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Total Courses3 required courses
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CEUs | Contact Hours9.0 CEUS | 90 Contact Hours
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Cost$3,735
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FormatFully online
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Time to Complete5–6 months
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Funding Resources
Turn Data into Powerful Insights
Data is everywhere in today’s work. This certificate is designed for professionals who want to strengthen their data analysis skills and use data more effectively in their roles. You’ll learn how to turn data into clear, actionable insights that support better decisions for your organization. In this online, instructor-led program, you’ll build skills in data analysis, visualization, presentation, and data storytelling with guidance from experienced data professionals.
This program will equip you to understand and use basic data analysis techniques for various data types, create compelling data visualizations to communicate insights effectively, and present your findings confidently and influence organizational decisions.
The University of Minnesota Applied Data Analysis Certificate program provides a solid foundation in how to work with and communicate data. You can take the full certificate or take courses individually. Through our Applied Data Analysis Certificate courses, participants will learn to:
- Choose the right tools for the job: Learn how to select the most appropriate data analysis techniques based on your specific data and goals.
- See the whole picture: Explore both quantitative and qualitative methods to analyze your data and draw meaningful conclusions.
- Make your data talk: Sharpen your communication skills to translate data insights into clear, actionable recommendations that can be used for organizational decision-making.
- Make data work for everyone: Understand how to identify the right data, detail level, and key takeaways for different audiences. You'll be able to communicate effectively regardless of your listener.
Applied Data Analysis Courses
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Multi-Week CourseData Analysis Foundations
This course provides a comprehensive foundation in data analysis, equipping you with the essential skills to unlock the power of your data.Next start date:- Mar. 9-April 20, 2026| Wed. 6:00-7:30pm | Instructor Led Online
$1245.00 | 30.0 hours -
Multi-Week CourseData Storytelling
Craft compelling data stories that resonate with your audience and drive meaningful action.Next start dates:- Mar. 9-April 20, 2026 | Mon. 12:00-1:30pm | Instructor Led Online
- July 6-Aug. 16, 2026 | Mon. 6:00-7:30pm | Instructor Led Online
$1245.00 | 30.0 hours -
Multi-Week CourseData Interpretation and Application
Translate data analysis into actionable insights that drive decision-making.Next start date:- May 11-June 21, 2026 | Mon. 6:00-7:30pm | Instructor Led Online
$1245.00 | 30.0 hours
Format
Each multi-week course blends synchronous and asynchronous learning to provide flexibility for independent project work while still building real-time connections with instructors and fellow participants via Zoom.
The synchronous portion—live class sessions designed for hands-on practice and support—includes a 90-minute Zoom meeting each week. During these meetings, participants join discussions and workshop assignments and projects together. This time helps learners build relationships with peers and the instructor, while also allowing for more personalized guidance.
The asynchronous portion—coursework that can be completed on each participant’s own schedule—may include recorded video lectures, readings, and assignments such as discussion posts or projects. Each week, there will be designated deadlines to help learners stay on track.
Career Outlook
Funding and Discounts
The University of Minnesota's professional development programs are affordable because they can be completed in relatively short order—sometimes within a few months—which can save you both time and money. What's more, there are other opportunities you can explore to potentially bring the cost down even further.
Funding
- CCAPS offers scholarships of $500 to $2,500 to Minnesota residents who meet eligibility requirements.
- If you're not employed, you may be able to take advantage of federal or state funding. Contact your CareerForce center to inquire.
- Your organization may have funds set aside for employee education. Read about the benefits of employer investment in career development.
Discounts
- When you register and pay for all courses in the certificate at once, you'll receive up to a 10% discount.
- University of Minnesota Alumni Association members receive a 10% discount.
- UMN staff get 50% off most professional development programs.
See Discounts, Scholarships, and Other Funding for more information and possible exclusions to discounts.
Enroll
The cost of the Applied Data Analysis Certificate is $3,735, but if you register and pay for all courses at once, we’ll give you a 10% discount. You’ll pay $3,361, a savings of $374!
For courses in this certificate, we offer an option to pay in two installments. See details.
If you are registering multiple people from your organization, use this form. (See available discounts).
If you have any questions about the registration process, payment options, or need to transfer or cancel your registration, please contact the registration team:
Option 2
Enroll in Certificate Now
Register and Pay for Courses Later
- U of M employees: choose this option to receive your discount
- Payment plan
Your Enrollment Advisor
Shanta Bhoelai
I can help you choose which professional development programs are the best fit to meet your career goals. I am here to answer your questions regarding specific programs, courses, or other career topics you have on your mind.
Don’t hesitate to send me an email or schedule an online appointment. I'm here for YOU!
Free Work-Ready Skills Webinars
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take the courses in a specific order?
Yes, the courses are designed to build upon each other. We recommend taking them in the following sequence.
- Data Analysis Foundations: This course provides the essential skills you need to get started, including working with Excel and data cleaning techniques. These skills are crucial for success in the following courses.
- Data Interpretation and Application: Here, you'll delve deeper into data analysis, learning how to interpret and analyze data to extract valuable insights.
- Data Storytelling: Finally, you'll get insights on how to communicate your data findings effectively through compelling data visualizations and storytelling techniques.
What is applied data analysis?
Applied data analysis equips you with the skills to leverage data for real-world problem-solving and data-driven decision-making. Unlike traditional data analytics, this program is designed for those who aren't specialists, who don't primarily work with data but use it to inform and influence business decisions across various roles.
Who should take this certificate?
This certificate is ideal for professionals across diverse fields who:
- analyze data: learn essential techniques for data exploration, manipulation, and analysis.
- interpret data: develop the ability to extract meaningful insights and identify trends from data.
- communicate data: explore the art of presenting your data findings clearly and persuasively through data visualization and storytelling.
How long does the Applied Data Analysis Certificate take to complete?
Each course is six weeks long. Depending on when you start, you may be able to finish the entire certificate program in as little as five months.
Is there a payment plan option?
Yes! For courses in this certificate, we offer an option to pay in two installments. See details.
Didn't see an answer to your question? Try looking here.
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