PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada – Eligibility & Colleges for 2024 Admissions

Data science is an evolving field that can penetrate into the power of data and empower the organizations to run efficiently and effectively as well as offer the best products and services to customers. Pursuing PG Diploma in data science in Canada helps students learn data visualization, interdisciplinary data collection, and examination techniques, presentation skills, statistical and computational analytics, application of the fundamental core concepts, and tools of data thinking to their work in any industry or sector. 

A PG diploma in data science is a specialized course usually spanning around 12 months. However, for students laddering from the certificate program, it can be around eight or four months. The maximum time to complete the course is three years. It is one of the highly chosen programs in the domain of STEM. Moreover, the course is offered by internationally recognized universities providing the best infrastructure on a global level.

The program would act as a benison for students aspiring to become Data Analysts. The average annual base salary of a Data Scientist in Canada is CAD 81,524. Read on to know the PG diploma in data science eligibility, the admission process, and more.

Why Pursue a PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada? 

Pursuing a PG diploma in data science in Canada is rewarding. Some of the top reasons to pursue it are listed below: 

• Canadian universities and institutions offer advanced data science degrees, including advanced diploma courses. 
• Canada offers great employment prospects for skilled data scientists in various business and economic sectors. 
• Academic and living costs are also comparatively low in Canada in comparison to other nations like the UK and USA. 
• Canada offers a multicultural and diverse environment that draws international students. 
• Data science is a flourishing career field with numerous opportunities for skilled professionals. The course is tailored as per the current industry trends.

Also Check : Study in Canada

Course Overview of PG Diploma in Data Science Courses in Canada

It is indispensable for students to have a comprehensive idea about the PG diploma in data science in Canada colleges. The table below encapsulates the crucial information for students to make an informed decision. 

Specializations in PG Diploma in Data Science Courses in Canada 

Students have the option to enhance their knowledge of the subject with the various specializations available in PG diploma courses in data science in Canada 

• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Mining
• Supply Chain Analytics
• Big Data Analytics
• Statistical Analysis
• Informatics
• Health Data Science and Biostatistics

Best Colleges/Universities for PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada

Here are leading options for PG diplomas in data science in Canadian colleges: 

Source: University Official Website

PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada – Admissions

Admissions are held in three sessions – January, September, and May. Average program tenure ranges from 12 to 24 months, however, in some universities it can be 24 months course.  A student has to apply directly at the online portals of their chosen university and submit all the documents alongside.

Admission Requirements 

• Students should have qualified for the English language proficiency test. 
• A four-year baccalaureate degree or equivalent is paramount. The successful completion of the following undergraduate courses: computer programming or computer science, statistics or equivalent, and calculus or linear algebra.
• They should have qualified for one of the following English Language Proficiency Requirements 

1. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL ibt)
2. International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
3. Pearson Test of English (PTE)
4. Canadian Academic English Language test (CAEL)
5. Academic Communication Certificate (ACC) 

• Some universities might require GRE or GMAT Scores.

Documents Required 

• Transcripts
• Statement of Purpose 
• Resume
• LORs
• Proof of Work Experience
• TRF of English Proficiency Language

Application Process to Study PG Diploma in Data Science Courses in Canada

Before applying for the course, a student must check the PG diploma in data science eligibility criteria. Moreover, the eligibility criteria might differ from university to university. A student should have a minimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 point system, over the past two years of full-time study (a minimum of 10 full-course equivalents or 60 units) of the undergraduate degree.

• Students need to choose the specialization they would like to pursue. 
• Submit the application form and the application fee.
• Then, a student is required to submit all the required documents to the university. 
• Students might be asked to give an interview.
• They can also look for scholarships or financial aid, if available at the university.
• Then, the university will contact the student with an admission offer, most likely via email. They must then confirm the student’s acceptance in order to be admitted to the university.
• After receiving the admission offer, the student needs to apply for a study permit in Canada.

Eligibility Criteria for PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada

Here are the eligibility criteria for a data science PG diploma in Canada: 

• At least 60% marks in calculus or mathematics in the 11th and 12th grades. 
• Bachelor’s degree in any subject with a GPA of at least 3 in the last couple of years. 
• Some institutions insist on statistics, computer programming, linear algebra, technology, science, calculus, computer science, and others. 
• Those without degrees in these subjects may demonstrate their proficiency with work experience or through an additional course. 
• The undergraduate degree should span four years in total. 
• IELTS/PTE/TOEFL/CAEL/ACC scores.

Cost of Studying PG Diploma in Data Science Courses in Canada

The average fees for a diploma in data science in Canada should range between CAD 15,000 to CAD 30,000 per year, for a PG diploma in data science courses in Canada. Apart from paying the tuition fee, a student needs to pay other expenses as well. It would add up to the cost of studying the course. 

Note: The expenses can vary based on the province/ university chosen by the student. 

Syllabus for PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada

The syllabus for a PG diploma in data science in Canada usually includes the following modules:  

First Semester- 

1. Mathematics for Data Analytics
2. Working with Data and Visualization
3. Modelling with Data
4. Computing for Data Analytics
5. Data Analysis and Statistical Interface
6. Big Data Management

Second Semester- 

1. Machine Learning
2. Predictive Analysis
3. Statistical Methods in Data
4. Communications for Data Profession
5. Decision Analytics

Third Semester-

1. Project Management
2. Advanced Exploration and Visualization in Health
3. Predictive Analytics II
4. Employment Search Strategies
5. Health Data Science
6. Advanced Statistical Modelling
7. Big Data in Health 

Fourth Semester-

1. Data Mining for Data Analytics
2. Actionable Visualization and Analytics
3. Developing Big Data Applications

If the program comprises internships or work experience, this is included after the fourth term or semester. Any practical experience will give you an edge over others.

Scholarships to Study Data Science Courses in Canada

Apart from looking for the best colleges in Canada for PG diploma in data science, students should know the gamut of scholarships offered by the universities. Students can avail the benefits of university-specific, privately funded, and government-funded scholarships. 

Source: University Official Website

Difference Between a PG Diploma and Masters in Data Science in Canada

When a student opts for a master degree in data science in Canada, it would cost them higher in terms of the tuition fee, as well as the duration. An MS in data science is for a duration of two years whereas a PG diploma in data science in Canada is a short-term 1-year course, and would cost a student less. However, if a student applies to Langara College, the PG diploma would be of two years. 

The MS in data science in Canada fees for PG level programs lie somewhere between CAD 30,000 to CAD 50,000 per year; and CAD 10,000 to CAD 30,000 for the complete PG Diploma and Graduate Certificate courses.

Both the courses have equal scope in the future, a master’s degree might help the student get a better return on investment by offering a higher salary. Moreover, it would offer a student the chance to opt for doctoral and research programs as well. 

Jobs after PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada

After completing a PG diploma in data science in Canada, getting a job is not difficult. If a student has achieved their certification, they can start working as a data scientist, data administrator, data analyst, data engineer, database architect, and database administrator, to name a few job roles. The minimum salary is roughly CAD 31,000 annually, while experienced professionals earn up to CAD 137,000 annually. There are innumerable job opportunities available for data science professionals in Canada.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pursuing a PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada for the 2024 admissions presents a promising pathway for students and professionals looking to delve into the rapidly evolving field of data science. With eligibility criteria designed to welcome a diverse range of applicants, including those with varying academic backgrounds and professional experiences, Canada's educational institutions are poised to offer comprehensive and practical training in this in-demand discipline. The colleges and universities in Canada, renowned for their cutting-edge curriculum and industry partnerships, provide an ideal environment for aspiring data scientists to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a data-driven world. As the demand for skilled data science professionals continues to surge globally, the opportunity to study in Canada—a country celebrated for its high-quality education, multicultural environment, and strong job market—represents a significant step towards a successful and fulfilling career in data science.

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