Available Intakes
Start date
Overview
Access to corporate information to make business decisions has made database and reporting tools critical for business success.
The Business Intelligence (BSN) program will use the Microsoft SQL Server and B.I. toolset to give you the skills you need to develop, administer and analyze corporate data.
You will learn industry-standard data management best practices and techniques. Visit Microsoft's website for more information on this exciting specialization.
You will master the technical aspects of data gathering using SQL Server within a Windows platform. You will also learn to use and manage multiple databases, then apply these skills to develop corporate reports using specific reporting tools. With additional relevant work experience and exam preparation study, you will be prepared to challenge and complete the relevant Microsoft designation successfully.
Is this the right fit for me?
The ideal candidate for the Business Intelligence program has the following:
- previous post-secondary education in business or technology
- a technical aptitude and a desire to combine their business and technology skills to assist businesses through technology solutions
- experience with relational databases, computer programming or operating systems (for example, Linux/Unix, Windows).
This is an intensive program requiring a commitment of both time and energy, students who experience success are those who make their education a priority throughout the program.
Students with higher grades usually experience more success in SAIT programs.
Accreditation
The program, offered in conjunction with the Microsoft IT Academy initiative, is delivered using Microsoft Official Curriculum for many courses.
With additional relevant work experience and exam preparation study, you will be prepared to challenge and complete appropriate Microsoft Certifications successfully.
Credentials
After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT certificate in Business Intelligence: Data Analysis and Reporting.
Get important updates about our business and tech programs
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities as:
- business intelligence analyst
- business intelligence consultant
- data warehouse analyst
Related careers include:
- Market research analyst
Tuition and fees
Estimated cost per year:
Domestic total 2023/24
- Year 1: $12,470.50
International total 2023/24
- Year 1: $19,033.81
Final costs are dependent on the number of courses a student takes per semester.
This program is eligible for Canada Alberta Job Grant funding.
Requirements
You will be offered admission to this program through direct entry if you meet the admission requirements and space is available.
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In a fast-paced, tech-driven world, graduates need to future-proof their skills – now more than ever.
Admission requirements
Ideal applicant
The ideal candidate for the Business Intelligence program is a motivated, mature learner with post-secondary education in either Business or IT. You want to specialize or upgrade existing skills. You understand the benefits to business of properly analyzing and reporting information. You are analytical, technically proficient, and detail-oriented. Your approach to problem-solving is both creative and logical, depending on the circumstances. You work well as part of a team and enjoy interacting with others.
Previous relational database experience gained through education, industry experience, industry certifications, or completion of online tutorials related to database management systems or SQL is strongly recommended.
Program requirements
Completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- at least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2 or equivalent, OR,
- a minimum of two years of post-secondary education from a recognized university, institute or college.
All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission. If you don't meet the requirements, consider Academic Upgrading.
SAIT evaluates international documents for admissions. After you've applied, consider our international document assessment service if your education is from outside of Canada. SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.
Due to the tight integration of the courses in the Business Intelligence – Data Analysis and Reporting program, credit for prior learning is not available.
When should you apply?
Visit our Apply page to see when applications open and close for upcoming semesters.
To see which semesters this program has intakes for, look at the Available Intakes information at the top of this page.
Direct entry: four-step process
Step 1: Read the program information to see the qualities needed for student success.
Step 2: Ensure that you meet all of the admission requirements listed above.
Step 3: Apply to the program and submit your transcripts.
Admission will be extended on a first-qualified, first-offered basis until the program is full.
Step 4: Continue to monitor your application status through mySAIT.ca.
You must submit final transcripts/grades to show you have completed the courses and met the minimum admission requirements by the transcript deadline or your seat will be rescinded.
This program is available to international students, however, program availability may be limited. This program does not meet the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program.
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.
When do classes start?
Classes for this program adhere to the following year start and end dates based on the semester the student begins their program.
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year end date |
|---|---|---|
| Winter 2023 | Jan. 9, 2023 | June 30, 2023 |
| Spring 2023 | May 8, 2023 | Dec. 15, 2023 |
| Fall 2023 | Sept. 5, 2023 | Feb. 23, 2024 |
| Winter 2024 | Jan. 8, 2024 | June 30, 2024 |
| Spring 2024 | May 6, 2024 | Oct. 18, 2024 |
Courses
Program outline
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
Semester 1
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CPSY-201 | Introduction to Data Management | 3.0 |
| CPSY-203 | Architecture and Design | 1.5 |
| CPSY-205 | Data Discovery and Ingestion | 1.5 |
| CPSY-207 | Reporting and Analytics | 1.5 |
| CPSY-209 | Data Preparation and Presentation | 1.5 |
| MMGT-205 | Business Analysis for Business Intelligence Applications | 1.5 |
| MMGT-206 | Performance Management Applications | 3.0 |
| PROJ-212 | Applied Business Intelligence Project | 3.0 |
Semester 2
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| PRAC-249 | Career Advancement Practicum | 3.0 |
| Program total | 19.5 | |
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 >
Transfer options
The opportunity to advance your education by transferring in, within or on from SAIT is available.
Learn more about program and institution partnership agreements.
Costs 2023/24
Tuition and fees
The following costs are effective as of July 1, 2023. They are an estimate of tuition and fees based on the recommended course load per year. *
Domestic students
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $10,900.50 | $948 | $622 | $12,470.50 |
International students
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $17,463.81 | $948 | $622 | $19,033.81 |
*For a detailed breakdown of tuition costs per course, visit the domestic and international fee tables.
Fees
Your fees are calculated based on the number of course credits you take per semester (approximately 16 weeks of study). In most cases, your fee is determined based on whether you're taking more or less than nine (9) course credits (more than nine credits in a semester are considered full-time studies.)
Fees are adjusted for programs with start dates outside of the typical 15-week program.
Learn more about what your fees are for
Fees are subject to change without notice.
| Fees | < 9 credits per semester | > 9 credits per semester |
| SAIT fees | ||
| Campus athletic and recreation | $51.50 | $103 |
| Student support fee | $52.75 | $105.50 |
| Student technology fee | $52.75 | $105.50 |
| UPass* | N/A | $160 |
| Total | $157 | $474 |
| Saitsa fees | ||
| Student association fee** | $16.22/credit | $146 |
| Health plan*** | N/A | $86 ($172 annually) |
| Dental plan*** | N/A | $79 ($158 annually) |
| Total | $311 maximum | $476 |
*Additional eligibility requirements apply for students to obtain a UPass. To check your eligibility, visit our Upass page.
**Saitsa fees are paid per credit to a maximum amount of $146 per semester.
***Health and dental fees are charged per semester to an annual maximum amount of $172 for health and $158 for dental. In most cases, program fees quoted are based on students paying for a full year of health and dental coverage. International students are charged these fees regardless of course load. Domestic students with existing health and/or dental plans can opt-out. Learn more at saitsa.com/benefits.
Books and supplies*
For an estimate of the costs associated with purchasing a computer that meets the program's hardware and software requirements, see our computers and laptops page.
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change.
Next steps for incoming students
Have you been accepted to this program? Here's what you'll need for your first day of classes.
Orientation
Program orientation (ORNT 118) for students starting in Spring 2023 will take place online on May 4. Check your schedule in mySAIT for the time and location details.
Learn more about campus orientation.
How to register for classes
Course registration opens on March 1 through March 15 for Spring 2023.
You’ll receive an email from us indicating what registration process you’ll use to enroll in your classes.
Learn more about how to register and the different registration methods used at SAIT.
Computers and laptops
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.
Students will also be required to purchase personal subscriptions to software discussed in class.
Preparation courses
To support your success, short courses are available to you to help prepare you for the academic year:
PERS 050: Student Rights and Responsibilities
This course is designed to introduce you to student rights and responsibilities at SAIT. You will learn about SAIT's rich and diverse community, become familiar with guidelines and procedures that create a safe, respectful learning experience for you, and gain practical tips for how you can engage in the SAIT community in a positive and responsible way. PRES-050 must be completed within 30 days from the start of the semester.
PREP 100: The SAIT Experience
Get tips and insider information on time management, exam preparation, effective notetaking and more through this free, online short course for new students. Plus, learn about discussion boards, online communication and submitting assignments online. Course completion is recommended by the end of your first semester.
Both courses can be accessed through Brightspace (D2L) before the first day of classes.
Students taking a full-time course load, or more than nine (9) credits per semester, will be automatically enrolled in these courses.
They are optional for students taking a part-time course load (9 or fewer credits per semester). Part-time students can register by emailing academic.coaching@sait.ca.
Required textbooks
Textbooks and virtual lab access will be provided at no additional cost.
Contact
Phone: 403.284.8543
sadt.advising@sait.ca
Academic chair
Erin Gates, Academic Chair
erin.gates@sait.ca
Next steps for all students
Here's what else you'll need to do to get ready!
Next steps for accepted students
Important dates and deadlines
Find important dates applicable to all students, including your transcript and tuition payment deadlines on our Important Dates page.
Your journey starts here
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