Machine Learning Cost

Machine learning, or ML, is a branch of artificial intelligence (AI). Its main application is the use of data and algorithms to replicate human learning. Top areas in ML include speech and facial recognition, search engines, and medical imaging. 

As a subset of computer science, the cost of training in machine learning depends on what you need to learn and how you plan to apply it. The skills and knowledge required for a Data Scientist can differ substantially from those of a Machine Learning Engineer. Fortunately, there are programming languages like Python, which is free, and data visualization tools like Tableau, which you can access for as little as $15/month. Read on to learn more about the costs associated with machine learning.

What is Machine Learning?

Machine learning (ML) is one of the best-known subcategories of artificial intelligence (AI). This complex and multidisciplinary field can require training in programming languages like Python, databases like MySQL, and natural language processing (NLP). Common careers that require machine learning skills include Machine Learning Engineers, Data Scientists, and Business Intelligence (BI) Analysts.

Machine learning is often associated with Python programming and data science. Supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning are the top three models of ML algorithms. Popular uses of ML in daily activities include voice recognition tools like Siri, recommendation lists from Amazon or Netflix, and user engagement icons on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. 

Read more about what machine learning is and why you should learn it. 

What Can You Do with Machine Learning?

Machine learning algorithms dominate today’s internet. Websites gather information based on everything you do online, from your search patterns to previous purchases, social media posts, and whether or not you abandon a product in a cart. As ML algorithms continue to influence our personal and professional lives, more and more businesses use them to streamline processes and determine customer and client journeys. The following are a few of the most popular machine learning applications.

• Social media - Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook) was one of the first well-known companies to use ML to measure user activities. Examples of how they analyze statistical activity include their user engagement, chatbots, and content filtering features. Other top social media platforms using ML extensively include Twitter, Pinterest, and TikTok.

• Product Recommendations - If you’ve ever bought a product from Amazon or subscribed to a streaming service, you’ve probably seen the You May Like feature. Companies ranging from Apple to Netflix use machine learning algorithms to customize your experience.

• Natural Language Processing (NLP) involves text analytics and functions combined with machine learning. Analyzing text includes basic steps like identifying the language and more complex steps like syntax parsing and sentiment analysis. ML is essential to text analytics and NLP solutions.

In-Depth Review of the Cost

The costs associated with training for a machine learning career depend on the position you plan to get. Although you can learn much from free resources (see below), you’ll eventually need formal training to be successful in this complex multidisciplinary field.

Some of the most popular tools and skills for ML pros are common to those of other positions in data science or web development. Consider the following as free or low-cost options that you’ll need in most machine learning roles.

• Python - Python data science training goes hand in hand with machine learning. Some course providers offer Python and machine learning bootcamps, where students can learn about automation, data analysis and visualization, and other pertinent topics. Fortunately, Python’s software, libraries, and frameworks are all free. You can also find free online tutorials on Python in Noble Desktop’s Learn Hub.

• Structured Query Language (SQL) - Many popular machine learning algorithms use SQL, a powerful language among Data Scientists, Data Analysts, and Machine Learning Engineers. Top ML databases include MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQL Server. All are free to download. Check out Noble Desktop’s Intro to SQL tutorial to learn more.

• Tableau - Along with Power BI, the Tableau data visualization tool is one of the most popular resources for machine learning professionals—from Business Analysts to Data Scientists. Tableau offers a free trial, after which tiered pricing plans start as low as $15/month.

These few tools can give machine learning novices an excellent start. Check local job listings online to find out what other skill sets employers require for various ML positions.

Why Learn Machine Learning?

Machine learning programs have become so common that you most likely interact with them daily. Consider Amazon’s “Compare Similar Items” feature, the “Because You Watched” recommendations on Netflix, and the recommended reels on your Instagram feed. All of these tools come from machine learning algorithms.

If you’re planning to start a career in data science or analytics, ML can be a core segment of your education. Anyone with a title like Data Scientist or Data Engineer should be familiar with machine learning concepts. A Machine Learning Engineer or Machine Learning Architect must have a specialized skill set in subjects like deep learning, data modeling, and natural language processing (NLP).

Read more about why you should learn machine learning. 

Free Introductory Machine Learning Course Online 

Not ready to take a full-length machine learning course? If you’re not able to commit to a full-length bootcamp or certificate, you should consider the many free online resources you can use to start studying machine learning.

One of the most important areas of study for those new to machine learning is technical proficiency in a free programming language like Python. If you don’t already have Python experience, it can be helpful to learn more about it before you dive into the study of machine learning. 

Noble Desktop hosts an online seminar entitled Intro to Python Fundamentals. In this free introductory course, you’ll learn about the practical uses of Python. The curriculum walks new programmers through every step to get started in Python programming—from how to install Python to how to write code.

Other free online courses include Introduction to Embedded Machine Learning from Edge Impulse, Artificial Intelligence: Ethics & Societal Challenges from Lund University, and the University of London’s Foundations of Data Science: K-Means Clustering in Python.

Read about more free machine learning videos and online tutorials.

Learn Machine Learning with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop offers a variety of bootcamps and certificates that feature machine learning, both in-person and live online via teleconferencing. Some include Python as a focus, others include machine learning as part of a broader data science curriculum, and others cover ML in a FinTech curriculum. All bootcamps and certificate programs feature small class sizes to maximize personal attention from expert instructors.

• Data Science Certificate - Noble’s Data Science Certificate program teaches participants data science fundamentals before advancing through machine learning, Python for automation, and Structured Query Language (SQL). This immersive certificate is open to beginners; you can retake it for up to one year at no additional charge.

• Python Machine Learning Bootcamp - Programmers already comfortable with Python and its data science libraries can get their machine learning training as part of the Python Machine Learning Bootcamp. Attendees can save by taking this shorter course as part of the Data Science Certificate program.

• Python Data Science & Machine Learning Bootcamp - This comprehensive bootcamp combines the same ML and Python training modules as the Data Science Certificate but does not include the Structured Query Language (SQL) bootcamp. It’s open to beginners and designed to prepare students for entry-level Python engineering or data science positions. 

For more information on Noble Desktop’s data science classes, including machine learning, check out all their full-time and part-time data science programs.