Perform data science with Azure Databricks from Coursera

In this course, you will learn how to harness the power of Apache Spark and powerful clusters running on the Azure Databricks platform to run data science workloads in the cloud.

This is the fourth course in a five-course program that prepares you to take the DP-100: Designing and Implementing a Data Science Solution on Azurec ertification exam.

The certification exam is an opportunity to prove knowledge and expertise operate machine learning solutions at a cloud-scale using Azure Machine Learning. This specialization teaches you to leverage your existing knowledge of Python and machine learning to manage data ingestion and preparation, model training and deployment, and machine learning solution monitoring in Microsoft Azure. Each course teaches you the concepts and skills that are measured by the exam.

This Specialization is intended for data scientists with existing knowledge of Python and machine learning frameworks like Scikit-Learn, PyTorch, and Tensorflow, who want to build and operate machine learning solutions in the cloud. It teaches data scientists how to create end-to-end solutions in Microsoft Azure. Students will learn how to manage Azure resources for machine learning; run experiments and train models; deploy and operationalize machine learning solutions, and implement responsible machine learning. They will also learn to use Azure Databricks to explore, prepare, and model data; and integrate Databricks machine learning processes with Azure Machine Learning.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Azure Databricks

In this module, you will discover the capabilities of Azure Databricks and the Apache Spark notebook for processing huge files. You will come to understand the Azure Databricks platform and identify the types of tasks well-suited for Apache Spark. You will also be introduced to the architecture of an Azure Databricks Spark Cluster and Spark Jobs.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Builds a strong foundation for beginners to machine learning in the cloud

Develops professional skills or deep expertise in machine learning solutions operating at a cloud scale

Explores Azure Machine Learning, which is a standard solution for operating machine solutions at a cloud scale

Taught by Microsoft instructors, who are recognized for their work in machine learning

Could be difficult for learners who do not have prior experience with Python and machine learning

Reviews summary

Azure databricks data science proficiency

According to students, this course offers a solid foundation for performing data science with Azure Databricks, proving particularly valuable for those aiming for the DP-100 certification. Learners frequently praise the hands-on labs and the practical application of Apache Spark and MLflow for building end-to-end machine learning solutions on Azure. While the course provides clear explanations of complex topics like Delta Lake and User-Defined Functions (UDFs), a recurring point from reviews is that a strong prerequisite in Python and existing ML frameworks is essential. A minority of learners also noted that the pacing could be challenging or expressed a desire for a deeper dive into some advanced topics.

Provides breadth, but some desire deeper dives.

"While comprehensive, I wish there were more advanced examples or troubleshooting for distributed training scenarios."

"It covers many topics, but sometimes I felt it just scratched the surface on complex Spark optimizations and nuances."

"For certain specific tasks, I had to refer to external documentation for more detailed solutions and understanding."

Directly aligns with Azure data science certification.

"A must-take course if you're seriously preparing for the DP-100 exam; it covers the relevant sections thoroughly and accurately."

"This course is a critical part of the specialization for the Azure Data Scientist Associate certification path."

"I appreciated how well the content mapped to the skills measured by the DP-100, making my exam preparation much more focused."

Emphasizes hands-on experience with key tools.

"The hands-on labs were incredibly useful, helping me apply concepts like MLflow tracking in a real environment and debug issues."

"I found the practical demonstrations of building ML pipelines and serving models invaluable for my actual work projects."

"The course shines in showing how to operationalize machine learning solutions with seamless Azure ML integration."

Establishes strong core skills for Azure Databricks.

"This course gave me a very strong foundation in using Azure Databricks for data science, covering all the essentials I needed."

"I now feel confident in working with Spark and Delta Lake within the Azure ecosystem for data processing and analysis."

"Excellent primer for anyone looking to understand how to leverage Databricks for machine learning workflows effectively."

Requires existing Python and ML background.

"You definitely need a solid background in Python and general machine learning concepts before tackling this course."

"I struggled with some parts, realizing quickly that my Python ML foundations weren't as strong as needed to keep up."

"The course moves at a good pace if you already know Spark basics; otherwise, it might feel quite rushed in sections."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Perform data science with Azure Databricks with these activities:

Attend a Local Meetup or Conference on Data Science and Azure

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Connect with professionals in the field and gain insights into real-world applications of Azure Databricks, expanding your network and knowledge.

Browse courses on Data Science

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Research local meetups or conferences related to data science and Azure.
Attend the event and engage with other attendees.
Follow up with interesting contacts.

Practice Writing DataFrames Transformations

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Sharpen your skills in transforming DataFrames by practicing various operations to improve your understanding of data manipulation.

Browse courses on Apache Spark

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Create a DataFrame.
Apply different transformations, such as sort, filter, and aggregate.
Explore the results of the transformations.

Develop a Data Preprocessing Pipeline for a Specific Dataset

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Apply your knowledge of data preprocessing techniques to create a pipeline for a specific dataset, deepening your understanding of real-world applications.

Browse courses on Data Preprocessing

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Choose a dataset.
Identify the data preprocessing steps required.
Implement the data preprocessing pipeline using Azure Databricks.
Evaluate the effectiveness of the pipeline.

Five other activities

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Build a Sample Azure Databricks Machine Learning Pipeline

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Build an Azure Databricks Machine Learning pipeline using the concepts learned in the course to solidify your understanding of the process.

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Design the pipeline architecture.
Gather and prepare the data.
Train the machine learning model.
Evaluate the model's performance.
Deploy the model to production.

Participate in a Workshop on Advanced Azure Databricks Techniques

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Enhance your skills and knowledge through a workshop led by experts, providing a structured and immersive learning experience.

Browse courses on Azure Databricks

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Identify workshops that align with your learning goals.
Register for and attend the workshop.
Actively participate in the activities and discussions.

Create a Cheat Sheet for Model Selection Techniques

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Summarize the model selection techniques covered in the course in a cheat sheet to improve your recall and comprehension.

Browse courses on Model Selection

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List the different model selection techniques.
Describe the pros and cons of each technique.
Provide examples of when each technique is appropriate.

Explore Advanced Features of Apache Spark for Data Engineering

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Expand your knowledge of Apache Spark by exploring advanced features, enhancing your ability to handle large-scale data processing challenges.

Browse courses on Apache Spark

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Identify additional Spark features that align with your interests.
Find tutorials or documentation on those features.
Follow the tutorials to gain hands-on experience.

Contribute to Open Source Projects Related to Azure Databricks

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Apply your skills to contribute to open-source projects, gaining practical experience while supporting the Azure Databricks community.

Browse courses on Apache Spark

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Identify open-source projects related to Azure Databricks.
Choose an area to contribute to.
Submit your contributions and engage with the project community.

Career center

Learners who complete Perform data science with Azure Databricks will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Scientist

**Data Scientists** use their knowledge of machine learning and data mining to extract knowledge from large amounts of data. They develop and apply statistical and machine learning models to solve business problems. This course can help you become a Data Scientist by teaching you how to use Apache Spark and Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to build and deploy machine learning models using Azure Machine Learning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Machine Learning Engineer

**Machine Learning Engineers** design, develop, and maintain machine learning systems. They work closely with Data Scientists to translate machine learning models into production-ready systems. This course can help you become a Machine Learning Engineer by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to build and deploy machine learning models using Azure Machine Learning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Data Engineer

**Data Engineers** design, build, and maintain data pipelines. They work with Data Scientists and Machine Learning Engineers to ensure that data is available in a timely and reliable manner. This course can help you become a Data Engineer by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to build and deploy machine learning models using Azure Machine Learning.

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Data Analyst

**Data Analysts** use data to solve business problems. They collect, clean, and analyze data to identify trends and patterns. This course can help you become a Data Analyst by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to use Azure Machine Learning to build and deploy machine learning models.

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Business Analyst

**Business Analysts** use data to make informed business decisions. They work with stakeholders to identify business needs and develop solutions. This course can help you become a Business Analyst by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to use Azure Machine Learning to build and deploy machine learning models.

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Software Engineer

**Software Engineers** design, develop, and maintain software systems. They work on a variety of projects, from small applications to large-scale enterprise systems. This course can help you become a Software Engineer by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to use Azure Machine Learning to build and deploy machine learning models.

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Statistician

**Statisticians** use data to make informed decisions. They work on a variety of projects, from analyzing clinical trials to forecasting economic trends. This course can help you become a Statistician by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to use Azure Machine Learning to build and deploy machine learning models.

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Operations Research Analyst

**Operations Research Analysts** use mathematical and analytical techniques to solve business problems. They work on a variety of projects, from optimizing supply chains to designing healthcare systems. This course can help you become an Operations Research Analyst by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to use Azure Machine Learning to build and deploy machine learning models.

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Data Architect

**Data Architects** design and manage data systems. They work with stakeholders to identify data needs and develop solutions. This course can help you become a Data Architect by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to use Azure Machine Learning to build and deploy machine learning models.

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Database Administrator

**Database Administrators** manage and maintain databases. They work on a variety of projects, from installing and configuring databases to performance tuning. This course can help you become a Database Administrator by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to use Azure Machine Learning to build and deploy machine learning models.

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IT Manager

**IT Managers** plan and direct the activities of an organization's IT department. They work with stakeholders to identify technology needs and develop solutions. This course can help you become an IT Manager by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to use Azure Machine Learning to build and deploy machine learning models.

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Project Manager

**Project Managers** plan, organize, and execute projects. They work with stakeholders to identify project goals and develop plans. This course can help you become a Project Manager by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to use Azure Machine Learning to build and deploy machine learning models.

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Financial Analyst

**Financial Analysts** use data to make informed investment decisions. They work with a variety of clients, from individuals to large institutions. This course can help you become a Financial Analyst by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to use Azure Machine Learning to build and deploy machine learning models.

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Market Research Analyst

**Market Research Analysts** collect and analyze data about markets and consumers. They work with a variety of clients, from businesses to government agencies. This course can help you become a Market Research Analyst by teaching you how to use Azure Databricks to process and analyze large datasets. You will also learn how to use Azure Machine Learning to build and deploy machine learning models.

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Business Development Manager

**Business Development Managers** identify and develop new business opportunities. They work with a variety of clients, from small businesses to large corporations. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career in business development. It can help you develop the skills you need to identify and develop new business opportunities, such as data analysis and machine learning.

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