DBA-DAT7705 - Google Data Analytics Certificate

Course Description

The Google Data Analytics Certificate is a valuable program designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the data analytics field. This hands-on, online program was designed to prepare beginner learners for entry-level jobs in data analysis. The program was developed by Google and covers the fundamentals of data analysis, including the collection, transformation, and organization of data in order to draw conclusions, make predictions, and drive informed decision-making. Data analytics is one of the fastest-growing fields, and there's a high demand for skilled professionals who can turn data into actionable insights. This certificate equips you with the skills needed for roles such as data analyst, business analyst, or data specialist. Throughout the program, you'll work on real-world projects that simulate the tasks you'll encounter in a data analytics role. These projects build a portfolio that you can showcase to potential employers.

This online self-paced class uses the platform Coursera and it is supported by a Central Piedmont subject matter expert with virtual office hours and group meetings. 

Course Outline

Learners will complete the following eight courses: 

Course 1 | Foundations: Data, Data, Everywhere
Course 2 | Ask Questions to Make Data-Driven Decisions
Course 3 |  Prepare Data for Exploration
Course 4 |  Process Data from Dirty to Clean
Course 5 |  Analyze Data to Answer Questions
Course 6 |  Share Data Through the Art of Visualization
Course 7 |  Data Analysis with R Programming
Course 8 |  Google Data Analytics Capstone: Complete a Case Study

Learner Outcomes

The program's main learning objectives typically include:

• Data Analysis Fundamentals: Understand the core concepts of data analysis, including data types, data structures, and the importance of data in decision-making.
• Data Cleaning: Learn how to clean and preprocess data to ensure it is accurate, complete, and ready for analysis. This includes dealing with missing values, outliers, and data inconsistencies.
• Data Visualization: Acquire the skills to create effective data visualizations using tools like Google Data Studio and spreadsheets. Visualizations help communicate insights and trends from data effectively.
• SQL (Structured Query Language): Learn SQL, a fundamental language for querying and manipulating relational databases. Understand how to retrieve data from databases, filter, sort, and aggregate it.
• Statistical Analysis: Gain knowledge of basic statistical concepts and techniques. Learn how to perform statistical analysis to derive insights from data, including measures of central tendency, dispersion, and hypothesis testing.
• Data Collection and Storage: Explore methods for collecting and storing data, including using spreadsheets, databases, and other data storage tools.
• Data Analysis Tools: Familiarize yourself with data analysis tools and software, including Google Sheets, SQL, and data visualization tools. Learn how to leverage these tools for effective analysis.
• Practical Projects: Work on real-world data analysis projects that mimic the tasks encountered in the field. Apply your knowledge and skills to solve data-related problems and create actionable insights.
• Data Interpretation: Develop the ability to interpret the results of data analysis and communicate insights effectively to stakeholders.
• Ethical Considerations: Understand the ethical and legal aspects of data handling, including privacy concerns, data security, and compliance with data regulations.
• Business Applications: Explore how data analytics is used in business decision-making. Understand how to apply data analytics techniques to solve real business problems.
• Project Management: Learn project management skills related to data analysis, including defining project goals, scoping, planning, and delivering results on time.
• Data Storytelling: Develop the art of data storytelling, which involves presenting data and insights in a compelling and understandable manner to influence decision-makers.
• Portfolio Building: Create a portfolio of data analysis projects to showcase your skills to potential employers. A strong portfolio can significantly enhance your job prospects.

Notes

Target Audience:

This class will help you jumpstart your career in the Data Analytics field as a data analyst, business analyst, or data specialist. It provides you with the knowledge, skills, and industry recognition needed to start or advance your career in Data Analytics. Whether you're a newcomer to the field or looking to upskill, this program is an excellent choice to help you achieve your career goals in the world of technology.

Occupational Outlook:

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that employment of data workers is projected to grow 36 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 13,500 openings for data workers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. The recommended education level is a Bachelor's degree or higher.

Information Technology Continuing Education Certificate: 

Certificates of completion are awarded with the completion of all required courses.

Industry Certification:

The certificate is developed by Google, a tech giant known for its expertise in data and analytics. Earning this certificate demonstrates to employers that you've received training from a highly reputable source. Upon completion, you gain access to Google's IT Career Certificate Consortium, which can connect you with potential employers actively seeking data analysts. Google's name and network can significantly boost your job opportunities.

Method of instruction:

Video lectures, reading, hands-on labs, writing assignments, and formative assessments.

Evaluation:
Must pass graded quizzes and labs with at least 80% or above, submit written assignments, and participate in learner forums.