Learning data analytics can open doors to professional opportunities in Phoenix by teaching you the techniques and tools used to extract valuable insights from complex datasets. Organizations rely on data-driven decision-making to improve operational efficiency and make informed choices that drive business growth. Earning a data analytics certificate or certification demonstrates your expertise in this in-demand skill and helps you stand out in Phoenix’s competitive job market. Learning data analytics can lead to lucrative career opportunities in industries such as healthcare, marketing, finance, and more. Read on to discover the top data analytics certificates and certifications in Phoenix.
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 with more than 30 years of experience teaching professional skills. Expert instructors teach students in-person in New York City and remotely through live online classes. Noble Desktop offers several data analytics classes as part of its Data Analytics Certificate. Full-time enrollment requires weekday classes but enables students to complete the certificate in just six weeks.
The Data Analytics Certificate from Noble Desktop includes classes that teach data analytics foundations, Python for data analysis, SQL, and how to use data analysis tools like Excel and Tableau. Students learn in real time from expert instructors and participate in hands-on assignments that solidify data analysis skills and knowledge.Â
Noble Desktop’s certificate programs include additional benefits, including a free retake for each course within one year, one-on-one mentoring, flexible payment plans, and small class sizes. Students develop a professional portfolio showcasing their mastery of the skills needed to pursue a career in data analytics. One-on-one mentorship sessions allow students to review their portfolios and receive career assistance by practicing for interviews, reviewing resumes, and more.
Data Analytics Technologies Bootcamp
Price: $1,949
Duration: 2 weeks (51 hours)
Locations: NYC, Live Online
The Data Analytics Technologies Bootcamp from Noble Desktop provides 51 hours of hands-on instruction, covering the in-demand data analytics tools SQL, Excel, and Tableau. Students learn to analyze, summarize, and present data so that businesses can gain valuable, actionable insights that inform important decisions.Â
Rather than a single class, this bootcamp consists of multiple classes. Students first learn the basics of Excel, followed by intermediate and advanced uses. They then learn two levels of Tableau and three levels of SQL. It is highly recommended that students proceed through the classes in the recommended order to ensure they understand the lessons and assignments provided.Â
Classes are offered during weekdays and are led by industry experts. Teachers provide real-time feedback, answer questions, and share best practices. The bootcamp includes a free retake within one year, free setup assistance, and flexible financing.
Google Analytics Bootcamp
Price: $350
Duration: One day (6 hours)
Locations: NYC, Live Online
If you are new to analytics and want a great introductory course, or you are particularly interested in using Google Analytics, this affordable class offers hands-on training delivered live online. Students learn how to use Google Analytics for tracking KPIs, running reports, understanding website visitor behavior, improving conversion rates, tracking marketing campaigns, identifying growth opportunities, and more.
This class also covers how to present information from Google Analytics to stakeholders and how to use GA4. You’ll learn how GA4 differs from Universal Analytics, how to get started with GA4, and how to navigate the GA4 interface. Students participate in hands-on projects, can access a free retake within one year, and receive real-time answers to questions. You also receive a certificate of completion as evidence of your new skills.
General Assembly
Price: $4,500
Duration: 2 months
Locations: Several (see website)
General Assembly offers classes in Phoenix and online. Their Data Analytics Certificate program covers essential skills such as SQL, Tableau, and Excel. General Assembly’s classes focus on real-world relevance to prepare students for careers in data analytics. The curriculum is developed by data analytics experts who include best practices and in-demand skills in the coursework.Â
General Assembly’s data analytics classes are designed for students from various professional backgrounds. Pre-course prep lessons help students jump-start their learning by teaching foundational skills such as Excel for data management, relevant vocabulary, and collaboration. Throughout the program, students complete hands-on projects and contribute to a professional portfolio under the guidance of an expert instructor.
Maricopa Community Colleges
Price: $2160-$2880 ($120 per credit)
Duration: Around one year
Locations: Several (see website)
Maricopa Community Colleges offer a certificate of completion in data analytics. Classes are available at several campuses in the Phoenix area, including Chandler-Gilbert, Estrella Mountain, GateWay, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Rio Salado, and Scottsdale. Students must complete 18 to 24 credit hours to earn this certificate.Â
This program teaches students to model, synthesize, and analyze data, as well as package and present it to stakeholders. Students learn how data is used to help businesses make important decisions. Courses cover industry techniques and tools used to extract, model, integrate, and visualize data. The program also prepares students for industry certification and to fulfill the requirements of the Associate of Applied Sciences (AAS) in Data Analytics available through the Maricopa Community Colleges Community College District (MCCCD).Â
Google Data Analytics Certificate
Price: Free to audit; around $50 per month for Coursera subscription
Duration: Self-paced
Locations: Online
TheGoogle Analytics Certificate is a certificate program developed by Google for those interested in understanding data analytics and their professional uses. The program is offered through the online learning platform Coursera. Students can audit the class for free or participate through a free trial. If you wish to earn a certificate and have your assignments graded, you can access the paid version of the course through a monthly Coursera subscription.Â
The classes offered cover the processes and practices used by entry-level Data Analysts, key analytical skills needed for such a job, how to clean, analyze, and visualize data, and how to use tools like SQL, Tableau, and spreadsheets to gain insights from data.
FAQ for Data Analytics Certificates
What is the Difference Between a Certificate and a Certification?
When researching data analytics certificate and certification programs, it’s important to understand the difference between the two. The distinction between a data analytics certificate and a certification lies in the rigor and recognition each requires.Â
A certificate is issued based on the standards of a school or program, primarily serving to confirm your training in specific data analytics skills. Certificates do not conform to an industry standard, so their value mostly stems from the essential skills you learn in pursuit of the certificate. These certificates are generally more flexible in terms of prerequisites and offer a great way for individuals new to data analytics to gain fundamental insights.Â
A data analytics certification follows certain industry standards and is therefore recognized across the industry. Earning a data analytics certificate demonstrates a higher level of proficiency and expertise in the field. Certification programs may include exam preparation as part of the curriculum and are often provided by industry-recognized organizations. Some well-known data analytics certifications include:Â
- Certified Analytics Professional (CAP): This widely recognized certification offered by the Analytics Certification Board covers areas such as data management, analytics methodology, and business problem framing.
- SAS Certified Data Scientist: SAS certification for Data Scientists demonstrates mastery of data analysis, machine learning, and big data techniques using SAS tools.Â
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate: This certification attests to the ability to use Microsoft’s Azure cloud platform for data analysis, machine learning, and data visualization.Â
- Google Professional Data Engineer: Google's certification validates expertise in designing and building data processing systems using Google Cloud technologies.
- Data Science Council of America (DASCA) Certifications: DASCA offers a range of certifications that assess your mastery of data science concepts, tools, and methodologies. Certification levels include Data Scientist, Senior Data Scientist, and Data Analyst.
Holding a data analytics certification implies a deeper understanding of advanced techniques, tools, and methodologies, making certified individuals more attractive candidates for job roles demanding advanced data analysis skills. Many professionals first earn a data analytics certificate to demonstrate mastery of foundational skills, then seek certification over time as they advance in their careers.
Should I Pursue a Certificate or a Certification?
When researching data analytics classes and training options, you may wonder whether you should earn a certificate or certification. This decision depends on your career goals, current skill level, and the depth of expertise you wish to achieve.Â
Certificate programs help you establish foundational knowledge and practical skills in data analytics. Such programs offer flexible learning options such as the ability to enroll part-time or full-time and the ability to choose between in-person classes and live online classes. They also work well for students who do not have a background in data analytics, as these courses allow beginners to enhance their understanding without committing to an extensive program. Certificates can help you grasp key concepts and tools, making them a solid choice if you're aiming to explore the field or add a relevant skill to your repertoire.
Certifications demonstrate a more specific, deeper understanding of data analytics. Because certifications are recognized across the industry thanks to their standardized requirements, earning a data analytics certification can help you stand out in the job market and pursue career advancement.
You also do not have to choose between pursuing a certificate or certification. Many professionals start by earning a data analytics certificate and follow up by earning a certification when they have gained the necessary skills. Ultimately, the choice between a certificate and a certification boils down to your career aspirations and the investment you're willing to make in terms of time and effort.
Do I Need to Become Certified to Find a Job?
Data analytics certifications can help you stand out in the job market by bolstering your credentials, but you do not necessarily need to be certified to start a career in data analytics. Employers tend to care more about your skills and knowledge than whether you hold specific certifications, so demonstrating your mastery of data analytics is key. To do this, you will need a professional portfolio and a polished resume.Â
Many entry-level Data Analyst positions focus on fundamental data manipulation, basic analysis, and reporting, which can be learned through educational programs, online courses, and practical projects. Certifications demonstrate more specialized knowledge, so they can help you stand out if you are pursuing a specialized area of data analytics or seeking a more senior role. For roles in highly regulated industries like healthcare or finance, certifications might be more common due to the need for standardized expertise.Â
Ultimately, while certifications can enhance your employability and demonstrate your commitment to the field, your practical skills, portfolio of projects, and ability to demonstrate your value to potential employers are equally important in securing a job in data analytics.
What Certificate Program is Right for Me?
When deciding what certificate program is right for you, you should consider your personal learning style, schedule, budget, and training timeline. There are three main types of data analytics classes to choose from: in-person, live online, and asynchronous. Read on to learn about the differences between these class types and how to decide which works best for you.
Which is Better: In-Person or Online Classes
In-person data analytics classes are those that take place at a physical location such as a school or career center. This is the most traditional of class formats, where you and your classmates learn from your instructor face-to-face in a classroom. In-person classes offer some advantages over other class types, including the ability to network with local professionals, build a community close to where you live and work, and access computers that come pre-installed with the necessary tools and software for your course. Your teacher can also answer your questions in real time, help you work through any technical difficulties or hurdles, and provide personalized feedback on your assignments. You also can collaborate with your classmates face-to-face. The main limitation of in-person classes is that you are limited to local offerings, which means you have fewer choices when searching for a class that covers your topic of interest and works for your schedule. You will also need to factor in the time and money needed to commute to your class.Â
Online classes come in two formats: live online and asynchronous. Live online classes offer similar benefits to in-person classes, including real-time feedback and instruction from your teacher, the ability to collaborate with classmates, and the chance to participate in hands-on assignments. Remote classes also enable you to skip the commute required for an in-person class. You can learn from the comfort of home, although this does mean your computer will need to be set up with all necessary tools such as Excel and Tableau. You will also need to ensure you have a reliable internet connection and the ability to access classes through video conferencing platforms like Zoom. Like in-person classes, live online classes meet at a specific time, which provides structure and can help you pace yourself as you learn data analytics. The ability to learn remotely allows you to take classes offered anywhere in the world, so you are not limited to local offerings.Â
Asynchronous classes, also known as on-demand classes, are classes that consist of largely static material that you work through at your own pace. Such classes can be found on learning platforms such as Coursera and Udemy. The biggest advance of an on-demand class is the ability to learn on your own schedule. If you have an unpredictable schedule or other responsibilities that make it difficult for you to meet at a specific time, on-demand classes provide the flexibility to learn at any time you choose. These classes are also affordable, with some classes able to be purchased outright while others are accessed through a monthly subscription ranging from $30-50 per month. Because on-demand classes are self-paced, you have to have a strong work ethic and accountability to complete the class, as there is no one checking in on your progress. Asynchronous classes also offer no or very limited support from an instructor if you have questions. Some classes offer an email address or specific office hours, but in the meantime, you are left waiting for an answer, unable to proceed with your lessons.
Which is Better: Live Online or Asynchronous Classes?
As mentioned in the previous section, online and asynchronous classes both offer their own advantages and drawbacks. Asynchronous classes work best for those with hectic schedules, as you can set your own pace. They are also very affordable, with subscriptions to platforms like Coursera and Udemy ranging from $30-50 per month. The downside to the on-demand format is that you have limited instructor access and sometimes no access to an expert at all. Questions must often be emailed, which means you are stuck until someone writes back to answer your question. Some on-demand classes use a peer-review method to grade assignments, therefore failing to provide expert feedback. Live online classes provide real-time feedback from an expert instructor. Many live online certificate programs also come with one-on-one mentoring for even more personalized feedback. On-demand classes also consist mostly of static materials like pre-recorded videos and readings that often contain out-of-date information. Live online classes teach you the current best practices from industry experts active in the field.