Step inside the world of data science — explore data analytics, data engineering, AI and machine learning, and discover what a career in data looks like.

Introduction to Data Science takes you inside the world of data science — one of the most in-demand fields reshaping business, healthcare, education, and more. You will learn the basics of data science, data analytics, and data engineering to understand how machine learning is shaping the future. The course explores how data is collected, stored, and processed, how AI and ML are transforming industries, and what career paths are available in data-driven roles. No prior experience is required, making this course accessible to anyone curious about the field.

Curriculum Chapters

  • 1. Experience Analytics
  • 2. Data Collection and Storage
  • 3. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • 4. Embarking on Your Career in Data Analytics

Skills You Will Learn

Explain the role of data analytics and how data-driven decisions are made. Describe the difference between data analytics, data engineering, and data science roles. Understand how data is collected, stored, and prepared for analysis including structured, unstructured, and semi-structured data types. Explore the 5 Vs of Big Data: Volume, Velocity, Variety, Veracity, and Value. Explain how artificial intelligence and machine learning use data to make predictions and improve performance. Identify key skills required for data analyst, data engineer, and data scientist career roles. Explore opportunities and learning pathways for pursuing a career in the data field.

Technologies Used

Any internet-connected device (smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop)

Course Details

Course Type: Free self-paced
Time: 6 Hours
Modules: 4
Labs: Interactive activities & quizzes

Prerequisites

None.

Certification & Career

Career and Certification alignment: This course is part of Cisco Networking Academy’s Data Science learning portfolio. It supports career exploration in roles such as Data Analyst, Data Engineer, and Data Scientist. The recommended next course is Data Analytics Essentials.

Achievements & Badges

Upon completion, earn a Cisco Networking Academy digital badge. Share your verified achievement on LinkedIn, your CV, or professional profile.

What Cisco verifies: Cisco verifies the earner of this badge successfully completed the Introduction to Data Science course. The holder of this student-level credential has a broad understanding of basic concepts in Data Analytics, Data Engineering, Data Science, and AI/ML-related job functions. They also have insight into opportunities available for pursuing a career in various data roles.

Ready to Start This Course?

This course is delivered through Cisco Networking Academy — the official global learning platform. To enroll, click the button and you will be taken to the official course page on netacad.com. If you already have a Cisco Networking Academy account, simply log in and click Get Started. If you are new to the platform, creating a free account takes less than a minute. Enrollment is completely free.

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