No prior experience in data science or programming is required. However it is recommended that you have some foundational knowledge about data science, which can be developed by taking the the IBM Introduction to Data Science Specialization.

It is strongly recommended that you take the Python for Data Science course first. Then you can take either the Visualization or the Data Science course - whichever you prefer – and end with the Capstone course.

Yes. The IBM Applied Data Science Specialization recently secured a credit recommendation from the American Council on Education's (ACE) Credit Recommendation, which is the industry standard for translating workplace learning to college credit. Learners can earn a recommendation of 12 college credits for completing the program. This aims to help open up additional pathways to learners who are interested in higher education and prepare them for entry-level jobs.

You will be able to exercise practical Python skills, and apply them to interesting data visualization and data analysis problems.

To share proof of completion with schools, certificate graduates will receive an email prompting them to claim their Credlybadge, which contains the ACE®️credit recommendation.  Once claimed, you will receive a competency-based transcript that signifies the credit recommendation, which can be shared directly with a school from the Credly platform. Please note that the decision to accept specific credit recommendations is up to each institution and is not guaranteed. 

Please see Coursera’s ACE Recommendations FAQ.

This course is completely online, so there’s no need to show up to a classroom in person. You can access your lectures, readings and assignments anytime and anywhere via the web or your mobile device.

If you subscribed, you get a 7-day free trial during which you can cancel at no penalty. After that, we don’t give refunds, but you can cancel your subscription at any time. See our full refund policy.

Yes! To get started, click the course card that interests you and enroll. You can enroll and complete the course to earn a shareable certificate, or you can audit it to view the course materials for free. When you subscribe to a course that is part of a Specialization, you’re automatically subscribed to the full Specialization. Visit your learner dashboard to track your progress.

Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.

When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free. If you cannot afford the fee, you can apply for financial aid.