Data Analysis
This qualification introduces you to some basic skills in exploring and analysing data sets and solving practical problems using mathematics, statistics and computing. It forms a foundation for further study or employment in the fields of mathematics, statistics, computing or data science.
| Award Name | Certificate of Higher Education at UK Level 4 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Higher Education at UK Level 4 | Open University |
Duration
Part time – 2 years.
Full time – 1 years.
Time limit - 7 years.
Study method: Distance learning
How much time do I need?
This depends on your level of prior knowledge of mathematics and, in general, it is recommend that you build up your pace of study slowly to ensure you gain a good understanding of the more basic topics. How many credits you can complete in a year will depend on your study situation, and this qualification is designed to enable you to vary your study intensity from year to year.
• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
Entry Requirements
There is no formal pre-requisite study, but you must have the required mathematical skills to study the compulsory module Essential mathematics 1 (MST124), including:
• algebraic manipulation and solving equations
• quadratics and parabolas
• geometry and trigonometry
• exponentials and logarithms.
You can check you’re ready for MST124 and see the topics it covers here.
If you don’t feel you have the required mathematical skills, you can study an additional module, Discovering mathematics (MU123), to give you the knowledge and skills you need.
Ideally, you’ll also have some basic knowledge of computing.
Careers / Further progression
Career relevance
Data analysts and programmers are highly sought after in virtually all work places. The use of data analysis in social media, online commerce and government has revolutionised the digital economy, with employers across both the public and private sectors now recruiting data analysts and programmers to identify and solve complex business problems at the heart of strategic and operational decision making. With further study or practical experience, students are well placed to develop their expertise in all areas of employment including business intelligence, management, biology, economics, education, engineering, environment studies, finance, government, logistics, medicine, meteorology, market research, sport and multinational businesses.
In addition to improving your career prospects, studying with the OU is an enriching experience that broadens your horizons, develops your knowledge, builds your confidence and enhances your life skills.
Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.
Further information
Register for this course
Start dates
• October 2024 - Registration closes 05/09/2024
• February 2025 - Registration closes 09/01/2025
• April 2025 - Registration closes 13/03/2025
Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024
Certificate of Higher Education in Data Analysis
Computing and data analysis play an important role in almost all private and public sector employment. The need to understand how to use IT and data to inform business decisions has never been more important. This qualification introduces you to some basic skills in exploring and analysing data sets and solving practical problems using mathematics, statistics and computing. It forms a foundation for further study or employment in the fields of mathematics, statistics, computing or data science.
Key features of the course
• Introduces mathematical, statistical and computing techniques
• Covers basic use of a range of appropriate software, including writing code in the Python language
• Provides experience of carrying out data analysis and commenting on the results
• Builds a solid foundation on which to continue on to a higher qualification in data science or employment in a wide range of sectors, including finance, government, health, education, the voluntary sector, business and commerce
This Certificate of Higher Education is the same as Stage 1 of our Diploma of Higher Education in Data Analysis (W77) and BSc (Honours) Data Science (R38).
This certificate of higher education has one stage, comprising 120 credits.
• You’ll study four 30-credit modules.
See 'Course Web Page' link below for more information on modules.
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
• Knowledge and understanding.
• Cognitive skills.
• Practical and professional skills.
• Key skills.
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Tel: +353 1 678 5399
Our advisers are available to take your call Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17:00, excluding public holidays.