Data analytics is the process of examining data sets to draw conclusions about the information they contain. It involves using specialized systems and software to transform, organize, and model data.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of data analysts is projected to grow 23% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. Earning a data analytics certification can significantly boost your career, offering opportunities for higher salaries and professional growth.
In this article, we’ll explore the best data analytics certifications for 2024, helping you choose the right program to advance your career and stay competitive in the job market.
After reviewing more than 20 data analytics courses and certifications, we narrowed our list down these top five for 2024:
Certification
Key Features
Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate
Google via Coursera
Covers entire data lifecycle, practical projects, tools like SQL, R, Tableau
Comprehensive curriculum, hands-on projects, Google-backed, self-paced, included in Coursera Plus
Focuses on R programming, capstone project requires independent work
$49/month, typically 6 months ($294); Coursera Plus: $59/month or $399/year
IBM Data Analyst Professional Certificate
IBM via Coursera
Python programming, Excel, SQL, IBM Cognos Analytics
Career support services, hands-on projects, recognized certification, free audit option
Not in Coursera Plus, lacks advanced topics
$49/month, typically 3-4 months ($147-$196); free audit option available
Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Professional Certificate
Microsoft via Coursera
Data prep, modeling, visualization, dashboard creation, Power BI focus
Comprehensive curriculum, practical projects, PL-300 exam preparation, self-paced
Power BI-specific, not in Coursera Plus, additional exam cost
$49/month, typically 3-5 months ($147-$245); financial aid available
Data Analytics Bootcamp
Python, data cleaning with pandas, visualization with Matplotlib and Seaborn, 20+ case studies
Cost-effective, practical examples, career-focused, lifetime access
No interactive support, technical setup required
$150, lifetime access; 30-day money-back guarantee
SAS Statistical Business Analyst Professional Certificate
Statistical analysis, regression, predictive modeling, real-world projects
High earning potential, networking opportunities, practice exams, real-world applications
Requires SAS knowledge, not in Coursera Plus, technical setup required
$79/month per course, typically 3 months ($237); addl. exam fee; 7-day free trial
Pros
- Curriculum covers entire data lifecycle
- Practical, hands-on projects
- Google-backed certifications hold significant weight in the industry
- Self-paced
- Included in Coursera Plus subscription
Cons
- Focuses on R for programming (not as widely used as Python)
- Capstone project requires learners to figure out many aspects on their own
Also read: Advanced Data Analytics Guide: Definition, Benefits, & Techniques
Pros
- Access to mock interviews, resume building, and other career support services
- Includes Python, SQL, and data visualization
- Instantly recognizable certification for employers
- Hands-on projects
- Recognized for college credits by ACE and ECTS
- Free audit option available
Cons
- Not included with Coursera Plus subscription
- Does not delve into more advanced data analytics topics
Also read: What is Data Analytics?
Pros
- Ensures a deep understanding of Power BI upon completion
- Holistic curriculum covering data cleaning, modeling, visualization, and dashboard creation
- Access to practice exams, study guides, and additional resources
- Opens doors to other roles in business intelligence
Cons
- MS Power BI-specific focus
- Not included in the Coursera Plus subscription
- Additional cost for L-300 exam
Also read: Business Intelligence vs. Data Analytics
Pros
- Cost effective compared to similar in-person boot camps
- Includes over 20 real-world case studies with practical examples of applications in retail, health, sports
- Specifically designed for career preparation
- Beginner and advanced Python, data cleaning with pandas, data visualization with Matplotlib and Seaborn
Cons
- Does not offer interactive support or live mentoring
- Software such as Anaconda installation required
Pros
- Mid-level SAS pros earn between $90,000 and $120,000 or more annually
- SAS community provides networking opportunities with other professionals
- Includes Statistical analysis, regression modeling fundamentals, and predictive modeling using logistic regression modules
- Access to practice exams, study guides, and sample questions
- Skills translate well to real-world job scenarios
Cons
- Not included in Coursera Plus subscription
- Learners need access to SAS software and may need to set up and configure the software
Who stands to benefit from a data analysis certification?
Data analysis certifications are beneficial for anyone looking to improve their data literacy, advance their career, or transition into a data-centric role. The growing importance of data across all sectors underscores the value of these certifications. Here’s who stands to benefit the most:
1. Aspiring data analysts
Individuals looking to enter the field of data analysis can greatly benefit from certifications. These credentials provide foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to start a career in data analysis. According toJessup University, data analysts are in high demand, and having a certification can make candidates more competitive.
2. Current data professionals
For those already working in data-related roles, certifications can help in skill enhancement and career progression. Professionals such as data scientists, business analysts, and statisticians can use certifications to validate their expertise and stay current with industry trends and tools. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in data-related fields will grow significantly, making continued education essential for career advancement.
3. IT professionals
IT professionals can expand their skill set with data analysis certifications, being particularly beneficial for roles in database management, system administration, and IT support, where understanding data analysis is increasingly important.
4. Business managers and executives
Business managers and executives can leverage data analysis skills to make more informed decisions, improve operational efficiencies, and drive business strategies. Certifications provide a structured way to learn how to interpret data insights and apply them to real-world business scenarios.
5. Career changers
Professionals looking to switch careers into the growing field of data analytics can benefit from certifications as they offer a formalized path to gaining the necessary skills. Certifications can provide a structured learning path and recognized credentials that can help career changers transition smoothly into data-focused roles.
6. Academics and researchers
Academics and researchers in fields such as social sciences, economics, and healthcare can benefit from data analysis certifications to enhance their research capabilities. These certifications teach advanced analytical techniques that can be applied to research projects, leading to more accurate and insightful findings.
7. Marketing professionals
Marketing professionals can use data analysis to measure campaign performance, understand customer behavior, and optimize marketing strategies. Certifications in data analysis provide the skills needed to analyze marketing data effectively, which is crucial for creating data-driven marketing campaigns.
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What are the benefits and drawbacks to certification?
Benefits
- Enhanced career prospects: Data analysis certifications can significantly enhance career prospects by providing recognized credentials that validate your skills and knowledge. Certified professionals are often preferred by employers and may have access to more job opportunities and higher salaries. According to the International Association of Business Analytics Certifications, certified data analysts can earn up to 20% more than their non-certified counterparts.
- Skill development: Certifications provide structured learning paths that cover a comprehensive range of topics, from basic data manipulation to advanced statistical analysis and machine learning. This structured approach ensures that learners acquire essential skills that are directly applicable to their job roles. Coursera highlights that certifications help learners stay up-to-date with the latest tools and technologies in data analysis.
- Professional credibility: Holding a certification from a reputable institution, such as SAS or IBM, adds credibility to your professional profile. It demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and proficiency in specific areas of data analysis, which can enhance your reputation among peers and potential employers.
- Networking opportunities: Certification programs often provide opportunities to connect with other professionals in the field through online forums, study groups, and professional networks. These connections can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship, enriching your professional journey.
- Practical experience: Many certification programs include hands-on projects and real-world case studies, allowing learners to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. This practical experience is invaluable for building a strong portfolio and demonstrating your abilities to potential employers.
Drawbacks
- Cost: One of the significant drawbacks of pursuing a certification is the cost. Certification programs can be expensive, with fees for courses, exams, and additional study materials. For example, the cost of the SAS Statistical Business Analyst Professional Certificate can add up to several hundred dollars. This can be a financial burden, especially for those who are self-funding their education.
- Time commitment: Earning a certification requires a substantial time commitment. Balancing study time with work, family, and other responsibilities can be challenging. Programs often require several months to complete, and maintaining the discipline to study regularly can be demanding.
- Prerequisite knowledge: Many certification programs require prior knowledge or experience in the field. For instance, the SAS certification requires a foundational understanding of SAS programming. This prerequisite can be a barrier for beginners who might need to invest additional time and resources to acquire the necessary background knowledge.
- Variable recognition: Not all certifications carry the same weight in the job market. The value of a certification can vary depending on the institution offering it and the specific industry or employer. Some certifications might be highly regarded in one sector but less recognized in another, making it crucial to choose a certification that aligns with your career goals and industry standards.
- Continuous learning requirement: The field of data analysis is constantly evolving, with new tools and techniques emerging regularly. Obtaining a certification is just the beginning; professionals need to engage in continuous learning and possibly renew their certifications periodically to stay current. This ongoing requirement can be both time-consuming and costly.
Also read: Data Analysis Methods & Techniques for Businesses
Why is a data analysis certification important for your team members?
Data analysts with recognized certifications bring a higher level of expertise to your team. They’re trained to interpret complex data sets accurately, helping your business spot trends, predict outcomes, and make informed decisions. This expertise can give you a tangible edge over competitors who might be missing key insights.
Certified analysts also ensure your data quality stays top-notch. They’re up-to-date with the latest tools and methods, which means your business can leverage cutting-edge techniques in data analysis. This can improve your operations, spark innovation, and enhance customer experiences.
There’s a cultural benefit too. By supporting professional development through certifications, you’re likely to see improved job satisfaction and lower turnover rates. This can lead to significant cost savings in the long run.
Ultimately, having certified data analysts on board helps your business manage risks better, optimize operations, and stay competitive.