The Data Professional
Entry requirements
No formal qualifications or experience is necessary.
As our modules are delivered in English, a high proficiency of English is required. If English isn’t your first language, your ability should be equivalent to an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5. Don’t worry if you don’t hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification – we offer a free online English test to assess your proficiency.
You don’t need to prove your English ability if you’re a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of these countries.
Months of entry
January, October
Course content
Interested in how data can help shape a business? The Data Professional online professional course is a good place to start exploring the concepts of data science.
From the history of computer science through to data collection and analysis, this module gives a full in-depth understanding of data science. You’ll have the opportunity to use popular programming languages such as Python – and by the end, you’ll be able to confidently apply tools and techniques to data within your own organisation
There’s a strong focus on various topics such as:
- data scientist roles, perspectives and challenges
- data Lifecycle Management, including data governance and ethics
- programming paradigms for data preparation and analysis
- database design and implementation
- tools and techniques applied in Data Science subjects, including project evaluation methodology
- emerging technologies and trends in Data Science
Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a digital certificate confirming you’ve achieved 20 academic credits at postgraduate level. You will also have the opportunity to progress on to a PG Cert Data Science (60 credits), PG Dip Data Science (120 credits) or the full MSc Data Science (180 credits).
Please note, acceptance on to a postgraduate qualification is subject to meeting the entry requirements of your chosen programme.
How will you learn?
Studying online gives you the freedom to study when and where it suits you – at home, during your lunch hour or in a café.
Our online professional courses are delivered through a virtual learning environment (VLE) instead of a traditional campus. This means you will have access to your study materials 24/7, including:
- multimedia lecturecasts made up of written content, short videos, animation, audio recordings, infographics, short tests and mini-assignments
- discussion forums for you to chat about the module content with fellow students
- live Q&A sessions with your tutors
- a comprehensive eLibrary of textbooks and academic journals
- support from academic staff and your dedicated Student Support team
This course is accredited by The CPD Certification Service, which provides independent CPD accreditation used to formally record CPD learning. Recognised in over 100 countries, the accreditation is compatible with international requirements and confirms our courses achieve qualitative standards required by professional bodies, institutional associations and education providers.
We're proud to be rated Gold in the Times Higher Education (THE) Online Rankings 2024. Our achievement, which is based on four pillars - resources, engagement, outcomes and environment - recognises our commitment to excellant online education.
Fees and funding
Qualification, course duration and attendance options
- CPD
- part time3 months
- Online learningis available for this qualification
Course contact details
- Name
- Enquiries team
- enquiries@online.essex.ac.uk
- Phone
- +44 (0) 1206 489 358