Python for Social Data Science

Overview

Overview

This CPD addresses the scarcity of training in data science in Ireland. Co-created with key industry partners, the programme trains participants in the fundamental knowledge and skills of social data analysis. The programme goes beyond social data analytics to address causal analysis and consider social issues that are important to industries such as inequality, unemployment, climate change and ethics.

Python for Social Data Science will introduce participants to basic computer programming skills for social data analysis. In particular, it will introduce participants to the Python programming language, which is a state-of-the-art tool for data analysis. The aim is for participants to acquire basic programming skills.

On successful completion of this CPD, participants will be able to:

  • Describe basic programming terminology, structures, and conventions.
  • Demonstrate familiarity with the Python programming language, including the ability to write, execute and debug scripts.
  • Design project workflows through GitHub
  • Perform data wrangling and visualisation tasks using Python.

What Topics will you Cover?

The CPD introduces participants to the core programming concepts, including functions, variables, conditions, loops, data structures, working with libraries, and interacting with APIs. It also covers data management and visualisation. Best practices in project workflow will also be introduced using GitHub.

Participants will engage with the material in a hands-on environment, which will include programming exercises throughout the CPD.

Who is this Course For?

Participants are often working in the IT, finance, and banking sectors. This CPD will be of interest to individuals who wish to progress their careers through acquiring valuable social data analysis skills that are widely sought after in the private, public and non-profit sectors.

Participants are expected to have some quantitative experience through prior training, such as a degree or equivalent experience. However, no prior programming experience is required. 

Who Teaches the Course?

Dr Tom Paskhalis, Assistant Professor in Political Science and Data Science, Department of Political Science, School of Social Sciences and Philosophy at Trinity College Dublin.

Time, Date, and Place

The course will be delivered online over seven weeks (including a break week). Each week there will be a one-hour live webinar on Thursdays from 6pm-7pm, to complement 18 hours of asynchronous lecture material. Additionally, participants will undertake 20 hours of self-study over the course of the programme and complete a multiple take home assignment.

The course runs from Thursday 15th February to Thursday 28th March 2024.

On successful completion of the CPD, students will receive a Certificate of Completion. In order to be awarded the certificate, participants will need to have completed all required CPD exercises.

For more information, download our brochure:

School of Social Sciences and Philosophy CPD brochure 2024

Python for Social Data Science

One of six CPD courses offered by the School of Social Sciences & Philosophy, learn more about Python for Social Data Science. Speaker: Tom Paskhalis.

Admission Requirements

Participants should have access to a laptop with camera and a microphone.

Course Fees

€1,500

Apply

Registration for this course closes on Thursday 28th September.

Places are limited as class sizes are small, so enroll as soon as possible to secure your place on the course. 

You can enroll on the course directly via the PayPal link below. The course fee includes access to the course materials via Blackboard (Trinity’s virtual learning environment) for the duration of the course. Participation in this CPD course does not include access to the Trinity Library or any other student services (including a student identity card). 

For employers wishing to pay for employees' registration via invoice, please contact sspcpd@tcd.ie

Enrol Now

Python for Social Data Science - €1,500

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Get in Touch

Please contact sspcpd@tcd.ie for further details about applying for the module.

For further details about the content of the module, you can contact the module lecturer, Dr Tom Paskhalis, at TOM.PASKHALIS@tcd.ie

Register Your Interest

Register your interest at Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin.

As Ireland’s leading university, we offer a wide range of postgraduate programmes at masters, diploma and certificate level.

Trinity is an international university steeped in history, with a reputation for excellence in education, research and innovation.

Register Your Interest