Booz Allen Hamilton today announced the release of its Explore Data Science online training program, a self-paced, hands-on course geared toward all levels of data science proficiency – from introductory to professional. With more than 40 hours of content available to users, the program features galactic-themed gamification elements that teach common data science principles while guiding students through increasingly advanced, scenario-based challenges.

Faced with 32 distinct “missions,” users with basic proficiencies in programming are able to transform raw information into business-critical insights; and when a level is successfully completed, participants earn points, awards and badges that are shareable on social media. More importantly, however, successfully finishing missions allows users to develop or increase competency in the core tenets of data science. For example, analyzing a densely forested planet’s wildlife to identify the most dangerous plants and animals introduces players to data organization techniques as well as algorithms for pattern learning – integral tools for improving business outcomes.

Explore Data Science is the latest effort on behalf of Booz Allen Hamilton to support data science education and awareness. In 2013, the firm launched its Field Guide to Data Science, an industry resource of best practices. The new Explore Data Science training program complements those teachings by enabling future, or current, data scientists to practice, test and grow their capabilities in a simulation-based environment. The techniques learned in the Explore Data Science training program can then be easily translated into daily business operations.

“In today’s highly competitive marketplace, being able to effectively compile, manage and analyze data is critically important to a business’ growth, strategic development and overall success,” said Booz Allen Hamilton’s Peter Guerra, a Principal in the firm’s Strategic Innovation Group. “We’re therefore seeing a clear demand – across all industries – for data science expertise, but it far exceeds the available supply of trained professionals. By introducing training like Explore Data Science, we’re providing companies and interested individuals with an invaluable resource while empowering an increasingly data-driven workforce.”

To learn more about Explore Data Science’s content and pricing, try a sample module or register to begin your data science training; visit www.exploredatascience.boozallen.com/about.

About Booz Allen Hamilton

Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management consulting, technology, and engineering services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets, and to major corporations and not-for-profit organizations. Booz Allen is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, employs nearly 23,000 people, and had revenue of $5.48 billion for the 12 months ended March 31, 2014. In 2014, Booz Allen celebrates its 100th anniversary year. To learn more, visit www.boozallen.com. (NYSE: BAH)

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