Studying Online: IBM vs Google
If you are looking to move into a new career within 12 months, and your maths is pretty ok (ie you can do basic grade 9 algebra), then Data Analysis may be for you.
With starting salaries globally estimated at R500k per year, many of which are remote, you can see why this has become an attractive career choice for many. South African starting salaries vary but pay around R250k per year.
But the big question is whether or not you can enter the market without having to study a 3 year degree in data science. The answer is a loud YES. In fact, Google offers a great 6-month course through Coursera in Data Analytics. If you can put in 10 hours a week that is.
Another strong option is IBM’s shorter course in Data Science. They focus on proprietary software such as Watson and their own visual software tools but their main differential is that Python is their taught programming language, which is different from Google’s R language.
The IBM program consists of 9 online courses that will provide you with the latest job-ready tools and skills, including open source tools and libraries, Python, databases, SQL, data visualization, data analysis, statistical analysis, predictive modelling, and machine learning algorithms. You’ll learn data science through hands-on practice in the IBM Cloud using real data science tools and real-world data sets. Not a bad package.
Google on the other hand includes over 180 hours of instruction and hundreds of practice-based assessments, which will help you simulate real-world data analytics scenarios that are critical for success in the workplace. The content is highly interactive and exclusively developed by Google employees with decades of experience in data analytics. Through a mix of videos, assessments, and hands-on labs, you’ll get introduced to analysis tools and platforms and key analytical skills required for an entry-level job. Platforms and tools you will learn include: Presentations, Spreadsheets, SQL, Tableau and R Programming
Look, there are pros and cons for either course – the teaching methodologies vary and their focus on potential employers is very much different. We can certainly let you know our thoughts on this at FutureProofMe! In fact, if you are serious about a new career we will hand-hold you through your entire course and seek out employers for you too!