IT-Data & Analytics Specialist
- Associate Degree
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Discover the key to thriving in today's job market - data analytics. Western's IT-Data and Analytics Specialist program equips you to harness the potential of data, regardless of your industry. Learn to unveil data insights, build databases, and craft reports. Gain proficiency in statistical tools and elevate your problem-solving and strategic thinking abilities. Our curriculum places a strong emphasis on cultivating software skills, spanning data-specific programming languages, artificial intelligence, and Big Data. Uncover how data, both internal and external, can revolutionize efficiency and decision-making.
Before graduation, you will be prepared to take the CompTIA Data + certification valued by many employers to give you a leg up on the competition.
Find out more about careers in Data Analytics [1] in our blog post.
Career Opportunities
Program Outcomes
- Living responsibly
- Refining professionalism
- Cultivating passion
- Analyze data
- Query data
- Perform data extraction, transformation, and loading (ETL)
- Create reports
- Communicate with stakeholders
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Software and Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form [2].
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [3].
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [4] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [5]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [6].
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [7] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [8]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Courses
Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks [9] for more information.
This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern [10] self-service portal for academic planning.