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It’s finally here—the Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Certificate has launched on Coursera.
What better way than to learn from Microsoft themselves?
Looking to see if this certificate is for you? Then, this blog post should keep you covered.
In this blog post, we will go over what the certificate covers, my verdict for the entire certificate, and as well as some common questions you might have about the certificate.
Read on for my full review!
Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Professional Certificate: Verdict
Overall, I highly recommend this Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Professional Certificate for anyone looking to become a data analyst or enhance their skills in data analysis using Power BI in a BI career.
After reviewing the entire certificate, I have to say that Microsoft and Coursera did not disappoint.
The courses included in this certificate cover a wide range of topics related to data analysis using Power BI. From basic concepts such as data cleaning and modeling to more advanced techniques like DAX formulas and creating interactive reports, each course provides a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
Moreover, the courses are designed in a way that allows learners to apply what they have learned in real-world scenarios. Each course includes hands-on exercises, graded assessments, and projects, giving learners the opportunity to practice using Power BI and build their portfolios.
Looking to get started learning? Consider getting a Coursera Plus subscription for only $1!
What is the Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Professional Certificate?
The Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Professional Certificate is a series of eight online courses offered by Microsoft on Power BI. It is designed to provide learners with the skills and knowledge required to become proficient in data analysis using Power BI for an entry-level business intelligence analyst role.
This certificate is suitable for anyone, regardless of their prior experience in data analysis or Power BI. The courses are self-paced, allowing learners to complete the certificate at their own pace within 3-5 months.
What Topics Does the Certificate Cover?
The Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Professional Certificate is comprised of eight courses, each focusing on a specific aspect of data analysis using Power BI.
These courses cover topics such as:
- Preparing Data for Analysis with Microsoft Excel
- Data Analysis and Visualization with Power BI
- Data Modeling in Power BI
- Deploy and Maintain Power BI Assets and Capstone project
- Harnessing the Power of Data with Power BI
- Creative Designing in Power BI
- Microsoft PL-300 Exam Preparation and Practice
- Extract, Transform and Load Data in Power BI
As you can see, you’ll learn all the necessary skills to become a proficient BI analyst, from data preparation and modeling to visualization and ETL techniques.
Why Should You Take This Certificate?
There are many reasons why you should take the Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Professional Certificate.
Firstly, it’s offered by Microsoft, one of the leading companies in business intelligence software. By learning from experts at Microsoft, you can be sure that you’re receiving quality education and keeping up with industry standards.
Secondly, the certificate is designed to be practical and hands-on. You’ll not only learn theoretical concepts but also have the chance to apply them in real-world scenarios. This makes the certificate a valuable asset for your resume and portfolio.
Lastly, Coursera’s interactive platform allows for a flexible and engaging learning experience. You can access the courses from anywhere, at any time, and interact with a community of learners from all around the world.
What Skills Will You Learn From the Certificate?
So, what are the exact skills that you’ll learn from taking this certificate?
Well, after going through the course material for myself, I’ve put together this list:
- Data cleaning in Excel
- Data analysis using Excel functions
- Dashboard design
- Basic ETL in Power BI
- Data modeling and schema design
- Data visualization techniques
- Dashboard and reports maintenance
I actually love that it doesn’t just cover the portion of crafting charts in Power BI. This means that the certificate is more well-rounded—much like the entire data analytics lifecycle process.
Moreover, you’ll be working on a capstone project at the end, so you can have practical experience as you follow along the courses in the certificate.
Who Should Take the Certificate?
This certificate is suitable for anyone interested in a career in business intelligence, data analysis, or those looking to upskill in Power BI.
It’s also ideal for professionals working with Excel who want to switch to a more powerful tool like Power BI. The skills learned from the certificate are transferable and can be applied to various industries and job roles.
Related Questions
How much does the certificate cost?
The Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Professional Certificate costs $49 per month, which includes access to all eight courses and the capstone project. However, financial aid is available for those who cannot afford the fee.
How long does it take to complete the certificate?
The certificate can be completed within 3-5 months, depending on the learner’s pace. However, it is self-paced, so learners have the flexibility to complete it at their own speed. Also, once you have completed the certificate, you will have lifetime access to all course materials and updates.
Is there a certificate exam?
No, there is no certificate exam. The optional Microsoft PL-300 Exam can be taken at a separate cost. It is recommended to take the exam after completing all the courses to assess your understanding and knowledge of Power BI.
Will I receive a physical certificate?
No, once you have completed the certificate and passed the exam, you will only receive a digital certificate that can be downloaded and shared.
What is a Power BI analyst?
A Power BI analyst specializes in using Microsoft’s business intelligence tool, Power BI, to analyze and visualize data. They are responsible for creating reports and dashboards that provide insights for decision-making within an organization.
Through this certificate, learners will gain the necessary skills to become proficient in this role. So, if you’re interested in becoming a Power BI analyst, the Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Professional Certificate is the perfect place to start.
What jobs will you be able to apply for through this certificate?
After completing the certificate, you will have the skills and knowledge to apply for entry-level business intelligence analyst roles. Some examples of job titles include:
- BI Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Business Intelligence Developer
- Reporting Analyst
However, these are just a few examples, as the skills learned from this certificate can be applied to various positions in data analysis and business intelligence.
Final Thoughts
To sum things up, I highly recommend the Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Professional Certificate to anyone looking to start a career in data analysis or upskill in Power BI.
The courses are comprehensive, practical, and taught by experts at Microsoft.
Plus, completing this certificate will prepare you for the Microsoft PL-300 Exam certification, too.
I hope this article has been helpful! If you’re interested in trying it out, check out the Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Professional Certificate here.
