If you’re on the hunt for the best data analytics programs, we’ve got you covered.
In this article we’ve reviewed and summarized 5 of the best data analytics courses available online.
Taking the plunge and solidifying your data analyst skills with a formal qualification is a crucial career move in climbing the ladder in your workplace.
A data analytics program condenses a huge amount of content into a short course so that you can make a real impact on your next data initiative.
What are the Best Data Analytics Programs?
Here are my top 5 data analytics programs for 2023:
- IBM Data Analyst Professional Certificate | IBM
- Professional Certificate in Data Science and Analytics | MIT
- From Data to Insights | NUS
- Datacamp Data Analyst Career Paths
- Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate
Let’s take a look at the top data analytics programs in more detail.
IBM Data Analyst Professional Certificate | Review
All-round best data analytics program
Provider: IBM
Cost: $783.90 with discount ($871 full price)
Duration: 10 months
Time Commitment: 2 – 4 hours per week
Are you ready to dive into the world of data analytics?
Check out the IBM Data Analyst Professional Certificate, one of the best data analytics programs available.
Offered through edX, this nine-course program equips you with essential data analysis skills and tools in just 10 months.
With a hands-on approach, IBM’s expert instructors, and real-world projects, this course is an excellent choice for those looking to kickstart their data analysis career.
Curriculum: Comprehensive Data Analytics Journey
The course covers everything from data collection to data ethics, ensuring you’re well-versed in the data ecosystem.
You’ll learn to create charts and plots in Excel, compose SQL and Python queries, develop your Python skills, and analyze data using Python libraries like Pandas and Numpy.
With the help of IBM Cognos Analytics and IBM Watson Studio, you’ll become proficient in data visualization, data wrangling, and much more.
Highlights: Real-World Projects and In-Demand Skills
What sets this program apart is its focus on real-world projects.
You’ll analyze customer reviews, predict house prices, segment customers, detect credit card fraud, and create dashboards, giving you hands-on experience to impress future employers.
Plus, with the growing demand for data analysts, you’ll be well-prepared for various career paths across different industries.
Pros: Expert Instructors and Valuable Resources
By enrolling in this program, you’ll learn from IBM experts who have extensive experience in data analysis and data science.
You’ll gain practical, in-demand skills like data wrangling, data visualization, and machine learning. Plus, with access to IBM cloud services, you can work with large, complex data sets and apply advanced analytics techniques, all while being part of a global community of learners.
Cons: Investment in Time and Money
Keep in mind that this program requires a $783 USD fee to access graded assignments and the certificate.
However, you can audit the courses for free, albeit without receiving the certificate or feedback. Additionally, you’ll need a basic understanding of mathematics, statistics, and programming, as well as a reliable internet connection and a computer that meets minimum requirements.
Bottom Line: A Worthwhile Investment in Your Data Analytics Career
Overall, the IBM Data Analyst Professional Certificate stands out among the best data analytics programs.
With its comprehensive curriculum, real-world projects, and expert instructors, it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enter the field of data analysis. So, if you’re ready to level up your data analytics skills, don’t hesitate to enroll in this fantastic program today!
Professional Certificate in Data Science and Analytics | Review
Most comprehensive data analytics program
Provider: MIT xPRO
Cost: $7,450
Duration: 6 months
Time Commitment: 15 – 20 hours per week
Are you searching for the best data analytics programs to elevate your career?
Look no further than the Professional Certificate in Data Science and Analytics program from MIT xPRO.
This comprehensive online program, designed to help you develop data-driven decision-making skills, can be completed in six months. With a robust curriculum taught by MIT faculty, this course is perfect for professionals looking to advance their data science and analytics expertise.
Curriculum: A Deep Dive into Data Science and Analytics
The program consists of five courses that cover a wide range of topics in data science and analytics:
- Foundations of Data Science
- Data Wrangling
- Data Visualization
- Probability and Statistics
- Machine Learning
By completing these courses, you’ll gain proficiency in cutting-edge tools and techniques for data-driven decision-making.
Highlights: Hands-On Experience with Real-World Datasets
Some standout features of the program include learning how to use state-of-the-art tools and techniques for data-driven decision-making, developing skills in data wrangling, data visualization, probability and statistics, and machine learning.
You’ll also gain hands-on experience with real-world datasets and earn a Professional Certificate from MIT xPRO, showcasing your newfound expertise.
Pros: Flexibility and Expert Instruction
The program’s online delivery means you can study at your own pace from anywhere in the world.
Designed for professionals, it covers a wide range of data science and analytics topics, ensuring you develop the necessary skills for your career. Plus, with MIT faculty as instructors, you’re learning from experts in the field.
Cons: High Cost and Time Commitment
One potential drawback is the program’s high fee of $7,450 (though you can get $745 off with a referral).
Additionally, the program requires a significant time commitment of 15–20 hours per week, which may be difficult for some to manage.
Finally, the program may not be suitable for beginners, so ensure you have a solid foundation in data science and analytics before enrolling.
Bottom Line: A Great Investment for Career Advancement in Data Science
If you’re searching for the best data analytics programs, the MIT xPRO Professional Certificate in Data Science and Analytics is an excellent choice.
Despite the high cost and time commitment, the program offers a comprehensive curriculum, expert instruction, and real-world application, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals seeking to advance their data science and analytics careers.
NUS From Data to Insights | Review
Provider: National University of Singapore (NUS)
Cost: $1,900
Duration: 5 months
Time Commitment: 6 – 8 hours per week
Searching for the best data analytics programs to boost your career?
Check out the Analytics: From Data to Insights program from NUS School of Computing.
This online program, designed to help you apply data analytics and Python techniques, takes just 5 months to complete. With a comprehensive curriculum and hands-on experience with real-world datasets, this course is perfect for professionals looking to enhance their data science and analytics skills.
Curriculum: A Practical Approach to Data Analytics
The program covers a wide range of topics in data science and analytics through the following courses:
- Introduction to Data Analytics
- Data Wrangling
- Data Visualization
- Machine Learning
- Capstone Project
You’ll learn how to use popular data analytics tools like Python, Pandas, NumPy, Matplotlib, Seaborn, Scikit-learn, and Tableau, equipping you with the skills needed to uncover valuable business insights.
Highlights: Cutting-Edge Tools and Real-World Experience
The program’s standout features include learning how to use cutting-edge tools and techniques for data-driven decision-making, developing skills in data wrangling, data visualization, and machine learning.
You’ll also gain hands-on experience with real-world datasets, ensuring you’re ready to apply your skills in the workplace. Plus, upon completion, you’ll earn a certificate from NUS School of Computing.
Pros: Flexibility and Expert Instruction
With online delivery, you can study at your own pace and from anywhere in the world. The program is designed for professionals looking to develop their data science and analytics skills and covers a wide range of relevant topics.
Taught by NUS School of Computing faculty members, you’ll be learning from experts in the field.
Cons: Investment in Time and Money
One potential drawback of this program is the fee of $1,900 (though you can get $190 off with a referral).
Additionally, the program requires a 5-month commitment, which may be challenging for some to manage.
However, given the comprehensive curriculum and expert instruction, the program offers excellent value for the cost.
Bottom Line: A Worthwhile Investment for Data Science and Analytics Professionals
If you’re on the hunt for the best data analytics programs, the NUS School of Computing’s Analytics: From Data to Insights program is an excellent choice.
With a robust curriculum, real-world application, and expert instruction, this program offers a solid investment for professionals seeking to advance their data science and analytics careers.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to level up your skills and uncover key business insights.
DataCamp’s Data Analyst Career Paths | Review
Provider: Datacamp
Cost: Free + $25 for a shareable certificate
If you’re on the hunt for the best data analytics programs, DataCamp’s Data Analyst Career Paths in Python, R, and Power BI are excellent choices for professionals looking to develop their data analysis skills.
This is definitely one of the best data analytics courses free to start and audit – no commitment necessary.
With comprehensive curriculums and industry expert instruction, these career tracks will equip you with the tools and techniques for data-driven decision-making, data wrangling, data visualization, machine learning, and more.
Curriculum: Tailored Tracks for Python, R, and Power BI
DataCamp offers three distinct career tracks for data analysts:
- Python: Introduces Python interface, popular packages, DataFrames manipulation with pandas, and data visualization with Matplotlib.
- R: Focuses on using R for data analysis, data import and cleaning, statistics calculation, and data visualization with ggplot2.
- Power BI: Aims to master Power BI, one of the world’s most popular business intelligence tools, and prepare you for the official PL-300 Data Analyst with Power BI exam.
Each track covers a wide range of topics tailored to specific tools and languages, ensuring you gain the necessary expertise in your chosen field.
Highlights: Cutting-Edge Techniques and Real-World Experience
Each career track offers unique highlights, such as:
- Python: Learn cutting-edge data analysis tools and techniques, develop skills in data wrangling, data visualization, and machine learning, and gain hands-on experience with real-world datasets.
- R: Master data-driven decision-making with R, hone your data wrangling, data visualization, and machine learning skills, and apply your knowledge to real-world datasets.
- Power BI: Acquire business intelligence expertise, learn dashboard and report creation, and practice with real-world datasets.
Pros: Industry Expert Instruction and Comprehensive Content
All three career tracks share the following pros:
- Super low cost of $25/month, making it very accessible for all aspiring data analysts.
- Designed for professionals looking to develop their skills in data science, analytics, or business intelligence.
- Covers a wide range of topics in each respective field.
- Taught by industry experts who bring valuable experience to the table.
- One of the best data analytics programs for beginners.
Cons: Time Commitment and Prior Knowledge
One potential drawback shared by all three career tracks is the time commitment required to complete each program.
Balancing work and other responsibilities while dedicating time to learning may be challenging for some learners.
Additionally, individuals new to data analysis or the specific programming languages may need to invest extra time in acquiring foundational knowledge before fully benefiting from these career tracks.
However, considering the comprehensive content and expert instruction, the investment in time and effort may be worthwhile for professionals looking to advance their careers in data analysis.
Bottom Line: Valuable Investment for Data Analysts
DataCamp’s Data Analyst Career Paths in Python, R, and Power BI are solid choices for professionals seeking the best data analytics programs.
With tailored curriculums, cutting-edge techniques, real-world experience, and industry expert instruction, these career tracks provide valuable learning opportunities for data analysts looking to level up their skills and excel in their careers.
We’ve also put together an extensive review of the DataCamp website in general, check it out here.
Don’t miss out on the chance to sharpen your data analysis expertise with DataCamp’s comprehensive career paths.
Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate | Review
If you’re searching for the best data analytics programs, look no further than the Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate on Coursera.
This comprehensive program is designed to equip you with the necessary skills to become a successful data analyst.
With a wide range of topics, industry expert instruction, and a focus on real-world datasets, this program is an excellent choice for professionals looking to advance their careers in data analytics.
Curriculum: Comprehensive and Practical Data Analytics Skills
The Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate program consists of the following eight courses:
- Foundations: Data, Data, Everywhere
- Ask Questions to Make Data-Driven Decisions
- Prepare Data for Exploration
- Process Data from Dirty to Clean
- Analyze Data to Answer Questions
- Share Data Through the Art of Visualization
- Data Analysis with R Programming
- Google Data Analytics Capstone: Complete a Case Study
Each course is designed to cover a specific aspect of data analytics, ensuring you gain a well-rounded understanding of the field.
Highlights: Cutting-Edge Techniques and Real-World Experience
Some key highlights of the program include:
- Learning cutting-edge tools and techniques for data-driven decision-making.
- Developing essential skills in data wrangling, data visualization, machine learning, and more.
- Gaining hands-on experience with real-world datasets to apply your knowledge in practical situations.
Pros: Designed for Professionals, Comprehensive Content, and Expert Instruction
The Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate program offers several advantages:
- Designed specifically for professionals who want to develop their skills in data analytics.
- Covers a wide range of topics in data analytics, providing a comprehensive understanding of the field.
- Taught by industry experts, ensuring you learn from those with extensive experience and knowledge.
- The best data analytics certification available on specific Google architecture and the Google Cloud Platform.
Cons: Prior Knowledge and Time Commitment
A potential drawback of this program is that some prior knowledge of programming and statistics may be helpful to get the most out of the courses.
However, the program is designed to be accessible even for beginners with no prior experience in data analytics.
Additionally, the program requires a significant time commitment, which may be challenging for some learners to balance with work and other responsibilities. Despite these considerations, the investment in time and effort can prove invaluable for professionals looking to boost their careers in data analysis.
Bottom Line: A Valuable Investment for Aspiring Data Analysts
The Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate on Coursera stands out as one of the best data analytics programs available.
With a comprehensive curriculum, cutting-edge techniques, real-world experience, and industry expert instruction, this program provides an exceptional learning opportunity for those looking to excel in data analytics.
Don’t miss out on the chance to advance your career with this highly-regarded professional certificate.
Data Analytics Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the key factors to consider when choosing the best data analytics program?
When selecting the best data analytics program, consider factors such as the curriculum, instructor expertise, hands-on learning opportunities, program format, flexibility, cost, and potential career outcomes. It’s essential to choose a program that aligns with your goals, budget, and time constraints.
How do I determine the quality of a data analytics program?
To determine the quality of the best data analytics certification programs, research the course content, read student reviews, consider the reputation of the institution or platform offering the course, and examine the qualifications and experience of the instructors. High-quality programs often have a proven track record of student success and positive feedback.
Are online data analytics programs as effective as in-person courses?
The best online data analytics programs can be just as effective as in-person courses, depending on the quality of the course materials, the level of instructor engagement, and the availability of hands-on learning opportunities. Online programs often offer greater flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace and from any location.
What are some popular tools and technologies used in data analytics programs?
Data analytics programs often cover various tools and technologies, such as Python, R, SQL, Excel, Tableau, Power BI, and Google Analytics. The specific tools covered will depend on the program’s focus and curriculum. Make sure the program you choose teaches the tools and technologies relevant to your career goals.
Can I complete a data analytics program while working full-time?
Many data analytics programs are designed with working professionals in mind, offering flexible, self-paced learning options. While balancing a full-time job and coursework can be challenging, it’s possible to succeed in a data analytics program with effective time management and a commitment to learning.
How long does it typically take to complete a data analytics program?
The duration of a data analytics program can vary widely, depending on the program’s depth and complexity. Some programs can be completed in a few weeks, while others may take several months or even a year. Make sure to consider the time commitment required when selecting a program.
Are there any prerequisites for enrolling in a data analytics program?
Some data analytics programs may require prior knowledge of programming, statistics, or mathematics, while others are designed for beginners with no previous experience in the field. Carefully review the program prerequisites before enrolling to ensure you have the necessary background knowledge or are prepared to acquire it.
Will a data analytics program help me advance my career?
A data analytics program can provide you with valuable skills that are in high demand across various industries. Completing a reputable program can improve your job prospects, increase your earning potential, and help you transition into a data-driven role. However, it’s essential to combine your education with practical experience and networking to maximize your career advancement opportunities.
Are there any financial aid options or scholarships available for data analytics programs?
Many institutions and platforms offer financial aid, scholarships, or discounts for eligible students enrolling in data analytics programs. Check with the specific program provider for information on available financial assistance options.
Do data analytics programs provide job placement assistance or support?
Some data analytics programs offer job placement assistance or support, such as interview preparation, resume reviews, or access to exclusive job boards. This support can be invaluable when transitioning into a data-driven role or advancing your career. Be sure to consider the level of job placement assistance when choosing a program.
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Ben is a full-time data leadership professional and a part-time blogger.
When he’s not writing articles for Data Driven Daily, Ben is a Head of Data Strategy at a large financial institution.
He has over 12 years’ experience in Banking and Financial Services, during which he has led large data engineering and business intelligence teams, managed cloud migration programs, and spearheaded regulatory change initiatives.