In today’s fast-paced world, where data-driven decisions have become the backbone of businesses across industries, the demand for skilled data analysts is skyrocketing.
Whether you’re seeking a higher paycheck, a more flexible and in-demand career, job security, or simply a morning where you don’t find yourself thinking “Oh God, not another day…”, obtaining the Google Data Analytics Certificate could be your golden ticket. But how do you start, and where does Merit America fit into this picture? Here’s everything you need to know.
What is a Data Analyst?
In simple terms, data analysts use data to solve business problems, transforming raw data into insights that viewers can act on. Since data is beneficial to every business, data analysts are some of the most sought-after professionals in the world, with jobs expected to grow over 25% between 2023 and 2027.
Because demand is so strong, yes, it’s entirely possible to become a data analyst with no experience or degree—and yes, employers will be open to hiring you. Why? Because, like many other career paths in tech, data analytics professionals have backgrounds in teaching, retail, warehousing, driving, the military, and more. It’s all about leveraging the right skills and showcasing your know-how, and a Google Data Analytics Certificate is a great place to start.
Understanding the Google Data Analytics Certificate
The Google Data Analytics Certificate is designed to prepare you for an entry-level role in data analytics. With no prior experience required, it’s accessible to anyone looking to break into the tech field. The online course covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of data cleaning and analysis to more advanced subjects like data visualization and critical thinking in data analysis.
With a program like Merit America’s Data Analytics Career Track, it’s not just about learning; it’s about becoming fluent in the methods and being able to effectively communicate them in real-world simulations with your peers before embarking on the job search.
Benefits of Obtaining the Google Data Analytics Certificate
Industry-Recognized Credential
Imagine having a credential that speaks volumes before you even utter a word. The Google Data Analytics Certificate is recognized globally, signaling to employers your commitment and proficiency in the field of data analytics. It’s a mark of excellence that enhances your resume, setting you apart in the competitive job market.
According to Coursera statistics, about 75% of Google Career Certificate Graduates reported “an improvement in their career trajectory” within half a year of completing their certificate. More specifically, Merit America alumni on average experience an annual wage increase of $24,000 – 3 months or more after completing the program, according to a study conducted by UVA.
Career Opportunities
The beauty of data analytics lies in its universality. Every sector, from finance to healthcare, needs data analysts to decipher complex information into understandable, actionable insights. At the time of writing in May 2024, we found thousands of entry-level remote data analyst roles available across indeed.com, LinkedIn, FlexJobs, and Glassdoor, and this certificate is a first-step in opening doors to a myriad of opportunities.
Skills Development
Through this certificate, you gain more than just knowledge; you gain the expertise to break into tech upon program completion.. What you’ll learn:
- Gain an immersive understanding of the practices and processes used by a junior or associate data analyst in their day-to-day job.
- Understand how to clean and organize data for analysis and complete analysis and calculations using spreadsheets, SQL, and R programming.
- Learn key analytical skills (data cleaning, analysis, & visualization) and tools (spreadsheets, SQL, R programming, Tableau).
- Learn how to visualize and present data findings in dashboards, presentations, and commonly used visualization platforms.
Flexibility
We understand that life is unpredictable and juggling responsibilities can be challenging. The good news here is that the Google Data Analytics Certificate is perfectly suited for working adults looking to advance their education without putting their life on hold because you’re able to earn it remotely, from anywhere.
In terms of career prospects, technology is well on your side in flexibility and demand. With the World Economic Forum’s Jobs Of Tomorrow report (published 2023), employers expect data analytics to be one of the most important areas to recruit for, alongside cybersecurity, as the fields of data and AI continue to grow.
As companies rely more on digital devices and services, the more data is generated, and as a data analyst in 2024, you should anticipate a wide array of both remote and in-person opportunities to become available.
How Can Merit America Help?
There’s a reason the data analyst role has been included in Career Karma’s top tech jobs for the past 3 years running – data analysts are shaping the future. Merit America is designed to help you create a career plan, gain the skills, and help place you into your first entry-level tech role. Our program isn’t just about earning a certificate; it’s about launching a career that lasts.
But why choose Merit America for your data analytics training?
- Comprehensive Technical Training: Merit America offers a comprehensive Data Analytics Program that covers essential skills and allows you to immerse yourself into the mindset, processes, and tools that data professionals use every day.
- Peer Group Meetings: Our program is designed to be flexible, and you’ll be paired in specific groups that match your schedule. During these group sessions, you’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with other Merit America learners to try new skills, participate in interactive components of the program, share learnings, and celebrate one another.
- 1:1 Career Coaching: Unlike standalone courses online, learners are paired with Career Coaches who give personalized feedback and help develop career plans, skills, and a professional profile.
- Placement Support: We understand the hurdles of transitioning careers, which is why we have an entire support network of partners and staff dedicated to reducing the time job searching, connecting you to entry-level opportunities, and delivering goal-based guidance to match your career aspirations.
As a newcomer to the industry, what you have to offer is unique – despite your lack of previous experience, you’re uniquely positioned because of it. And we’re so confident in our program that we’ve created the Merit America Guarantee that if you don’t earn at least $40k within the two years after you have completed the Immersion phase of your chosen Merit America program, the entire cost of the program is refunded.
Ready to get the ball rolling? Enroll in Merit America’s Data Analytics Career Track now!
And if you’d like to learn more about forging a career in data analytics, check out the following: