A career in data analytics may be achievable after obtaining an online certification from these top tech firms, universities
With the data-related occupations growing at “rapid” rates, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, learning the necessary skills to excel in the field is an increasingly popular objective of many entry-level and even mid-career professionals.
For those who are interested in the organization and visualization of data, becoming a data analyst can be an effective pathway toward a long career across many different industries. Plus, data analyst salaries average over $80,000, making it a lucrative career choice for many.
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Visit WebsiteBut data analyst’s day-to-day tasks are no joke. Experts in the field are good at mathematics, statistics, and computer science—areas that even just alone can be challenging. Moreover, data analysts are generally familiar with programming languages like SQL, R, and/or Python plus software like Microsoft Excel and Tableau.
If this sparks your interest, it can be a good idea to check out free videos and data sets available on the Internet to see if data analytics is a subject that deeply interests you, says Joel Shapiro, clinical associate professor of managerial economics and decision sciences at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.
Then, with a growing number of flexible, online learning options on the market, obtaining data analyst skills via a certification program is one way you can score the position of your dreams—no matter your skill level.
Shapiro says he is a big proponent in simply diving in real-world settings when it comes to learning.
“As someone learns basic data analytics, they can start applying those tools and concepts at work with whatever data they have at their disposal,” Shapiro adds. “Over time, they will naturally improve, because they will find a need for more data, better tools, and better methods for analysis, which will in turn lead to more inquiry and more learning.”
When it comes to data analytic certifications programs, Fortune has you covered with just some of the offerings out there. Most importantly, though, consider which programs best cater to your personal needs, experience level, and career trajectory.
Length: Self-determined
Cost: $246 (exam voucher) to $1,999 (exam plus live online training)
Prerequisite knowledge: “CompTIA recommends 18–24 months of experience in a report/business analyst job role, exposure to databases and analytical tools, a basic understanding of statistics, and data visualization experience.”
Course examples: N/A
Length: 39 hours
Cost: $25/month
Prerequisite knowledge: None
Course examples: Data Manipulation in SQL, Data-Driven Decision Making in SQL, Understanding Data Visualization
Length: 9 weeks
Cost: $3,900 or $1,350/month
Prerequisite knowledge: Experience in statistics and Excel is helpful
Course examples: Understanding and Visualizing Data, Implementing Scientific Decision Making, Using Predictive Data Analysis
Length: 6 months (at 10 hours/week)
Cost: $49/month (also part of Coursera Plus)
Prerequisite knowledge: None
Course examples: Process Data from Dirty to Clean, Share Data Through the Art of Visualization, Data Analysis with R Programming
Length: Average student takes 1.5 years (four courses)
Cost: $12,880
Prerequisite knowledge: Experience in statistics, calculus, linear algebra, and business is viewed as positive
Course examples: Introduction to Statistical Modeling, Data Mining for Business, Designing and Developing Relational and NoSQL Databases
Length: 4 months (at 10 hours/week)
Cost: $49/month
Prerequisite knowledge: None
Course examples: Python for Data Science, AI & Development, Data Visualization and Dashboards with Excel and Cognos, Data Analysis with Python
Length: 5 months (at 10 hours/week)
Cost: $49/month (also part of Coursera Plus)
Prerequisite knowledge: None
Course examples: Harnessing the Power of Data with Power BI, Data Modeling in Power BI, Creative Designing in Power BI
Length: Self-determined
Cost: $180 (exam fee)
Prerequisite knowledge: “Experience with SAS Visual Analytics on either the SAS Viya platform or the SAS 9.4 platform is acceptable for your exam preparation.”
Course examples: N/A
Length: Self-determined
Cost: $250 (exam fee)
Prerequisite knowledge: “Candidates are strongly encouraged to have a minimum of 6 months experience.”
Course examples: N/A
