Professional Certificate in Data Science and Analytics

Advance your analytics expertise with AI, ML, and data science.

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Course Dates

STARTS ON

June 12, 2024

Course Duration

DURATION

6 months, online
15–20 hours per week

Course Fee

PROGRAM FEE

US$7,450 US$6,332 and get US$745 off with a referral

Course Information Flexible payment available
Course Fee

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Develop Future-Ready Skills Today

Emeritus is collaborating with MIT xPRO to help you build future-ready skills. Enroll before and get up to 15% tuition assistance to set yourself up for professional success.​

Application Details

program fee

US$7,450 US$6,332

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Prerequisites: Familiarity with Excel datasets, data visualization, and basic knowledge of Python coding are recommended.

Drive Decision-Making With Data, AI, and ML

Data is not only pervasive in today’s technologically savvy business environment—it’s essential for improved efficiency, accelerated productivity, and maximum profitability. However, the impact of data is most valued when it’s embedded into decision-making and leveraged for long-term growth. Professionals who are adept in data science—as well as in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)—are leaders who can harness their expertise to achieve optimum results for their organizations’ success.

If leveling up data science, ML, and AI skills is part of your career trajectory, the Professional Certificate in Data Science and Analytics from MIT xPRO can provide the expertise you need to navigate the challenges of this in-demand field. During this program, you will explore the fundamentals of data science—along with a mix of foundational and advanced AI/ML concepts relevant for data professionals. You will expand your skill set and learn to apply cutting-edge tools, such as Python and Google Colab, to gain an understanding of how data science, ML, and AI can enhance decision making and translate technical results into actionable insights.

36%

projected growth in employment of data scientists from 2021 to 2031

SOURCE: US BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS

63%

of organizations expect to employ professionals with AI and ML skills in the next couple of years

Source: GOV.UK, Department for Science, Innovation & Technology

Who Is This Program For?

  • Data professionals in engineering, finance, insurance, IT, or operations with coding experience who wish to develop a suite of advanced data analysis skills they can apply in their day-to-day work to make sound business decisions
  • Professionals working in data science-adjacent fields looking to build on their existing skill set to effectively lead or manage teams
  • Business professionals in sales, marketing, IT, or operations looking to sharpen their decision-making ability by learning to model, execute, and analyze business data and, in turn, use their data science expertise to advance their careers
  • Recent graduates with a STEM background who wish to build knowledge and skills in data science to prepare for a role as an analyst and start down a career path in the field

Prerequisites: Familiarity with Excel datasets, data visualization, and basic knowledge of Python coding are recommended.

Key Takeaways

  • Leverage data in order to optimize strategies and improve decision-making in your organization.
  • Explore how to apply AI and ML techniques to help organize and analyze data to maximize performance in an organization.
  • Learn to apply Python and Google Colab to train, organize, run, and analyze datasets and models that yield meaningful results.
  • Analyze and translate technical results into actionable insights for executives.
  • Develop a portfolio of modeling tools that showcases hands-on application of the skills required to use data for prediction, classification, and optimization in practical business contexts.

About MIT xPRO

MIT xPRO’s online learning programs leverage MIT's leadership in innovation, science, engineering, and technical disciplines with vetted content from world-renowned experts to make learning accessible anytime, anywhere. Designed using pioneering research in the neuroscience of learning, MIT xPRO programs are application focused, helping professionals to develop the hard and soft skills that are most in demand.

MIT xPRO has blended cutting-edge content with the best of online technology and instructional design to enable better learning outcomes while promoting engagement and collaboration to help professionals build their skills on the job. To explore the full catalog of MIT xPRO courses and programs, visit xpro.mit.edu.

Program Highlights

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Earn an MIT xPRO certificate and 36 continuing education units (CEUs)

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Gain insights from MIT faculty — experts in the field who bring industry experience to the classroom

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Learn from real-world case studies solved by faculty using applications of data science and applied analytics

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Demonstrate your knowledge in a final capstone project by developing a portfolio of application-based assignments completed throughout the program

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Receive one-on-one career support from Emeritus and introductions to hiring partners for eligible participants

Program Topics

    Survey the fundamentals of data science and understand its potential. Explore how data science can be used to learn more about your customers and master key analytical frameworks.

    • Module 1: Introduction to Data Science
    • Module 2: Thinking about Risk and Uncertainty through Probability and Distributions
    • Module 3: Correlation
    • Module 4: Clustering
    • Module 5: Linear Regression Part 1
    • Module 6: Linear Regression Part 2
    • Module 7: Logistic Regression


    Examine the role of optimization and how it can be used for the good of humanity. Dive deeper into model design and learn how to build, interpret, and assess models.

    • Module 8: Collaborative Filtering
    • Module 9: Linear Optimization Models
    • Module 10: Linear Optimization Models, Case Study
    • Module 11: Integer, Nonlinear, and Discrete Optimization Models
    • Module 12: Sponsored, Internet Search Advertising, Case Study
    • Module 13: Large-Scale Optimization, UN World Food Programme

    Take an in-depth look at regression and classification, ensemble learning, and bias in model-based, data-driven decision-making.

    • Module 14: Regression and Classification
    • Module 15: Ensemble Models
    • Module 16: Fairness and Bias Issues in Data-Driven Predictions

    Explore advanced applications of data science including deep learning, neural networks, and natural language processing.

    • Module 17: Neural Networks Part 1
    • Module 18: Neural Networks Part 2
    • Module 19: Neural Networks Part 3
    • Module 20: Natural Language Processing (NLP) Part 1
    • Module 21: Natural Language Processing (NLP) Part 2
    • Module 22: Interpretability and Causality in Models

    Discover real-world applications of AI/ML and new applications of digital transformation.

    • Module 23: Data, Models, and Decisions
    • Module 24: Leading Digital Transformations

Career Preparation and Guidance

Both hard and soft skills are needed to succeed as a data analytics professional. This program offers you guidance for navigating your career path, from crafting your elevator pitch to perfecting your interview skills. These services are provided by Emeritus, our learning collaborator for this program. The program support team includes program leaders who help you reach your learning goals. The primary goal is to give you the skills necessary to be prepared for a job in this field; however, job placement is not guaranteed.

Career guidance with this program includes:

  • Navigating your job search
  • Preparing for interviews
  • Negotiating salary
  • Crafting your elevator pitch
  • Optimizing your LinkedIn profile
  • Writing resumes and cover letters

Exercises specific to building your data science career include:

  • Building your personal brand and promoting your skills
  • Understanding the roles and workflow of data science
  • Job searching and interviewing for positions in data science
  • Communicating data science concepts through a capstone project
  • Reflecting on your skills to determine how to solve problems and become an efficient leader

Case Studies

Throughout the program, each faculty member will present case studies they have personally helped solve using the principles and tools of data science, including:

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Retail Management

Analyze how a Boston MA retailer handled its response to the Covid-19 pandemic using the systems approach.

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Filatoi Riuniti

Solve an optimization problem by developing a model and making recommendations on how this Italian yarn manufacturer should outsource production in order to maximize profits.

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Facial Analysis Algorithms

Examine the ramifications of poorly designed models and discover how to detect, diagnose, and mitigate biases that can arise in model-based, data-driven decision making.

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BlueBike

See how BlueBike used regression to predict demand. Then build your own models with regression and use R2 to pick the optimal model.

Final Capstone Project

Highlight your learnings in a final capstone project by building a portfolio of application-based assignments you have completed throughout the program. Your portfolio will demonstrate your proficiency in a range of data science skills required for model optimization and strategic decision thinking in organizational contexts.

Program Faculty

Profile picture of program faculty, Vivek Farias

Vivek Farias

Patrick J. McGovern (1959) Professor, Professor of Operations Management, MIT Sloan School of Management

Vivek is affiliated with the Operations Management group and the Operations Research Center (ORC) at MIT Sloan School of Management... More info

Profile picture of program faculty, Robert Freund

Robert Freund

Theresa Seley Professor in Management Science, Professor of Operations Research, MIT Sloan School of Management

Robert’s primary research interests are in convex optimization, computational complexity and related computational science, convex geometry, large-scale nonlinear optimization, and related mathematical systems... More info

Profile image of the program faculty, Retsef Levi

Retsef Levi

J. Spencer Standish (1945) Professor of Operations Management, Faculty Leader, MIT Leaders for Global Operations (LGO), MIT Sloan School of Management

Retsef’s research focuses on the design of analytical data-driven decision support models and tools addressing complex business and system design decisions under uncertainty in areas such as health and healthcare management, supply chain, procurement and inventory management, revenue management, pricing optimization, and logistics... More info

Profile image of the program faculty, Rama Ramakrishnan

Rama Ramakrishnan

Professor of the Practice, MIT Sloan School of Management

Rama’s research and teaching interests focus on the application of data science and machine learning techniques to problems in industry and the creation of intelligent products and services created by the algorithmic use of data... More info

Certificate

Certificate

Get recognized! Upon successful completion of this program, MIT xPRO grants a certificate of completion to participants and 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs). This program is graded pass or fail; participants must receive 75% to pass and obtain the certificate of completion.

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FAQs

  • How do I know whether this program is right for me?

    After reviewing the information on the program landing page, we recommend you submit the short form above to gain access to the program brochure, which includes more in-depth information. If you still have questions on whether this program is a good fit for you, please email learner.success@emeritus.org, and a dedicated program advisor will follow up with you very shortly.


    Are there any prerequisites for this program?

    Some programs do have prerequisites, particularly the more technical ones. This information will be noted on the program landing page and in the program brochure. If you are uncertain about program prerequisites and your capabilities, please email us at learner.success@emeritus.org for assistance.


    What are the requirements to earn a certificate?

    This is a graded program. You must complete a combination of individual assignments, quizzes, and a final project. Each component carries a certain number of points, and a cumulative score of 75 percent is required to pass and obtain your professional certificate.


    Will I be guaranteed a job upon completion of the program?

    The primary objective of this program is to give you the skills you need to be prepared for a job in this field. While eligible participants will receive career coaching and support and may receive introductions to our hiring partners, job placement is not guaranteed.

  • How much time will I be expected to devote to this program?

    Each program includes an estimated learner effort per week. This is referenced at the top of the program landing page under the “Duration” section and in the program brochure, which you can obtain by submitting the short form at the top of this web page.


    How will I spend my time in this program?

    You will divide your learning time between viewing recorded coding demos, and video lectures, contributing to class discussions, completing assignments, projects, and knowledge checks, and attending optional live sessions with industry experts and program leaders.


    How is the program administered? Can the program be accessed any time?

    The program is accessed through the custom learning portal. This portal will give you access to all program-related content such as video lectures, assignments, and discussions. Live office hours will be conducted using a webinar tool.

    The video lectures and assignments are accessible weekly throughout the program. In the event you miss a live session, a recording will be made available.


    Do I need to attend live sessions every week?

    Faculty video lectures are recorded, allowing you to watch these on your own schedule. However, participation in optional live sessions and discussion boards is highly encouraged. Live sessions will give you the opportunity to draw on the coding experience of our industry-experienced program leaders to answer your questions and help reach your learning goals. The discussion boards are also an integral part of the learning experience, giving you and your peers the opportunity to learn together and receive guidance from the moderators.


    Can I download the program videos?

    You can download video transcripts, assignment templates, readings, etc. However, the video lectures are only available for streaming and require an internet connection.


    How do I interact with other program participants?

    You can communicate with other participants through our learning platform. You will be able to form groups based on your interests and location. A direct messaging feature is also available through the platform.


    What is it like to learn online with the learning collaborator, Emeritus?

    More than 300,000 participants across 200 countries have chosen to advance their skills with Emeritus and its educational learning partners. In fact, 90 percent of the respondents of a recent survey across all our programs said that their learning outcomes were met or exceeded.

    All the contents of the program would be made available to participants at the commencement of the program. However, to ensure the program delivers the desired learning outcomes the participants may appoint Emeritus to manage the delivery of the program in a cohort-based manner the cost of which is already included in the overall fee of the program.

    A dedicated program support team is available 24/5 (Monday to Friday) to answer questions about the learning platform, technical issues, or anything else that may affect your learning experience.


    What is the relationship between Emeritus and MIT xPRO?

    Emeritus and MIT xPRO collaborate to create and deliver educational programs. None of these programs are Title IV-eligible.

  • What are the requirements to earn the certificate?

    Each program includes an estimated learner effort per week, so you can gauge what is required before you enroll. This is referenced at the top of the program landing page under the “Duration” section and in the program brochure, which you can obtain by submitting the short form at the top of this web page. All programs are designed to fit into your working life.

    This program is scored as a pass or no-pass; participants must complete the required activities to pass and obtain the certificate of completion. Some programs include a final project submission or other assignments to obtain passing status. This information will be noted in the program brochure. Please contact us at learner.success@emeritus.org if you need further clarification of any specific program requirements.


    What type of certificate will I receive?

    Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive a smart digital certificate. The smart digital certificate can be shared with friends, family, schools, or potential employers. You can use it on your cover letter, résumé, and/or display it on your LinkedIn profile.

    The digital certificate will be sent approximately two weeks after the program, once grading is complete.


    Can I get the hard copy of the certificate?

    No, only verified digital certificates will be issued upon successful completion. This allows you to share your credentials on social platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.


    Do I receive alumni status after completing this program?

    No, there is no alumni status granted for this program. In some cases, there are credits that count toward a higher level of certification. This information will be clearly noted in the program brochure.


    How long will I have access to the learning materials?

    You will have access to the learning platform and all program materials (videos excluded) for one full year following the program end date. Access to the learning platform is restricted to registered participants per the terms of agreement.

  • What equipment is needed or the technical requirements for this program?

    To successfully complete this course/program(me) online, you must have access to a device meeting the minimum requirements, found here. In addition, Microsoft Office or similar product and a PDF viewer are required to access documents, spreadsheets, presentations, PDF files, and transcripts in all programs. Technical programs might have additional tech requirements. Please check the learning platform on the first day of class.


    Do I need to be online to access the program content?

    Yes, the learning platform is accessed via the internet and video content is not available for download. You can download files of video transcripts, assignment templates, readings, etc. Video lectures must be streamed via the internet and webinars and small group sessions will require an internet connection.

  • What is the program fee for the program, and what forms of payment do you accept?

    The program fee is shown at the top of this page and payment must be made in US dollars only.

    Flexible payment options, group enrollment benefits, and referral bonus are available.

    Tuition assistance may be available for participants who qualify. Please contact your program advisor to discuss.


    What if I don’t have a credit card? Is there another mode of payment accepted?

    Yes, you can do the bank remittance in USD via wire transfer. Please contact your program advisor for more details.


    Is there an option to make flexible payments for this program?

    Yes flexible payment options are available for this program. We partner with loan providers to offer you flexible and transparent loan options. More information about loan financing is available here. Installment payments are also available—; you can find the options here.


    Does the program fee include taxes? Are there any additional fees?

    Yes, the program fee is inclusive of any taxes with the exception of GST for Singapore residents.


    Who will be collecting the payment for the program?

    Emeritus collects all program payments, provides learner enrollment and program support, and manages learning platform services.

  • What is the program refund and deferral policy?

    For the program refund and deferral policy, please click the here.

Financing Options

Climb Credit*

We offer financing options with our partner, Climb Credit*. Click here to learn more.
*Applicable for US Residents

Sallie Mae*

Fixed repayment, interest-only repayment, and deferred payment options are available. Click here to know more.
*At the time of loan application, please select ‘Undergraduate students’ when prompted.

Flexible Payment Options For All

Flexible payment options allow you to pay the program fee in installments. Click here to see payment schedule.

You can opt for any one of the financing options to cover up to the full cost of the program tuition. If you are considering financing your program through one of our partners, the enrollment process can only be completed with the assistance of your program advisor.

Please note that loan applications should be submitted no later than four business days prior to the enrollment deadline due to processing time.

Didn't find what you were looking for? Write to us at learner.success@emeritus.org or Schedule a call with one of our Academic Advisors or call us at +1 315 640 4846 (US) / +44 141 673 6416 (UK) / +65 3138 2327 (SG)

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