Certificate in Advanced Data Analysis

The Certificate in Advanced Data Analysis course is a professional training designed to equip individuals with advanced skills in data analysis to extract strategic and operational insights. It addresses the current skills shortage in the ability to analyse data and link insights to business decisions, enhancing organisational productivity and decision-making. The course is CPD-accredited and suitable for a range of professionals including business analysts, senior managers, and junior data analysts. Download the course brochure for full details.

You will learn advanced statistical analysis, machine learning without coding, data visualisation and dashboard development using Microsoft Excel, data cleaning techniques, and how to drive data-driven decision-making. The course also focuses on critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills tailored to translating data insights into actionable strategies. Practical applications using real and tailored case studies are integral to the course.

The course methodology blends instructor-led discussions, small group interactions, and individual and group practical exercises, such as creating dynamic dashboards and applying machine learning techniques. It utilizes a problem-solving framework and real-world case studies spanning multiple industries to contextualize learning. Practical tools like Excel’s advanced functions are used to embed learning in realistic business scenarios.

This course is ideal for business analysts, senior managers, directors, marketing specialists, finance professionals, HR professionals, and junior to mid-level data analysts. It caters to professionals who seek to enhance their data analysis competency to drive effective decision-making and improve business intelligence capabilities within their organisations. There are no strict prerequisites, but participants must have Microsoft Excel installed on their laptops.

To earn the Informa Connect Academy Certificate of Completion for the Certificate in Advanced Data Analysis course, you must attend all sessions with a maximum of 2 hours absence and successfully complete ongoing assessments based on participation and activities. If these criteria are not met, a Certificate of Attendance will be granted with the number of hours attended clearly stated. Certificates are provided in hard copy for in-person learners and electronically for virtual learners.

Key topics include the fundamentals and advanced methods of data analysis such as averages, t-tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression analysis. The course covers data-driven decision-making, the role of AI and machine learning, dashboarding techniques, statistical tests, probabilities, and strategy formulation using data. Applications using Microsoft Excel tools and real case studies help solidify learning.

The course is delivered in-person or online, and requires a laptop with Microsoft Excel installed. Sessions include a combination of lectures, group discussions, and practical exercises over a course duration that typically ranges from several days, allowing up to 24 CPD points. Documentation, luncheon, and refreshments are included for in-person learners.

Participants receive access to the latest frameworks in data analysis and AI, course slides, and additional links for ongoing learning post-course. Practical sessions include case studies from multiple industries and tailored applications based on individual delegates’ contexts. All learners benefit from expert guidance and a rich set of learning materials designed to support data-driven decision-making.

Yes, delegates are required to bring their own laptops with Microsoft Excel installed throughout the course as many practical applications and dashboard developments use Excel tools like PivotTables and Data Analysis ToolPak. No additional software is mandated, but a proficient understanding of Excel is advantageous.

The course is accredited by the CPD Certification Service, awarding up to 24 CPD points that meet global professional development standards. It promotes lifelong learning by providing up-to-date content, expert insights, and practical skills essential for staying competitive in the evolving field of data analytics and business intelligence. Download the course brochure for full details.

Informa Connect Academy is a global provider of certified professional training, offering expert-led courses in leadership, finance, HR, strategy, and more. As part of the FTSE 100-listed Informa Group, we deliver 1,000+ courses annually across in-person, live online, and digital formats, helping professionals and organisations upskill with confidence.

Informa Connect Academy delivers training across 15+ key sectors, including:

• Finance & Risk

• Human Resources

• Project Management

• Energy & Sustainability

• Maritime & Transport

• Technology & Innovation

• Leadership & Strategy

• Law, Procurement & Supply Chain

Each course is industry-relevant and globally certified, helping professionals upskill with practical tools for career growth.

Explore programmes by sector in our course catalogue or calendar.

Informa Connect Academy offers 1,000+ certified training programmes across in-person, live online, and on-demand formats. Courses cover leadership, finance, HR, strategy, operations, and more with CPD-accredited and university-backed options. Whether you're seeking flexible online learning or immersive classroom sessions in cities like Dubai, London, or Singapore, there’s a format to suit every schedule and career stage.

Our courses are led by senior certified trainers, and former C-suite leaders with 15–30+ years of real-world experience. Faculty members are experts in their field, often working across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. You’ll find bios and credentials for each trainer on the brochure, so you know exactly who’s leading your session before enrolling.

Yes, this course is certified by CPD and most Informa Connect Academy courses are CPD-accredited or delivered in partnership with globally recognised organisations, including CIPD, PMI, NASBA, EFQM, WorldatWork and DMI.

These accreditations ensure that our programmes meet international training standards and support your professional development goals.

You can view the full list of accreditation and academic partners on our website.

Advanced data analysis goes beyond basic reporting and dashboards. It involves using statistical methods, modelling techniques, and tools to uncover patterns, test relationships, and make predictions from data. In an advanced data analysis course, professionals learn how to move from simply describing what happened to explaining why it happened and what is likely to happen next, supporting smarter strategic decisions.

The five main types of data analysis are:

1. Descriptive analysis – explains what happened

2. Diagnostic analysis – explains why it happened

3. Predictive analysis – forecasts what might happen

4. Prescriptive analysis – suggests what action to take

5. Exploratory analysis – uncovers patterns and relationships in data

A professional data analysis training course typically covers several of these to build well-rounded analytical skills.

Common tools used in data analytics include Excel, SQL, Power BI, Tableau, Python, and R. Excel remains a powerful tool in many data analysis training courses for modelling, analysis, and reporting, while SQL is widely used to extract and manage data. More advanced data analysis certificate courses may also introduce tools for statistical analysis and data visualisation.

The three most important skills for a data analyst are:

1. Analytical thinking – the ability to interpret data and spot patterns

2. Technical skills – using tools like Excel, SQL, or visualisation software

3. Communication – explaining insights clearly to non-technical stakeholders

A strong data analysis course helps professionals develop all three, combining technical training with business focused interpretation.

SQL and Excel serve different purposes, so one is not strictly better than the other. SQL is ideal for extracting and managing large datasets from databases, while Excel is excellent for analysis, modelling, and presenting insights. Most professionals benefit from learning both through a comprehensive data analysis training course, as they often work together in real business environments.