Interim & Future Plan - Machine Learning

[mweichert]

Hey DegreeForum Community,

I'm navigating a career pivot after 20 years in software engineering, spurred by my company's recent closure. With a passion for the beauty of algorithms and an interest in Data/Financial Analysis and machine learning, combined with a dislike for web/application development, I'm plotting my next moves and could use your advice.

Here's where I stand:

Immediate Skill Enhancement: I'm eyeing courses in Data Analytics and Machine Learning on platforms like edX and Coursera to gear up for immediate job opportunities in these areas. I'd like to pursue something that I can transfer as credits to a degree. Any suggestions? I'm looking for something that is self-paced so that I can complete it quickly.

Accelerated Bachelor's: My aim is a bachelor's degree in IT or CS, obtained as swiftly as possible, with a budget of about $7k. This is mainly to meet job market requirements - it opens doors to help me find another job in 3 months from now.  I have a year of community college from Seneca College (now transferred to TESU), and an Enterprise Application Developer diploma from TriOS College in Kitchener, ON. TESU or WGU seems like fitting choices for this venture, given their flexibility and my past experience with fast-paced learning. Timeline is about 3 months

Long-Term Academic Pursuit: I'm considering a more deliberate approach for a Data Analyst bachelor's, with a side of Math associate degree, setting aside a budget of around $10k. This path is aimed at preparing me for advanced studies and a deep dive into the math behind machine learning and neural networks. I'll take my time on the math to truly comprehend the material and concepts. Timeline is about 12-18 months.

I'd appreciate insights on:

- Fast-tracking the bachelor's. Where should I get this and what degree do I pursue? As long as its CS/IT related, that's all I care.
- Balancing short-term upskilling with long-term academic goals within my budget constraints. Perhaps I fast-track one Data Analysts degree but then take my time to get a math associates degree and then work on my masters.
- Experiences with TESU, WGU, or similar institutions for someone in my shoes.

Quick Snapshot:

Location: Ontario, Canada
Age: 40
Desired Degree: Data Analyst
Education Background: 1 year of community college at Seneca College (transferred to TESU), Enterprise Application Developer diploma from TriOS College.
Budget: $7k for path #2, $10k for path #3.
Credit Details:

Sencea College Total Credits: 8 (all transferred to TESU 2 years ago)

Introduction to Computers, COS-101, 3 Credits
Operating Sys Windows, SES-177, 3 Credits
Intro to Database Design and S, CIS-210, 3 Credits
Internet I Fundamentals, CAP-140, 3 Credits
Applied Professional Comm, COM-293, 3 Credits
Intro to Programming Using C, COS-213, 3 Credits
Operating Sys Unix, COS-283, 3 Credits
Lyrics and Songwriting, MUS-171, 3 Credits

Current ACE, CLEP, or NCCRS Credits: 9 (not transferred yet)

Ancient Greek Philosophy, 3 Credits
Introduction to Ethics, 3 Credits
Introduction to Sociology, 3 Credits

Note, I was able to complete the Sophia courses in 4 days. I don't say that to boast, but to encourage others to start off with Sophia.

Eager to hear your thoughts and recommendations. Thanks in advance for your support!

Thanks in advance,

Mike

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Does anyone know if the Data Scientist nanodegree by IBM at Udacity transfers to anything at TESU?
https://www.udacity.com/course/data-scie...ree--nd025