Master's in Data Analytics in Canada

The Master in Data Analytics aims to build knowledge around the statistical, data mining, and computational methodologies that are used to store, process, and analyze large volumes of data (Big Data environments), in order to generate information and useful inputs for decision-making in organizations and contributing to the leverage of the new challenges that other disciplines assume in the current context of technological development.

The Master in Data Analytics in Canada is an interdisciplinary initiative of the departments of Mathematics, Systems Engineering, and Computer Science in areas such as mathematics, statistics, computing, and the organizational area, with the purpose of responding to the needs currently posed by the interaction of human beings with tools and technological advances in various fields. It gives rise to unprecedented growth in processing capabilities, storage, and access to knowledge and information.

Therefore, the curricular design of the master's degree is oriented towards the training of professionals with skills in the field of data mining, the management of specialized software, databases, and programming, which, is articulated to a critical view of organizational processes, will allow them to generate knowledge to support strategic decision making.

So, for professionals and executives who are or wish to become involved in the field of IT and want to deepen their (business) computer science knowledge in the context of big data, this program makes the right choice.

The Data Analytics program qualifies students for the following tasks, among others:

• Setup and further development of the Big Data infrastructure, in which different models of data and structures are combined
• Independent formation, planning, and implementation of composite statistical analyses and application of machine learning techniques are based on large amounts of data
• Data synchronization of semi-structured and unstructured data as well as programming of big data solutions
• The development of the Business model is based on data analysis results (Data-driven Enterprise)

Types of Master's Degree in Data Analytics

There are several different categories of master's degrees in data analytics, each focusing on a specific aspect of the field. Some of the most common categories include:

1. Master of Science in Data Analytics: This program typically covers a broad range of topics in data analytics, including data mining, machine learning, and statistical analysis. Students in this program may also learn about data visualization, data management, and data ethics.
2. Master of Business Analytics: This program is designed for students who are interested in using data analytics to make strategic business decisions. Courses in this program may cover topics such as predictive modeling, customer analytics, and business intelligence.
3. Master of Health Data Analytics: This program focuses on using data analytics to improve healthcare outcomes and reduce costs. Students in this program may learn about healthcare data management, clinical analytics, and healthcare informatics.
4. Master of Financial Data Analytics: This program is geared towards students who are interested in using data analytics to analyze financial markets and make investment decisions. Courses in this program may cover topics such as risk management, portfolio optimization, and financial modeling.
5. Master of Social Media Analytics: This program focuses on using data analytics to analyze social media data and understand consumer behavior. Students in this program may learn about sentiment analysis, social network analysis, and social media marketing.

Overall, the different categories of master's degrees in data analytics allow students to specialize in a specific area of interest within the field and gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in that particular industry.

Data Analytics: Career Options

Students study a selection of topics and learn how to extract relevant information from large databases and use them for critical business decisions. They also acquire the skills to develop and manage strategic marketing plans. Once the toy has a degree and experience students could be hired as:

• Analytics Engineer
• Analytics Manager
• Data Architect
• Data Analyst
• Data Engineer
• Data Scientist
• Data Visualization Specialist
• Business Intelligence (BI) Architect
• Business Intelligence Engineer
• Machine Learning/AI Engineer

Major recruiters are IBM, RBC, Scotiabank, Statistics Canada, CIBC, and Morgan Stanley.

Top 5 Universities for a Master's Degree in Data Analytics

1

University of British Columbia

• The University of British Columbia is a top-tier institution that consistently ranks among the best in the world, attracting students and faculty from around the globe. It is renowned for its world-class faculty, cutting-edge research facilities, and diverse student body. The University of British Columbia offers a wide range of academic programs, from arts and sciences to engineering and business, providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields.
• The University provides a full-time and accelerated Master of Data Science program that spans 10 months. This program is comprised of 24 one-credit courses, which are delivered in four-week intervals.
• Applicants must possess at least a four-year bachelor’s degree from UBC with a minimum B+ (76% at UBC) average in third and fourth-year courses. Additionally, at the point of application, students are required to provide evidence of finishing or being enrolled in a Programming course, a Probability and/or Statistics course, and a Calculus OR Linear Algebra course as prerequisite courses.
• The English prerequisites are identical to the admission requirements, necessitating a minimum TOEFL score of 100 and an overall IELTS score of 7.0, with no individual component scoring below 6.5.
• The tuition fee for the program is as follows:
  • Domestic Students- $12,000 per installment
  • International Students- $18,000 per installment

2

University of Waterloo

• The University of Waterloo is a top choice for students seeking a high-quality education in a vibrant and diverse academic community. The university is also home to world-class research centers and institutes, where faculty and students collaborate on cutting-edge research projects that have real-world impact. Additionally, the University of Waterloo has a strong reputation for its co-op program, which allows students to gain valuable work experience while completing their degree.
• The University provides a 16-month full-time program for the Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (MDSAI), and a 24-month program for the Master of Mathematics in Data Science (MMATH IN DS) with the choice of full-time or part-time study.
• To be eligible for either of the degrees, applicants must possess an Honours Bachelor's degree or its equivalent in data science, computer science, statistics, mathematics, or a related field. Additionally, they should have a minimum overall average of 78% and demonstrate senior-level experience in either computer science or statistics.
• The University of Waterloo's English language prerequisites mandate a TOEFL score of 90 (with a minimum of 25 in writing and speaking) or an IELTS score of 7.0 (with a minimum of 6.5 in writing and speaking).
• The tuition fees for the programs are as follows:
  • Domestic Students- $2,300 per term
  • International Students- $3000 per course

3

University of Calgary

• The University of Calgary is widely recognized as a prestigious institution of higher learning, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, innovative research, and exceptional student experience. With a rich history spanning over half a century, the university has established itself as a leading educational institution both nationally and internationally.
• The Master of Data Science and Analytics is a continuous program that spans over a period of 12 months without any scheduled breaks. This program offers specializations in three distinct areas: Data Science, Business Analytics, and Health Data Science and Biostatistics.
• The degree program requires applicants to have completed a 4-year undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, with successful completion of a computer programming course, a statistics course (or equivalent), and either a calculus or linear algebra course (or equivalent). Additionally, a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required for the last two years of full-time undergraduate study.
• The University of Calgary mandates that international applicants meet specific English language proficiency standards, such as obtaining a TOEFL score of 86 with no subsection below 20, an IELTS score of 6.5 with no subsection below 6.0, or a PTE score of 59 or above.
• The tuition fee for the program is as follows:
  • Domestic Students- $1,000 per 3-unit course
  • International Students- $1,900 per 3-unit course

4

Toronto Metropolitan University

• Toronto Metropolitan University is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation, making it a hub for cutting-edge discoveries and advancements in various fields. The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities and resources, ensuring that students have access to the tools they need to succeed.
• The University provides a Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics program that can be completed in one-year full-time or two years part-time . The program is offered fully online or through a blend of virtual and in-person classes.
• To be eligible for the program, applicants must have successfully completed a four-year undergraduate degree (or its equivalent) from an accredited institution in engineering, science, business, economics, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.00/4.33 (B) is required in the final two years of study.
• The program requires international applicants to meet the English language requirement, which can be fulfilled by obtaining a minimum TOEFL score of 83, an IELTS score of 6.5 bands, or a PTE score of at least 60.
• The tuition fee for the program is as follows:
  • Domestic Students- $11,000
  • International Students- $26,000

5

Saint Mary's University

• Saint Mary's University is known for its strong academic programs, dedicated faculty, and supportive community. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study, including business, education, social sciences, and humanities. Students at St. Mary's benefit from small class sizes, personalized attention from professors, and opportunities for hands-on learning experiences.
• The University provides a 16-month professional program called Master of Science in Computing & Data Analytics (MSc CDA). This program emphasizes two key areas of growth: Software design, development, customization, and management, as well as Analytics and Business intelligence. The latter involves the acquisition, storage, management, and analysis of vast amounts of data to enhance efficiency, innovation, and decision-making.
• Applicants must hold a four-year Bachelor of Science in Computing Science degree (or equivalent in a quantitative field) with a minimum cumulative GPA of 70% to be eligible for the program.
• The minimum English language proficiency requirements include a TOEFL score of 80 or higher, with no sub-score falling below 20, an IELTS band score of at least 6.5, with no individual score lower than 6.0, or a PTE score of 58.
• The tuition fee for the program is as follows:
  • Domestic Students- $21,000
  • International Students- $41,000