Short course
Digital data is the fuel that powers the engine of the global economy. On our Skills Bootcamp in Data Analytics and Machine Learning you’ll learn to understand and analyse this data. Learning about data science is valuable to any company, from statistics and insights across workflows to helping senior staff make better-informed decisions.
During this free, eight week short course, you’ll learn the skills needed to start your journey as a Data Analyst, Business Analyst or Data Scientist. You’ll be introduced to databases and the structured query language (SQL) needed to query large databases and learn how to program with Python.
You’ll also learn what machine learning is, how to create and train machine learning models and deploy these models to the cloud.
During this Skills Bootcamp, you’ll have the opportunity to complete the Microsoft Power Platform Fundamentals certification. This involves taking an online exam where Microsoft provides resources, support and preparation in the form of study material. The course is an optional addition to the Skills Bootcamp.
This course is for people looking to use the skills learnt to set up as self-employed or help you secure new work.
You must be aged 19+ to apply. We only accept applications from students who haven’t completed a government-funded Skills Bootcamp in the last 12 months.
“The Skills Bootcamp was fun, yet challenging. The constant availability of support when needed was outstanding.”
Ayodeji Ogunsola, Student, Skills Bootcamp in Data Analysis
In this Skills Bootcamp, you’ll learn to efficiently understand data from multiple sources and derive valuable insights to make smarter data-driven decisions.
You’ll be learning skills that’ll enable you to analyse data to create meaningful insights, allowing you to present these findings to inform business decisions.
Using industry software like Microsoft Excel and the programming language Python, you’ll learn how to clean and wrangle the data and create powerful data dashboards with Microsoft’s PowerBI software. You’ll also learn about machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) and how making models can be utilised to communicate findings such as trends or predictions.
You’ll build on your communication and presentation skills, as a data analysis role involves finding insights and clearly and effectively informing others about what you’ve found.
Please note that the course structure is subject to change based on the needs of each cohort.
You’ll be taught by highly experienced lecturers and will benefit from guest speakers, independent and group exercises, and online learning. You’ll attend one in-person session in Bath on 8 February. On this day, there will be an industry expert-led lecture, and you’ll participate in a team workshop provided by The Data Place.
The hands-on course includes project work based on real scenarios that form part of the assessment process.
You’ll be given the opportunity to attend extra support sessions and a one-to-one review throughout the course to ensure you are on track to reach your goals and provide feedback on your experience.
It’s important to note that you must spend several hours outside of teaching on independent study to support your learning. You'll be supported by your lecturers during your independent study.
Throughout your Skills Bootcamp journey, your progress will be reviewed in multiple formats which could include verbal and written feedback, peer feedback, formal assessments and 1-2-1 progress reviews with a Skills Bootcamp team member. You'll also create and deliver a course project where you’ll have the opportunity to showcase the skills you've learned.
The formal assessments will happen at key points during the course but are not pass-or-fail. They are a tool for us to identify your strengths and weaknesses to help us give you the best opportunity to reach your goals during the Skills Bootcamp.
After completing the Skills Bootcamp in Data Analytics and Machine Learning you'll possess the skills needed to pursue an entry-level role as a:
You could also use the skills learnt to set up as a freelancer, self-employed or to help you secure new work.
The Data Place was formed in 2016 and is a social enterprise made up of data scientists, designers, community builders and strategists helping people and places thrive.
They work with businesses, charities, social enterprises and public sector agencies to enable and empower them to conceive and implement their data infrastructure and ecosystems. They provide various technical services, including data compliance, data management, data analysis, data science, open data programmes, design with data, and a broad spectrum of data training.
The Data Place will deliver guest lectures and give you feedback on your final presentation. They’ll also be offering interviews to all students, giving you real-world experience of what to expect and opening the door to potential job offers.
The Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills (Ofsted) regulates the Skills Bootcamps. They inspect services providing education and skills for learners of all ages. They also inspect and regulate services that care for children and young people.
This means that all Skills Bootcamp providers must meet Ofsted’s framework regulations, therefore, ensuring you have a good experience on your learning journey. However, at any point during the delivery of the Skills Bootcamp, the University might be inspected by Ofsted. While this won't impact your day-to-day participation on the course, Ofsted might request to speak to you to gain insights into your Skills Bootcamp experience.
Taking part in our Skills Bootcamps give you a one year academic membership to the British Computer Society, free of charge, as part of this course. This membership includes access to an industry mentor, CV writing tools, videos with practical advice from employers and a network of hundreds of other tech professionals.
For the past five years, Jed has worked in advertising and brand strategy.
After hearing from a friend who took part in a short course, Jed decided to take part in our Skills Bootcamp in Data Analysis to develop his data skills.
Pursuing a career in data science
You don't need any prior knowledge of data analytics or machine learning to complete this short course. Our free Skills Bootcamp shows you can bring your broader work and life experience together with new digital skills to start your own business.
“The Skills Bootcamp was easy to understand and our tutors explained each topic very clearly. Completing the course felt like opening a new door into data engineering.”
Xiang Li, Skills Bootcamp in Data Science
You should be looking to use the skills learnt to set up as self-employed or to help you secure new work. While some previous knowledge is desirable, the most essential factor is a positive mindset.
You must:
Our Skills Bootcamp in Data Analytics and Machine Learning is funded by the Department for Education (DfE) and therefore is free. We only accept applications from students who haven't completed a government funded Skills Bootcamp in the last 12 months.
If you're being sent for training by your employer, your employer will need to pay up to 30% of the total fees depending on the size of the company. If this is the case, please contact us at shortcourses@bathspa.ac.uk for more details.
The next course starts on:
Please note that whilst these are the current confirmed dates, they are subject to change.
Places are offered on a first come first serve basis. To have the best chance of securing a place, please apply as soon as possible. Applications close two weeks prior to the start date or once full.
After completing your Skills Bootcamp you’ll be supported by your Career Development Coach for six months. This includes help with putting together a business plan. You’ll have access to additional training such as our Entrepreneurship for Beginners short course.
During and after your course you’ll be invited to a Skills Bootcamps students and alumni LinkedIn group in which you can network and celebrate your career success with your fellow learners.
Once you’ve finished your Skills Bootcamp you’ll be sent a monthly newsletter with the latest job vacancies and networking events.
As our Skills Bootcamps are fully funded by the Department for Education, there is an expectation that you'll keep in touch with us to let us know about any career progression opportunities you receive after completing the short course. You’ll be provided with a short declaration form to fill out once you've secured new work.
Your lecturers will provide a list of further learning opportunities to expand your knowledge in topics learned within the course and new topic areas to explore.
Several formats will be included, such as tutorials created by your lecturers, suggestions on topics to study and suggestions for other free online courses or video series.
If you have any queries please contact shortcourses@bathspa.ac.uk
Read the privacy notices about signing up to these Skills Bootcamps, including how and why your personal data will be collected, and what it will be used for.
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