About this Course
If you’ve heard the expression “a picture is worth a thousand words,” then you know how effectively an image can tell a story. As organizations become increasingly more sophisticated in gathering ever-growing amounts of data on all aspects of their business, they need professionals who can wrangle that data into easily digestible visualizations.
In this foundational-level course, we’ll focus on the core building blocks of Microsoft Power BI. You’ll learn how to input. clean. model and enhance raw data from a variety of sources and transform it into interactive dashboards. You’ll apply fundamental data visualization theories to create insightful reports and data stories for nontechnical audiences. You’ll learn how to select the best report design, chart or layout for various business scenarios. And you’ll explore interactive reporting techniques and other features in Power BI that’ll set you up for success in a variety of positions.
Designed For
Anyone who wants to learn how to use Microsoft Power BI to tell data stories and visualize trends and patterns.
See Requirements
Admission Requirements
To apply, you must have basic proficiency in spreadsheet tools such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. You should be able to create basic charts and input, organize and modify data.
Time Commitment
You should expect to spend about three to five hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the B2 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid. To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs.
International Students
Because this offering is 100% online, no visa is required and international students are welcome to apply. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students.
Technology Requirements
- Access to a PC computer with Windows 11 and a web browser
- Power BI Desktop (free license provided)
- High-speed internet connection
- Headset and webcam
- Dual monitors (highly recommended)
Completing the Course
To successfully complete this course, you must fulfill the requirements outlined by your instructor.
▸ Explore More: Interested in learning Tableau? Check out our Certificate in Data Visualization With Tableau — or find the right data program for you.
What You'll Learn
- How to navigate Power BI, connect to various data sources and explore workspaces
- How to clean and augment data through calculated columns and metrics
- How to partition and relate data to build effective data models
- How to develop interactive reports using Power BI techniques like filtering, drillthrough and bookmarking
- How to identify trends and explain patterns using data visualization best practices
Get Hands-On Experience
You’ll complete a final reporting project that visually communicates a data story, which you can add to your professional portfolio.
Prepare for Certification
If you're interested in earning a Microsoft certification in Power BI, this course will prepare you for many of the topics covered on the exam.
Career Stats
19%
Projected growth in U.S. demand for data visualization skills (2025–27)
20%
Projected growth in U.S. demand for Power BI skills (2025-27)
EARN A DIGITAL BADGE
You can earn a skill badge in this course by successfully passing key assessments. This badge can be shared on LinkedIn and other social media sites. Learn more about digital badges.
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.