Google Data Analytics Professional Certification Review

Introduction

• Presented personal experience with the certification.
• Addressed common questions regarding the value of the certification.

Key Points

• Certification vs Degree:

  • Certification alone cannot replace a four-year degree.
  • Helped secure multiple job offers.
  • Good stepping stone for entering the data field.
  • Eye-catching on resumes and useful for interviews.

• Course Duration:

  • Estimated duration: 6 months.
  • Completed in less than a month by dedicating 8 hours/day.
  • Personal circumstances allowed for rapid completion.

• Cost:

  • Current cost: $49/month (Coursera Plus).
  • Option to take multiple courses simultaneously.
  • Free 7-day trial available for quick completion.

Skills and Tools

• Tools used: Google Sheets, BigQuery, Tableau, R.
• Skills learned: Data cleaning, mining, aggregation, visualization.
• Each course includes assessments, quizzes, and labs.
• Ability to skip courses if already familiar with the topic.

Curriculum Structure

• Data Analysis Workflow:
  • ASK, Prepare, Process, Analyze, Share, Act.
• Case Studies:
  • Opportunity to work with real-world data.
  • Encouraged to complete at least one for portfolio building.

Critiques of the Course

• Preference for Python:

  • R is chosen over Python, which is seen as more versatile.
  • Google now offers an advanced certification using Python.

• Generalized Content:

  • Course may be too general for some learners.
  • Real-world skills may need to be self-taught after completion.

• Expectations:

  • Certification is entry-level; requires additional learning to advance in the field.

• Job Market Misconceptions:

  • Certification alone does not guarantee job placement.
  • Important to showcase skills on LinkedIn, resumes, and portfolios.

Additional Benefits

• Resume and interview tips provided during the course.
• Networking opportunities with over 150 companies (US-based).

Conclusion

• The certification is worth the investment if financially feasible.
• Many free alternatives exist for those unable to pay.
• Recommended further learning: IBM Data Science Professional Certification.
• New advanced data analytics certification from Google to be explored.

Closing

• Encouragement to leave comments for any questions.