An ideal data scientist is highly skilled in multiple fields such as Mathematics, Statistics, Advanced Computing, Scientific Methodology, Data Engineering, Visualization, Domain Expertise, etc. In addition, a data scientist has a hacker mindset and proficiency in critical thinking. These qualities and qualifications are difficult to build, maintain, and balance. Hence, if you wish to become a good data scientist, it becomes really important to pursue a postgraduate course in Data Science. One of the most popular courses to help you land at a decent Data Science job is PG Diploma in Data Science. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada.
Fun fact: Data Science is considered the sexiest job of the 21st century as per Harvard University.
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What is PG Diploma in Data Science?
PG Diploma in Data Science is a one-year specialised course. Therefore, it is targeted at people who aspire to become a data scientist and already have some basic knowledge and skills. For example, you have a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Statistics. Hence, you are well versed with 40% of the knowledge required. You lack Machine Learning and a few other topics. And this is exactly what is taught in the PG Diploma in Data Science. It expands the person’s proficiency and knowledge base in Business, Computer, Data Science and Management.
Additionally, most of the universities do not require prior work experience or work samples. Some universities do not even ask for your GRE or GMAT score. Thus, strong intent, good knowledge of basics, and a well-written application should be enough to pursue a PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada.
Also Read: Career in Analytics and Research
Why Should you Pursue a PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada?
Firstly, Canadian universities have international recognition for their high academic standards. Also, they are the best for further studies and research. Further, they offer a wide range of courses and certificate programs. Additionally, the cost of living in Canada is low when compared to the US and European countries. It has been ranked consistently by the UN as one of the world’s best country to reside.
Secondly, the country is one of the first to officially declare multiculturalism as a policy (1971 Multiculturalism policy of Canada). This resulted in a rich and diverse population. Not only can you easily find a job post studies in Canada and transition to the permanent resident but also you can find and buy a house.
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Most importantly, if we talk about the employment rate, more than 90% of Canadian school pass-outs gain lucrative employments in less than 6 months. As Canadian schools have more than 5000 global partners around the world, it is easy to gain employment even in countries outside Canada.
Data science is booming in Canada, as it provides UG to PhD courses in data science. Along with that, there are Diplomas, certificate courses, and online courses in Data science in Canada. In short, all types of courses and employers are available in Canada which makes it all the more favourable for data scientists to seek education and employment there.
Syllabus
The syllabus is tailor-made in most universities. Nevertheless, it covers the basics of data science. We have listed below the general syllabus of the PG Diploma in Data sciences in Canada.
PG Diploma in Data Science Semester I
- Data Analysis and Statistical Interface
- Computing for Data Analytics
- Mathematics for Data Analytics
- Working with Data and Visualization
- Big Data Management
- Modelling with Data
PG Diploma in Data science Semester II
- Machine Learning
- Statistical Methods in Data
- Predictive Analysis
- Decision Analytics
- Communications for Data Profession
PG Diploma in Data science Semester III
- Predictive Analytics II
- Project Management
- Employment Search Strategies
- Advanced Statistical Modelling
- Health Data Science
- Big Data in Health
- Advanced Exploration and Visualization in Health
PG Diploma in Data Science Semester IV
- Actionable Visualization and Analytics
- Data Mining for Data Analytics
- Developing Big Data Applications
If your course consists of a work experience or internship, it will be included after semester IV or term IV. Otherwise, your program ends her. The work experience may help you with your job and add value to your resume. Hence, it is recommended to choose a PG Diploma in Data Science with an internship included in it.
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Eligibility Criteria for PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada
The following requirements need to be fulfilled for admission to PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada. Note that these are not specific to any university. So make sure to check the university you apply to for specific requirements.
- Candidate should score a minimum of 60% or C grade in mathematics or calculus in the senior secondary school.
- The candidate should have a bachelor’s degree in any subject from a recognized university/school/college. The overall GPA in or the GPA of the last two years should not be less than 3.0 ( in some universities 4.0).
- The bachelor’s degree subjects are restricted to the following in some universities:
- Computer Programming
- Statistics
- Science
- Technology
- Business
- Linear algebra
- Computer Science
- Calculus
- Or Equivalent Subjects
- Applicants who do not have a degree in the above-mentioned subjects can show their proficiency in business by taking an extra course or work experience.
- The degree should have a minimum duration of 4 years. Otherwise, the candidate should take a freshman course to cope up for that one year.
- No previous work experience is required. Hence no work sample needs to be provided. ( do check with the university for specific requirement)
- No letters of recommendation are asked.
- English language requirements are as follows.
- The minimum IELTS score should be 6.5 or 110 in the duo lingo English test.
- A minimum TOEFL score of 86, with no section with less than 20 marks or
- PTE minimum score of 59 or
- A minimum score of 70 in CAEL or
- Lastly, minimum B+ grade in ACC (Academic Communication Certificate)
Additionally, if the candidate does not have a bachelor’s degree but can prove to be eligible by providing significant life achievements may be considered. The program director interviews such candidates in person.
Admission for PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada
Keep in mind that meeting the eligibility criteria is just the minimum requirement. It does not guarantee admission to any school or university. Additionally, they many conduct an interview to test your skills and knowledge. Or they may consider your scores in under graduation. Hence, make sure you have the best scores in order to secure admission to your dream university.
Admissions are open for PG Diploma in Data science in Canada in all three semesters that is in January, May, and September. The average length of the program 12 to 24 months.
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Top colleges/ Universities for PG Diploma in Canada
Some of the top colleges for PG Diploma in Data Science in Canada are mentioned in the table below.
| S. No. | Name of University or College | Program | Duration |
| 1 | Langara College, Vancouver | Post-Degree Diploma in Data Analytics and Post-Degree Diploma in Data Analytics with work experience | 24 months 30 months |
| 2 | Douglas College | Post Degree Diploma in Data Analytics | 12 months |
| 3 | University of Waterloo | Graduate Diploma in Data Analytics (Not an Independent course) | 12 months |
| 4 | University of Calgary | Diploma in Data Science and Analytics ( course based) | 4 months |
1. Langara College, Vancouver
Langara College is located in Vancouver, Canada. It started in 1965 as a community college in Vancouver. And today it stands as an independent public college. The college is famously named as snəw̓eyəɬ leləm̓, meaning the house of teachings. It provides all kinds of under-graduate programs, continuing programs, and certificate courses to more than 20,000 students.
There are three programs available at Langara for data sciences. They are the post-Degree certificate in Data Analytics, Post-Degree Diploma in Data Analytics, and Post-Degree Diploma in Data Analytics with work experience. The eligibility criterion for this is a bachelor’s degree in a related field from a recognized university. The latter two courses are 24 months long, with four terms. At the end of the diploma (with work experience), there is a 3 credit work experience term that is compulsory for the students.
2. Douglas College
Douglas College founded in 1970 is one of the largest colleges in British Columbia, Canada. Every year 25,000 students pass out from here. Also, it offers hundreds of short term courses, non-credit courses, programs, and workshops to more than 10,000 students through the continuing education and training group. Further, it has over 960 experienced staff and 900 non-teaching staff.
It offers a post-degree diploma in data analytics. The computing studies and information systems department holds this course, additionally it is a two month course. The course consists of 30 credits. Further, it is offered in both fall and winter. Students can enroll for a full-time as well as a part-time diploma.
3. University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo established in 1957, is home to more than 40,000 students. Further, it offers 9400 degrees as of 2020. It has a 1000 acre campus with more than 100 buildings and more than six faculties. Further, it has ranked number one in computer science, mathematics, and engineering programs by Maclean 2021. Moreover, in October 2018, its professor Donna Strickland won a Nobel Prize in Physics for her work on pulse amplification in laser. It has a 98% employment rate, and its alumni are spread in 181 countries around the globe.
It provides a graduate diploma course in data analytics. This is a course dependent program and hence the eligibility criterion for this program is that the candidate should be a student of the University of Waterloo. Moreover, the students who have completed the Master of Management Sciences program can take admission in this course.
4. University of Calgary
Though the University of Calgary originated in 1900, it was founded in 1966. It has 5 campuses and 14 different faculties. Also, it has seats for 40,000 students. Moreover, it has 1,800 academic staff and 3,200 non-academic staff. Two-thirds of its one lakh alumni reside outside Canada. It was ranked by the QS University ranking as the 9th best university of Canada and 233rd university in the world.
It also provides a Diploma in Data Science and Analytics that is course-based. But it takes candidates from outside the university too. Through its eligibility includes a bachelor’s degree, it also accepts exceptional candidates who have no bachelor’s degree.
After achieving the required knowledge and skills and a PG Diploma in Data science in Canada, you can expect to work as a Data Administrator, Data Analyst, Database Administrator, Data Scientist, Database Architect, and Data Engineer. You have jobs open in Canada as well as outside the country. The minimum salary in Canada for a Data Science job is CAD31,000 per year while the maximum is CAD1,37,000 per year.
The employment rate for international students in Canada is very high. Also, it is easy to transition your visa into a work visa or a PR (Permanent Residence). Apart from this, Canada is extremely friendly towards cryptocurrency and bitcoins and invests billions of dollars in this. Additionally, it is the 6th most peaceful country in the world with the largest population of foreigners.
Also Read: MIM in Canada
In conclusion, there are millions of opportunities for Data Science in Canada in terms of jobs and study. In 2020 Canada announced that it will allow immigrations to cope up with the lockdown losses. Hence, this is the best chance to apply to Canada for higher studies. Make use of this opportunity and contact us now for the admission process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Who may pursue a postgraduate diploma in data science?
Ans. A bachelor’s degree in the data science subject field and some work experiences are required for admission to this program.
Q2. Is there a demand for data science in Canada?
Ans. The average salary of a data scientist in Canada is greater when compared to most other nations. A data science degree’s popularity and adaptability give candidate a wide range of job prospects.
Q3. Is working as a data scientist a demanding job?
Ans. Data analysis is a challenging process. A data scientist’s life is difficult because of the enormous work load, deadline limitations, and job popularity from numerous levels and sources of management.