Excel Classes for High School Students in Philadelphia

Microsoft Excel is a tool known for its data organization and analysis capabilities. It is an invaluable asset for high school students that aid in developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and technology skills, all essential in our data-driven society. According to Microsoft, Excel is used by over 750 million people worldwide, demonstrating its universal demand in the job market. Additionally, a 2016 study by Burning Glass Technologies found that nearly 82% of middle-skill jobs require fluency in digital skills like Excel, a 4% growth since 2015. 

By learning Excel, students in Philadelphia not only equip themselves with practical skills but also gain a competitive edge in the job market. Becoming proficient in Excel can also help students in their academic pursuits, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Excel's data visualization tools assist in translating complex data into digestible information, promoting better understanding. Overall, Excel classes for high school students can provide an early advantage in their career development and academic journey.

Why High School Students Should Learn Excel

Excel is an extremely versatile tool with applications in numerous fields. For high school students in Philadelphia, the summer break provides an ideal opportunity to gain proficiency in this software. According to data from the Center City District & Central Philadelphia Development Corporation, business and finance jobs constitute approximately 39% of the city's workforce, with most of these roles necessitating a strong foundation in Excel. By taking Excel classes during the summer, students can effectively utilize their break to develop a skill directly applicable to a significant portion of the local job market.

Learning Excel doesn't just open doors to opportunities in the business and finance sectors. The tool's wide-ranging functionalities make it valuable in diverse fields, including science, engineering, education, and even the arts. The Department of Education encourages students to become technologically savvy as early as possible and provides a variety of resources to aid in this. With a growing emphasis on data analysis and digital skills in our 21st-century job market, becoming proficient in Excel puts students in a prime position to thrive in their future careers, regardless of the industry.

In-Person Excel Classes in Philadelphia

For high school students in Philadelphia seeking in-person Excel classes, a variety of institutions offer such programs. The Philadelphia Free Library, for instance, offers Computer Skills for Beginners classes that include Excel training in the curriculum. These free classes are an incredible resource for the city's community members and are open to all ages. The Community College of Philadelphia has non-credit computer courses like the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Training class, where students can learn Excel and relevant software from experienced instructors. For those who prefer a more focused approach, private tutoring centers can provide personalized Excel lessons tailored to individual needs and goals. These classes not only teach the technical skills required to master Excel but also allow students to interact with their peers and instructors, fostering a positive learning environment.

Virtual Excel Classes

Virtual Excel classes represent a significant portion of training options in Philadelphia, offering the same level of comprehensive instruction as traditional in-person classes. However, they offer added advantages like allowing students to interact in real-time with instructors, participate in group discussions, and have their questions answered immediately. It provides scheduling flexibility, accommodates students' individual commitments, and eliminates commuting time. 

The Excel, Finance, & Investing Summer Program Live Online from NextGen Bootcamp is a notable option for high school students looking to learn about Excel and its use in finance. This program offers 25 hours of live instruction, where students can learn financial modeling and data analysis techniques using Excel. Live online instruction allows students to interact with instructors and peers, promoting a collaborative learning environment regardless of location. Class sizes are kept small to provide personalized attention and ensure students can reach their learning objectives and real-world projects to apply their skills. The tuition for this summer program is $1,299, due in full before the class starts.

The FinTech Summer Program Live Online course is another NextGen Bootcamp offering that introduces students to key financial technology concepts, including Excel. This unique bootcamp combines two programs into one offering, including the Excel, Finance, & Investing Summer Program and the Python Data Science & Machine Learning Summer Program. These two specific courses enable students to develop a deep understanding of Excel applications in finance and data analysis, providing them with an invaluable skillset for their future career endeavors. The tuition for this live online program is $3,295 for 72 hours of instruction.

How to Choose an Excel Class

When choosing an Excel class, several factors warrant consideration. One of the most important to remember is cost, which can vary significantly depending on whether the class is in-person or virtual, the institution's reputation, and the course length. Another factor is the delivery mode, as in-person classes offer a traditional learning environment with face-to-face instruction. In contrast, virtual classes provide flexibility and convenience, especially for students juggling school and other commitments. Also, consider age restrictions, as some classes may be designed for a certain age group or grade level. 

The length of the course is another vital factor. Intensive, shorter courses may be ideal for quick learning, while longer, more extensive courses tend to offer a deeper understanding of Excel. Finally, the difficulty level of the course should align with the student's current skill level and overall objectives. A beginner's course may be more suitable for students with little to no experience in Excel, while advanced courses better suit those wishing to expand an existing skillset.