Suffolk University

Programme overview

Designed for students who want to apply data and analytics to solve complex business problems, this graduate certificate covers statistical foundations, hands-on Excel data visualization and analysis, and coding for analytics. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills employers seek—particularly Excel proficiency (with preparation for Microsoft Office Specialist Excel certification) and Python-based descriptive, predictive and prescriptive techniques. Courses are delivered by faculty in the Sawyer Business School and can be stacked with other Suffolk graduate certificates or applied to reduce time in certain graduate business degrees such as the MS in Business Analytics.

What you'll study

• Statistical concepts for conducting, understanding and interpreting analyses
• Full-scope MS Excel for visualization and data analysis, with preparation to pass the Microsoft Office Specialist Certification in Excel
• Descriptive, predictive and prescriptive analytics techniques implemented using Python
• Coding skills focused on industry-relevant analytics workflows

Entry requirements

Applicants submit a completed application and a $50 application fee (fee waiver available for those attending a graduate admission event). Required materials include a resume, unofficial transcripts of all post-secondary work, and a goal statement (essay). Admitted students must provide official transcripts, including proof of degree conferral, before their first class. Application deadlines are set separately for fall and spring terms with earlier dates for international applicants and rolling admission thereafter.

Career prospects

Graduates gain practical analytics and coding capabilities to contribute to data-driven decision making in business settings. The program is oriented toward professionals looking to perform data analysis, produce business insights from spreadsheets and code, and strengthen credentials for roles that require Excel mastery and basic Python analytics.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Federal student loan aid may be available for the program (use Suffolk's federal school code 002218). Suffolk also lists institutional discounts and scholarships (including alumni awards) and partners such as Bright Horizons EdAssist Solutions. Prospective students should consult Student Financial Services for graduate loan and financing options.