Best Online Data Analytics Courses to Upskill: Which One Is Right for You?
Guy Clennett
Professionals with data analytics skills are invaluable to businesses.
Why? Because they:
- Accurately analyse large data sets
- Understand programming languages, and
- Are knowledgeable in digital tools and web coding technology.
This knowledge helps businesses inform and improve their business intelligence and their decision-making.
Data science and analytics are also transferable across many industries. A data analytics course is a great tool if you want to upskill in your current field or start something new.
Our course comparison below will help you find your best pathway. All of them offer flexible online learning — and some even have no education prerequisites.
Short courses
Short courses are perfect for data analytics newbies to wrap their heads around key skills and practices. These courses require no prior education, and their shorter time commitment means minimal disruption to your day-to-day. If you’re looking for an upskilling opportunity, this is it!
Marketing Analytics and Insights
RMIT Online
Key features
- Learn to identify and use data insights
- Focus on driving business action and communication
- Free access to Adobe and Tableau tools during the course
- No prerequisites
Study mode
- Online
Time commitment
5-8 HRS A WEEK, OR
33-48 hrs
OVER 6 WEEKS
Best for
Learning how data insights can shape marketing strategies.
Developing AI strategy
RMIT Online
Key features
- Focuses on real-world AI strategy implementation
- Create an AI business plan for your industry
- No prerequisites
Study mode
- Online
Time commitment
5-8 HRS A WEEK
43-64 hrs
OVER 8 WEEKS
Best for
Learning how to apply AI thinking to the industry.
Certificate or diploma courses
These courses are a great option for those looking for a more comprehensive understanding of data science. Slightly longer, they provide greater depth of general practices and specialist knowledge, focusing on practical data science implementation.
Data Science Collection
Learning People
Key features
- Focuses on the implementation of programming languages Python and R
- Understand compliance and governance in data analytics
- Proven strong familiarity with Python and Cloud systems required to start
Study mode
- Online
Time commitment
STUDY TIME
120 hrs
SELF-PACED
Best for
Learning how to best visualise data with code during business decision-making.
Diploma of Data Science
10917NAT
This is a brand-new nationally recognised course, released in February 2021. So new, in fact, that no RTOs or providers are approved to deliver the course yet. Watch this space!
Key features
- Covers all steps of data collection, structures and analysis
- Works with emerging web technology tools
- Provides specialist skills options
Study mode
- Online
Time commitment
APPROX
12-24 mths
FULL-TIME
Best for
Becoming a data analyst or data scientist.
Uni courses
A bachelor’s degree in IT or Computer Science (data science and applied analytics) is a great option for those looking to start a longstanding career in the data science field. Usually, three years of full-time study, a bachelor’s degree can lead you to a fulfilling career in numerous industries, including data science, logistics management and business intelligence.
Once you’ve completed a bachelor’s degree, you can go on to further specialisation and expertise in a master’s degree.
Bachelor courses
Undergraduate level
Key features
- Comprehensive knowledge of all stages of applied data analytics
- Understanding of programming languages and web tools
- Personalised specialist skills training (electives)
Study mode
- Online
Time commitment
FULL-TIME
3 yrs
(OR 6 PART-TIME)
Best for
People who want to build a career in data analytics, science and business intelligence.
Masters of Business Administration (Data and Cyber Management)
Postgraduate level
Bachelors or Graduate Certificate entry prerequisite.
Key features
- An MBA with a focus on data security
- Australian Defence Force approved program
- No exams and graduate with a work-ready portfolio
Study mode
- Online
Time commitment
12-24 mths
FULL-TIME OR PART-TIME
Best for
Data science professionals looking to become a leader in business cybersecurity.
Master of Data Science (Applied)
Postgraduate level
Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) entry prerequisite.
Key features
- 6:2 structure – 2 week-break to every six-week teaching period
- Practical, real-world implementation of data science
- Student advisors and support resources throughout the course duration
Study mode
- Online
Time commitment
2.5 yrs
20-25 HRS PER WEEK
Best for
Professionals who require comprehensive practical data science knowledge.
If you’re looking to upskill in a valuable, high-income skill set, data science and analytics is a great option. With a wide range of education pathways available, choosing a course to fit your goals and lifestyle is easy.
With the benefits of online learning at your fingertips, there’s no time like the present to start enquiring about courses.
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