New Certificate Program Equips Professionals for Data-Driven Success
In today's data-driven world, the ability to work effectively with information is a skill that can benefit anyone who uses data in their work. The University of Minnesota is excited to announce the launch of the Applied Data Analysis Certificate Program, designed to empower professionals across various industries to confidently analyze, interpret, and communicate data for strategic decision-making.
What is applied data analysis?
Applied data analysis goes beyond the realm of data scientists. It equips professionals in a variety of specialties with the foundational skills to extract insights from data and use those insights to inform and influence organizational decisions. This program is ideal for individuals in business and financial roles, office and administrative support, sales, and more—people who regularly encounter data yet may not have a formal background in data analysis.
Why are data skills useful?
Imagine being a program manager tasked with evaluating the success of a new initiative. Through data analysis, you can analyze program surveys, identify trends, and measure impact. In addition, effectively communicating these findings requires the ability to interpret and present data in a clear and compelling way. This is where the Applied Data Analysis Certificate comes in.
The program consists of three six-week online courses.
- Data Analysis Foundations: Learn core data analysis concepts, data collection methods, and data cleaning techniques.
- Data Interpretation and Application: Refine your ability to translate data insights into clear, actionable recommendations.
- Data Storytelling: Develop the skills to communicate your data findings in a clear, concise, and persuasive manner.
Real-world applications
"This certificate equips professionals to confidently interpret data and translate it into actionable insights," says program director Molly Hahne. "Whether you're a program manager analyzing survey results or a marketing professional evaluating campaign performance, this program equips you with the tools you need to leverage data for better decision-making."
Market demand
The program serves a growing demand for data-savvy professionals. Minnesota labor market data from Lightcast™ shows that, from June 2023 to May 2024, there were 1,587 job postings requiring data-driven decision making, while 3,605 listed data storytelling, data presentation, and data visualization as key skills needed.
The first course, Data Analysis Foundations, begins on October 28. For more information, visit the Applied Data Analysis website.
Monique Dubos is a writer and content strategist with the U of M College of Continuing and Professionals Studies, where she has covered the College’s noncredit professional development, construction management, health services management, and IT infrastructure programs since 2018. She has also written for the Institute on the Environment, the Minnesota Technical Assistance Program, and various publications. Connect with her via LinkedIn.