Learner Perspectives: Making Sense of Data Science

Published July 2, 2024

Series Mentioned in this Post: Harvard on Digital 
Courses Mentioned in this Post: Data Science Principles, Data Privacy and Technology, Big Data for Social Good

Our Data Science Principles course is an introduction to data science for anyone who wants to positively impact outcomes and understand insights from their company’s data collection and analysis efforts. Led by Harvard Professor Dustin Tingley, the course aims to make the foundational topics in data science approachable and relevant with a nearly code- and math-free introduction to prediction, causality, and other topics.

If you’re considering enrolling in Data Science Principles but worry about jumping into a data-driven course, we’re here to ease your concerns. This data science course is for beginners and managers to better understand data science and how to work with data scientists.

Data Science Principles is not a course for expert data scientists. Experts in data science should consider one of our other data courses, such as Data Privacy and Technology or Big Data for Social Good, where they can study the issues surrounding data capture and use in greater detail.

By earning an online certificate in Data Science Principles, you’ll be prepared to speak the language of data science and contribute to data-oriented discussions within your company and daily life. Still on the fence? A few of our past Data Science Principles participants had thoughts to share with any prospective learners looking to make the jump into this course.

Carlos S., CEO and Chief Strategy Officer from California, United States

“This is a topic that people in any industry should have at least basic knowledge of in order to create more efficient and competitive businesses, tools, and resources.”

Sonja S., Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief from Koeln, Germany

"The way this complicated topic was presented and the reflection it caused was impressive. I enjoyed the way I could dive into a whole new world of expertise in such an engaging way with all these various tools such as videos, peer discussions, polls, and quizzes.”

Irvi A., Graduate Student from Singapore

“Over the past few years, I have been working diligently as a software engineer, continuously expanding my skillset. I decided to further advance my career by enrolling in Data Science Principles, which has provided me with a strong foundation in this exciting and rapidly evolving field. This academic training has significantly enhanced my ability to make informed decisions when tackling complex problems.

Being part of the Harvard community of learners holds profound significance for me. The opportunity to collaborate with and learn from world-class faculty and equally ambitious peers is incredibly motivating. It fuels my drive to explore unchartered territories in machine learning and artificial intelligence.”
 

To learn more about Data Science Principles or to enroll, visit the course page here. To learn about other data-driven Harvard Online courses, explore our Harvard on Digital series here.