Free Data Analytics Course
Jumpstart your journey with 25 essential learning units in data analytics. No cost, just knowledge.
The data analytics market is expected to surpass $393.53 billion by 2032, with job growth projected to increase by 20% in the next 6 years. As businesses continue to prioritize data-driven insights, the demand for data analytics professionals is soaring across industries, with data analysts in the US earning an average salary of $125,000.
A data analytics course can serve as a stepping stone to enter the field by providing comprehensive knowledge, practical skills, and industry experience. With numerous courses available, selecting the right one is key.
We have compiled a list of the top data analytics courses below to help you take the first step toward a successful data analytics career.
Table of Contents
Best Data Analytics Courses
About Our Criteria
To assess the best data analytics courses, we used a point system to score a list of criteria as a 1 or 0. (More on that below.) We then averaged out the publicly available reviews of all the courses featured before finally adding these up to arrive at a final score.
We looked at two different types of criteria:
To be included:
- Must have at least 1 rating
- Must disclose price on the website
- Must be at least four weeks long
Springboard
The Springboard Data Analytics Bootcamp, designed in collaboration with Microsoft, teaches you data analytics and valuable insights from the industry leaders in this field.
Unlike other online courses, Springboard’s hands-on learning approach blends traditional data analytics frameworks and methodologies with innovative AI learning units and interactive series. It’s ideal for those with a job or a tight schedule, as it offers the flexibility of part-time learning and 1:1 mentorship from industry leaders.
Many Springboard graduates have secured entry-level jobs with companies like Amazon and Samsung.
The course offers structured learning, hands-on projects, and dedicated mentorship by experts like Eduardo Ponce. Real-world projects and career services prepare you for success in the job market. Highly recommended! – Ahmed @ Course Report
PRICE
$11,300
RATING
4.6/5 @ Course Report
FEATURES
- 1-on-1 mentoring
- Partnership with Microsoft
- 100% online, project-based
- AI learning units for advanced insights
- Access to exclusive AI interactive learning series
- 1:1 coaching sessions
JOB GUARANTEE?
Yes
MENTORSHIP?
Yes
Noble Desktop
The Noble Desktop Data Analytics Certificate offers a flexible learning experience, with options for both full-time (6 weeks) and part-time (24 weeks) schedules. Learners benefit from 156 hours of hands-on instruction, live project-based training, and additional 1-on-1 mentoring sessions.
Led by industry professionals, curriculum is carefully crafted and continuously updated to ensure optimal learning outcomes. Students receive supplemental materials, a 1-year free retake policy, and a verified digital certificate upon completion. With small class sizes and both on-campus and live online options available, students gain valuable expertise in data analytics to excel in their careers.
The teaching method at Noble Desktop is perfect and the classes provide you with infinite knowledge that makes you eager to take everything they offer. I love Noble! – Ivonne @ Noble Desktop Website
PRICE
$8,174
RATING
4.9/5 @ SwitchUp
FEATURES
- 1-on-1 mentoring
- Flexible learning options
- NY state-licensed certificate
- Project-based learning
- Industry design project
- Multiple payment options
JOB GUARANTEE?
No
MENTORSHIP?
Yes
Grow with Google (On Coursera)
As part of the Grow with Google Data Analytics Certificate program available on Coursera, students study data types, information structures, problem-solving, storytelling, and the power of R programming to learn how to transform data into insight. Beyond the huge amount of technical knowledge, this course teaches, it’s also very accessible. Anyone can complete this course, regardless of experience or educational background.
Four of five graduates report positive career outcomes within six months of completing Grow with Google, which is an excellent incentive for students to enroll in this course.
To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood. – Felipe @ Coursera
PRICE
Free with Coursera subscription
RATING
4.8/5 @ Coursera
FEATURES
- No 1-on-1 mentoring
- Emphasis on data storytelling
- Incorporation of the R programming language
- No prerequisite experience or degree required
- 100% remote, flexible, and self-paced learning
- Provides access to the Google employer consortium
- Positive career outcomes were reported by a significant majority of graduates
JOB GUARANTEE?
Yes
MENTORSHIP?
No
CareerFoundry
CareerFoundry has offered various tech-related data analysis courses since 2013. One of their best courses is their Data Analytics program, which promises to make you job-ready in just under ten months.
The program is online, and you can learn at your own pace. You’ll be familiar with tools like Excel, Python, Pandas, and Tableau and be able to specialize in areas like machine learning or data visualization. After graduation, you’ll have lifetime access to the course content.
Students complete a capstone project, and there are opportunities for apprenticeship training with partners like TechFleet, Democracylab, and Digital Product School.
I loved the data analytics course! Well-structured content, engaging tutors, and hands-on assignments with real-world data make it highly recommended for developing data analytics skills! – Gurpreet @ Course Report
PRICE
$7,900
RATING
4.7/5 @ Course Report
FEATURES
- 1-on-1 mentoring
- Lifetime curriculum access post-graduation
- Option to choose specialized courses
- Apprenticeship training opportunities
- Career specialist guidance via career support center
JOB GUARANTEE?
Yes
MENTORSHIP?
Yes
MIT Sloan School Of Management
The MIT Sloan School of Management’s Applied Business Analytics course is a perfect choice for students who want to leverage the power of data in driving business decisions.
At its core, this course teaches students pragmatic frameworks and how to use pertinent datasets. It has a non-technical emphasis; graduates can understand and apply business analytics principles in real-world scenarios, such as posing the right questions (like which algorithm to employ) and discern when human judgment is needed in decision-making.
This excellent course offers a comprehensive overview of business analytics, providing a clear framework for approaching complex projects. Professor Bertsimas simplifies the subject matter effectively, making it highly accessible. @ MIT Management Website
PRICE
$2,950
RATING
4.8/5 @ Executive.mit.edu
FEATURES
- 1-on-1 mentoring
- Certificate of course completion from the MIT Sloan School of Management
- Coverage of practical applications of artificial intelligence in business
- Guidance on when and how to apply human judgment in decision-making
- Insights into managing data analytics processes efficiently
JOB GUARANTEE?
No
MENTORSHIP?
Yes
Thinkful
Thinkful’s Data Analytics Bootcamp can be taken both full-time or part-time to accommodate your schedule. It focuses on cultivating your storytelling abilities, teaching you to leverage data analysis tools like Tableau and programming languages like Python and SQL to read through the data and deliver valuable findings.
As a student, you’ll get matched with a mentor from the industry, and you’ll be able to learn from their experience and get constant feedback and reviews on your projects.
This course is ideal for beginners looking to quickly enhance their data analytics skills. It covers key aspects like data cleaning, analysis/exploration, and visualizations using various tools. The structured curriculum facilitated immediate application in my current role. – Maher @ Course Report
PRICE
$8,240
RATING
4.5/5 @ Course Report
FEATURES
- 1-on-1 mentoring
- Live, personal video consultations with industry professionals
- On-demand technical coaching
- Full-time career support from the first day of enrollment
- Live online lectures, workshops, and feedback
- Dedicated learning assistants
- Exclusive access to open analyst job roles
JOB GUARANTEE?
No
MENTORSHIP?
Yes
General Assembly
General Assembly takes a distinct approach with its Data Analytics Short Course. It teaches you how to use tools like Excel, SQL, and Tableau. One of the most compelling reasons to invest in this course is the undeniable market demand for Tableau skills, which has surged by 1,103% in a span of five years.
Students will learn how to translate their data into meaningful insights and go beyond just analyzing data. Instead, they’ll be able to make business decisions and shift strategies based on it. Instructors include both well-renowned professors as well as industry veterans.
This comprehensive course effectively teaches data analytics concepts and tool usage for real-world problem-solving. Its hands-on approach and instructor feedback enhance the learning experience, making it highly recommended. – Daniel @ Course Report
PRICE
$4,500
RATING
4.3/5 @ Course Report
FEATURES
- 1-on-1 mentoring
- Access to a vast global alum network
- Flexible study schedules
- Hands-on experience with the entire data analytics process
- Pre-course preparatory lessons to solidify foundational knowledge
- Individualized instructor support
JOB GUARANTEE?
No
MENTORSHIP?
Yes
Macquarie University (On Coursera)
Macquarie University, together with Coursera, brings you Excel Skills for Data Analytics and Visualization Specialization, perfect for those who want to learn how to transform, link, and analyze data in Excel, but also how to develop interactive dashboards and use Excel features like DAX and PowerPivot.
This is an intermediate-level data analyst certification. By the end of the course, you’ll work on an Applied Learning Project, where you’ll handle real-world datasets to create visualizations, dashboards, and reports.
The availability of diverse resources covering various topics, from Excel to data visualization, is impressive, with a comfortable user interface enhancing the learning experience. – Munh @ Coursera Website
PRICE
Free with a Coursera subscription
RATING
4.8/5 @ Coursera
FEATURES
- No 1-on-1 mentoring
- Part of the Coursera Plus subscription
- Includes practical and hands-on learning projects
- High focus on learning advanced Excel functions
- Financial aid available
JOB GUARANTEE?
No
MENTORSHIP?
No
Udacity
Udacity’s Data Analyst Course is a three-month intensive course that covers all the basics for becoming a data analyst, from libraries such as Pandas and NumPy to advanced data wrangling and data visualization.
While the course is at the intermediate level, it has prerequisites, such as a basic understanding of Python and descriptive statistics, for those with a foundational knowledge of data and coding.
The course was a pleasant surprise, offering a chance to revisit and solidify my understanding on SQL. The personalized feedback feature is noteworthy, enhancing the learning experience and motivating me to refine my work further. – Ezekiel @ Udacity Website
PRICE
Free with a Udacity subscription
RATING
4.6/5 @ Udacity
FEATURES
- 1-on-1 mentoring
- Guidance from industry-leading professionals
- Career Services to guide students
- Completion certificate from Udacity
JOB GUARANTEE?
No
MENTORSHIP?
No
Dataquest
If you’re a beginner in the R programming language, this course is for you. Dataquest promises that their Data Analyst in R will have you job-ready in 4 months. The course has a pragmatic approach, giving you the chance to implement the techniques you learn through multiple projects based on business scenarios. These projects enhance your portfolio and prepare you for real-life interviews.
What’s great about this R course is the fact that you get access to a feedback system embedded directly in the browser. Mistakes are rectified instantly, and your learning becomes iterative.
As a Biomedical Scientist seeking to transition into data-driven projects, Dataquest’s comprehensive curriculum and interactive platform provided an invaluable opportunity to learn coding and data analysis, fostering hands-on practice and skill development. – Hossain @ Course Report
PRICE
Free
RATING
4.8/5 @ Course Report
FEATURES
- No 1-on-1 mentoring
- In-depth projects tailored around realistic business scenarios
- Exposure to tools and applications like RStudio
- Training in SQL for exploring and extracting data from databases
- Web scraping techniques
- Introduction to predictive modeling and machine learning
JOB GUARANTEE?
No
MENTORSHIP?
No
IBM (On Coursera)
The IBM Data Analyst Professional Certificate on Coursera is another great course you can enroll in on this online learning platform that prepares you for a career as a data analyst in less than four months.
As part of this course, you’ll master a wide range of data analysis skills and be able to invoke APIs, manage databases, or master software apps such as Excel or IBM Cognos Analytics. Students also gain proficiency in programming with Python, leveraging libraries such as Pandas and Numbpy.
The course provided easily digestible content, with instructors ensuring clarity throughout, sparing confusion. Thank you immensely for this exceptional learning experience! – Chau @ Coursera Website
PRICE
Free with a Coursera subscription
RATING
4.7/5 @ Coursera
FEATURES
- No 1-on-1 mentoring
- Option to earn up to 12 college credits as the program is ACE® recommended
- Access to IBM’s People and Soft Skills Specialization
JOB GUARANTEE?
No
MENTORSHIP?
No
MySQL for Data Analytics and Business Intelligence (On Udemy)
SQL – MySQL for Data Analytics and Business Intelligence from 365 Careers on Udemy provides students with a foundational understanding of SQL and how it’s an essential tool for data analytics, predictive analytics, and business intelligence.
You’ll learn to engage with real-life databases and get expertise in SQL best practices. Throughout the course, you’ll get access to plenty of downloadable resources, exercises, and quiz questions.
You can enroll in this course if you’re a beginner to programming languages or if you’ve dabbed your toes into data analysis before and want to deepen your knowledge and apply these skills practically.
The course provided an understanding of basic to advanced topics in a stepwise manner, emphasizing essential tools and offering insights into Tableau and SQL integration. The abundance of questions and challenges facilitated practical application and problem-solving. – Ibrahim @ Udemy Website
PRICE
$19.99
RATING
4.6/5 @ Udemy
FEATURES
- No 1-on-1 mentoring
- Access on multiple devices
- Full-time access
- 11 hours of video content
- Certificate of completion
- 96 downloadable resources
JOB GUARANTEE?
No
MENTORSHIP?
No
Microsoft Excel: Advanced Excel Formulas & Functions (On Udemy)
Microsoft Excel: Advanced Excel Formulas & Functions on Udemy is designed to equip professionals with the skills needed to excel in data analytics, this course goes beyond the basics to teach you how to think like Excel and craft powerful, dynamic formulas from scratch.
The course provides engaging demonstrations and expert instruction, with lifetime access to project files, quizzes, and 1-on-1 expert support to ensure your success. The platform is also flexible and convenient, accessible on mobile and TV platforms
If you want to master advanced formula writing and enhance your analytics skills, you can enroll in this course. It’s also suitable for students seeking engaging Excel analytics training and wishing to pursue a career in data analytics.
The instructor explained everything well, and I liked the worksheets that were prepared for us to follow along. I would recommend this course for anyone who is looking to advance their knowledge of Excel – Elena @ Udemy Website
PRICE
Free
RATING
4.6/5 @ Udemy
FEATURES
- No 1-on-1 mentoring
- Lifetime access to project files, quizzes, exercises, and expert support
- 9.6 hours of video content
- Practical, hands-on projects
- Accessible on mobile and TV platforms
- Certificate of completion
JOB GUARANTEE?
No
MENTORSHIP?
No
NYC Career Centers
Data Analytics Technologies Bootcamp by NYC Career Centers offers a flexible learning experience with options for both full-time (8 days) and part-time (8 weeks) schedules. It dives deep into Excel, SQL, and Tableau through hands-on instruction, real-world projects, and personalized mentoring sessions.
The platform offers options to choose between on-campus learning in NYC or live online learning. Furthermore, with a free retake option and a verified certificate upon completion, you will be well-prepared to excel in your data analytics career.
The instructors are not only highly skilled communicators but also incredibly patient and supportive. Their ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and understandable manner has greatly enhanced my learning journey. – Diane @ NYC Career Centers Website
PRICE
$2,470
RATING
4.5/5 @ SwitchUp
FEATURES
- 1-on-1 mentoring
- Lifetime access to project files, quizzes, exercises, and expert support
- 9.6 hours of video content
- Practical, hands-on projects
- Accessible on mobile and TV platforms
- Certificate of completion
JOB GUARANTEE?
No
MENTORSHIP?
Yes
freeCodeCamp
Historically, data and statistical analysis was conducted using pricier, closed-source tools. This freeCodeCamp course focuses on open-source tools, especially Python and SQL.
It covers the end-to-end process, from sourcing data from different formats like CSV, SQL, and Excel to using powerful Python libraries such as Numpy, Pandas, Matplotlib, and Seaborn for data processing and visualization.
While the course generally excels in pedagogy, the initial stages may pose some confusion. However, the course improves as it progresses, offering valuable insights for learners. – Yacine @ freeCodeCamp Forum
PRICE
Free
RATING
4/5 @ PCMag
FEATURES
- No 1-on-1 mentoring
- Coverage of multiple data sources like CSV, SQL, and Excel
- In-depth Jupyter Notebook course
- Practical, hands-on projects
- Earn a data analytics certification
JOB GUARANTEE?
No
MENTORSHIP?
No
Get To Know Other Data Analytics Students
Maura Fields
Data Analyst at Northeastern University
Rahil Jetly
Sales Operations Manager at Springboard
Cana Curtis
Research Analyst at Virginia Commonwealth University
How Does a Data Analytics Course Work?
A typical data analytics course is designed to impart knowledge and transform you into a proficient data analyst capable of turning raw data into insightful, actionable information.
From day one, students are immersed in a blend of structured learning, hands-on projects, and real-world scenarios. A typical data science course curriculum kicks off with foundational concepts of statistics and data analysis, gradually escalating to more advanced topics like data visualization, machine learning, and big data technologies. This progressive learning path ensures that whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, you’ll build a solid base of knowledge and a versatile skill set.
One of the hallmarks of a data analytics course is its emphasis on practical, hands-on learning. Students learn to apply analytical techniques and tools in various contexts through projects that simulate real-world data challenges, from business intelligence to predictive analytics. These projects enhance learning and help build a portfolio that can be a critical asset in the job market.
Gilles Ngomeni
I’m impressed by what I’ve learned. When I presented my capstone project, I was so excited to hear one of the program leads say “This is the best capstone project ever.” I started all of this from scratch and it was so amazing to hear somebody appreciate my work.
Finally, mentorship and career guidance are integral components of an exemplary data analytics course, with industry experts providing insights, feedback, and advice to help students navigate their career path in data analytics. Coupled with the support of a like-minded peer community, the learning environment is geared towards academic success, professional development, and networking.
Here’s what you should expect in a typical data analytics course:
- Challenging tasks: Prepare to be challenged with problem-solving exercises that push you to think creatively. Data analysis often presents complex situations with no clear-cut solutions, reflecting the real-world challenges in the industry.
- Diverse learning methods: Anticipate a variety of learning approaches beyond traditional lectures. Engage in group discussions, delve into case studies, and participate in capstone projects. Many courses also feature guest speakers from the industry to provide valuable insights.
- Dedicated effort: Expect to commit fully to the course. You’ll encounter readings, assignments, projects, and assessments, all of which contribute to enhancing your understanding and honing your technical skills. Your success in the course will be directly proportional to the dedication you demonstrate.
What Skills Should You Expect to Learn?
Completing a data analytics course provides a solid foundation for entry-level roles or further study in the field, equipping you with essential skills for data-driven decision-making. You can expect to acquire the following skills in a course.
Which Data Analytics Course Is Right for You?
Determining the best data analytics program for you depends on various factors, including your specific career goals, current skill level, preferred learning style, and budget. An ideal analytics program to pursue is one known for its success in producing competent data analysts and data scientists.
If you’re already on the path to a career in data analytics, prioritize courses that align with obtaining a data analytics certificate. Consider certifications or bootcamps such as the CareerFoundry data analytics program or Springboard’s bootcamp, which offer comprehensive training in fundamental skills like data modeling and data analysis while prepping you for your data analytics certification.
Data Analytics Course vs. Bootcamp vs. Certificate
Data Analytics Course FAQs
We’ve got the answers to your most frequently asked questions.
Are Data Analysts in High Demand?
Yes. Every online interaction generates data, so companies are in need of data analysts who can successfully interpret this data. If you’re considering a career in data analytics, you’re looking at a landscape full of opportunities.
Can I Become a Data Analyst Without a Degree?
Yes, it’s possible to become a data analyst without a degree, as long as you have a foundational understanding of data analytics concepts and can demonstrate proficiency in several analytics tools and techniques. Make sure to take online courses and certifications, enroll in data analytics bootcamps, and build your portfolio to showcase your skills. Networking, attending workshops, or even starting with internships can also open doors
Where Do Data Analysts Work?
Data analysts work in almost every field imaginable. Google, Amazon, Facebook, Apple, and countless other tech companies rely heavily on data analysts and their technical skills to understand user behavior, optimize platforms, etc. But smaller start-ups, banks, government agencies, and many other companies are looking for data analysts, so don’t limit your job search to the tech space!
Since you’re here…
Switching to a career in data analytics is possible, no matter your background. We’ve helped over 10,000 students make it happen. Check out our free data analytics curriculum to gauge your interest, or go all-in with our Data Analytics Bootcamp.