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Mandatory requirements

To apply for this program, you must have previously completed post-secondary studies at an accredited post-secondary institution or provide proof of related work experience.

Review admission requirements for more details.

Overview

In today’s data-driven landscape, the ability to harness the power of data analysis is an invaluable skill.  

Data is playing an increasingly pivotal role in shaping business strategies. This post-diploma certificate program in Data Analytics will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and aptitude to unlock the world of data science. 

You’ll gain a deep understanding of fundamental principles in data analytics, setting the stage for a successful career in this exciting field. 

In this program, you will learn:

  • how to seamlessly integrate data into the decision-making process
  • to transform raw data into actionable insights that drive business success
  • data visualization techniques to convey complex information clearly and concisely
  • data mining and predictive analytics to unearth hidden patterns and foresee future trends
  • advanced concepts in data analytics
  • to be proficient in cutting-edge data analytics tools and technologies
  • problem-solving skills that are highly sought after in data-intensive industries
  • to use data to tell a compelling and meaningful story
  • to effectively integrate data into reports and other materials
  • the importance of ethical data management in the age of data privacy concerns through best practices
  • for handling data responsibly and securely.  

As a graduate, you’ll be well-prepared for a range of exciting roles in applied science, including data analyst, business analyst, market research analyst, financial analyst or healthcare analyst. 

Our Data Analytics program opens doors to a world where data isn’t just information - it’s the key to innovation and success.  

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. 

The opportunity to advance your education by transferring into this program or gain credit for previous postsecondary courses may be available.

There may also be opportunities to further your education once you graduate.

Learn more about program and institution transfer options.

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. 

International bundle program

International applicants may only apply to this program as part of a program bundle - two programs delivered consecutively.

Applicants must meet the admission requirements of both programs in the bundle. A combination of education and experience will be considered.

Upon completing both programs in a bundle, you may 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.

Data Analytics + Management and Leadership

You will complete the Data Analytics post-diploma certificate in the first year of study.

In the second year of study, you will complete a Management and Leadership certificate to prepare you to lead a team through disruptive change to the working environment.

Integrated Artificial Intelligence + Data Analytics

You will complete the Integrated Artificial Intelligence post-diploma certificate in the first year of study. Then, complete the Data Analytics post-diploma certificate in the second year of study.

 

Bundle program details

Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will receive a SAIT Data Analytics post-diploma certificate.

Download program info

Careers and opportunities

Each year, SAIT conducts a survey between February and April to determine the employment rate, salary and satisfaction of our newest SAIT alumni. 

people icon 83% graduate employment rate

salary icon $82,000 average starting salary

Find out more about our graduate employment statistics >

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Associated National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes: 11201, 21210, 21211, 21221, 21223, 41402, 21222.

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Career counselling and support

Unsure which career path is for you? SAIT offers career planning services to help you decide your future.

You can also get started by taking our online career finder quiz, which can help you narrow down your search based on your current skills and interests.

Finally, you can also head to Alberta alis for various tools and resources, including additional quizzes and labour market information to help you narrow down a career path.

Services and workshops

Courses

The Data Analytics certificate requires 24 credits (eight courses) to complete.

The program spans as little as 18 weeks to a year, with two semesters per year.

Course Credits

In this course, you will learn data manipulation and modelling skills. You will gain insights into the formats and styles of data that can be collected, developed and queried. Using data analysis, you will develop a story that can be communicated to inform organizational decisions.

Equivalents:
  • DATA 4010
 3

Introduces the use of data to meet the needs of an organization and apply data in decision-making. Understand a balanced approach to integrating data decisions in business processes and strategic alignment.

Equivalents:
  • DATA 4100
 3

Learn to use statistical methods to sort, summarize and gain insight into data. Learn various statistical methods to analyze data sets to communicate to business decision-makers.

Equivalents:
  • DATA 4150
 3

This IBM Skills Academy course will cover essential analytics models to collect and analyze data efficiently. This will require skills in predictive analytics models, such as data mining, data collection and integration, nodes, and statistical analysis. Tools for market research and data mining to predict problems and improve outcomes will be used.

 3

Using Excel and associated plug-in tools, students will learn how this popular and industry-standard software program can be used effectively to analyze data. Running models and analysis tools within the Excel program to present processed data to decision-makers.

Equivalents:
  • DATA 4450
 3

This IBM Skills Academy course allows professional report authors to learn report-building techniques using relational data models. Attendees will also learn techniques to enhance, customize and manage professional reports.

 3

In this course students will explore advanced data analysis concepts including machine learning, natural language processing, deep learning, artificial intelligence and probabilistic programming. Students will also examine trends in predictive and prescriptive analytics, as well as developments in IoT and cloud computing.

 3

This capstone project for the Data Analytics program presents the framework for students to complete a synthesis of the program outcomes and learning in a final, demonstrative manner.

 3

Progression

Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students 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 >

Admission requirements

Applicants educated in Canada

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet the following requirements or equivalents:

  • post-secondary degree or diploma from a recognized university, institute, or college
  • a combination of education and experience will be considered upon approval from the Academic Chair.

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English Language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find out what educational documents are accepted and assessment options.

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

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Academic Upgrading

Missing an admission requirement for this program? Upgrade your prior education to help you receive admission into one of SAIT's career programs.

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English language proficiency

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Learn more

Available intakes

Spring 2024

Start dates:

  • May 06, 2024
Domestic students: Open
  • Application deadline: Extended

Fall 2024

Start dates:

  • Sep 03, 2024
Domestic students: Open
  • Application deadline: June 28, 2024

Winter 2025

Start dates:

  • Jan 06, 2025
Domestic students: Open
  • Application deadline: Oct. 25, 2024

Costs

2024/25 tuition and fees

The following estimated costs are effective as of July 1, 2024.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year Number of semesters Tuition fees Additional fees Total per year
1 2 $13,608 $1,608 $15,216
Total cost:
 $15,216

This program is only available to international applicants as part of a program bundle with another certificate.

The below costs represent both programs in the bundle. The programs must be taken in the order listed.

Data Analytics (year one) + Management and Leadership (year two) bundle
The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year Number of semesters Tuition fees Additional fees Total per year
1 2 $18,408 $1,608 $20,016
2 2 $18,210 $1,608 $19,818
Total cost:
 $39,834
Integrated Artificial Intelligence (year one) + Data Analytics (year two) bundle
The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year Number of semesters Tuition fees Additional fees Total per year
1 2 $21,990 $1,608 $23,598
2 2 $18,408 $1,608 $20,016
Total cost:
 $43,614

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.

2023/24 tuition and fees

The following costs are effective until June 30, 2024.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year Number of semesters Tuition fees Additional fees Total per year
1 2 $13,344 $1,570 $14,914
Total cost:
 $14,914

This program is only available to international applicants as part of a program bundle with another certificate.

The below costs represent both programs in the bundle.

Data Analytics (year one) + Management and Leadership (year two)
The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year Number of semesters Tuition fees Additional fees Total per year
1 2 $16,745.28 $1,570 $18,315.28
2 2.5 $18,207.90 $1,965 $20,172.90
Total cost:
 $38,488.18
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Financial aid

Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.

Learn more

Application process

International bundle program applicants

International applicants can only apply to this program as part of a program bundle.

Once you have reviewed the admission requirements for both programs in this bundle, sign in to the application portal to begin your application.

When selecting your programs, 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.

Ready to apply?

Follow our step-by-step guide to submitting a successful application.

Learn how to apply

Communication during admission

Email is the primary source of communication during the selection process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications. We recommend you add the sadt.advising@sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.

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Begin your application

Apply now using the online application portal. 

Ensure you have a valid Visa or Mastercard to pay the non-refundable application fee of $120 for domestic applicants or $150 for international applicants. 

Apply now

Information sessions

Prepare for a strong start in your chosen program or get the details you need to decide your future path.

Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:

  • What sets SAIT apart
  • An introduction to the program and area of study
  • Admission requirements
  • Future career paths
  • Information on the earning potential and graduate employment rates.

Contact us

School for Advanced Digital Technology Advising

403.284.8543
sadt.advising@sait.ca

International Student Advising

403.284.8852
international@sait.ca