The Open Certified Data Scientist (Open CDS) program is the industry’s premier certification for Data Scientists and the organizations that employ them. It provides an independent, globally recognized assessment of a professional’s skills, knowledge, and real‑world experience in data science.

Open CDS is an experience‑based certification. There are no required training courses and no written exams. Instead, candidates demonstrate their competencies through written evidence and a peer review board.

What the Certification Confirms

Open CDS certification verifies that a Data Scientist has the capabilities required to:

• Produce effective, reliable, and actionable analysis of data
• Apply statistical, economic, and computational techniques to business problems
• Support data‑driven decision‑making across the organization
• Contribute meaningfully to the improvement of business outcomes

Candidates must demonstrate conformance to the program’s requirements through a structured application and peer interview.

Associate Data Scientist Credential

To support students, trainees, and career changers entering the profession, The Open Group has introduced the Associate Data Scientist Credential. This entry‑level credential recognizes foundational knowledge and provides a pathway toward full Open CDS certification.

Why Choose Open CDS?

Open CDS is:

• Peer‑reviewed and based on demonstrated professional experience
• Vendor‑neutral and globally recognized
• Portable, allowing professionals to carry their credential across roles and organizations
• Trusted by leading enterprises as an objective measure of capability
• A proven guide for filling critical data science roles
• An excellent career investment for data professionals at all stages

Certification Levels

The Open CDS program offers three levels of certification, reflecting increasing depth of experience, leadership, and professional impact.

Level 1: Certified Data Scientist

Demonstrates foundational experience applying data science techniques to solve business problems.

Level 2: Master Certified Data Scientist

Demonstrates independent leadership in designing, executing, and delivering data science solutions.

Level 3: Distinguished Certified Data Scientist

Recognized as an industry leader with significant influence, thought leadership, and sustained contributions to the data science profession.

How Certification Works

Open CDS certification is based on evidence of real‑world experience, not exams.

Candidates must:

1. Prepare a written application demonstrating conformance to the program’s requirements
2. Provide evidence of relevant skills, achievements, and professional contributions
3. Participate in a peer review board interview

Successful candidates are awarded certification at the level that matches their demonstrated experience.

Key Contribution of Data Scientists

Data Scientists bring a unique combination of statistical, economic, and computer science techniques to address complex business challenges. Their ability to integrate these disciplines enables organizations to:

• Extract insights from data
• Build predictive and prescriptive models
• Improve decision‑making
• Drive measurable business value