. The mentorship and real-world experience you gain can be extremely beneficial in opening doors to higher-level positions. Even if you don’t end up getting hired by the same company you complete your apprenticeship with, the work experience will make your resume stand out from the crowd.
Data science is a very quickly growing field with great potential for career growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, data scientists have a job outlook of 36 percent, which means you should have plenty of opportunities waiting for you. Data science apprenticeship programs can be competitive, but the effort is certainly worth it for all the benefits you will glean from your experience.
Data Science Apprenticeship FAQ
It can take anywhere between six months and four years to become a data scientist, depending on your chosen educational path. The fastest way to become a data scientist is by attending a data science bootcamp, which usually takes less than one year. Alternatively, you can gain a bachelor’s degree in a related field in four years.
With a data science degree, you can land jobs including data analyst, database administrator, statistician, network architect, and business analyst. Many data science majors also enter fast-growing fields like machine learning and artificial intelligence.
Data science is important in today’s society because it allows businesses and organizations of all kinds to make more informed decisions, optimize operations, and better serve their customer base. The key insights data scientists are able to extract from large data sets play a vital role in new government policies, healthcare research, and scientific advancements.
The difference between data science and data analytics is that data science has a far broader scope. While data analysts typically examine existing data to identify trends and patterns, data scientists build new predictive models and machine learning algorithms, collect new data sets, and use advanced statistical methods to solve complex problems.
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