Learn about data analysis, common tools and platform for working with data and methods for obtaining data.

  • Learn to clean, reshape and prepare data for use.
  • Compare common tools and platforms for working with data.
  • Explore datasets using summary statistics and simple plots.

Designed to support learners who are either new to data analysis, or would like to revisit core principles, this one-day Data Analysis for Beginners: Data Wrangling course combines presentation of real-life examples, discussion activities, and hands on exercises, to help participants manage, prepare, analyse and present data for more effective analysis.

You’ll explore the definitions and terminology surrounding data analysis and how to work with different data formats, as well as discover common errors when managing data and how to avoid them.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:

  • Describe the difference between data and information
  • Access data using a range of different methods and formats
  • Describe common data quality errors, how they arise, and how they can impact analysis
  • Explore a dataset using summary statistics and simple plots
  • Clean a dataset using one or more tools
  • Analyse a dataset and present a conclusion.

“Data analysis is about answering questions - but it’s also about making sure the right question is being asked.”

Overview

It is essential for this course that you have:

  • A knowledge of maths to GCSE level.
  • Experience of using Excel, Google Sheets, or equivalent spreadsheet software.

Whilst not essential, it is useful to also have knowledge of basic statistical terms.

This course takes place online.

This course will take place in Spring 2026. Please fill out our expression of interest form to be the first to hear about the new dates.

This course costs £235. If you also book onto Data Analysis for Beginners: Data Storytelling, you’ll be offered a discount which should be automatically applied at checkout. If you have any queries, please contact shortcourses@bathspa.ac.uk .

You must have a personal computer with an internet connection capable of running standard Office software.

Meet the team

This training is designed and delivered by The Data Place in partnership with Bath Spa University's Short Course Unit. The Data Place is a social enterprise made up of data scientists, designers, community builders and strategists helping people and places thrive.

The Data Place has worked with Bath Spa University for over two years, providing guest lectures, interview and project feedback and interviews for short course learners, as well as designing industry-led CPD courses that provide real-world experience.

Lucy Knight is an experienced trainer and data scientist with nearly three decades’ experience in industry, government and the non-profit sector. She is an Open Data Institute Associate and Registered Trainer, and Associate Lecturer with Bath Spa University.

Martin Howitt is a data technologist with extensive experience in a wide range of organisations as an IT architect and architecture team leader, product manager and data engineer.

The words

Terms and conditions

Read the terms and conditions for taking part in this short course.

Contact us

For more information about the course please email your enquiries to shortcourses@bathspa.ac.uk .