Data visualization courses can help you learn how to create compelling charts, graphs, and dashboards, along with understanding data storytelling and visual design principles. You can build skills in interpreting data trends, selecting appropriate visual formats, and conveying insights effectively to diverse audiences. Many courses introduce tools like Tableau, Power BI, and D3.js, that support transforming raw data into visual narratives and making data-driven decisions in various fields.

University of California, Davis
Skills you'll gain: Dashboard, Data Storytelling, Tableau Software, Data Presentation, Data Visualization, Advanced Analytics, Stakeholder Analysis, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Visualization Software, Data Literacy, Design Elements And Principles, Exploratory Data Analysis, Proposal Development, Data Ethics, Data Analysis, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Data Mapping, Pivot Tables And Charts, Tree Maps, Storyboarding
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Data Storytelling, Data Literacy, Data Visualization, Data Presentation, Tableau Software, Presentations, Data Visualization Software, Dashboard, Data Analysis, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, Stakeholder Engagement
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Skills you'll gain: Data Visualization, Data Visualization Software, Data Presentation, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Storytelling, Dashboard, Tableau Software, Plot (Graphics), Scatter Plots, Data Mapping, Graphing
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Dashboard, Data Visualization Software, Tableau Software, Data Visualization, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Storytelling, Data Presentation, Data Analysis, Geospatial Mapping, Histogram, Advanced Analytics, Spatial Analysis, Scatter Plots, Data Science, Data Manipulation, Data Import/Export, Business Analytics, Marketing Analytics, Analytics, Forecasting
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Data Storytelling, Rmarkdown, Data Literacy, Data Visualization, Data Presentation, Data Ethics, Data Cleansing, Data Validation, Ggplot2, R (Software), Tableau Software, Sampling (Statistics), Presentations, Spreadsheet Software, Data Analysis, LinkedIn, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Data Structures, Interviewing Skills, Applicant Tracking Systems
Build toward a degree
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

University of Pittsburgh
Skills you'll gain: Data Storytelling, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Presentation, Plot (Graphics), Data Visualization Software, Data Visualization, Tableau Software, Spatial Analysis, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Statistical Visualization, Network Model, Dashboard, Matplotlib, Infographics, Heat Maps, Seaborn, Geospatial Information and Technology, Time Series Analysis and Forecasting, Network Analysis, Geospatial Mapping
Build toward a degree
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Tableau Learning Partner
Skills you'll gain: Data Visualization, Data Visualization Software, Interactive Data Visualization, Tableau Software, Data Presentation, Tree Maps, Dashboard, Heat Maps, Geospatial Mapping, Data Storytelling, Data Manipulation, Data Mapping, Business Analytics
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Data Storytelling, Data Visualization, Data Ethics, Exploratory Data Analysis, Sampling (Statistics), Data Visualization Software, Feature Engineering, Regression Analysis, Descriptive Statistics, Logistic Regression, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Model Evaluation, Data Analysis, Tableau Software, Data Science, Statistical Analysis, Machine Learning, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Interviewing Skills, Python Programming
Build toward a degree
Advanced · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

Tableau Learning Partner
Skills you'll gain: Data Storytelling, Exploratory Data Analysis, Requirements Elicitation, Data Presentation, Data Governance, Data Ethics, Tableau Software, Business Analysis, Data Literacy, Data Visualization, Data Preprocessing, Data Visualization Software, Data Warehousing, Business Metrics, Dashboard, Extract, Transform, Load, Data Analysis, Spatial Data Analysis, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Management
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

Tableau Learning Partner
Skills you'll gain: Data Visualization Software, Spatial Data Analysis, Tableau Software, Data Storytelling, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Presentation, Stakeholder Communications, Geospatial Mapping, Business Reporting, Data Analysis, Business Analytics, Data Mapping
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of Pittsburgh
Skills you'll gain: Data Storytelling, Data Presentation, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Visualization Software, Data Visualization, Network Analysis, Tableau Software, Statistical Visualization, Network Model, Dashboard, Time Series Analysis and Forecasting, Matplotlib, Data Analysis, Seaborn, Graph Theory, Pandas (Python Package), Python Programming
Build toward a degree
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Board Infinity
Skills you'll gain: Data Visualization Software, Dashboard, Data Visualization, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Transformation, Tableau Software, Data Storytelling, Data Manipulation, Exploratory Data Analysis, Heat Maps, Scatter Plots, Data Analysis, Forecasting, Geospatial Mapping
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Data visualization is the graphical representation of information and data. By using visual elements like charts, graphs, and maps, data visualization tools provide an accessible way to see and understand trends, outliers, and patterns in data. It is important because it transforms complex data sets into visual formats that are easier to comprehend, enabling better decision-making. In a world where data is abundant, effective visualization helps communicate insights clearly and efficiently, making it a crucial skill in various fields.‎
A variety of job opportunities exist in the field of data visualization. Roles such as Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Scientist, and Visualization Specialist are common. These positions often require the ability to interpret data and present it visually to stakeholders. Additionally, professionals in marketing, finance, and healthcare increasingly rely on data visualization to convey insights and support strategic decisions. As organizations continue to prioritize data-driven decision-making, the demand for skilled data visualization practitioners is likely to grow.‎
To excel in data visualization, you should develop a mix of technical and analytical skills. Proficiency in data visualization tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or programming languages like Python and R is essential. Understanding data analysis concepts, statistics, and storytelling techniques will enhance your ability to present data effectively. Additionally, having a good eye for design and familiarity with user experience principles can help create more engaging visualizations. Continuous practice and learning will further strengthen these skills.‎
There are numerous online courses available for learning data visualization. Some highly regarded options include the Data Visualization with Tableau Specialization, which teaches how to create impactful visualizations using Tableau, and the Data Visualization: Fundamentals to Interactive Storytelling Specialization, focusing on the principles of effective storytelling through data. These courses cater to various skill levels and can help you build a strong foundation in data visualization.‎
Yes. You can start learning data visualization on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in data visualization, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎
To learn data visualization effectively, start by identifying your learning goals and the specific tools or techniques you want to build proficiency in. Enroll in online courses that match your interests and skill level. Practice regularly by working on real-world projects or datasets to apply what you learn. Engage with online communities or forums to share your work and receive feedback. Additionally, reading books and articles on data visualization can provide deeper insights and inspire your creativity.‎
Typical topics covered in data visualization courses include data types and structures, visualization principles, tools and software (like Tableau and Excel), and techniques for creating various types of charts and graphs. Courses often emphasize the importance of storytelling with data, data cleaning and preparation, and best practices for designing effective visualizations. Advanced topics may include interactive visualizations and dashboard creation, providing a comprehensive understanding of the field.‎
For training and upskilling employees in data visualization, courses like the Microsoft Data Visualization Professional Certificate and the Data Analysis and Visualization Foundations Specialization are excellent choices. These programs are designed to equip learners with practical skills and knowledge that can be directly applied in the workplace, fostering a data-driven culture within organizations.‎