The Professional Development Award (PDA) in Data Science at SCQF Level 8 is a nationally recognised Scottish qualification designed to develop learners’ practical, transferable and professional data science skills.

The qualification is particularly suitable for learners who want to strengthen their existing digital, analytical and programming abilities, progress in their current career, or prepare for employment in data-related roles. It develops learners’ knowledge and practical skills in areas such as data analysis, programming, problem-solving and the application of data science techniques to real-world situations.

Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, the qualification enables learners to work confidently with data, interpret and communicate data-driven insights, and apply appropriate analytical approaches to professional challenges. The PDA supports learners in developing the skills and competencies required to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving technology sector and provides a strong foundation for further study and career development in data science and related fields.

SQA Framework:

The Level 8 PDA in Data Science consists of three mandatory units and one optional unit, providing an opportunity to earn 32 to 40 SCQF credit points.

The following tables outline the award at Level 8.

Specific Aims of the Qualifications:

• Develop learners’ analysis and communication skills to prepare them to work in a data professional role.
• Appreciate the range of tools and techniques available for data analysis, including packages, visualisation tools, notebooks and programming languages.
• Create data models, using large datasets, to gain insights into business data using a range of visualisations and dashboards.
• Create reproducible and automatable analyses of large datasets.
• Apply their knowledge and skills, in a collaborative context, to the analysis of large and/or complex datasets to produce insights

Articulation and/or Progression:

There are no formal articulation routes for this award. However, the qualification could lead to a number of potential destinations including under-graduate and post-graduate degree courses in data science.

Hands-On Experience:

ITPT currently provides a range of data-focused programmes, including PDA Data Science at SCQF Level 8 pathways in Python Programming with AI and Machine Learning and SQL with R Programming. The provision combines theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on learning, enabling learners to develop skills in programming, data analysis, visualisation, databases, AI and machine learning.

We also offer related programmes in Data Analytics, Advanced Data Analytics and HNC Computing with a Data Science specialisation (next generation), supporting learners to develop industry-relevant skills and progress towards data-related careers.

There are no strict formal entry requirements. Learners who have not completed the Level 7 qualification may still be considered for entry to the Level 8 programme, subject to the assessment of their skills, knowledge and experience.

• Learners who have successfully completed Level 7 can progress directly to Level 8.
• Learners with sufficient programming and data-analysis experience may also be eligible to enter Level 8 directly, without having previously completed Level 7.

Others;

• Learners should have good numeracy, logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Previous experience in data analysis is not essential.
• Learners should have a reasonable level of mathematical and numeracy skills suitable for Level 8 study.
• Basic knowledge of computers, spreadsheets such as Microsoft Excel, programming and data concepts would be beneficial.

Class Duration:

This intensive 18-week course is your ultimate fast-track to mastering everything you need to become a highly skilled and sought-after Data Scientist equipped with the knowledge and practical skills that open doors to the most exciting careers in tech.

Learning Modes:

1. Instructor-led Classroom Learning
2. Virtual/Remote Tutor-led Learning
3. Blended Learning (Classroom and Remote learning)
4. E-Learning/Self-paced Learning

Career Opportunities:

Upon successful completion of the programme and any associated certification examinations, learners may progress towards a range of entry-level and junior roles within the fields of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data, and Technology.

Potential career pathways include:

Common Roles in Data Science

• Data Scientist
• Data Analyst
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Data Engineer
• AI Researcher
• Data Modeller/Architect
• Business Intelligence Analyst

Target Audience:

The PDA in Data Science at SCQF Level 8 is aimed at learners who wish to develop and strengthen their practical skills in data science, data analysis and programming. It is particularly suitable for:

• Learners who have completed SCQF Level 7 in Data Science or a related subject and wish to progress to Level 8.
• Individuals with relevant programming or data-analysis experience who can demonstrate the skills required to enter Level 8 directly.
• Professionals and employees looking to enhance their digital, analytical and technical skills to support career progression.
• Learners seeking to move into data-related roles, such as data analyst, junior data scientist or other technology-focused positions.
• Individuals looking to reskill or upskill in response to the growing demand for data and digital skills across different industries.
• Learners intending to progress to further study in data science, computing, artificial intelligence, analytics or related areas.

The qualification is suitable for learners from a range of educational and professional backgrounds and is designed to provide practical, industry-relevant skills that can be applied in real-world working environments.