The Global Career Accelerator

The Global Career Accelerator is a program offered in partnership with Podium Education, the leader in experiential learning, supercharging the undergraduate degree with real-world, project-based experiences that prepare all students for high-growth careers. This course is offered through the Center for Global Engagement of James Madison University.

Coding for Data Track

The Coding for Data Track is designed for individuals who want to kickstart their future career as a data analyst. The program provides a hands-on experience learning SQL and Python, guided by professionals.

Gain Valuable Exposure and Experience

Participants will gain valuable exposure and experience with leading companies, including the opportunity to work on a riveting Data Analysis project with The Recording Academy.

Session Dates and Costs

The program has two session dates:

• Summer 2026: May 26 to August 14
• Fall 2026: August 28 to December 11 The program costs include 3 credits of the participant's JMU tuition and a $2,135 program fee.

Benefits of the Global Career Accelerator

The benefits of the program include:

• Getting 4 certifications and verified skills for the resume
• Unlocking access to an exclusive career network
• Building a portfolio of real-world experience with industry-leading companies
• Access to coaching and networking events with industry professionals

Course Details

The program includes the following courses:

• Data Wrangling with SQL
• Intro to Python for Data
• Intercultural Competency Skills

Data Wrangling with SQL

In this course, participants will learn the #1 data wrangling language: SQL. They will learn how to write queries to sort, filter, and group data, and how to debug errors. Participants will receive a Querying Data project certification for their resume and LinkedIn.

Intro to Python for Data

In this course, participants will learn the technical skills necessary to succeed in a high-potential career. They will learn about industry-standard Python libraries such as Pandas and NumPy. Participants will receive a Python & Data project certification for their resume and LinkedIn.

Intercultural Competency Skills

In this course, participants will build their emotional intelligence skillset and develop listening skills that manage bias. Participants will receive an Intercultural Skills Certification for LinkedIn.

Brand Project Spotlight

Participants will engage in a riveting Data Analysis project with The Recording Academy, employing professional data analysis and visualization techniques, focusing on Grammy.com's content and audience strategy.

Career Opportunities

SQL and Python skills are not only for computer science majors. Career opportunities include:

• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Product Manager
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Supply Chain Manager
• Researcher
• Industrial Engineer

Teaching Team

The teaching team is committed to the participants' success. The team includes:

• Dr. Robert Alvarez, Head of Coding for Data, a data scientist at Intel and NASA and former professor at Santa Clara University
• Dr. Lauren Crider, Head of Live Experience, a Doctor of Mathematics who conducted research at MIT and passionate educator

Support

Participants will be supported every step of the way, with:

• Drop-In Hours with the teaching team to ask questions and connect
• A community to connect and network with peers across other universities
• A super-powered chatbot, Bodhi, to answer questions and provide help when needed

James Madison University

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Overview:

James Madison University (JMU) is a public research university located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant student life, and beautiful campus.

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Services Offered:

JMU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Libraries, career planning services, tutoring, and academic advising.

Student Life:

Housing, dining, clubs and organizations, recreational activities, and student government.

Health and Wellness:

Campus health center, counseling services, and wellness programs.

Financial Aid:

Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

JMU boasts a vibrant and active student body with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

Living on Campus:

A variety of residence halls and apartment-style living options.

Clubs and Organizations:

Over 300 student organizations catering to diverse interests.

Spirit and Traditions:

Strong school spirit with numerous sporting events, concerts, and other campus traditions.

Harrisonburg:

A charming town with a thriving arts and culture scene, offering opportunities for exploration and entertainment.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

JMU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in business, education, and the arts.

Vibrant Campus Life:

A lively and engaging campus environment with numerous opportunities for student involvement and personal growth.

Beautiful Campus:

A picturesque campus with modern facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Affordable Education:

JMU offers a relatively affordable education compared to other universities.

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Academic Programs:

JMU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Majors:

A diverse selection of majors across various disciplines, including business, education, engineering, health sciences, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, nursing, and public administration.

Research Opportunities:

Opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in research projects with faculty mentors.

Study Abroad:

Programs to study abroad in various countries around the world.