Certificate: Introduction to Data Science

About the Introduction to Data Science Certificate at Loyola

Data and data science impacts every professional discipline and has a very real effect on the success of organizations across the broad spectrum of business and industry. As a result, there is a continuing need for professionals with a strong foundational knowledge of, and practical skill set for data analytics and problem solving.

The online Introduction to Data Science Certificate offers an introductory to intermediary exploration of analyzing data using statistical tests in the programming language Python.

The program is designed to be approachable and achievable for a wide range of students, including those who don't consider themselves “math-minded.” Students who might find other statistics programs too heavy on math theory and working through formulas appreciate this certificate's more hands-on approach. The Data Science Certificate distills information in a way that encourages thinking of statistical tests as tools in your skills toolbox, which you will have the confidence to use in your actual work after completing the program.

Students in this program work with real-world datasets, developing hands-on skills by taking part in every stage of the data analysis process - from data cleaning, to developing analytic programs, to visualizing the results, to reporting on those results to stakeholders. This leaves graduates of the program prepared to use data to answer pressing social questions as well as to address the needs of a variety of professional clients.

The certificate also includes topics like data ethics and digital ethics, preparing you for many aspects of a challenging, dynamic career in data analytic work.

Program Structure

The Introduction to Data Science Certificate is a three-course, nine-credit-hour program. An optional fourth course is an option if you want additional experience applying theory to practice as you solve a real-world data science problem for a nonprofit organization, under the guidance of faculty.

You will thrive in the program if you have some prior programming or tech experience, or work in a field that exposes you to data but have only done very basic work with it.

The program is completed fully online and asynchronous, making it an excellent fit for working adult learners. You will take one course in three consecutive eight-week sessions, and you can complete the program of study in an accelerated seven to 12 months.

Why Choose Loyola for the Introduction to Data Science Certificate?

A real-world approach to data science and problem solving

The certificate program will enable you to apply the statistical techniques you learn in class to datasets you're working with at your full-time job, helping you develop the skills necessary to solve problems that arise in your professional work.

With data playing a significant role across the broad spectrum of business and industry, the certificate program offers the theoretical foundation and practical skills that can be applied in fields from nursing and IT to social sciences, management, and nonprofits.

You will complete the program's coursework entirely online, taking one course in three consecutive eight-week sessions, positioning you to finalize the program and earn your certificate in seven to 12 months.

The program offers a distinctive project-based approach, offering you introductory statistics content in an applied, practical way while simultaneously teaching coding in Python.

Students who complete this program will walk away with a rich portfolio of programming and data analytic work that they can present to future consulting clients or potential employers. Current students who are already employed in a field that frequently handles data may use course assignments to address their real-life professional projects.

We keep class sizes small as a way to foster a more effective hands-on approach. You'll engage in a highly collaborative learning environment, trading resources, tips, tricks, and useful discoveries with your fellow students via the course's Slack channel.

As a student in the certificate program, you will be guided by a faculty of instructors who are successful statistical consultants and programmers, bringing with them the most current, relevant topic areas and hands-on projects that reflect real-world practice.

Meet the Faculty

Loyola is proud to have talented and nationally-recognized scholar-teachers as part of our diverse community of exceptional faculty, students and staff. Loyola faculty are known for their commitment to teaching, the dissemination of knowledge through innovative and interdisciplinary scholarly research, and a commitment to social justice and cura personalis, or care for the whole person. Visit the School of Continuing and Professional Studies faculty and staff directory to learn more about the teachers and mentors involved with the Certificate: Introduction to Data Science program.

Faculty and Staff

Curriculum and Program Outcomes

While courses for the Certificate: Introduction to Data Science program may vary from semester to semester, Loyola’s extensive Academic Catalog will always house the official listing of courses, programs of study, academic policies, degree requirements, and specialization or concentration options.

Additionally, this resource will provide Certificate: Introduction to Data Science learning outcomes, showcasing the commitment to specific skills and growth graduates can expect to achieve following completion of the program.

2024-2025 Catalog
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Costs, Scholarships, and Aid

Loyola University Chicago is committed to making your return to school a reality. Our Cost & Financial Aid page can help better inform you about the costs and potential funding opportunities through scholarships, loans, and aid for graduate and professional education.

Tuition and Costs

The estimated tuition and fees for the Certificate: Introduction to Data Science totals $7110.00, or 9 credit hours at a cost of $790.00 per credit hour. Please note that tuition and fees for all of Loyola's academic programs are subject to change.

For more detailed information about tuition and fees, and a breakdown of how these costs are calculated on a yearly basis, please visit Tuition and Fees from the Office of the Bursar.

Certificate: Introduction to Data Science Scholarships

For detailed information about tuition, costs, and aid, please visit the SCPS Tuition & Financial Aid page.

Appointments and Events

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Application Process

Application Deadlines

The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Certificate: Introduction to Data Science are listed below. Please keep in mind that both the application and the required materials must be submitted by the specified deadline.

Rolling applications, recommended deadlines are:

Fall I: August 5

Application Requirements

Application requirements for the Certificate: Introduction to Data Science include:

  • Official transcripts from all institutions attended

  • Completed Application

Official Documents

Official transcripts are those that are sent directly by the college/university to Loyola University Chicago. Transcripts sent by the student to Loyola are considered unofficial documents, and while they may be utilized for initial review of your application, official transcripts are still required. Official documents should be sent by the institution to gradapp@luc.edu.

International Applicant Requirements

An official English language proficiency exam is required for international applicants whose native language is not English. If you have non-U.S. educational credentials, you are required to submit an official transcript evaluation. The transcript evaluation cannot be waived.

Please visit our International Applicant Requirements page for specific information regarding the application process for international students.

International Applicant Requirements
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Applying online to the Certificate: Introduction to Data Science program is a swift, uncomplicated, and cost-free process. After submission, you can proceed to send and upload any additional requirements.

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