How hard is it to retrain in data science?

[aspiringdatascientist]

I am thinking of changing careers and going into data science (I am in mid-30s, currently have a back office job in finance). The salaries look amazing - there are grad positions for £70K+, and the area looks interesting and challenging. Will start with a Masters (fingers crossed that they accept me, it has been loooong time since I've been in education).
Wanted to ask if you, or anyone you know, has made this change? The area is very young and there is very little reliable info out there, unless directly from someone "in the know". I asked on studentroom, but there the audience seems to be mainly aspiring students too. I know MN has a very diverse audience, so wanted to ask here as well.

I am thinking of making it, I already have a PhD which was insanely data rich but have not been successful in getting a data science role yet.

Ah thanks Dragon. If you don't mind a question, what is your PhD in? My first degree (and Masters) are in Mathematics, but on the pure rather than applied side - worried that I won't have enough hands on experience.

My partner made the move three years ago, has currently joined a master's program.

I'd say your background experience will come into play. Do you have any programming experience, are you strong in maths.

Could I ask where you've seen the jobs for £70k for graduates? This doesn't stack up with what partner has seen at all. Salaries can get high, but not seen that level for entry positions in the SE. Would like to see what those jobs require :-)

It is a very interesting and challenging role. So many different places you can work. If it sounds like it's a fit, it's a growing area in IT.

There's a lot o young people in it, but not exclusively.

Good luck :-)

@NewnameOldposter
Thank you for the answer. I have a degree in Mathematics - albeit an old one - and have been doing courses in R and Python online.
I have seen positions like that in fintech / insurtech startups and some biotech too. Maybe not a completely fresh grad, but 1-2 years post qualification.
I will try and bring them here if I see them again.

@aspiringdatascientist
Having some coding is definitely good. R and python are a great start.
Some people in the masters don't have coding experience, so that will be great for you.

With the maths degree, I think you'll be fine getting onto a masters course.

Yes please for posting the jobs you've seen if you can. Partner looking to move jobs :-)

@aspiringdatascientist
My partner is more than happy to chat to you about any other info (or what the job is like, where offers masters programs etc.). I can do you if you like

Sigh, flipping autocorrect I can DM you if you like.

I'd concentrate on python with cloud eg AWS or GCP. Also specialize in NLP or images. I work in DS. That salary sounds like BS, but the pay can be good , and there is lots of demand.