What are the certificates for a data analyst and scientist?

Certificates don’t matter. What ultimately matters is whether or not you actually have the industry level skills. A quick check list in order of importance:

1. R/Python + SQL. If you don’t have the coding skills, you need a lot of networking power and other areas to beef up this deficit. I’ve seen data scientists with weak math and little domain experience but they’ve always been carried by a strong ability to code. Python is ideal but R is a great fall back tool. It’s best to have both in your arsenal. SQL is also extremely important for a Data Analyst.

READ: Introductory SQL learning article for you being a data analyst - Part One

2. Strong Math Skills: Having very good understanding of a few of the commonly used methods: generalized linear models, decision tree, Kmeans, and statistical tests is better than having a broad picture of various models or specialization such as RNN.

3. Domain Expertise: You need to know how to apply your data analysis/science skills to the actual industry. Simple as that.

4. Communication skills: No, this is not an excuse to be bad at the other areas. This is where you are good enough to explain what platform you are deploying from your coding knowledge or why your model is future proof on the math side in non technical terms. Being savvy at translating what you do to people who don’t know what you do.

You can’t be bad at any of these and expect to “make it up” elsewhere. People expect you to be proficient in all four while having an expertise in one or two aspects.

If you can’t cut any of these, your best “certification” is honestly a MS from an acclaimed school in CS or Stats. These days, the network and the brand name still pays for itself.

In the end, You're the certificate the world wants to see. Skill up & be efficient!

READ: Introductory SQL learning article for you being a data analyst - Part Two

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Jonathan Osagie is a Data & Business Intelligence Analyst interested in understanding stories that data tells, actions it inspires through analysis & analytics, and the success it brings to businesses by aiding strategic decisions.

Follow me on Twitter - @iamosagie_ng