Overview

CISCO Data Science and AI

This introductory course takes you inside the world of data science. You will learn the basics of data science, data analytics, and data engineering to understand how machine learning is shaping the future of business, healthcare, education, and more. Data science professionals who can provide actionable insights for data-driven decisions are in high demand all over the world.

Data is at the heart of innovation across every modern industry. Organisations now rely on data‑driven decision‑making to remain competitive, streamline processes, and create personalised experiences. Studying data science provides students with the skills to interpret, analyse, and leverage data—skills that are becoming essential across business, healthcare, education, technology, and government.

This course opens the door to a rapidly growing field where job demand is high and career opportunities are diverse. Whether students aspire to work with machine learning, business intelligence, data engineering, or research, this introduction gives them the perfect starting point.

Ready to apply?

Course information

Need to know

The qualification

Cisco Networking Academy Intro to Data Science.

Assessment methods

  • Each chapter has a multiple choice quiz to assess your learning.
  • At the end of the course, you’ll sit an end of unit online exam.

Why study this course?

This course provides a broad introduction to data science, data analytics, and data engineering all within one programme. By exploring each area, you will gain a clear understanding of how these disciplines connect and support one another throughout the data lifecycle.

You’ll learn how data science and machine learning are transforming industries such as business, healthcare, and education. By examining real world examples and use cases, you’ll be able to clearly see the relevance and growing impact of these technologies across different sectors.

The course will equip you with practical, future ready skills including data interpretation, ethical data handling, basic machine learning concepts, and problem solving using real datasets. These foundational skills prepare you for the evolving demands of the modern workforce.

It has been designed to be welcoming and inclusive, and as such, the course requires no prior technical experience.

Course content

You will study:

Module 1: Experience Analytics

An overview of how experience analytics helps organisations understand behaviour, patterns, and outcomes through data.

1.1 What is Data?

A look at different types of data, how it is generated, and why it matters.

1.2 Data is All Around Us

Exploring the everyday sources of data and how it shapes the modern world.

1.3 Business Understanding

Understanding how businesses use data insights to drive decisions and improve performance.

1.4 Experience Analytics Summary

A recap of the key concepts, tools, and insights explored throughout the module.

 

Module 2: Data Collection and Storage

An introduction to how organisations collect, store, and manage large volumes of data.

2.1 Understanding Big Data

Exploring what big data is, where it comes from, and why it is valuable.

2.2 Understanding Big Data Management

How businesses organise, store, and maintain massive datasets efficiently and securely.

2.3 Data Collection and Gathering Summary

A summary of the data collection process and the importance of effective data storage strategies.

 

Module 3: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

A guide to the world of AI and machine learning and their impact on society.

3.1 AI: Fact and Fiction

Separating myths from reality and understanding what AI can—and cannot—do.

3.2 Big Data and Machine Learning

How large datasets power machine learning models and enable smarter decision-making.

3.3 AI and ML Summary

A final overview of the AI and machine learning concepts covered in the module.

 

Module 4: Embarking on Your Career in Data Analytics

Introducing career pathways within data analytics and the skills needed for success.

4.1 Preparing for a Career in Data Analytics

Guidance on building your skillset, portfolio, and professional profile.

4.2 Taking the Next Steps

How to continue learning, gain experience, and progress toward career goals and be lifelong learners.

4.3 Career in Data Analytics Summary

An outlook that brings together the key career insights from the module.

Next steps

Course progression:

  • Cisco IT Essentials
  • Full Stack Web Development
  • CompTIA Security+

 

Career progressions:

  • Data Administrator
  • Data Analyst
  • Machine Learning Assistant / Technician
  • Reporting Assistant / BI Assistant

Additional information

£150 course enrolment fee.

Available Courses
Bedford College
Starts: 04/11/2026
Type: Part Time
Length: 4 weeks
Day(s): Tuesday
Time(s):
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Fees: £150.00

Disclaimer

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the Website is correct, some details may be subject to change. The Bedford College Group reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.

Part-Time Funding Information

Some courses may be free depending on the qualification and if you are unemployed and on a qualifying benefit.

Please contact our Customer Contact team on 0345 658 8990 to find out accurate fees information.

Additional Learning Support

If you have a specific learning difficulty or disability, are deaf or hearing impaired, our Additional Learning Support team are on hand to give you assistance whenever you need it. Email: ALSteam@bedford.ac.uk or call us on 01234 291333.

Financial Support

For information regarding financial support, please visit the Financial Support section to see the support you may be entitled to apply for.

Accessibility

We have access arrangements in place to help students with disabilities or any other particular needs. Call us on 01234 291000 or 01536 413123 for more information.

Any questions?

If you would like to find out more about this or other courses, please use our Livechat below, email info@bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk or call us on 0345 658 8990.