Home
Blog
Data Science
Top 10 Free Data Science Online Courses [For Freshers & Experienced]

Top 10 Free Data Science Online Courses [For Freshers & Experienced]

Updated on 07 December, 2024

8.86K+ views

• 14 min read

Today upskilling has become more important than ever. According to recent reports, 85% of Indian professionals are set to invest in upskilling for FY25, recognizing that continuous learning is key to staying competitive and relevant in their fields. With the rise of new technologies and industries, investing in skill development is no longer optional—it's essential.

One of the most powerful areas for upskilling right now is data science. As businesses across industries increasingly rely on data to make informed decisions, professionals with data science skills are in high demand. This field offers a wealth of opportunities. Plus, with the availability of free data science courses offering certification, you can gain valuable skills without breaking the bank.

In this blog, we explore the top 10 free data science courses with certifications that can help you get started or enhance your expertise in this thriving field.

Top 10 Free Data Science Online Courses [For Freshers & Experienced]

Looking to build or enhance your skills in data science? Are you a fresher or an experienced professional, taking the right course can make all the difference. With the growing demand for data-driven decision-making in businesses across the globe, free data science courses are a great way to upskill without any financial commitment.

What's even better? Many of these courses offer free data science certification, which adds value to your resume and helps you stand out in a competitive job market. Let's explore the top 10 free data science online courses to help you get started on your data science journey or take your expertise to the next level.

1. Introduction to Data Analysis using Excel

This Introduction to Data Analysis using Excel course will help you build essential Excel skills for analyzing large datasets and generating business insights. You’ll start with basic Excel concepts and gradually progress to advanced techniques like pivot tables and data visualization. This free data science course is completely self-paced, allowing you to learn at your own speed and apply your knowledge to real-world data analysis scenarios.

Skills You’ll Learn

Skills	Description
Excel Basics	Master the basics of Excel, including navigation, sorting, and filtering.
Data Analysis Techniques	Learn how to use pivot tables and functions like vlookup for efficient data analysis.
Data Visualization	Gain proficiency in creating visualizations and reports to communicate insights.
Advanced Excel Functions	Master advanced features like report formatting, password protection, and page layouts.

Who Should Opt for This Certification?

Beginners who want to build foundational data science and data analytics skills using Excel.
Experienced professionals looking to improve their proficiency in Excel for better data analysis and reporting.
Anyone interested in earning a free data science certification to enhance their resume and career prospects in data-driven industries.

2. Learn Basic Python Programming

The Learn Basic Python Programming course is designed to help you develop problem-solving skills through hands-on coding challenges. You will explore essential concepts in Python such as lists, strings, and data structures like tuples, sets, and dictionaries.

This free data science course will teach you the basics of coding and data structures, enabling you to approach real-world problems with logic and coding solutions. Whether you're a beginner or looking to strengthen your foundation, this course provides a solid understanding of Python programming.

Skills You’ll Learn

Skills	Description
Basic Coding Concepts	Learn the fundamentals of Python coding, including syntax, operators, and conditional statements.
Working with Lists	Gain hands-on experience in working with lists, manipulating data, and solving problems.
String Handling	Learn how to manage and manipulate strings effectively for problem-solving.
Data Structures (DSA)	Explore essential data structures like tuples, sets, and dictionaries.

Who Should Opt for This Certification?

Beginners looking to get started with Python programming and problem-solving using coding.
Aspiring data scientists or anyone interested in gaining the foundational skills required for data science.
Those looking to earn a free data science certification that can boost their career prospects in the tech and data fields.
Anyone aiming to learn Python as a stepping stone to more advanced data science courses and certifications.

3. Analyzing Patterns in Data and Storytelling

The Analyzing Patterns in Data and Storytelling course focuses on using data analysis to identify patterns and communicate insights effectively. You’ll learn essential methods for pattern analysis, structuring your findings, and telling compelling stories with data visualization.

This free data science course emphasizes the importance of organizing and presenting data insights using the Pyramid Principle and logical flow. Whether you're new to data science or looking to improve your analytical storytelling skills, this course will provide you with the tools needed to analyze data and create meaningful narratives.

Skills You’ll Learn

Skills	Description
Pattern Analysis	Learn how to identify and analyze recurring patterns in data to validate hypotheses and structure your approach.
Insight Creation	Understand how to derive actionable insights from data analysis and summarize key findings effectively.
Documenting and Structuring	Gain proficiency in documenting your analysis process and structuring insights using logical flow and the Pyramid Principle.
Data Visualization & Storytelling	Master the art of visualizing data to tell clear, compelling stories that communicate insights effectively.

Who Should Opt for This Certification?

Beginners and those looking to enhance their skills in data analysis and pattern recognition.
Aspiring data scientists or business analysts interested in learning how to communicate insights through effective storytelling and data visualization.
Anyone looking to earn a free data science certification that adds value to their career in data-driven fields.
Professionals aiming to improve their data science skills and enhance their ability to derive and present valuable insights from complex datasets.

4. Data Science in E-commerce

The Data Science in E-commerce course focuses on applying data analytics to enhance various aspects of e-commerce businesses. You will explore key topics like Recommendation Systems, Price Optimization, Market Mix Modeling, and A/B Testing.

This free data science course will give you a comprehensive understanding of how data science can improve e-commerce operations, drive sales, optimize pricing, and enhance customer experiences. Perfect for those interested in data-driven decision-making in the booming e-commerce industry, this course will equip you with valuable skills in data science and analytics.

Skills You’ll Learn

Skills	Description
E-commerce Analytics	Learn how to apply data science to optimize business models, processes, and strategies in the e-commerce space.
Recommendation Systems	Understand how recommendation algorithms work and how they influence customer purchasing behavior.
Price Optimization	Master techniques for dynamically adjusting prices based on customer behavior, demand, and market conditions.
A/B Testing	Learn how to conduct A/B tests to assess the effectiveness of different strategies and improve business outcomes.
Market Mix Modeling	Explore how businesses can use data to optimize their marketing strategies and maximize revenue.

Who Should Opt for This Certification?

Aspiring data scientists or business analysts interested in applying data science specifically within the e-commerce industry.
Beginners who want to understand how data science is leveraged in the fast-paced world of e-commerce.
Those looking to gain a free data science certification that demonstrates expertise in e-commerce analytics and improves career prospects.
Professionals in e-commerce roles aim to deepen their understanding of how data analytics drives business decisions in areas like pricing, marketing, and customer experience.

5. Data Science, Machine Learning, Data Analysis, Python & R

The Free Course on Data Science, Machine Learning, Data Analysis, Python & R offers a comprehensive introduction to key concepts and techniques used in data science. You will explore the differences between Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning, and dive into practical applications of data analysis and data visualization using Python and R programming. This course covers fundamental aspects like data loading, analysis, and visualization, making it a great starting point for those interested in learning data science with hands-on experience.

Skills You’ll Learn

Skills	Description
Data Science Concepts	Understand the foundational principles of data science, including AI, ML, and deep learning.
Python & R for Data Analysis	Gain hands-on experience with Python and R for performing data analysis and visualizing insights.
Data Visualization	Learn to create clear and compelling visualizations using Python and R, enhancing your ability to present data effectively.
Data Loading and Preparation	Master data loading techniques and prepare datasets for analysis using Python and R programming.

Who Should Opt for This Certification?

Beginners looking to explore the world of data science and gain practical skills in Python and R programming.
Aspiring data scientists who want to understand the basics of data analysis, machine learning, and visualization.
Individuals who want to earn a free data science certification to enhance their resume and career opportunities in the growing data science field.
Students or professionals interested in acquiring key data science skills without any financial commitment, and those who want to transition into the field of data science and machine learning.

6. Advanced SQL: Functions and Formulas

The Advanced SQL: Functions and Formulas course is designed to help you master complex SQL techniques that are critical for data science and analytics. You'll learn about window functions, query optimization, and partitioning, which will allow you to solve complex problems with ease.

The course covers advanced SQL functions such as rank(), dense_rank(), and percent_rank(), and shows you how to use clauses like over and partition. It also dives deep into query optimization and indexing, which can dramatically improve the performance of your SQL queries. This free data science course is ideal for those who want to enhance their SQL skills and gain a free data science certification.

Skills You’ll Learn

Skills	Description
Window Functions	Master windowing functions like rank(), dense_rank(), and percent_rank() with over and partition clauses.
Query Optimization	Learn how to optimize your SQL queries for faster execution and better performance.
Partitioning	Understand how partitioning data can help speed up analysis and enhance query efficiency.
Indexing	Explore how indexing improves SQL query performance and simplifies complex queries.

Who Should Opt for This Certification?

Aspiring data scientists or data analysts who want to deepen their SQL knowledge and enhance their data manipulation skills.
Beginners who are familiar with basic SQL and want to dive into advanced SQL techniques to handle large datasets and complex queries.
Professionals looking to earn a free data science certification to boost their credentials and career in data science.
Anyone interested in data analysis and working with databases to solve advanced problems efficiently and effectively.

upGrad’s Exclusive Data Science Webinar for you –

How upGrad helps for your Data Science Career?

7. Artificial Intelligence in the Real World

The Artificial Intelligence in the Real World course explores the wide-ranging applications of AI technologies across various industries, both service and non-service. In this free data science course, you'll delve into AI strategies and learn how businesses are using machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) to optimize operations, enhance customer experiences, and create innovative solutions.

You’ll explore real-world use cases and gain insights into how AI is transforming sectors like healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and more. This course is ideal for anyone looking to understand the practical implications of AI and its potential impact on business functions, and it offers a free data science certification upon completion.

Skills You’ll Learn

Skills	Description
AI Strategy	Learn the best strategies for implementing AI in various business contexts.
AI Applications	Understand how AI is applied in both service and non-service industries to drive innovation.
Machine Learning & Deep Learning	Get familiar with machine learning techniques and their differences from deep learning (DL).
Business Impact of AI	Learn how AI is transforming different business functions and operations across industries.

Who Should Opt for This Certification?

Aspiring AI practitioners and data scientists looking to expand their knowledge of AI applications in the real world.
Professionals who want to understand how AI is used in industries like healthcare, finance, and manufacturing to drive efficiencies and improve customer experiences.
Students who want to gain a strong foundation in AI and machine learning for career opportunities in data science and artificial intelligence.
Anyone interested in earning a free data science certification to enhance their resume and demonstrate practical AI expertise.

8. Logistic Regression for Beginners

The Logistic Regression for Beginners course provides a comprehensive introduction to one of the most widely used algorithms in machine learning for classification tasks. Over 17 hours, this course covers both univariate and multivariate logistic regression models in detail. You’ll learn to apply logistic regression for binary classification using tools like the sigmoid function, likelihood, and odds.

The course also covers industry applications, making it ideal for those looking to understand how logistic regression is used in real-world scenarios. By completing this course, you’ll earn a free data science certification and gain hands-on experience in building models using Python.

Skills You’ll Learn

Skills	Description
Binary Classification	Learn how to apply logistic regression for binary classification problems.
Sigmoid Function	Understand the mathematical foundation of logistic regression through the sigmoid function.
Model Building in Python	Build logistic regression models using Python, focusing on data manipulation and preparation.
Likelihood and Odds	Explore likelihood, odds, and log odds in logistic regression for improved model accuracy.

Who Should Opt for This Certification?

Beginners in machine learning who are eager to dive into logistic regression and its applications in data science.
Data scientists and data analysts looking to refine their skills in regression models, especially for classification tasks.
Students and professionals are interested in building a solid foundation in logistic regression for career growth in AI and machine learning.
Anyone aiming to earn a free data science certification and gain practical skills for real-world data analysis projects.

9. Linear Algebra for Analysis

Linear Algebra Analysis course is a fundamental branch of mathematics that focuses on the study of linear equations and their representation in vector spaces using matrices. It deals with various mathematical concepts, including vectors, matrices, linear transformations, and the system of linear equations. These concepts form the foundation for many advanced topics in mathematics, physics, engineering, economics, and computer science.

Skills You’ll Learn

Concept	Description
Linear Functions & Equations	Understanding the system of linear equations and how they are represented in matrix form.
Vector Spaces	Study of vector spaces, including their properties and operations.
Matrix Operations	Techniques for matrix manipulation, such as addition, multiplication, and finding determinants.
Orthogonality	Learn about vectors being orthogonal and the significance of perpendicularity in vector geometry.
Linear Transformation	Study of how linear functions and transformations work in vector spaces.

Who Should Opt for This Course?

Students pursuing degrees in mathematics, physics, economics, or engineering.
Data Science enthusiasts looking to strengthen their mathematical foundation for machine learning and data analysis.
Professionals in computational science, engineering, and data-driven fields who need a deep understanding of linear equations and transformations.

10. Introduction to Tableau

In this Introduction to Tableau course, you will learn the fundamentals of data analytics, transformation, and visualization using Tableau, one of the most popular tools for data visualization. You'll explore how to create actionable insights from your data and present them through various types of charts. By the end of this free course, you will have a solid understanding of Tableau Public, its various features, and how to build compelling dashboards.

Skills You Will Learn:

Skill	Description
Data Visualizations	Learn the importance of visualizing data to communicate trends and insights.
Chart Creation	Understand how to create various charts such as bar charts, line charts, and scatter plots.
Advanced Chart Types	Explore more advanced visualizations like heat maps, histograms, and box plots.
Data Import and Manipulation	Master techniques to import, join, and manipulate data sets within Tableau.

Who Should Opt for This Certification:

Beginner Data Analysts: Those looking to build a career in data science or business intelligence.
Students: Anyone pursuing a career in data-driven fields and wants to learn data visualization techniques.
Professionals: Individuals seeking to improve their data visualization skills to advance their careers in analytics, marketing, or operations.
Business Owners: Entrepreneurs or managers who wish to make data-driven decisions with the help of Tableau's powerful visualization capabilities.

Conclusion

Mastering data science is more than just understanding algorithms and coding. It’s about using the right tools and techniques to solve real-world problems. By enrolling in free data science courses, you can build a solid foundation in essential concepts like data analysis, machine learning, and deep learning, without any cost. Whether you're just starting or looking to improve your expertise, these courses offer practical skills that will set you up for success in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Tips to Improve Your Data Science Skills:

Practice consistently: Apply your learning through projects and challenges to solidify concepts.
Stay updated: Data science is constantly evolving; keep up with the latest trends and technologies.
Work on real-world datasets: The more hands-on experience you have, the better your problem-solving skills will be.
Network with professionals: Join data science communities to share knowledge and get insights from experts.

If you're ready to take your data science journey to the next level, consider exploring Fundamentals of Deep Learning & Neural Networks — a free course that dives deep into the world of neural networks and deep learning.

Start learning today and unlock new opportunities in the world of data science!

Elevate your expertise with our range of Popular Data Science Courses. Browse the programs below to discover your ideal fit.

Explore our Popular Data Science Courses

Executive Post Graduate Programme in Data Science from IIITB	Professional Certificate Program in Data Science for Business Decision Making	Master of Science in Data Science from University of Arizona
Advanced Certificate Programme in Data Science from IIITB	Professional Certificate Program in Data Science and Business Analytics from University of Maryland	Data Science Courses

Enhance your expertise with our Top Data Science Programs & Articles. Explore the programs below to find your perfect fit.

Our Top Data Science Programs & Articles

Masters of Science in Data Science from LJMU & IIIT Bangalore	Executive PG Program in Data Science from IIIT Bangalore	Professional Certificate Program in Data Science for Business Decision Making from IIM Kozhikode
Professional Certificate Program in Data Science and Business Analytics from University of Maryland	Master of Science in Data Science from University of Arizona	Data Science Vs Data Analytics: Difference Between Data Science and Data Analytics
Advanced Certificate Program in Data Science from IIIT Bangalore	Advanced Program in Data Science from IIIT Bangalore	Data Science Career Growth: The Future of Work is here

Advance your top data science skills with our expert-led programs. Explore and find the perfect course for your upskilling journey below.

Top Data Science Skills to Learn to upskill

SL. No	Top Data Science Skills to Learn
1	Data Analysis Online Courses	Inferential Statistics Online Courses
2	Hypothesis Testing Online Courses	Logistic Regression Online Courses
3	Linear Regression Courses	Linear Algebra for Analysis Online Courses

Elevate your expertise with our range of Popular US - Data Science Articles. Browse the articles below to discover your ideal fit.

Read our Popular US - Data Science Articles

Data Analysis Course with Certification	JavaScript Free Online Course With Certification	Most Asked Python Interview Questions & Answers
Data Analyst Interview Questions and Answers	Top Data Science Career Options in the USA	SQL Vs MySQL – What’s The Difference
An Ultimate Guide to Types of Data	Python Developer Salary in the US	Data Analyst Salary in the US: Average Salary

References:
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/jobs/hr-policies-trends/85-indian-professionals-set-to-invest-in-upskilling-for-fy25/articleshow/111253315.cms?from=mdr

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the 5 Cs of data science?

The 5 C's of Data Science are:

Collection: Gathering data from various sources.
Cleaning: Removing errors, inconsistencies, and irrelevant data.
Curating: Structuring data in a usable format.
Curation: Organizing and managing data efficiently.
Communication: Presenting findings and insights in a clear, understandable manner.

2. What questions to ask in a data science interview?

Questions to ask during a data science interview include:

What are the main challenges you face while working with data?
How do you deal with missing or inconsistent data?
What tools do you use for data visualization and why?
Can you explain how you would approach a data analysis problem from scratch?
How do you prioritize tasks when working on multiple projects?

3. What is the biggest challenge in data science?

One of the biggest challenges in data science is dealing with dirty data. Ensuring data quality and consistency can often be a time-consuming and frustrating process, requiring extensive cleaning and preprocessing before analysis. Another challenge is interpreting data results accurately and deriving actionable insights.

4. Is data science beginner-friendly?

Yes, data science is beginner-friendly, especially with the abundance of free data science courses available today. Many courses are designed for individuals with no prior experience in programming or mathematics. It’s all about taking it step-by-step — starting with the basics like Python or R programming and gradually advancing into machine learning and data analysis.

5. What is a free data science certification?

A free data science certification is a certificate you can earn by completing an online data science course at no cost. These certifications validate your skills in key areas of data science, like data analysis, machine learning, and data visualization, and can be a valuable addition to your resume.

6. Where can I find free data science courses?

You can find free data science courses on platforms like UpGrad, Coursera, edX, and Udacity. Many of these courses come with the option to earn a free data science certification, which can help you get started in the field or upskill.

7. What should I expect from free data science courses?

Free data science courses typically cover the fundamentals of data analysis, machine learning, data visualization, and sometimes specific tools like Python, R, SQL, and Tableau. Although they are free, many of these courses offer certificates of completion that can be valuable for your career.

8. Do free data science certifications help in job applications?

Yes, free data science certifications can help in job applications, especially when starting. They show potential employers that you are committed to learning and upskilling and that you have a basic understanding of core data science concepts. However, hands-on projects and real-world experience are also crucial for landing a data science job.

9. How long does it take to complete a free data science course?

The time it takes to complete a free data science course varies. Most beginner courses can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the course's depth and your pace of learning. Advanced courses, particularly those focusing on machine learning or deep learning, may take longer.

10. Can I learn data science without a background in math?

Yes, data science can be learned without an extensive math background. Many beginner data science courses focus on the practical aspects of data analysis and provide easy-to-understand tutorials on necessary math concepts. However, understanding statistics and probability will be helpful as you progress.

11. Can I take free data science courses without programming experience?

Absolutely! Many free data science courses cater to beginners and do not require any prior programming experience. Courses will typically start by teaching programming languages like Python or R, making them beginner-friendly.