Traits, skills and aptitudes
Those working in the data analysis field are innovative, methodical and directive.
You need:
- an aptitude for and interest in statistics, artificial intelligence and databases
- an interest in applying scientific principles to solve practical problems
- the ability to analyze information and understand abstract relationships
- the ability to think logically, organize projects and carry them out
- the ability to work alone as well as with others
- the ability to communicate with individuals from different technical and cultural backgrounds
- attention to detail.
The ideal Data Analytics post-diploma certificate candidate has:
- a previous post-secondary diploma or degree in business, economics or finance
- a strong math background and foundational education in statistics
- worked with data and are intrigued by the power of data and how it can be analyzed to support sound business decision-making.
Previous experience working with databases is an asset.
To do well in this field, you should enjoy synthesizing data, applying statistical theories and methods and working with others to understand and solve problems.
Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities
During your capstone project, you’ll prepare a business case for an organization, complete a data analysis proposal, create a solution and present the results to the industry partner.
Specialized intakes
This program is available to international applicants as a stand-alone program or as part of a program bundle - two programs delivered consecutively.
If you choose the program bundle, you’ll complete the programs in the order they are listed, completing the first program in your first year of study, and the second program in your second year.
Available bundles including this program are:
After completing both programs, you’ll receive two credentials, including a Data Analytics post-diploma certificate.
You may then qualify for a post-graduate work permit of up to three years. If you only complete one of the programs, you may be eligible for a one-year post-graduate work permit.
Applicants must meet the admission requirements for both programs.
Bundle program details
Credential
Upon successful completion of this program, you will receive a SAIT Data Analytics post-diploma certificate.
Program length
15 weeks to 1 year
Accepts international applicants - PGWP-eligible
This program accepts international applicants and meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, as long as the student is registered in on-campus classes or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for blended options).
International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies.
Related careers
Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.
Potential careers (NOC):
- Professional occupations in business management consulting (11201)
- Mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries (21210)
- Data scientists (21211)
- Business systems specialists (21221)
- Database analysts and data administrators (21223)
- Business development officers and market researchers and analysts (41402)
- Information systems specialists (21222)
Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- a post-secondary degree or diploma from a recognized university, institute, or college.
A combination of education and experience will also be considered upon approval from the Academic Chair.
Application process
International bundle program applicants
If you are an international applicant who wishes to take this program as part of a bundle, first review the admission requirements for both programs to ensure you meet them.
When selecting your programs in the application portal, your first choice should be the program delivered in year one. The second choice program will be the program delivered in year two.
The bundle is unavailable to domestic applicants, who may apply to the stand-alone program.
Program outline
The Data Analytics certificate requires 24 credits (eight courses) to complete.
The program can be completed full-time in two 15-week semesters, fast-tracked in one 15-week semester or part-time in the evenings across three 15-week semesters.
Suggested schedule of study
Progression
You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.
To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Review our grading and progression procedure >
Books and supplies
Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 - $1,500 per full-time year.
This is a bring-your-own-device program with a power-user hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date.
Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn’t receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you’re in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.
Program outcomes
- Manipulate data using data science, modelling, ethics, and ETL in a business context relevant to decision-making.
- Contextualize data in a format that maps to business processes, and objectives and aligns data analysis to strategic outcomes.
- Build presentations that communicate data analysis effectively and accurately for a business audience using visualizations (dashboards) and storytelling.
- Perform statistical and algorithmic analyses on cloud-based and on-premise data sets using various tools and techniques.
- Explain the use of machine learning and artificial intelligence in data analysis.
- Use industry-recognized programs and tools to extract meaning from data.
- Demonstrate core strategic, tactical and operational business processes driven by data for evidence-based decision-making.
- Apply fundamental data analytics principles, aligning data and business processes to create accurate, actionable insights.
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