This article maps a possible curriculum for becoming a data scientist and discusses where to begin learning the field.

nirvacana.com/thoughts/2013/07/08/becoming-a-d…
Curriculum via Metro map homepage screenshot

About Curriculum via Metro map

This 2013 article shares a visual, metro map-style curriculum for people pursuing a career as a data scientist. It addresses common questions about where to begin learning the field, what skills to acquire, and how to track progress along the learning path. The curriculum is organized into 9 core domains: Fundamentals, Statistics, Programming, Machine Learning, Text Mining/NLP, Data Visualization, Big Data, Data Ingestion, Data Munging, and Toolbox. Each domain is represented as a "metro line" with individual topics as progressive stations, and the plan prioritizes open source tools, with optional mention of commercial alternatives like IBM SPSS or SAS Enterprise Miner. The author frames the guide as a solid starting point rather than a complete, end-to-end resource.

Key features

  • Metro map-style visual learning roadmap for aspiring data scientists
  • Progressive topic stations organized by core skill domain
  • Covers 9 key data science skill and knowledge areas
  • Prioritizes open source tools and libraries for learning
  • Accommodates optional use of commercial analytics software
  • Flexible structure for self-directed, personalized learning plans
Best for: Self-directed learners beginning their journey to become a data scientist who want a structured, visual skill roadmap.
Good for
  • Provides a rare visual, easy-to-follow representation of a data science learning path
  • Flexible design lets users prioritize skill areas aligned with their goals
  • Supports use of both open source and commercial analytics tools
Watch out for
  • Static visualization, not the interactive version the author planned to release
  • Explicitly framed as a starting point, not a complete end-to-end learning guide
  • Published in 2013, so some included tools or skill priorities may be outdated

Curriculum via Metro map at a glance

Type
Website
Pricing
Not confirmed. Check the site
Platforms
Web
Open source
Not stated
Language
English
Last checked
Oct 5, 2026 · Online when checked
Listed
Oct 5, 2026

Curriculum via Metro map alternatives

Tools and sites you could use instead, ranked by how closely they match.

All 24 alternatives

Popular in Science, Math & Technology

Well-known listings from the same topic.

All 276

Curriculum via Metro map FAQ

What core skill domains are included in the curriculum?
The curriculum covers 9 domains: Fundamentals, Statistics, Programming, Machine Learning, Text Mining/NLP, Data Visualization, Big Data, Data Ingestion, Data Munging, and Toolbox.
Does the curriculum require commercial software?
No, the plan is built primarily around open source tools, though users may optionally use commercial tools like IBM SPSS or SAS Enterprise Miner.
Is this guide a complete resource for becoming a data scientist?
No, the author frames it as a solid starting point rather than a full, end-to-end learning guide.
Is something wrong or out of date?

Tell us and an editor will check it.

Own this website?

Claim the listing and suggest updates yourself. An editor checks every claim first.

Claim this listing