All 2U/edX courses Overview What you'll learn Modules FAQs

Overview

To stay relevant in a shifting marketplace, businesses need to be able to adapt quickly. This is where the power of data comes in. Today, professionals with strong analytical skills are among the most valuable members in an organisation as they have the ability to guide business strategy based on real and up-to-date data.

The University of Cape Town (UCT) eight-week Data Analysis online short course is designed to equip students with essential skills for informed decision-making in business. Whether in finance, sales, marketing, operations, or human resource management, this course in data science from UCT provides practical insights and hands-on experience to apply statistical measures effectively.

The course covers various data analysis techniques, including descriptive, inferential, predictive, prescriptive, and exploratory analytics. Emphasising practical aspects of data manipulation, interpretation, and presentation using tools like Microsoft Excel, students also gain exposure to relational databases and Structured Query Language (SQL).

The UCT Data Analysis online short course is a valuable resource for those interested in exploring this field. It is also ideal for professionals with a background in data analysis or related fields who want to leverage data more effectively to improve outcomes and drive advancement in their context. This data analysis course is crafted to assist individuals to grow their skills, stay current in the industry, or advance their careers. 

With a focus on practical coursework and real-world data sets, students can immediately apply their skills to address specific business needs. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel is a prerequisite for the course.

What you'll learn

Acquire valuable and relevant data analyst skills, and walk away with:

• An understanding of how to use data analysis for diverse business needs
• Theoretical knowledge of databases, SQL, and various data analysis techniques
• Hands-on skills in sorting, manipulating, analysing, visualising, and interpreting data using Microsoft Excel, tailored for business contexts
• An understanding of data capture, storage, and access
• Application of data analysis skills to various business domains, including finance, sales, marketing, operations, and HR management
• Ongoing access to edX's Career Engagement Network, providing exclusive resources and events to advance your professional journey
• A UCT-backed certificate to meet the growing demand for data analysts

Modules

ORIENTATION MODULE Welcome to your Online Campus
Meet and engage with your learning and peer networks as you navigate the Online Campus.

MODULE 1 Fundamentals of data-driven decision-making
Learn the key concepts and principles of data analysis, and how it can be used to drive business decision-making.

MODULE 2 Research questions for data analysis
Explore the different types of data analysis, and the research questions that can be answered using these data analysis techniques.

MODULE 3 Organising data in Microsoft Excel
Learn the basic functions and formulas for sorting, aggregating, and managing data for analysis in Microsoft Excel.

MODULE 4 Statistical analysis using Microsoft Excel
Learn how to conduct a statistical analysis in Microsoft Excel using several statistical methods and operations.

MODULE 5 Interpretation of outcomes
Learn how to interpret statistical findings and draw meaningful conclusions from data related to a variety of business needs.

MODULE 6 Data Presentation and visualisation
Discover how to create informative graphs and charts, and how to write impactful reports to guide business decision-making.

MODULE 7 Introduction to databases and SQL
Study the fundamental constructs of SQL and relational databases, and understand the opportunities and challenges of working with databases.

MODULE 8 Looking towards the future
Critically reflect on the research process, explore other data analysis tools, and the future of data analysis.

FAQs: Data analyst career path