Monash University launches data science microcredential to address data scientist talent shortage

Monash University, one of Australia’s leading universities, has launched its first microcredential entitled Data Science: Data-Driven Decision Making, now available on FutureLearn.com. Careers in data science remain highly attractive, ranking 6th in Glassdoor’s 25 Best Jobs in the UK for 2020 list – up from 7th last year – with a median base salary of over £45,000. Yet data from The Royal Society shows the demand for skilled data scientists and engineers has more than tripled over five years to 231%. This talent shortage is likely to increase according to the inaugural Data Science Skills Survey, which also found that the lack of skills, support and time to upskill have caused major blockers for existing data science professionals.