Which IT career Options to choose from? Data Scientist, AI & ML, Software Development Business Analytics, Web Dev, Blockchain, Cybersecurity?
Are you evaluating various IT career options as a college student? Which IT career Options to choose from? Data Scientist, AI & ML, Software Development Business Analytics, Web Dev, Blockchain, Cybersecurity?
IT, that is, Information technology, is a vast field. It is continuously growing. Therefore, it offers various career options, especially to college students. Each role has its pros, cons and career journey, so it’s better to properly evaluate all IT career options before starting.
Table of Contents
Data Scientist
Data science is a rapidly growing and advantageous career option that involves extracting insights and knowledge from large volumes of data using various techniques, tools, and methodologies. Becoming a data scientist in India follows a similar path as in other countries, with some regional considerations.
How to be a Data Scientist?
Usually, one can start with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as computer science, statistics, mathematics, engineering, or physics. These fields provide a strong foundation for data science.
While not mandatory, a master’s degree in data science, machine learning, computer science, or a related field can enhance your skills and job prospects. Institutes like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), and others offer relevant programs.
Why to be a Data Scientist?
The scope of data science is vast and continues to grow as organizations across industries recognize the importance of data-driven decision-making and harnessing insights from data. Data science has become crucial for extracting valuable information from large datasets to drive business strategies, innovation, and problem-solving.
LinkedIn’s emerging jobs report claims that data science has emerged as the fastest-growing job requirement globally, striking more than 650% growth since 2012. The market has increased from USD 37.9 billion in 2019 to USD 230.80 billion by 2026.
Salary of Data Scientist in India
Here is a salary for data science in India based on post, location and experience.
Entry-Level Data Scientist (0-2 years of experience):
- Average Salary: ₹400,000 – ₹800,000 per annum
- Junior data scientists with limited experience may start at the lower end of this range.
Mid-Level Data Scientist (2-5 years of experience):
- Average Salary: ₹800,000 – ₹1,500,000 per annum
- Data scientists with a few years of experience and a proven track record often fall within this range.
Senior Data Scientist (5+ years of experience):
- Average Salary: ₹1,500,000 – ₹3,500,000 per annum (or more)
- Professionals with significant experience, domain expertise, and strong skills can command higher salaries.
Required Technical Skills for Data Science
- Programming: Learn programming languages like Python or R, widely used in data science for data manipulation, analysis, and modelling.
- Statistics and Mathematics: To be a successful career in the IT field, one can gain a strong understanding of statistics and linear algebra. These are fundamental for analyzing data and building predictive models.
- Data Manipulation and Analysis: You will learn to preprocess, clean, and analyze data using libraries like Pandas, NumPy, and Scikit-Learn.
- Machine Learning: Study machine learning concepts and algorithms. Besides, you can focus on supervised and unsupervised learning, regression, classification, clustering, and more.
- Data Visualization: Learn to visualize insights using Matplotlib, Seaborn, and Tableau libraries.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI & ML)
A career path in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) offers exciting opportunities for those interested in working with cutting-edge technologies to develop intelligent systems and applications.
The AI and ML field offers diverse opportunities, from research and academia to application development and innovation across industries. As you progress along this career path, your expertise in designing intelligent systems and leveraging data-driven insights will become increasingly valuable in shaping the future of technology.
How to Build a Career in AI and ML?
Start with a strong educational foundation in computer science, data science, mathematics, or a related field. A bachelor’s degree is often the minimum requirement, but advanced degrees (master’s or PhD) can provide a competitive edge.
Learn Fundamentals:
- Develop a solid understanding of programming languages (Python, R), algorithms, data structures, and linear algebra.
- Enrol in online courses and specializations focused on AI and ML. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity offer courses by experts in the field (e.g., Andrew Ng’s Machine Learning course).
- Study machine learning algorithms, supervised and unsupervised, neural networks, deep learning, and reinforcement learning.
Work on Projects for Practical Experience:
- Work on personal ML projects to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.
- Participate in Kaggle competitions to gain hands-on experience and showcase your skills.
Keep Learning
- Dive deeper into advanced ML concepts, including natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, and generative adversarial networks (GANs).
- Pursue advanced degrees for in-depth knowledge and open doors to research and specialized roles in academia or industry.
- Choose a specialization within AI/ML, such as computer vision, natural language processing, reinforcement learning, or data science.
- Earn relevant certifications from recognized organizations like Google, IBM, and Microsoft. If interested in cutting-edge research, consider working with research teams or pursuing a research-based career in academia or industry.
- Attend AI/ML conferences, workshops, and meetups to connect with professionals in the field and stay updated on the latest trends.
Industry Applications:
- Explore how AI and ML are applied in various industries like healthcare, finance, e-commerce, autonomous vehicles, robotics, etc.
- Seek internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions to gain practical experience in AI/ML projects within companies.
- Learn about data preprocessing, feature engineering, and data visualization; these skills are crucial for effective ML model development.
Indeed the AI and ML field offers diverse opportunities as one of the career options in IT, from research and academia to application development and innovation across industries. As you progress along this career path, your expertise in designing intelligent systems and leveraging data-driven insights will become increasingly valuable in shaping the future of technology.
Software Development
If you have problem-solving, Analytical skills, and coding skills, you can select the career option of software engineer among various IT career options.
Usually, software development refers to the process of designing, creating, testing, and maintaining software applications, systems, and solutions. Generally, Software is the set of instructions or programs that tell a computer what to do. This field is independent of hardware and makes computers programmable.
However, it involves a series of organized and systematic steps to turn a concept or idea into a functional and usable software product. Software developers, also known as programmers or coders, play a central role in this process.
Why be a Software Engineer?
Software engineers have one of the highest placement rates in India, which is 93.5% and have witnessed an enormous salary hike of 120% from 2021 to 2023
Becoming a software developer involves a combination of education, hands-on experience, continuous learning, and technical and soft skills development. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you become a software developer:
Education:
Obtain a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. While a degree is not always mandatory, it provides a solid foundation and is often preferred by employers.
Learn a programming language commonly used in software development. Popular options include Python, Java, C++, JavaScript, and more. Start with one language and expand your skills over time.
Learn Fundamentals:
To Study fundamental concepts such as data structures, algorithms, object-oriented programming, and software design principles. Online resources, textbooks, and coding platforms can help.
However, you can earn a certification to enhance your skills and knowledge. You can do any official certification course. Here is a list of certificates that you can select.
- Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP)
- Certified Software Engineer
- C Certified Professional Programmer (CLP)
- C++ Certified Professional Programmer (CPP)
- AWS Certified Developer
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
Gain Practical Experience:
Apply what you’ve learned by working on coding projects. Start with simple projects and gradually tackle more complex ones as you build your skills. Besides, Utilize online learning platforms like Codecademy, Coursera, edX, Udemy, and Khan Academy to access coding courses, tutorials, and exercises.
Usually, algorithms and data structures are core to software development—practice solving coding challenges on platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank. If interested, learn web development technologies like HTML, CSS, and frameworks like React or Angular to build interactive web applications.
Further, Debugging is a crucial skill. Learn how to identify and fix issues in your code. On the other hand, one can learn to use version control systems like Git. This is essential for collaborative development and managing code changes.
Explore Specializations:
Software development has various specializations, such as mobile app development, back-end development, and more. Indeed one needs to explore different areas to find your niche.
Software developers often work in teams. Develop communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills to collaborate with colleagues effectively.
Internships and networking:
Gain professional experience through internships, co-op programs, or entry-level developer positions. However, one can contribute to open-source projects to enhance your coding skills, collaborate with experienced developers, and build your reputation in the community.
Attend meetups, tech conferences, online communities and hackathons to connect with other developers, learn from their experiences, and stay updated on industry trends. This can boost your networking, becoming a boon for your IT career.
Software development is a continuous learning career option in IT. Stay curious, challenge yourself, and adapt to new technologies.
Salary of a Software Engineer in India
The salary of a software engineer in India can vary widely based on factors such as experience, skills, location, company size, industry, and job role.
As per the data of Ambitionbox, Software Engineer salary in India ranges between ₹ 2.8 Lakhs to ₹ 12.9 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 5.1 Lakhs
Here’s an approximate salary range for software engineers in India according to Payscale:
Data Analytics
Generally, Data Analytics” is a term that refers to a field of study and practice rather than a specific individual or entity. Business Analytics involves analyzing data to gain insights and inform business decision-making.
Besides, it encompasses various techniques, methodologies, and tools to analyze data and extract meaningful information to drive strategic actions and improvements within organizations.
Usually, Business analysts bridge the gap between IT and business teams using analytics to evaluate processes, ascertain needs, deliver data-driven solutions, and create reports to executives and stakeholders.
Education:
Usually, one can start an entry-level journey in business analytics with a graduation degree in economics, finance, information systems, or a related field that can provide a strong foundation. However, to gain a higher or management-level position, one must pursue a master’s degree.
Besides, one can consider obtaining certifications to showcase your skills and knowledge. The Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) certification from IIBA is widely recognized.
Gain practical and real-time experience:
Gaining practical and real-time experience as a Business Analyst involves a combination of education, hands-on projects, networking, and continuous learning. Usually, one can join local business analysis groups and attend seminars, workshops, and webinars to connect with experienced professionals in the field.
Online platforms like LinkedIn, Meetup and professional associations like IIBA (International Institute of Business Analysis) can provide excellent networking opportunities. Besides, one can consider offering business analysis services on freelancing platforms. This can provide you with practical experience and allow you to work on real projects for clients.
Usually, One can participate in online courses and tutorials that offer practical case studies and exercises. To involve solving real problems and add valuable experience to your resume, one can participate in business analysis competitions, hackathons, and case study challenges.
Salary of a Business Analyst in India
The salary of a Business Analyst depends on various factors such as skills, location, company, experience, position etc. Usually, The average salary of a Business analyst in India is around ₹612,656 per year. The below figure shows the salary of a business analyst in companies in India.
Web Development
Usually, a web developer is a professional who specializes in designing and creating websites and web applications. Generally, web developers use various programming languages, technologies, and tools to build websites’ visual elements, functionality, and interactivity.
They work on the front-end (user interface) and back-end (server-side logic) to ensure that websites are user-friendly, responsive, and functional.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an 8% job growth rate is projected for 2019-2019 web developers. Moreover, this rate is faster than average, and 14,000 new jobs are expected to open during this period. The median 2019 salary was $73,760 annually or $35.46 per hour.
First, one needs to decide whether he wants to specialize in front-end development (user interface), back-end development (server-side logic), or become a full-stack developer (proficient in both). One needs to gain education and specialised skills based on the selected path.
Education:
One can begin with the fundamentals of web development, including HTML, CSS, and basic JavaScript. These languages are the building blocks of websites. If interested in front-end development, delve deeper into technologies like responsive design, CSS frameworks (e.g., Bootstrap), and JavaScript libraries (e.g., jQuery).
However, JavaScript is crucial for interactivity and dynamic web content. Learn vanilla JavaScript first and then move on to frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.js for building modern web applications. If interested in back-end development, choose a programming language like Python, Ruby, PHP, Java, or Node.js. Learn about server-side scripting, databases, and server management.
Practice in Real-world:
There are various ways to gain practical experience. Practice is key. Start building small projects to apply your skills and gain hands-on experience. These projects can go into your portfolio.
Utilize online platforms like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, Udemy, and YouTube tutorials to learn and practice web development, besides collaborating with other developers on open-source or personal projects. This helps you learn teamwork and best practices.
Attend local meetups, tech conferences, and webinars to connect with other developers, learn from their experiences, and stay updated on industry trends.
Salary of a Web Developer in India
The salary of a web developer in India can vary based on factors such as experience, skills, location, company size, industry, and job role. In the figure below, you will get details of a web developer’s salary in India based on experience and post.
Blockchain
Generally, a blockchain developer is a specialized software engineer who designs, develops, and implements applications and solutions based on blockchain technology. Blockchain is a decentralized and distributed digital ledger technology that records transactions across multiple computers securely and transparently.
Blockchain developers create systems that leverage this technology to build secure, transparent, and tamper-proof applications.
As per MyGreatLearning data, the jobs of Blockchain developers are increasing at the rate of 2000-6000%. On the other hand, blockchain developers’ salary in India is 50-100% higher than other developer jobs. However, the main reason for this high salary is the gap between the number of jobs available and the number of skilled professionals in this field.
Cybersecurity
Usually, Cybersecurity refers to the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, devices, and data from digital attacks, unauthorized access, damage, and other threats. With the increasing reliance on technology and interconnected systems, Cybersecurity has become essential to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of digital assets and information.
As technology continues to evolve, so do cyber threats and the methods used to combat them. Cybersecurity professionals and organizations constantly adapt and develop new strategies to stay ahead of malicious actors and safeguard digital assets.
Besides job flexibility and transferability, cyber security is an IT career option that is required, not just technical. Business, medical, law, defence, and intelligence all need workers skilled in Cybersecurity.
As per the report of the International Telecommunication Union’s Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2020, India, at 10th overall, was moving up 37 spots on critical cybersecurity criteria. Besides this, India was ranked fourth in the Asia Pacific, demonstrating its dedication to Cybersecurity.
Education
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field is often a good starting point. However, some roles may require a master’s degree for more specialized positions.
Apart from a degree, one needs to develop proficiency in programming languages like Python, C++, and Java or scripting languages like PowerShell, as these skills are essential for understanding vulnerabilities and creating security tools.
Besides, enrol in cybersecurity courses and certifications, such as CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).
Gain Real-world Exposure:
Usually, seek internships or entry-level positions in IT departments, security firms, or organizations with dedicated cybersecurity teams. Practical experience is invaluable for gaining real-world exposure. Besides, participate in CTF competitions and challenges, which simulate real-world cybersecurity scenarios and enhance your problem-solving skills.
As you gain experience, consider pursuing more advanced certifications that align with your chosen specialization. Also, one can create personal projects to showcase your skills, such as developing security tools, writing technical blog posts, or contributing to open-source security projects.
Salary of Cybersecurity in India
As per the data of Ambitionbox, generally, Cyber Security Analyst salary in India with less than one year of experience to 6 years ranges from ₹ 2.7 Lakhs to ₹ 11 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 4.8 Lakh.
If we talk about the highest-paying Indian cybersecurity companies, then CrowdStrike, Splunk, Palo Alto, and ZScaler Pay are the companies.
You can get complete detail about cyber security in the link mentioned below.
Final Thoughts
In short, these are just a few examples of India’s many IT career options. The IT industry is vast and diverse, offering opportunities for individuals with various skills and interests. Choosing a career path that aligns with your skills, passion, and long-term goals is essential.