NJ provides several opportunities to use data analytics in a professional capacity through industries such as pharmaceuticals, finance, healthcare, and technology.Â
The pharmaceutical sector, a major player in the state's economy, relies heavily on data-driven insights for research, development, and distribution, making data analytics skills highly sought after. The finance industry in New Jersey thrives on data analysis for informed decision-making, risk assessment, and market insights, offering a promising avenue for certified professionals. Furthermore, the state's robust healthcare ecosystem, driven by prominent medical centers and pharmaceutical companies, generates ample demand for data analysts to optimize patient care, streamline operations, and innovate healthcare delivery. Technology hubs like Jersey City and Newark offer further opportunities for Data Analysts. These cities are home to a booming tech scene that requires experts in data analysis to drive innovation, improve customer experiences, and optimize operational efficiency.
Earning a data analytics certificate or certification in NJ can provide a competitive edge in a state brimming with opportunities for data-driven career growth.
Noble Desktop Data Analytics Certificate
Price: $4,995
Duration: 6 weeks (full-time)
Locations: NYC, Live Online
Noble Desktop is a learning and career advancement center offering in-person classes in New York City and live online classes. Since 1991, Noble Desktop has used proven learning techniques to deliver classes that prepare students for careers in programming, data analytics, digital marketing, and more.
The Data Analytics Certificate program from Noble Desktop is a full-time, six-week program that teaches crucial data analytics skills. Students participate in hands-on projects led by expert instructors. Classes cover lessons in data analytics essentials such as Python programming, SQL, Excel, and Tableau. By the end of the program, students have the necessary skills to pursue entry-level positions in data analytics.Â
The program includes additional benefits such as a free retake for each class, one-on-one mentoring, flexible financing options, and small class sizes. Students prepare professional portfolios that testify to their data analytics skills. Mentoring sessions can be used to refine the portfolio as well as a student’s resume to help them stand out in the job market.
Data Analytics Technologies Bootcamp
Price: $1,949
Duration: 2 weeks (51 hours)
Locations: NYC, Live Online
Noble Desktop’s Data Analytics Technologies Bootcamp covers data analytics tools and skills such as SQL, Excel, and Tableau. Students also learn how to analyze, summarize, and present data to stakeholders. This bootcamp welcomes beginners and professionals from many backgrounds. Classes teach essential foundational skills, followed by intermediate and advanced techniques.
Expert instructors lead classes in real time, offering personalized feedback to students. Small classes, hands-on projects, and the completion of a professional portfolio are just some of the benefits offered with this bootcamp. Students can also retake any class for free, explore flexible payment plans, and receive free setup assistance.Â
Google Analytics Bootcamp
Price: $350
Duration: One day (6 hours)
Locations: NYC, Live Online
Google Analytics is used by Data Analysts, Marketers, Web Managers, and other professionals who use this powerful tool to monitor website traffic, marketing campaigns, and more. The Google Analytics Bootcamp from Noble Desktop is a single-day class that offers hands-on training on tracking KPIs, analyzing website visitor behavior, improving conversion rates, tracking campaigns, identifying growth opportunities, and running reports.Â
This bootcamp’s curriculum accounts for the latest best practices in Google Analytics. Students also learn about GA4, the latest version of Google Analytics. Learn how GA4 differs from Universal Analytics, how to navigate the GA4 interface, and have your questions answered in real time by an expert instructor.Â
General Assembly
Price: $4,500
Duration: 2 months
Locations: Several (see website)
General Assembly offers classes in NJ and online. The Data Analytics Certificate program teaches essential skills with real-world relevance. Students will learn to use SQL, Excel, Tableau, and more. The curriculum is reviewed by data analytics experts to ensure students gain skills that employers seek, helping students stand out in a competitive job market.Â
General Assembly’s data analytics classes are open to students from a variety of professional backgrounds. Beginners can complete pre-course prep lessons to establish a firm foundation in data analytics, helping them keep up with this fast-paced program. These lessons cover key concepts and vocabulary to help students hit the ground running. Throughout the program, students contribute to professional portfolios and gain hands-on experience by completing projects based on real-world scenarios.Â
Caldwell University Certificate in Data Analytics
Price:$12,450
Duration: 8 months
Locations: Caldwell, online
The Certificate in Data Analytics is a 21-credit program offered by the School of Business and Computer Science at Caldwell University. The program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to collect, analyze, and interpret data. The curriculum covers a variety of topics, including data mining, statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization.
The program can be completed in around eight months through evening and online classes. This makes it a flexible option for working professionals who want to learn data analytics skills. The program also offers several specializations such as healthcare analytics, business analytics, and financial analytics. The certificate can also function as a minor in Data Analytics for those seeking a degree from the university.
A unique feature of this certificate program is that students can pursue specialized tracks in data collection, data analysis, model construction, and presentation of insights.Â
Rutgers Online Data Science Bootcamp
Price:$12,495
Duration: 24 weeks (part-time), 12 weeks (full-time)
Locations: Online
The Rutgers Data Science Bootcamp teaches students the skills they need to start careers in data analytics and data science. The program is offered online and is designed for working professionals.
This program uses an industry-relevant curriculum to teach machine learning, data mining, and statistical analysis. Students gain hands-on experience through projects and case studies. They also have access to career support such as resume writing assistance and interview coaching.
FAQ for Data Analytics Certificates
What is the Difference Between a Certificate and a Certification?
Certificates and certifications are often confused, but there are important distinctions to understand about each. Data analytics certificates and certifications both offer benefits, including helping you pursue a career as a Data Analyst. When considering data analytics training options, it helps to consider what certificates and certifications you may wish to obtain and the requirements to do so.
Data analytics certificates are issued by schools and programs based on their own criteria. This means that they do not follow a standardized procedure. The rigor behind a data analytics certificate varies greatly as certificates can range from certificates of completion to those earned from a college or university. Certifications, on the other hand, follow a standardized process, often requiring specific career achievements and that the recipient passes an exam. Because certifications follow a standardized process, they are recognized across the industry.Â
Often, those interested in becoming a Data Analyst first earn a data analytics certificate as part of learning essential skills. They later pursue certification to either specialize in a niche area, stand out in the job market, or advance their careers by seeking a promotion or more senior position. Well-known data analytics certifications include:Â
- Certified Analytics Professional (CAP): This certification is obtained by passing an exam administered by the Analytics Certification Board. The exam covers analytics methodology, data management, and more.
- SAS Certified Data Scientist: This certification tests one’s proficiency in using SAS tools for data analysis, big data, and machine learning.
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate: This certification testifies to one’s ability to use the Azure cloud platform. The Azure cloud platform is used by Data Analysts for machine learning, data visualization, and more.
- Google Professional Data Engineer: This certification speaks to one’s mastery of Google Cloud technologies for data processing systems.
- Data Science Council of America (DASCA) Certifications: DASCA offers several certifications, including Data Scientist, Senior Data Scientist, and Data Analyst. These certifications testify to one’s expertise regarding data science concepts, tools, and methodologies.
A data analytics certification demonstrates a strong understanding of advanced data analysis techniques, tools, and methodologies. This can help certification holders stand out in a competitive job market. Many professionals initially earn a data analytics certificate to demonstrate their proficiency in fundamental skills. As they progress in their careers, they may pursue additional certifications to highlight their growing expertise.
Should I Pursue a Certificate or a Certification?
You may wonder whether you should pursue a certificate or certification. Whether you earn a data analytics certificate or certification depends on your career goals, skill set, and level of expertise. You may even wish to pursue both in time.
Certificate programs are often open to beginners, teaching the essential knowledge and skills needed to become an entry-level Data Analyst. You can research different programs and classes to find those that fit your goals, budget, and schedule. You will want to consider whether you prefer part-time or full-time enrollment, as well as whether you wish to attend in-person classes or learn remotely. Classes led by expert instructors are especially beneficial for beginners as teachers can answer questions in real time and provide personalized feedback.Â
Certifications demonstrate a deeper, sometimes more specialized understanding of data analytics. They are often used by those pursuing niche jobs and more senior positions.Â
Many people choose to pursue both a data analytics certificate and certification. Some people start by getting a certificate to gain foundational knowledge and skills in data analytics. Then, once they have acquired the necessary skills, they may pursue a certification to demonstrate their expertise to employers. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your career goals and how much time and effort you are willing to invest.
Do I Need to Become Certified to Find a Job?
Data analytics certifications testify to your expertise, which can help you stand in the job market. However, you do not have to earn certification to begin a career in data analytics. The most important part of becoming a Data Analyst is not the certificate or certification you hold but the skills you possess. To demonstrate your expertise, you’ll need a professional portfolio containing projects that showcase your abilities.Â
Entry-level positions in data analytics require the manipulation of data, as well as an understanding of how to conduct basic analysis and report those findings. You can learn these skills in data analytics certificate programs that include classes and hands-on projects.
You may, however, wish to earn certification if you are seeking a niche role or looking to advance beyond an entry-level position. Most certifications require an exam, so taking prep courses and reviewing practice tests can increase your chances of obtaining certification.Â
What Certificate Program is Right for Me?
When considering what data analytics certification program may be right for you, consider the advantages of each training format. Most programs offer in-person classes, live online classes, or on-demand classes. Read on to learn more about each class type.Â
Which is Better: In-Person or Online Classes
In-person classes provide a traditional teaching environment where students learn face-to-face from an instructor. In-person data analytics classes often take place in a computer lab that comes equipped with all of the software and tools you need for the course. Because these are local classes, they provide an opportunity to network with professionals in your area and to build connections close to where you live and work. Your instructor can provide personalized feedback and answer your questions in real time, as well.
Online classes are offered live online or on demand. Live online classes take place in real time through video conferencing platforms like Zoom. This allows you to share your screen, ask questions, collaborate with classmates remotely, and receive feedback and guidance from your instructor. If you want to enjoy many of the benefits in-person classes offer but wish to skip the commute or look beyond limited local offerings, remote classes are a great option. To take a live online class, you’ll need a computer equipped with all necessary tools and software, and a reliable internet connection.
On-demand classes consist of pre-recorded lectures and written materials. They may also include hands-on assignments but may lack personalized feedback due to the automated submission process most on-demand platforms follow. One of the biggest advantages asynchronous classes offer is the ability to learn whenever you choose, allowing you to fully customize your schedule and learn at your own pace. This does, however, require a high level of self-discipline as there is no built-in structure or support system. Another advantage of this class format is its affordability. Most on-demand learning platforms cost $30-50 per month, with examples being Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning.Â
Which is Better: Live Online or Asynchronous Classes?
Both live online and asynchronous classes offer flexibility and convenience. Live online classes offer more structure and interaction, while asynchronous classes allow you to learn at your own pace and on your own time. Live online classes have real-time interaction with the instructor and classmates, while asynchronous classes do not. Live online classes typically offer more opportunities for feedback from the instructor, but they can be more demanding as you are required to be available at specific times. Asynchronous classes can be less expensive than live online classes, but they may not offer as much feedback from the instructor. Ultimately, the best type of class for you depends on your learning style and preferences.