Top Data Analytics Certificates & Certifications in Atlanta

Data analytics involves collecting, synthesizing, analyzing, and displaying data to help businesses optimize their processes and maximize profits.

Data analysts work in almost all business sectors including healthcare, technology, finance, marketing, insurance, and manufacturing. Using various platforms like Microsoft Excel and Tableau, as well as programming languages Python and SQL, data analysts turn large sets of quantitative data into insightful reports for business decision-making.

According to national data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, data analysts (referred to as data scientists) have a high earning potential, with an average annual salary of a little over $100,000. The career outlook is also stellar, with 35% projected growth from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than average. Data scientists in Atlanta earn above the national average at 110,670 per year. 

Fast-growing industries in Atlanta, including health care, entertainment, business, and financial services, offer numerous job opportunities for data analysts. Atlanta also has a thriving tech sector – according to research from CBRE, a commercial real estate and investment company, tech employment grew by 8,900 jobs in Atlanta between 2016 and 2021. 

If you are seeking a fast-growing, high-demand job that can be found in numerous industries, consider pursuing a certificate in data analytics. While many data analysts have college degrees, earning a certificate will give you the knowledge you need to build a career as a data analyst. If you are already working as a data or business analyst, earning a certification will validate your expertise and keep you up-to-date on current technologies. 

Noble Desktop: Data Analytics Certificate

Key Information:$4,995,6 weeks full-time (weekdays) or 24 weeks part-time (evenings), remote learning, free retake option, 1-on-1 mentoring sessions, no prerequisites required.

Noble Desktop's Data Analytics Certificate is for individuals to learn in-demand skills that help businesses make decisions and improve their processes. In this 6-week (full-time) or 24-week (part-time) course, you'll learn how to gather, analyze, and visualize data using platforms such as Excel, Python, SQL, and Tableau. You'll also explore both predictive analytics (examining past data to predict future outcomes) and prescriptive analytics (optimizing decision-making with constraints).

In addition to 156 hours of hands-on instruction, you'll receive eight one-on-one mentoring sessions with a professional who will help you polish your resume, review your portfolio, ensure you're on track with learning objectives, and provide professional career advice. Upon completion of the program, you'll receive a NY state-licensed certificate testifying your command of the subject. 

Miss a class or need a refresher on the curriculum? Noble Desktop allows you to retake a module or the entire program for free for up to one year. Recordings of the class sessions are also posted online for students to review. Other benefits include live online teaching to provide immediate feedback to students, small class sizes (8 to 15 students on average), and flexible payment plans. 

Noble Desktop: Data Science Certificate

Key Information:$3,995,4 weeks full-time (weekdays) or 20 weeks part-time (evenings or Saturdays), remote learning, free retake option, 1-on-1 mentoring sessions, no prerequisites required. 

If you want to focus your learning on using programming tools and machine learning models to manipulate databases, then you may prefer Noble Desktop's Data Science Certificate program. In this beginner-friendly online program, you'll learn skills such as reading and writing complex database queries, preparing and cleaning data for analysis, building machine learning models and evaluating their performance, and presenting data using various dashboard libraries. Tools learned include Python, SQL, and machine learning, as well as various Python libraries used for data analysis, scientific computing, and interactive visualizations. 

To showcase your skills to prospective employers, you'll also build a portfolio of projects completed in class. In addition to 114 hours of hands-on instruction, you'll receive six one-on-one mentoring sessions with an expert who will help you polish your resume, review your portfolio, provide professional career advice, and ensure you are on track with your learning goals. 

If you miss a class or need a refresher of the curriculum, Noble Desktop offers a free retake option that allows you to retake any module or the entire program for up to one year. There are also recordings of class sessions posted online for students to review. Other benefits include flexible payment plans, small class sizes, and live online instruction to ensure students receive immediate feedback and assistance. 

Emory University Continuing Education: Big Data Analytics and Applied Machine Learning with Python Certificate

Key Information:$5,995,10 weeks (80 hours), prerequisites/experience required.

Emory Continuing Education offers a certificate in data analytics and machine learning for individuals who have a degree or job experience in a related field such as data analysis, business intelligence, engineering, software, or data processing. In a combination of class sessions and applied lab sessions, you'll gain hands-on experience in machine learning techniques including data wrangling, visualization, algorithms, testing, and implementation. 

In order to pursue the certificate, individuals must have either an Emory Continuing Education Business Intelligence certificate or the equivalent practical experience. Experience working in Excel, statistics, database management, data analysis, and programming is helpful but optional. Upon completion, you'll receive an official Machine Learning Certificate digital badge that can be displayed on online channels such as LinkedIn. 

Oglethorpe University: Business Analytics Certificate

Key Information:$3,000 (20% discount for Oglethorpe alumni), 12 weeks, remote learning, no prerequisites required.

Oglethorpe University offers a certificate in business analytics for newcomers to the field or professionals interested in strengthening their skills. Consisting of three, four-week classes, this online program covers the fundamentals of working with big data to assist businesses in their decision-making. Using tools such as Excel, Statistical Analysis Software (SAS), and R programming language, you'll learn how to wrangle, analyze, and visualize large sets of data. 

This program is offered through the Hammack School of Business and is conducted fully online with live interactions with professors and students. The courses include Business Analytics, Data Visualization, and Advanced Business Analytics. 

Georgia Institute of Technology: Analytics Certificate

Key Information: Contact school for cost, four classes, remote learning, no prerequisites required. 

Georgia Tech Professional Education offers a certificate in analytics for individuals who want to learn the foundational skills used by data scientists and data/business analysts. In this online program, you'll learn the fundamentals of how to manage and analyze data using software such as R, Python, and SQL. You'll also complete a project to demonstrate your knowledge of data collection, storage, analysis, and visualization techniques. 

No application or prerequisites are required for this certificate program. Upon successful completion of the courses, you will be mailed a Certificate of Program Completion by Georgia Tech. 

Kennesaw State University: Online Certificate in Data Science Using Python

Key Information:$500, remote learning, 44 total hours, 4 courses, basic statistics knowledge required. 

The online certificate program in data science offered by Kennesaw State University (just outside Atlanta) focuses on statistical analysis using Python. The program is targeted toward working professionals with some knowledge of statistics and who have taken at least one college algebra course. The required courses to complete the certificate include Introduction to Python, Data Analysis and Probability, Statistical Methods, and Advanced Methods. 

No application is required for entry to this program. Students are required to have a computer with access to high-speed internet. All work is done using Python which is a free, open source platform. 

The University of Chicago: Professional Certificate in Data Science for Business

Key Information:$12,500,10 months, 25.7 continuing education units, remote learning, admissions interview required. 

The University of Chicago's online certificate in data science provides a deep dive into the theoretical frameworks, core principles, and industry trends in business/data analytics. In this project-based course, you'll learn how to interpret, manage, and report data and statistics, create and run your own Python projects, use artificial intelligence and machine learning to resolve issues and convey data to stakeholders to facilitate decision-making.

In this program, you'll have access to a Certificate Coordinator, as well as opportunities to network and interact with peers. Upon successful completion, you'll earn an official certificate as well as exclusive benefits as part of the UChicago Professional Education community. 

Cornell University (eCornell): Data Analytics Cornell Certificate Program

Key Information:$2,730,3 courses, 9 weeks total, remote learning, familiarity with statistics and Excel helpful.

Cornell University offers a data analytics certificate designed for students with a basic statistical background or experience analyzing raw data. Students learn from hands-on exercises and video instruction from a Cornell University faculty expert. In this online program, you'll learn how to create and interpret statistical summaries, build a dashboard to improve your understanding of complex business scenarios, create regression models to predict outcomes and use data to reduce uncertainty in decision-making. 

This certificate consists of three classes that last for three weeks each: Understanding and Visualizing Data, Implementing Scientific Decision-Making, and Using Predictive Data Analysis. Time spent on class per week is around 3 to 5 hours. Students earn a Data Analytics Certificate from Cornell SC Johnson College of Business upon completion.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: Online Data Analytics Certificate

Key Information: Contact school for cost, 5 courses, 6 to 8 months to complete, remote learning, prerequisites and application required.

The University of North Carolina's Kenan Flagler Business School offersa graduate certificate in data analytics and decision-making targeted toward professionals, both early in their careers and mid-to-senior level. In this program, you'll learn how to apply analytical techniques to help businesses in their decision-making. Courses include Analytical Tools for Decision Making, Data Analytics, Business Modeling, Pricing, and Python for Business Analytics. 

In order to participate in this certificate program you are required to have a bachelor's degree and at least two years of professional experience. You will also need to submit GMAT or GRE scores with your application, along with a personal essay and one letter of recommendation. Individuals with five years of full-time professional experience may receive a GMAT/GRE waiver. 

CompTIA: CompTIA Data+ Certification

Key Information:$246 for certification exam, 90-minute test online or in-person, multiple choice and performance-based questions, 18 to 24 months experience and knowledge of data/business analytics required. 

CompTIA's Data+ certification is for individuals who are early in their careers as business or data analysts. By becoming certified, successful candidates can prove they have the skills to help businesses in their decision-making. The exam covers skills such as mining and manipulating data, applying basic statistical methods, and analyzing intricate datasets while maintaining quality standards. The exam can be taken online or at Pearson VUE testing center if available in your location. 

CompTIA offers multiple options for preparing for the exam, including study guides, videos, flashcards, interactive labs, and instructor-led training. Online instructor-led training consists of 10 days of hands-on teaching by a certified professional. The cost is $1,999 and includes an exam voucher (similar to a gift card that pays for the certification exam) as well as a free retake option allowing you to retake the exam if you fail on the first try. 

FAQ for Data Analytics Certificates

What is the Difference Between a Certificate and a Certification?

Generally, the difference is that a certificate is awarded to students who complete a training course while a certification is given to students who pass an exam. Individuals who are new to the field can pursue a certificate program while experienced professionals can validate their skills with a certification. 

Should I Pursue a Certificate or a Certification?

If you are transitioning careers or would like to build your data analysis skills to benefit your business, pursuing a certificate is your best option. If you are currently working as a data/business analyst and want to affirm your mastery of the subject, consider becoming certified by passing an exam. 

Do I Need to Become Certified to Find a Job?

While becoming certified is a great way for professionals to demonstrate their knowledge to clients and employers, it is not necessary to become certified to find a job as a data or business analyst. Certificate programs will give you the skills you need to pursue a career in data analytics. 

What Certificate Program is Right for Me?

Which is Better: In-Person or Online Classes

Some people prefer in-person classes because they offer a more personal way to meet other students with similar goals. It's also helpful for students who don't have a computer as you will likely be provided one in an in-person class. On the other hand, online classes are preferable for those who want to skip the commute and enjoy working from the comfort of their own home. Also, data analyst certificate programs are increasingly being offered online, therefore you'll likely have better success finding an online certificate rather than an in-person program in your area. 

Which is Better: Live Online or Asynchronous Classes?

Live online classes are conducted in real-time with an instructor and usually at the same time each session. Meanwhile, asynchronous classes consist of reading materials and watching pre-recorded videos (lectures, webinars, etc.) on your own time. If you have an unpredictable schedule and need more flexibility, asynchronous classes might work for you. However, many live online classes can be taken either full-time or part-time in the evenings to accommodate work schedules. Live online classes also offer you the ability to receive feedback in real-time and interact with your instructor and classmates.