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Principal Data Scientist (PDS)/data-science-certifications/principal-data-scientist

Principal Data Scientist (PDS™)

As a seasoned leader transforming businesses through data analytics and intelligence, the PDS™ certification recognizes your strategic influence and ability to drive innovation. Elevate your professional stature with a credential designed for high-level technology executives and thought leaders.

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Overview

A Mark of Leadership Excellence

The PDS™ certification is a testament to your expertise and leadership in data science. It elevates your professional stature by recognizing your ability to drive innovation and deliver impactful results across industries. Whether transforming business infrastructures or shaping data science trends, you lead the way in cutting-edge analytics. As a certified professional, you are distinguished by:

  • Leading the transformation of business and data infrastructures
  • Architecting enterprise-wide BI systems
  • Shaping trends in data science and technology
  • Driving organizational growth through data-driven strategies

The PDS™: A Lifelong Credential

The PDS™ certification is a permanent credential that establishes your status as a data science leader. To maintain your designation and keep it in good standing, you’ll need to update your professional achievements and learning every five years through the myDASCA dashboard. With automatic reminders and simple tools, staying current is effortless.

Go to PDS™ Candidacy

Track 1

For Invite-Only Applicants
US$ 950

Track 3

For Upgrade from SDS™
US$ 750

Track 2

Via Corporate Nomination
US$ 1250

Track 4

For Open Applications
US$ 1450

Track 1

For Invite-Only Applicants
US$ 850

Track 2

Via Corporate Nomination
US$ 1250

Track 3

For Upgrade from SDS™
US$ 750

Track 4

For Open Applications
US$ 1450

Fee for Track 1 Applicants: is one-time, and covers all non-exam assessment components; study resources (the Data Science Handbook 1 and the Data Science Handbook 2); the PDS™ digital badge; the PDS™ credential kit, and shipping of all material. Digital access and LMS hosting costs of optional third-party study resources are also included in the PDS™ fee package wherever applicable.

Fee for Track 2 & Track 4 Applicants: is one-time and covers the PDS™ certification exam and other assessment components; study and exam-preparation resources (the Data Science Handbook 1 and the Data Science Handbook 2); the PDS™ digital badge; the PDS™ credential kit, and shipping of all material. Digital access and LMS hosting costs of optional third-party study resources are also included in the PDS™ fee package wherever applicable.

Fee for Track 3 (SDS™ Upgrade) Applicants: is one-time and covers all non-exam assessment components; the PDS™ digital badge; the PDS™ credential kit, and shipping. Since SDS™ candidates already have the data science handbooks and access to third-party digital learning resources, and there is no certification exam, no study material is shipped or shared with Track 3 applicants as part of the package.

Refund requests made within 24 hours of payment will be subject to a US$ 80 processing fee. No refunds will be issued for registration cancellation requests after 24 hours of registration.

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Key Program Highlights

  • Globally Recognized

    The PDS™ credential is respected worldwide, showcasing your leadership in data science across industries.

  • Seamless Digital Process

    From application to assessments, the entire certification process is conducted online through the myDASCA dashboard.

  • Flexible Time to Complete

    You have up to one year to meet all certification requirements, with a recommended 8–10 hours of weekly engagement.

  • Exclusive PDS™ Digital Badge

    Display your achievement with a PDS™ digital badge, along with a printed certificate and lapel pin.

  • Ongoing Credential Management

    Maintain and update your certification status with ease through the myDASCA dashboard, ensuring it remains active.

  • Strategic Career Advancement

    The PDS™ certification elevates your professional profile, positioning you for executive roles requiring data-driven leadership.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD ACHIEVING YOUR GOALS

Learn more about PDS™ by downloading the program brochure.

Candidacy

PDS™ candidates are visionary leaders with the expertise to design, execute, and manage enterprise-wide data and business intelligence systems. Their careers exhibit a consistent streak of professional contribution and an express potential to push the frontiers of data science and develop business intelligence for organizations. With deep knowledge of business strategy, marketing, and finance, they are equipped to drive organizational transformation. Applications for PDS™ are open year-round across four tracks, offering flexibility for experienced professionals.

  • Invitations for PDS™ are extended to senior professionals and academic leaders, including faculty and professors, with at least 10 years of outstanding contributions in areas like data architecture, governance, business intelligence, AI, or IoT. These individuals have spearheaded transformative initiatives, driving innovation, operational efficiency, and strategic growth within their organizations or academic institutions, significantly enhancing their ability to leverage data for competitive advantage. Most invitees hold advanced degrees (Ph.D. or Master’s) in related fields. Track 1 applicants are exempt from the PDS™ certification exam.

  • Track 2 candidates are recognized for driving innovation in data technologies and strategically leveraging data within their organizations. This track is open to senior data science professionals nominated by their employers, with at least 10 years of experience in areas like data analytics, architecture, governance, and business intelligence. Specialized expertise in AI, IoT, or related fields is also required, alongside a Bachelor's degree in disciplines such as information technology, computer science, mathematics, or related areas.

  • This track is for professionals holding the Senior Data Scientist (SDS™) credential, with a minimum of 8 years of work experience. A Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, or related disciplines is required. Candidates must have held their SDS™ credential for at least 1 year prior to applying. Track 3 candidates are exempt from the PDS™ certification exam but must complete the submission-based assessments.

  • This track is open to senior data science professionals with advanced degrees, such as a Ph.D. or Master’s, and significant experience in areas like data analytics, architecture, governance, and business intelligence. Master's degree holders must have at least 10 years of total work experience, while Ph.D. holders require a minimum of 8 years of work experience. Candidates must complete all four levels of PDS™ assessments to earn the credential.

SDS Logo

Not Eligible for Any PDS™ Track?

If your current qualifications and experience don’t meet the PDS™ requirements, consider the Senior Data Scientist (SDS™) certification. Achieving the SDS™ credential makes you eligible to apply for PDS™ under Track 3 after one year. SDS™ is ideal for professionals aiming to advance into senior data science roles, validating their expertise in leading data and business intelligence solutions.

Download SDS™ Program Brochure

PDS™ Assessment Structure

The PDS™ certification process rigorously assesses your expertise, leadership, and impact across four key milestones, validating your readiness for senior roles in data science. You can complete the certification in 3 to 6 months or take up to a year, allowing flexibility to fit your schedule and professional commitments.

The assessment includes four components: the first three are non-exam submissions showcasing your career achievements, strategic leadership, and contributions, all reviewed via your myDASCA dashboard. The final component, a remote-proctored exam (required for Tracks 2 and 4), evaluates your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills and can be scheduled at your convenience.

Milestones Description Structure for Track 1 and Track 3 Structure for Track 2 and Track 4
Milestone#1: Professional Growth Candidates are required to submit five concise narratives (300-500 words each) detailing their professional development, including leadership roles, key career milestones, and significant contributions within the data science field. 40% 25%
Milestone#2: Career Accomplishments Candidates submit a detailed account of their significant achievements, focusing on technical innovations, data-driven solutions, and projects with measurable business impact. These achievements are presented in five concise narratives (300-500 words each), illustrating their contribution to organizational success. 40% 30%
Milestone#3: Professional Impact & Influence Candidates submit five narratives (300-500 words each) demonstrating how they have shaped business strategy, influenced decision-making, or driven organizational growth. This milestone highlights their leadership, strategic contributions, and mentorship roles within their organizations. 20% 15%
Milestone#4: Final Certification Exam Candidates complete a remote-proctored exam designed to assess their technical expertise and ability to apply advanced data analytics to real-world business challenges. This exam evaluates their proficiency in critical data science concepts and their capacity to develop solutions that drive strategic decision-making. Exempted 30%

PDS™ Exam Overview

The PDS™ certification exam is a remote-proctored, online assessment that candidates can schedule and take from anywhere via their myDASCA dashboard. Information on the exam coverage is provided below, or you can read more about the examination here.

Preparing for the PDS™ Exam

After completing registration, candidates receive two exclusive handbooks specifically designed to support their exam preparation. The first handbook covers the development of data analytics and big data capabilities within organizations, offering insights into essential tools, methodologies, and best practices. The second handbook focuses on generating higher-order outcomes for data scientists, emphasizing advanced business intelligence applications that drive strategic decision-making and business growth. Together, these handbooks provide comprehensive guidance on the core themes and competencies assessed in the PDS™ certification exam.

The PDS™ Handbooks

Examination Coverage Information

  • Data Science Applications in Business
    15% +
  • The Functional Framework of Data Science
    18% +
  • Driving Business Through Big Data Analytics
    17% +
  • Building Pan-Organization Support
    15% +
  • Data Science Essentials for Data Scientists
    15% +
  • Big Data Analytics Essentials for Data Scientists
    10% +
  • Advanced Data Science for Data Scientists
    10% +

Award of the PDS™ Credential

Earning the Principal Data Scientist (PDS™) certification recognizes candidates globally for their expertise and impact in data science. PDS™ serves as a benchmark of advanced skills and leadership, setting recipients apart as top-tier professionals capable of driving strategic, data-driven initiatives within their organizations. After completing all certification requirements, candidates receive a credential case containing a physical certificate, a lapel pin, and a digital badge. These physical and digital representations of their achievement serve as a testament to their expertise and dedication in the field of data science and analytics.

Adding the PDS™ designation to your professional title enhances your credibility and signals your commitment to excellence and continuous learning in data science. This globally respected designation boosts your visibility among peers, hiring managers, and industry leaders, positioning you as an authority in data analytics, machine learning, and business intelligence.

The PDS™ Digital Badge

Why Showcase Your PDS™ Designation?

  • Professional Prestige

    The PDS™ designation is a mark of high achievement and dedication to advancing data science, distinguishing you as a leader in a competitive field.

  • Career Advancement

    Including the PDS™ designation in your title opens doors to senior roles and leadership opportunities across industries.

  • Peer Recognition

    With PDS™, you gain recognition within a respected network of data science professionals, enhancing opportunities for connection and collaboration.

  • Employer Confidence

    PDS™ assures employers and clients of your proven skills, instilling confidence in your ability to lead high-impact, data-driven projects.

How to Showcase your Digital Badge

Earning the PDS™ - A Preview of the Certification Journey

There are six distinct stages of your PDS™ certification journey. Here’s a quick tour of what these stages look like. You may Contact Us for more information.

  • 01

    Check Your Eligibility

    Before you begin your application, it is important to confirm your eligibility. Start by checking your candidacy here, to ensure that you meet the minimum eligibility requirements for PDS™.

  • 02

    Complete Your PDS™ Registration

    Once you've confirmed your eligibility, the next step in starting the application process is to create your myDASCA account. This account will give you access to an easy online application process. You will need to fill out a form with accurate and complete details about your educational qualifications and work experience. After successfully submitting the online PDS™ application form and paying the fee, you will receive a registration confirmation email and access to your myDASCA dashboard.

    Note:

    • When creating your account, you must use the legal name exactly as it appears on your government-issued identification (ID).
    • Register with a personal email for uninterrupted access to important emails from the Data Science Council of America.

  • 03

    Study and Prepare

    After you have successfully completed the PDS™ registration process, the logistics team will contact you via your registered email address to confirm your shipping information. You must ensure and confirm that the shipping address is accurate. If any changes are needed, you should make them within 24 hours of completing your registration. Candidates in Track 1, Track 2 and Track 4 will receive the DASCA Exam Preparation Kit, which includes two Data Science handbooks for essential reading, within the standard delivery timeframe of 3-4 weeks. For Track 3 candidates, no study material is shipped or shared, as you already received them as an SDS™ candidate.

  • 04

    Complete PDS™ Assessment Milestones & Schedule Your Exam

    It is essential to complete the assessment milestones relevant to your chosen track. Candidates in Tracks 2 and 4 are required to complete all four assessment milestones, which include the PDS™ certification exam. Candidates in Tracks 1 and 3 need only to complete the first three milestones, as the PDS™ certification exam is exempted for them. All PDS™ assessment milestones can conveniently be completed right on your dashboard.

    Once candidates from Tracks 2 and 4 are ready to take the PDS™ certification exam, they can easily schedule it online through their myDASCA dashboard. DASCA provides 365 days from the registration completion date for the candidates to study, prepare for, and take their exams. It is strongly recommended that you thoroughly familiarize yourself with the exam policies prior to scheduling the exam.

    Read more about the exam scheduling policy here.

  • 05

    Certification Award

    After passing the PDS™ certification exam and meeting all certification requirements defined by the DASCA Professional Certifications Board (DPCB), the results are published within 96 business hours of taking and successfully completing the exam.

    Once the results are published, the Digital Badge will be made immediately available to you. You can expect to receive the PDS™ credential kit, which includes a printed PDS™ certificate, lapel pin, and the DASCA code of ethics booklet, within 3-4 weeks from the date of the award. You will also receive an email containing details of your digital badge, allowing you to showcase your achievement on social platforms. After receiving your award, you will be able to use the designation after your name.

  • 06

    Maintaining Your Credential

    While your PDS™ credential, once awarded, will never expire, it is a permanent designation. To maintain your designation and keep it in good standing, you’ll need to update your professional achievements and learning every five years through the myDASCA dashboard. With automatic reminders and simple tools, staying current is effortless.

Register Now

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