Certificate in Applied Data Analytics - Graduate Level
Hours: 12 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Applied Data Analytics - Graduate Level at Fort Hays State University is a career-focused credential with four courses designed to equip professionals with the technical skills to analyze, visualize, and interpret complex data. Participants gain hands-on experience with advanced tools to support data-driven business decisions, generate actionable insights, and craft compelling data narratives. The curriculum encompasses essential topics, including Python programming, big data systems, database design, and data ethics, thereby providing a solid foundation in applied data analytics techniques. With flexible enrollment options, this certificate is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their roles or transition into new, data-centric careers.
Why pursue a Certificate in Applied Data Analytics - Graduate Level at Fort Hays State University?
The Certificate in Applied Data Analytics - Graduate Level offers a flexible, focused, and affordable pathway for professionals to acquire industry-relevant skills without the commitment of a full degree. Designed for efficiency, it can be completed in a short timeframe while providing comprehensive, hands-on training in essential data analytics techniques and tools.
Distinguished by its emphasis on real-world application and accessibility, the certificate accommodates learners from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. Whether individuals seek to enhance existing expertise or transition into a data-focused career, the certificate equips them with the practical knowledge and analytical capabilities required to succeed in today’s data-driven environment.
Who is this program for?
This certificate appeals to professionals and graduate students seeking to enhance their skill set with data expertise. It's well-suited for individuals seeking promotion, preparing for a job transition, or building specific technical knowledge in data analysis, visualization, and reporting.
- Graduate students in non-technical fields
- Business professionals needing data skills
- IT and systems analysts seeking advancement
- Professionals in marketing and communications
- Healthcare or public sector employees
- Career changers pursuing data-focused roles
- Non-degree seekers seeking quick certifications
Real-World Applications
Students can immediately apply the skills gained through the certificate to real-world professional settings. Each course is designed by faculty to mirror tasks commonly faced by industry analysts, such as building Python programs to analyze data, querying relational databases with SQL, and developing dashboards that communicate key business insights.
Upon completing the certificate, students will be prepared to contribute to the rapidly evolving fields of data analysis and data storytelling. Across various industries, including marketing, healthcare, government, and logistics, organizations are increasingly relying on professionals who can transform raw data into meaningful and actionable insights.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University continually updates the curriculum to reflect emerging tools, techniques, and ethical considerations in the field. Students work with technologies actively used in the industry, ensuring they complete the certificate with relevant, up-to-date skills rather than outdated methods.
In addition to technical proficiency, participants learn to use current tools and develop the critical thinking and analytical frameworks needed to evolve alongside rapidly changing technology. This approach provides long-term career flexibility and supports continued professional growth in data-focused roles.
Hands-on Activities
Each course features intensive, hands-on assignments that mirror the real-world tasks of data analysts in professional settings. Students work with large and small datasets, build and query SQL databases, write Python scripts, and develop visualizations that effectively communicate insights to technical and non-technical audiences.
The coursework is intentionally designed to be hands-on and application-focused, emphasizing real-world practice over abstract theory. Assignments include analyzing marketing data, simulating operational scenarios, and creating interactive dashboards. Students who complete the certificate gain practical experience that strengthens their skills, boosts their confidence, and adds immediate value to their professional portfolio.
What You’ll Learn:
- Use Python for complex data tasks
- Analyze big data across systems
- Apply SQL to manage databases
- Visualize data to support decisions
- Communicate statistical findings clearly
How You’ll Learn:
- Practice with real-world projects
- Work with live datasets
- Learn with current data tools
- Complete entirely online or on campus
- Follow industry-informed curriculum
The curriculum comprises four graduate-level courses, totaling 12 credit hours. These core courses cover various analytics techniques, including data preparation, programming, visualization, and ethical communication.
INF 601G: Advanced Programming with Python
Students with prior Python experience will advance their programming skills in this project-based course by exploring more sophisticated techniques. They will learn to utilize native and third-party Python libraries, leverage robust development tools, and apply modern frameworks to develop efficient solutions for common challenges in the computing field.
INF 603G: Big Data Analytics
This course focuses on the analysis and design of large integrated databases. It covers design alternatives, logical and physical data representations, storage and retrieval mechanisms, and languages. Students also explore existing database systems and examine the roles and responsibilities of database managers and analysts.
INF 652G: Database Design and Programming
This course teaches students to analyze business scenarios, design data models, and create databases using SQL. Through hands-on projects with Oracle SQL Developer Data Modeler and APEX, students design, implement, and demonstrate database solutions for real-world organizations.
Discover the full Certificate in Applied Data Analytics - Graduate Level course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Students who complete the Certificate in Applied Data Analytics - Graduate Level acquire the skills necessary for in-demand roles across various industries, including healthcare, finance, government, marketing, logistics, and IT. As organizations increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, certified professionals benefit from greater job security and career flexibility.
Data Analyst
Data analysts collect, interpret, and present insights to support business decision-making. They use SQL, Excel, and Python tools to process information and identify trends that guide strategy and operations. Their expertise in transforming raw data into actionable insights makes them valuable assets to their organizations.
Business Intelligence Analyst
Business intelligence analysts collect and analyze data to deliver actionable insights that support strategic decisions. They create and maintain dashboards and reports, enabling organizations to monitor performance and enhance operations.
Marketing Data Specialist
Marketing data specialists analyze customer behavior, evaluate campaign performance, and optimize digital advertising efforts. They utilize data tools to segment audiences, track user engagement, and generate reports that inform marketing strategies and enhance overall effectiveness.
Operations Analyst
Operations analysts identify inefficiencies and recommend data-driven improvements to optimize inventory, logistics, staffing, and costs. Their big data and database management training enables effective collaboration with supply chain, production, and service departments.
Data Quality Manager
Data quality managers ensure an organization's data is accurate, consistent, and secure. They conduct audits, develop data cleaning protocols, and manage databases to support compliance, reporting, and analysis across various business units.
Applicants must be admitted to the Graduate School at Fort Hays State University to pursue the Certificate in Applied Data Analytics - Graduate Level. Admission requires submitting a completed application, official transcripts, and any additional documents necessary for graduate admission. The certificate is open to both degree-seeking and non-degree-seeking students.
Educational Background Flexibility
The certificate does not require admission to a specific undergraduate major and welcomes applicants from diverse educational and professional backgrounds. It is particularly suited for individuals in business, IT, healthcare, marketing, and operations who wish to enhance their data skills. Students enrolling in the graduate-level certificate are expected to have prior experience with Python programming. For those new to Python, an introductory course is available and can be included in the certificate plan.
Non-Degree Seeking Option
The certificate is open to students not pursuing a full graduate degree, offering a flexible option for working professionals, career changers, or those seeking targeted skill development without a long-term academic commitment. However, non-degree-seeking students may have limited or no access to financial aid.
English Language Proficiency
International applicants or students who have completed prior education in a language other than English may be required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. It ensures the ability to succeed in graduate-level coursework conducted in English.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,559.42* (on-campus) or $3,139.02* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the Graduate resident/regional tuition rate ($284.38/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate (348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers a range of complementary programs for students interested in expanding their education beyond the Certificate in Applied Data Analytics - Graduate Level. These options enable students to combine disciplines or pursue more advanced studies in data, technology, or business. They may serve as stepping stones to graduate degrees or specialized career paths.
- B.A./B.S. in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Information Systems)
- Certificate in Applied Data Analytics
- Master of Liberal Studies (Data Analytics)
No. Enrollment is open to both degree-seeking and non-degree-seeking students, allowing flexibility for professionals or those seeking certification.
Financial aid is typically limited to degree-seeking students. Non-degree students may not be eligible for federal assistance; however, employer reimbursement and scholarships may be available.
Yes. This certificate appeals to working adults with flexible online and evening course options, as it allows students to manage their coursework alongside a full-time job.
Students will utilize industry-standard tools, including Python, SQL, big data systems, and data visualization platforms, to analyze and interpret complex datasets.
The certificate is shorter and more technical, focused on skill-building for immediate application. It's ideal for professionals seeking targeted training without the commitment to a full degree.
Information about the Department of Informatics
The Department of Informatics at FHSU offers a flexible and forward-thinking education tailored to students' interests in data, analytics, and digital media. This dynamic program empowers students to customize their curriculum and develop cutting-edge skills essential for leadership in today’s technology-driven world. Whether studying on campus or online, students learn to leverage data and technology to solve real-world challenges and shape their own career paths.
As one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand fields, informatics opens the door to a wide range of high-impact, high-paying careers—from data analytics and cybersecurity to digital media and information management. FHSU equips students with expert instruction, hands-on learning opportunities, and strong industry connections to help them succeed in a profession that has quickly become vital across nearly every sector.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Cybersecurity Club: The Cybersecurity Club is dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of evolving cybersecurity principles and techniques. Open to all students, regardless of experience or skill level, the club welcomes anyone with an interest in topics such as network security, digital forensics, penetration testing, secure coding, cryptography, reverse engineering, and more. Through hands-on activities and collaborative learning, the club provides a supportive environment for exploring the many facets of cybersecurity.
- Tiger Media Network: TMN is the student-run news outlet at FHSU, offering hands-on experience in various aspects of media production. Open to students with interests in videography, photography, news writing, journalism, and related fields, TMN provides valuable opportunities to develop practical skills while contributing to campus news and storytelling.
- Advanced Technology Student Organization: The Advanced Technology Student Organization (ATSO) offers a collaborative learning environment for students interested in exploring the ever-evolving world of technology. The organization brings together members to support one another’s educational growth while promoting innovation and technological advancement. ATSO’s primary goal is to foster knowledge-sharing and unite students in driving both the organization and FHSU's continued progress in the tech field.
- Certificate
- On-Campus
- Online
