IBM Business Analyst Professional Certificate Course Syllabus

Overview: This professional certificate program is designed to equip learners with foundational business analysis skills needed to succeed in data-driven decision-making roles. The curriculum spans approximately 16 weeks of flexible learning, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice using tools like Excel and Cognos Analytics. Learners will explore core concepts including business analysis fundamentals, data analysis, Agile methodologies, and business strategy alignment, culminating in a capstone project that demonstrates real-world application of skills. Estimated total time: 80–100 hours.

Module 1: Introduction to Business Analysis

Estimated time: 21 hours

• Understand the role and responsibilities of a business analyst
• Learn key concepts such as process modeling and requirements gathering
• Explore stakeholder identification and engagement techniques
• Introduction to business analysis lifecycle and frameworks

Module 2: Excel Basics for Data Analysis

Estimated time: 21 hours

• Master essential Excel functions and formulas for data manipulation
• Organize and clean datasets for analysis
• Perform basic data analysis using sorting, filtering, and pivot tables
• Apply formatting and best practices for professional data presentation

Module 3: Data Visualization and Dashboards with Excel and Cognos

Estimated time: 28 hours

• Create charts and graphs in Excel to visualize trends and patterns
• Build interactive dashboards using Excel features
• Use IBM Cognos Analytics to generate reports and visualizations
• Design effective dashboards that support business decision-making

Module 4: Agile Analysis and Design

Estimated time: 21 hours

• Understand Agile principles and methodologies in business analysis
• Apply Agile techniques to gather and manage requirements
• Work within iterative project cycles and collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Use Agile tools and practices to improve project efficiency

Module 5: Business Strategy and Solution Evaluation

Estimated time: 15 hours

• Align business analysis activities with organizational goals
• Evaluate solutions based on business needs and constraints
• Measure outcomes and recommend improvements using data-driven insights

Module 6: Business Analysis Capstone Project

Estimated time: 24 hours

• Analyze a real-world business scenario using learned techniques
• Create process models, gather requirements, and propose data-backed solutions
• Present findings through visualizations and a comprehensive project report

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with basic computer operations
• No prior experience in business analysis required
• Access to Microsoft Excel (free trial or licensed version)

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Apply core business analysis concepts to real-world problems
• Analyze and visualize data using Excel and Cognos Analytics
• Use Agile methodologies to support project planning and execution
• Create dashboards and reports that inform strategic decisions
• Prepare for the Entry Certificate in Business Analysis (ECBA) exam