What You'll Learn
The Data Analytics Graduate Certificate is a flexible, fully online program designed for professionals seeking to strengthen their analytical and decision-making skills. Through four graduate-level courses, students build practical experience in statistics, programming, data management, and data visualization, skills that can be applied across industries such as business, healthcare, media, and technology.
- Apply statistical and data mining techniques to analyze real-world data sets
- Use programming tools like Python or R to support business analytics and reporting
- Work with data management and cloud-based tools to store, analyze, and extract insights
- Communicate analytical findings through data visualization and clear storytelling for diverse audience
Courses
The Data Analytics Graduate Certificate includes four courses (16 credits). Courses emphasize applied statistics, programming, and analytics techniques used to solve real-world business and organizational challenges.
You may choose courses from the following groups:
Introductory Data Analytics (Optional 1 Course)
Intro courses are not required, but you may choose to complete one introductory course to build foundational knowledge.
Example courses:
- CSCI 5A Introduction to Programming with R
- MGMT 104 Introduction to Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance
- STAT 100 Introduction to Quantitative Methods for the Social Sciences and the Humanities
Statistics (1 Course)
- CSCI 106 Statistical Data Modeling
Elective Courses (2 or 3 Courses)
Explore a particular area of data analytics while gaining experience in applying analytics to business settings.
Example courses:
- CSCI 7 Introduction to Computer Science with Python
- CSCI 96 Data Mining for Business
- CSCI 87 Big Data in Healthcare Apps
Prerequisite Knowledge
Understanding introductory statistics and business experience will help you succeed in courses. Some courses require calculus and linear algebra. If you have a solid foundation in statistics, you may take an additional data analytics elective (for a total of three) in place of the introductory course option. If you have a limited statistical background, begin with an introductory course.
Searching and Registering for Courses
Available course options vary by term. You can browse options for fall, spring, or summer in the certificate course search within the DCE Course Search & Registration platform.
A Faculty of Data Analytics Experts
Courses are taught by experienced practitioners and academic leaders in data analytics, data science, and decision sciences.
Our Community at a Glance
Along with your diverse peers, you’ll develop the skills to discover new insights that solve challenges for your organization.
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37
Average Age
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86%
Working Full Time
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14%
Students Outside the U.S.
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1.5 years
Average Time to Complete
Earning Your Certificate
If you take two courses per semester, you can complete your certificate in 8 months. If you prefer a more flexible pace, you have up to three years to finish. There is no formal application required.
To meet the requirements for the certificate, you must:
- Complete the four certificate courses for graduate credit.
- Earn at least a B grade in each course.
- Complete the courses within three years.
Learn more about pursuing a certificate and the process of requesting your certificate.
Build a Stackable Credential Pathway
Stackable credential pathways allow you to earn multiple credentials by completing courses that meet overlapping requirements. In the short term, you can earn a micro or graduate certificate. Once completed, those courses may count toward a master’s degree.
You may stack the Data Modeling and Ethics Microcertificate into the Data Analytics Graduate Certificate.
The Data Analytics Graduate Certificate can stack into a master’s degree in finance.
Stackable pathways offer an efficient, cost-effective way to earn short-term credentials to help fill immediate skill gaps and acquire specialized knowledge while building a foundation for long-term success that showcases your expertise in the field.
Learn how to plan a stackable credential pathway.
Cost
Affordability is core to our mission. When compared to our continuing education peers, it’s a fraction of the cost.
| Our Tuition (2025–26 rate) | $3,440 per course |
|---|---|
| Average Tuition of Peer Institutions | $5,476 per course |
| Average Total Cost | $13,760 |
FAQs
How will a graduate certificate in data analytics help my career?
Through this program, you’ll learn to select, apply, and interpret statistical analyses and data mining methods to solve real-world data challenges. Additionally, you’ll develop programming skills for business analytics and gain proficiency with advanced information management tools and cloud databases. The curriculum is designed to be immediately applicable in your career. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role or transition into a more data-driven position, this online graduate certificate will help you stand out in today’s competitive job market. Potential career paths tied to this certificate include roles such as data analyst, business intelligence analyst, or data scientist.
Are classes taught by Harvard University faculty?
Courses are taught by experienced instructors from Harvard University and industry leaders in technology, ensuring you learn the latest in the field.
How long will it take to complete the data analytics certificate?
The online data analytics graduate certificate offers a flexible path to a Harvard credential. You can complete the four courses at a pace that works for your schedule. If you take two courses per semester, you can finish in 8 months. Prefer a more flexible pace? You’ll have up to three years to finish. Most students complete the certificate within 18 to 24 months.
Which programming languages will I learn?
This program emphasizes programming skills that are essential for business analytics. While specific programming languages may vary depending on the courses you choose, you can expect to gain experience in languages commonly used in data analytics, including Python and R. These languages are integral to data analysis, statistical modeling, and data visualization tasks.
What is the typical weekly time commitment for each course?
Each course usually requires a commitment of 8 to 12 hours per week. This time includes the online course, assignments, and participating in hands-on projects.
How do I get started on the certificate?
To get started on your Data Analytics Graduate Certificate, you simply register for your first course. We offer courses during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. There is no application. If you are new to statistics or programming, we advise starting with an introductory course to build foundational skills.
Is a data analytics graduate certificate worth it?
Yes. A graduate certificate in data analytics provides practical skills in statistical analysis, programming, and data visualization that support career advancement across industries such as business, healthcare, media, and technology.
Is this an online data analytics certificate?
Yes. All courses in the Data Analytics Graduate Certificate are offered fully online, allowing students to complete coursework while balancing professional and personal commitments.
What careers does a data analytics graduate certificate support?
Students apply their skills in roles such as data analyst, business analyst, operations analyst, and analytics consultant, depending on prior experience and industry background.
