USC Viterbi Data Analytics Boot Camp

I am incredibly proud to be a Chegg Skills Alumni! This program didn’t just introduce me to Data Analytics—it built me up from ground zero, equipping me with the skills, techniques, and confidence to thrive as a Data Analyst.

Chegg Skills provided a structured learning experience that covered essential data analytics concepts, but beyond that, it fostered a culture of professionalism, mentorship, and unwavering support. The staff embodied the very essence of Chegg’s mission, making every interaction meaningful and every lesson impactful.
I will always be grateful to my mentor, Suleman Wadur, whose patience and expertise guided me through challenging projects, ensuring that concepts truly clicked for me. Likewise, my Career Coach, Dilsia Stoner, played a pivotal role in my job search, dedicating nearly six months to weekly meetings that helped refine my applications, interview strategies, and overall career direction.

The program also emphasized hands-on preparation, and I’ll never forget the Mock Interview sessions with Kim McAdoo, Deepak Kumar, Jay Padhya and Phillip Bickerstaff. Their insightful feedback and constructive advice sharpened my interview skills, preparing me to face real-world hiring managers with confidence.
Chegg Skills is more than a training program—it’s a transformative experience that shaped my career and instilled values I will carry throughout my professional journey. I will always appreciate the effort, dedication, and encouragement from everyone who played a role in my success.
Chegg Skills is a well-structured, legitimate program designed to equip learners with in-demand skills that advance their careers. It provides comprehensive training in various fields, including Data Analytics, with a hands-on, project-based approach that ensures students gain practical knowledge.
Key aspects that make Chegg Skills stand out:
- Structured Curriculum: The program builds skills from the ground up, making it accessible for beginners while also valuable for those looking to refine their expertise.
- Mentorship & Career Support: Dedicated mentors and career coaches guide students through projects, job applications, and interview preparation.
- Real-World Application: The program emphasizes practical learning, preparing students for industry-specific challenges.
- Professional Development: Mock interviews and industry insights help students sharpen their job-seeking skills.

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I went into the boot camp with almost zero coding knowledge, with the exception of some CSS/HTML and very light programming experience in JS and C++. I learned more than I could ever have imagined and left the program feeling extremely confident with my skillset. I was amazed at what I was able to do, and left the program feeling more ambitious than ever. At this point, I feel confident in listing every item that was listed on the advertisement for the course on my resume, which is a great feeling. I can't recommend this program enough!

Pros:
   - Excellent staff, support team, and curriculum.
   - Convenient class schedule
   - You will gain an immense amount of knowledge and experience
   - The faculty lectures from industry professionals were a great addition

Cons:
   - Parking is paid, so it is a minor additional cost that isn't included in the tuition.

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The short of it: USC does not release data establishing the success rate of this 24-week program. Therefore, it is an untested commodity with a hefty price tag of $12,500.  If a program that teaches data analytics cannot substantiate its value with data, then there is something very wrong with the course. 

The process of applying:  On October 15, 2017, I requested information on USC's website. Within a day, I received a call from an admissions counselor, who asked me about my goals for the program. She told me that the program is for "a select group of [25] students." She said that if my "career goals align with the program," then I will be allowed to apply. I have to pass an assessment with a score of at least 70 percent, she said. If I am accepted, I can pay to secure a seat in the class.

Tuition: If paid in full by November 25, 2017, the cost is $11,500. After this date, full tuition comes to $12,500.

Credit value: This course terminates in the issuance of a certificate of completion. You do not earn transferable credit.

On-time completion rate: I asked the admissions counselor for the on-time completion rate (how many enrolled students actually complete the program). She said that she did not have substantiating data. She offered anecdotal evidence of filling six classes, but she could not recall if anyone dropped out. (Notice that not recalling whether students dropped out is not the same as knowing that no students dropped out.)

Students employed in the field within nine months of completion: I asked how many students are employed in the field within nine months after completing the program and at what salary. The admissions counselor said that USC does not provide that data because, she said, the school has seen other programs "misrepresent their data."  You would think that USC's approach would be to produce more representative data, avoiding the inaccuracies that it sees in other schools' data, but, no, USC has chosen to publish no data, leaving prospective students in the dark about the program's value. I ended the call and explained why I would not be enrolling in the program.

Bottom Line: Avoid this program until USC supports the price tag with verifiable data. Otherwise, you have no reason to expect a return on your investment.

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