Top Nine Data Analytics and Big Data Certifications to Boost Your Career

Data analytics and big data are essential for modern business success. But having the right technology isn’t enough—you need skilled professionals to drive data initiatives. This is why companies now value certifications that verify expertise in data analytics. Certifications prove that you meet industry standards, making you a valuable asset in this competitive field.

Here’s a detailed guide to the most in-demand certifications in data analytics and big data:

1. Certification of Professional Achievement in Data Sciences

This program develops fundamental data science skills through four courses: Algorithms, Probability & Statistics, Machine Learning, and Data Visualization.

• Provider: Columbia University
• Cost: $1,936 per credit (minimum 12 credits), plus fees
• Prerequisites: Undergraduate degree and basic programming skills
• Preparation: Foundational knowledge of statistics and coding is required

2. Certified Analytics Professional (CAP)

CAP certifies the ability to manage the entire analytics process, from problem framing to deploying models. It’s ideal for professionals who want to validate their expertise in end-to-end analytics.

• Provider: INFORMS
• Cost: $495 (members), $695 (non-members)
• Preparation: Study resources and webinars are available
• Unique Feature: Must adhere to the CAP Code of Ethics

3. Cloudera Certified Associate (CCA) Data Analyst

This certification focuses on SQL and Hadoop data management. It tests candidates through performance-based tasks on a Hadoop cluster.

• Provider: Cloudera
• Cost: $295
• Preparation: Cloudera Data Analyst Training is recommended
• Exam Format: 8-12 practical tasks in 120 minutes

4. EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist Associate (EMCDSA)

Designed to certify professionals as effective team members on big data projects, the EMCDSA focuses on the data analytics lifecycle, business challenges, and statistical modeling.

• Provider: Dell EMC Education Services
• Cost: $600 (video training) or $5,000 (instructor-led)
• Preparation: Course available as video or instructor-led

5. IBM Data Science Professional Certificate

This beginner-friendly certification covers tools and concepts in data science, including Python, SQL, machine learning, and data visualization. It’s offered through Coursera and includes a portfolio-building component.

• Provider: IBM via Coursera
• Cost: $39 per month
• Preparation: No programming experience required
• Duration: About 3 months at 12 hours per week

6. Microsoft Certified Azure Data Scientist Associate

This certification demonstrates proficiency in developing models on Microsoft Azure using predictive analytics, NLP, and computer vision.

• Provider: Microsoft
• Cost: $165 per exam
• Preparation: Free online courses or paid instructor-led training
• Unique Feature: Certification does not expire

7. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Data Management and Analytics

The MCSE credential validates skills in SQL administration, business intelligence, and data solutions across cloud and on-premises environments. Candidates must pass one of 12 exams to earn this certification.

• Provider: Microsoft
• Cost: $165 per exam
• Prerequisite: Must first earn an MCSA certification (e.g., SQL Server or BI Reporting)

8. Open Certified Data Scientist (Open CDS)

This independent, peer-reviewed certification evaluates real-world experience in data science. There are no formal exams, and the certification process involves earning milestone badges and passing peer interviews.

• Provider: The Open Group
• Cost: $1,250 for certification; $250 for re-certification
• Certification Period: 3 years

9. SAS Certified Data Scientist Using SAS 9

This certification covers working with big data, machine learning models, and data visualization using SAS tools. It involves passing five comprehensive exams.

• Provider: SAS
• Cost: $180 per exam; $250 for the Predictive Modeling exam
• Preparation: Courses offered through SAS Academy; prices vary between $4,400 (self-paced) to $16,000 (instructor-led)

Conclusion

Earning one of these certifications can help set you apart in the data analytics field. Whether you’re new to data science or an experienced professional, these certifications offer targeted training and industry-recognized credentials. Choose a certification based on your skill level, career goals, and preferred area of expertise to stay competitive in this rapidly evolving field.