Which Power BI Bootcamp is Best?

Once you’ve decided to learn Microsoft Power BI, you may not be sure which course is right for you. Bootcamps are an excellent training option that provides learners with hands-on instruction in a range of useful Power BI concepts and skills. Many top educators around the globe offer bootcamps, both in person and live online, that teach this in-demand tool and also prepare you to use it professionally. Because each learner is different, it’s important to research training options to decide which is best for you. The following sections will provide more information to help you determine which data analytics bootcamp is best for you and which options are currently available to further your studies.

What are the most important criteria to evaluate in Power BI bootcamps?

As you begin your Power BI learning journey, you likely will encounter many training options. One of the most effective and engaging ways to learn this tool is by enrolling in a bootcamp.

Selecting a Power BI bootcamp is a personal decision each learner will need to make based on several important considerations. Variables like cost, time commitment, course content, and training balance are just a few factors that will affect this decision. Before choosing which program is best for you, you’ll have to weigh the advantages and drawbacks of this type of accelerated training, as well as which format most suits your study needs.

Time Commitment & Cost

Power BI bootcamps are typically offered in the live environment, either through in-person training or on a teleconferencing platform like Zoom. Those who enroll must be able to attend classes that meet at regularly scheduled intervals over the course of several days or weeks (depending on program length and if it’s attended part-time or full-time). To succeed as a bootcamp participant, you must be able to devote the time necessary to attend class meetings, as well as to complete any assigned homework between lectures. Unlike college study, which affords four or more years of immersive study, those who opt for bootcamps encounter a much more condensed and focused training format that allows learners to devote their entire focus to acquiring Power BI training.

Cost-wise, bootcamps come with very different price points, depending on their length and focus. Whereas college study can cost tens of thousands of dollars a year, Power BI bootcamps are usually available for just a fraction of one year of college tuition. Most bootcamps that focus entirely on Power BI are available for less than $2,500 and take only days to complete. Other bootcamp programs provide more in-depth training, such as data analytics certificates, and prepare participants to use this BI solution alongside other data analytics tools like Python, SQL, Tableau, and Excel. These programs usually span several weeks or months and cost between $5,000 and $15,000.

Balancing Theory and Practical Skills

Another important consideration when selecting a Power BI bootcamp is how balanced the pedagogical approach between theory and pragmatic training will be. Longer Power BI bootcamps tend to be more comprehensive in scope because and may include more than hands-on Power BI training. These classes may also offer learners an overview of the field of business analytics or data analytics so they can situate Power BI into this umbrella. Students may have the chance in these programs to explore the current best practices when handling data, as well as various techniques used to solve data problems and effectively communicate results. Other bootcamps are shorter and more focused in scope and aim to provide students with practical training in Power BI. These courses are usually shorter and may take only two or three days to complete. They teach participants core Power BI skills and techniques that they can immediately use in their careers, including how to navigate the interface, create basic visualizations and dashboards, share data reports, and integrate Power BI with other products. It’s up to you as the learner to decide whether you’re interested in acquiring a broader knowledge of the field of data analytics or if you are more interested in learning Power BI on its own.

What Skills Does the Bootcamp Teach?

Most individuals who enroll in a Power BI bootcamp do so to learn specific skills they’ll need for their current career or to pursue an entirely different professional path. This is why it’s important to know what skills you’ll need to acquire so you can select a bootcamp that teaches them. Some Power BI bootcamps focus exclusively on Power BI training. These courses differ in content from one another but often cover a core set of in-demand skills most learners will need to know for professional purposes. Students who opt for these classes become familiar with how to visualize data in the form of maps, charts, and graphs, as well as how to create engaging dashboards and reports that clearly communicate data findings. Most Power BI bootcamps also teach students how to import and aggregate data from various sources. Some courses cover DAX, Power BI’s data visualization language, as well. Depending on the course focus, other programs may offer more specific training in skills like working with Power Query to transform and combine data, using the Power BI Online platform, or managing data flow with Excel.

Bootcamps that teach Power BI alongside other skills are also available. These comprehensive courses are a good match for learners interested in acquiring a broader understanding of the role Power BI plays in the data analytics process and how it can be used with other data tools in the professional setting. These learners may opt for a certificate program in data analytics that teaches a range of in-demand skills and tools, including Power BI, Tableau, Excel, Python, and SQL. Courses like Noble Desktop’s Data Analytics Certificate provide participants with a way to take a deep dive into the skills they’ll need to succeed as a Data Analyst. Most certificate programs provide learners with more than in-depth classroom study; they also offer professional development services to help graduates secure a job with their skills. Some certificates provide 1-on-1 mentoring, access to networking events, resume critiques, LinkedIn profile guidance, or professional portfolio feedback. 

What are the Top Power BI Bootcamps?

In order to select the Power BI bootcamp that’s right for you, it’s important to explore course offerings from several providers to see which one is the best match. The following sections will take a closer look at current Power BI bootcamp listings from top providers, as well as what to expect from each program.

If you’re ready to take your Power BI skills further than you can with free online training resources, let Noble Desktop help. Noble offers several excellent training options for learners at all levels of Power BI proficiency. In Noble’s Power BI Bootcamp, students create interactive data visualizations like maps, graphs, and charts in which they present data findings in an engaging and colorful way. Instruction is provided on how to create dynamic dashboards and reports that covey data trends and patterns. This comprehensive program includes training in how to import data from sources like SQL, Text/CSV, and Excel, as well as how to work with Power Query. Students also learn how to aggregate data using MIN/MAX, COUNT, and SUM to gain further insights. By the end of this bootcamp, those enrolled will have the opportunity to work with the DAX language for visualizing data. This class is taught in person in New York City and is also available live online.

In The Academy’s Analyzing Data with Power BI, participants receive advanced-level instruction on how to examine and optimize business data. This program helps students become familiar with the entire Power BI suite of products. Training is provided on essential BI concepts like how to combine and shape data into models, manage data flow using Excel, and use direct connectivity options. By course completion, those enrolled will be able to create their own interactive data visualizations and use mobile BI applications. This program is available in Miami.

Learnit’s Analyzing Data with Power BI provides advanced-level training in analyzing data using Power BI. Participants begin by exploring fundamental BI concepts and learn how to combine and shape data. They use Excel to manage data flow and work with direct connectivity options. Those who are interested in customizing this class to fit their organization’s needs can do so upon request. Coursework is available in San Francisco.

Those who live in the greater Phoenix area can opt for intermediate-level training in Power BI by enrolling in Interface Technical Training’s Power BI for Excel 2016 - Report Builders, Power BI Tools, Data Model Designers and DAX Functions. This comprehensive class provides an overview of Power BI and offers students instruction on how to visualize data findings and publish them for distribution. Students also become familiar with the DAX expression language. This course is included as part of an “all you can eat” subscription plan.

Enrolling in a Power BI Bootcamp Part-Time or Full-Time

Another important consideration all prospective bootcamp attendees must make is whether they want to study part-time or full-time. The good news is that most educators offer both options. The study format you select will likely be based on your availability and scheduling constraints. If you have a full-time job, part-time coursework may be the only way to acquire professional Power BI training while working simultaneously. Part-time bootcamps are typically available on weekends or weeknights, which will not disrupt traditional work schedules. One of the main benefits of part-time bootcamp study is that this format provides a longer timeframe to acquire training and practice what you learn. Spending weeks on a part-time bootcamp allows you to devote additional time to practicing the Power BI skills you’re being taught, which can improve retention. However, part-time study will require a longer duration to complete, which may pose challenges for individuals looking to learn this BI solution for their current job.

Those with more flexible schedules may prefer a full-time study approach, which will allow them to fully immerse in their studies and complete their training much faster. This type of training will require that the participant devote several full days to their studies. This training option is typically a good match for those hoping to learn Power BI relatively quickly and who do not have full-time workloads or busy personal schedules competing for their focus. However, committing to a full-time program means that you should expect to be doing a good amount of homework in a much shorter time frame than would be the case with part-time study. It also will mean that you have less time to practice each Power BI skill you acquire before moving on to the next one.

Enrolling in a Power BI Bootcamp In-Person or Online

Once you’ve decided to enroll in a Power BI bootcamp, another important decision you’ll need to make is whether to attend this class in person or through live online training. Some providers offer both options, whereas other educators offer coursework solely online or in person. Both types of training have their unique advantages and challenges.

In-person Power BI bootcamps occur in a designated training facility in or near a major city, such as DC, Houston, or San Francisco. Students reap the benefits of completing classes in a computer lab with the most up-to-date Power BI version already installed and ready to use. In-person coursework is an excellent opportunity to connect with other learners who are completing their studies at the same time. This supportive environment is a good match for extroverted learners who thrive in the traditional classroom environment. All participants have the opportunity to connect with an expert instructor in real time and have their questions answered on the spot. This learning environment is an excellent way to acquire hands-on training in the small group setting and become familiar with real-world applications of Power BI’s many features and functions.

It’s important to remember that in-person bootcamps require that participants commute to and from class. Most courses meet multiple times a week, which means that students must have a reliable form of transportation and live relatively close to a training facility. The commute can add additional costs (for parking and gas), as well as require a greater time commitment to anticipate traffic and parking. Those who don’t have access to a car or who live far from a major city may, therefore, find in-person bootcamp study prohibitive.

Live online Power BI bootcamps are a more flexible learning option than in-person study. They provide the same learning outcomes as in-person coursework, such as real-time access to an expert instructor and in-the-moment support and feedback. One added perk of live online study is that it doesn’t require a commute. This means that learners can save the money and time they’d spend commuting to and from class. Instead, all coursework can be completed from the comfort of their own home or office space. 

Those interested in live online bootcamps will need to find a place to complete lessons where they won’t be distracted. This may make this form of training difficult for individuals who don’t have a reliable internet connection at home or who live with several other individuals. Additionally, it’s up to the student to have the most current version of Microsoft Power BI purchased and installed on their device. 

Do You Want to Start a New Career using Your Power BI Training?

If you want to use your Power BI training in a new career path, bootcamps are a great way to prepare you to do so. Although these intensive classes vary in the specific training they provide (some deal entirely with Power BI, whereas others are broader in scope and offer instruction on several data analytics applications or skills), bootcamps are designed to prepare students to find jobs upon graduation. Depending on the program you select, additional incentives beyond classroom instruction are provided for learners. Some schools offer 1-on-1 mentoring sessions in which students can receive individualized job support. Other providers offer perks like resume critiques, access to networking events, assistance with LinkedIn profiles, professional portfolio workshops, or mock interviews. Career support services such as these are in place so that when students graduate from bootcamps, they can immediately put their knowledge to use in the real world, either at their current job or to pursue an entirely new data-related profession.

Which Power BI Bootcamp is Best For Me?

Deciding which Power BI bootcamp is the best match for you is a choice each learner must make, one that depends on several key factors. In addition to considering whether you want to study part-time or full-time or attend class in-person or online, there are additional considerations to weigh when deciding which program is for you. The difficulty level of training is one such variable, as is the course’s focus. Students must also evaluate their professional reasons for learning Power BI to ensure the coursework they choose will provide them with the training they need to use at the workplace. 

One of the main factors when choosing a bootcamp is determining which course focus is most in line with your educational and professional needs. If, for example, you’re just getting started working with data and have no prior experience with data analysis or visualization, beginner-friendly bootcamps are a good place to start. They’ll ensure you have the proper foundation in place, including how to install Power BI and navigate its interface, as well as that you understand important business intelligence and data analytics concepts. Many bootcamps progress from beginner-level to intermediate and advanced-level skills over several days. Others are intended for those who already have prior data analytics training or experience working with Power BI and wish to take their knowledge base even further.

Cost is another key factor that can help you decide which bootcamp to select. Bootcamps all have different price points that correspond with their length and focus. Short bootcamps that focus entirely on Power BI are available for less than $2,500. Other bootcamps that offer more comprehensive instruction, including data analytics certificates, take longer to finish and cost significantly more ($5,000 and $15,000). Some schools, like Noble Desktop, provide zero percent financing options, which can make coursework more accessible for some students.

Data analytics bootcamps are useful for professionals and non-professionals alike. However, not everyone needs to spend hundreds or even thousands on acquiring formal data analytics training. Those who hope to acquire basic Power BI proficiency for personal use with tasks like creating budgets or monitoring their own health patterns and workout routines will probably not need to invest in a bootcamp to gain this basic knowledge. Instead, they can learn the essential elements of this software with free online Power BI videos or other resources. Noble’s Learn Hub also provides a range of up-to-date articles on relevant data analytics skills and topics, including information on how to install and work with Tableau Public, use SQL for business analytics, and perform statistical data analysis in Microsoft Excel.