IBM Data Science Professional Certificate credential artwork

IBM Data Science Professional Certificate Courses

Validates practical skills in Python, SQL, data analysis, visualization, machine learning and generative AI tools for data science.

A good IBM Data Science course takes a beginner from no code to Python, SQL and machine learning through hands-on labs and a capstone project. We compared the two ways to take it on price, flexibility and how long you need to finish.

Most people should take the IBM Data Science Professional Certificate on Coursera, which is the full 12-course program with labs and a capstone. Choose Coursera Plus if you will take other Coursera programs too or need more than 7 months.

CourseBest forFormatPrice
IBM Data Science Professional CertificateFull IBM programVideo$59/month
Coursera PlusMany Coursera programsVideo$59/month
Full IBM program

IBM Data Science Professional Certificate

4.6(151k ratings)

IBM's 12-course program runs from data science basics through Python, SQL, data analysis, visualization and machine learning to a capstone project and generative AI tools. You learn through videos, browser labs and graded quizzes, and there is no final exam.

Great fit if you are new to coding and want a guided start in data science

Poor fit if you already know Python and basic statistics; choose a more advanced program

Many Coursera programs

Coursera Plus

One subscription for IBM, Google and university programs on Coursera, including this certificate. The $399 annual plan costs less than monthly billing once you study for seven months or more.

Great fit if you will take this and another Coursera program, or need more than 7 months

Poor fit if you will finish in a few months and take nothing else; choose the IBM program alone

How to choose a IBM Data Science course

  • Count the months. Coursera suggests 4 months at 10 hours a week, and its course estimates add up to 178 hours. On monthly billing, a slower pace costs more.
  • Do the labs and the capstone. The labs and the capstone project are what you show in a portfolio. Complete the graded assessments as well.
  • Match the level. The program assumes no coding or statistics. If you already know Python and basic statistics, a more advanced course fits better.
  • Expect a certificate, not an exam. There is no final exam. You earn the IBM certificate and badge by completing the 12 courses.

Recommended IBM Data Science course combinations

  • Standard route: The IBM program on Coursera ($59/month), starting with the 7-day free trial.
  • Slow and steady: Coursera Plus ($399/year), which costs less than monthly billing once you study for seven months or more.
  • Several programs: Coursera Plus ($59/month or $399/year) to pair this certificate with another IBM, Google or university program.

IBM Data Science course FAQ

What is the best IBM Data Science course?

For most people, the IBM Data Science Professional Certificate on Coursera. Coursera Plus is better only if you will take other Coursera programs or need more than 7 months.

Can I take the IBM Data Science certificate for free?

Coursera offers a 7-day free trial, but the full program and certificate need a paid subscription or approved financial aid.

How long does the IBM Data Science certificate take?

Coursera's estimates add up to 178 hours, and it suggests 4 months at 10 hours a week.

Do I need to know how to code?

No. Anyone can enroll, and no degree, programming or statistics background is needed.