Introduction to Data Analysis
| Course code: | 26-SS-217 |
|---|---|
| Dates: | February 2-27, 2026 Alternate Course Dates |
| Location: | Online |
| Instructor: | John Rutledge |
| Fee: | $195.00 |
Description
You’ll explore how data is collected, categorized, and prepared for analysis. Learn foundational statistical concepts, such as probability and trend analysis, and apply them to real-world scenarios. You’ll also gain experience using Excel to create pivot tables, charts, and dashboards, so you can present findings in ways that support informed decision-making.
Whether you’re supporting reports, evaluating outcomes, or just getting started with data, this course will help you build the skills to identify patterns, uncover insights, and communicate results effectively.
Course Outcomes
- Identify sources and types of data, including qualitative and quantitative information.
- Understand methods of data collection, sorting, filtering, and categorization.
- Apply basic statistical methods to analyze data and interpret findings.
- Perform trend and break-even analysis to uncover business insights.
- Understand probability and the normal distribution as tools for prediction.
- Create tables, charts, pivot tables, and dashboards to summarize and present data clearly.
- Use Excel to visualize data in a format that supports management decisions and reporting.
- Professionals in non-technical roles who work with reports, KPIs, or performance metrics
- Small business owners and entrepreneurs looking to understand their sales, operations, or customer data
- Administrative and operations staff who manage or review data
- Students or early-career professionals interested in building data skills for career advancement
- Anyone looking to understand data basics and develop analysis skills using practical, business-friendly tools
Notes
Registration Deadline: Participants can register up to 5 days after the course begins.Course Access: Offered in partnership with LERN. Log in 24/7—no live meetings.
Course Format: Weekly units include readings, audio-slide lectures, self-quizzes, and discussion forums.
Tips for Success: Log in 2–3 times a week and contribute 2–3 thoughtful posts per unit for the best experience.
Recognized Credentials: Earn nationally recognized CEUs from the Learning Resources Network (LERN), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit association—perfect for meeting professional development goals or licensure requirements.
Cancellation/Refund Policy: VCU Continuing and Professional Education offers this class/certificate in partnership with LERN. Therefore, you may cancel your registration up until you receive your login and password from LERN and receive a full refund minus any credit card processing fees. Cancellations must be received via email at ocpe@vcu.edu
In the unlikely event that this program is cancelled or postponed due to insufficient enrollments or unforeseen circumstances, the university will fully refund registration fees, but cannot be held responsible for any other expenses, including change or cancellation charges to include but not limited to airlines, hotels, travel agencies, or other organizations.
Online courses offered with the Learning Resources Network (LERN) continue to run, as scheduled during inclement weather. If there are changes to meeting status, you will receive an email at the address you provided upon registration informing you of the cancelation.
*exempt-this offering is ineligible for waiver use
Student/Participant Conduct:
Participants are subject to all university policies applicable to students, unless a specific university or VCU Continuing and Professional Education policy explicitly states otherwise. University policies governing students are available at https://vcu.public.doctract.com including:
Student Code of Conduct
Honor System and Standards of Academic Conduct
Preventing and Responding to Discrimination
Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy-Interim
Sex-Based Misconduct Policy-Interim
For Academic Accommodations, please visit https://ocpe.vcu.edu/courses/policies.html#accommodations
There are still openings remaining at this time.

