Excel spreadsheets: from basics to intermediate with Dublin City University (DCU) - DigiAdvance

'Excel spreadsheets: from basics to intermediate’ is a DigiAdvance course developed by Dublin City University. DigiAdvance aims to address digital skills gaps in the SME sector through the provision of low-cost, demand-driven, tailored training in key digital technologies for SME owners, managers and employees. ​This course is one of a number of flexible short-form courses offered by DigiAdvance, which is co-funded by the EU.

This course explores essential spreadsheet skills using Microsoft Excel, starting with foundational tools for data processing. It examines basic functions to build a strong base for more advanced database tools. Additionally, it explores intermediate features, including data import, cleaning, and advanced formulas. Through practical, hands-on activities, this course equips participants with the knowledge needed to effectively organise, analyse, and manage data within spreadsheets, providing a solid foundation for further data analysis.  

Week 1 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (4 hours)

• Introduction to MS Excel  
• Creating new Excel Books and Sheets  
• Data Entry and Formatting  
• Sorting and Filtering  
• Excel Formulas  

Week 2 – Intermediate Spreadsheets (4 hours)

• Importing and Exporting Data  
• Data Cleaning  
• Advanced Formulas and References  
• Advanced Built-in Functions  
• Basic Correlation and Regression

DigiAdvance courses aim to advance the knowledge and skills of SME leaders, managers, employees and job seekers in key digital technologies. This short course is fully online and asynchronous. Participants receive a certificate of achievement at the end of the course. Students may register for the course any time from March 3rd to July 1st 2025.