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.
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 successfully challenge and complete the relevant Microsoft designation.
Is this the right fit for me?
The ideal candidate for the Business Intelligence program has:
- 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 additional exam preparation study, you will be prepared to successfully challenge and complete appropriate Microsoft Certifications.
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 a(n):
- business intelligence analyst
- business intelligence consultant
- data warehouse analyst
Related careers include:
- Market research analyst
Tuition and fees
Domestic 2022/23
- Year 1: $12,155
International 2022/23
- Year 1: $18,261.04
Final costs are dependent on the number of course credits a student takes per semester.
Requirements
You will be offered admission to this program through direct entry if you meet the admission requirements and space is available.
When do classes start?
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year-end date |
|---|---|---|
| Winter 2023 | Jan. 9, 2023 | June 30, 2023 |
| Spring 2023 | May 8, 2023 | Dec. 15, 2023 |
Four trends to track for careers in tech
Propel your career forward with these areas of growth
Admission requirements
Admission dates
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Winter 2023 start: applications are accepted from March 30, 2022.
- Spring 2023 start: applications are accepted from June 13, 2022.
Fast-track program
This is an intensive fast-track program, with all courses delivered, full-time, Monday to Friday.
Students enrolled in this program should be available to attend lecture, from 8 am - 3 pm and lab time, from 3 pm - 5 pm.
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 to 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.
Program requirements
- At least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2 or equivalent, OR,
- A minimum of two years 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. Find more information here.
Due to the tight integration of the courses in the Business Intelligence - Data Analysis and Reporting (BSN) program, credit for Prior Learning is not available.
Direct entry: four-step process
Step 1: Read the program information and review this program presentation to learn more about student expectations during the program.
Step 2: Ensure that you meet all of the admission requirements listed above.
Step 3: Apply to the Business Intelligence program.
Step 4: Continue to monitor changes to your application status through mySAIT.ca.
Failure to meet anticipated final grades will result in offers being rescinded.
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.
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.
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 | ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) | 1.5 |
| CPSY-207 | Reporting and Analytics | 1.5 |
| CPSY-209 | OLAP (Online Analytical Processing) | 1.5 |
| MMGT-205 | Business Analysis for B.I. 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 | Business Intelligence 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.
Transfer options
The opportunity to advance your education through transfer in, within or on from SAIT is available. Visit transfer options to learn more.
Fast-track program
This is an intensive fast-track program, with all courses delivered, full-time, Monday to Friday.
Students enrolled in this program should be available to attend lecture, from 8 am - 3 pm and lab time, from 3 pm - 5 pm.
Costs 2022/23
Domestic tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $548
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $10,686 | $916 | $553 | $12,155 |
International tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $861.13
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $16,792.04 | $916 | $553 | $18,261.04 |
*Maximum fee. Actual fees may be less and are based on the number of credits a student takes per semester and whether they opt-out of health and dental benefits.
SAIT fees
- Campus athletic and recreation fee: $196
- Universal transit pass (Upass): $320
- Student support fee: $200
- Student technology fee: $200
Saitsa fees
Student Association fee
- Maximum: $291
This is the maximum amount the student will pay. Actual fees may be less and are based on the number of credits the students take per semester.
Health and dental fees
- Health plan: $127
- Dental plan: $135
Students with existing health and/or dental plans can opt-out. Please refer to Saitsa's website for information.
For more information on health and dental benefits for international students, please contact the International Centre.
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.
Learn more about tuition and financial aid.
*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
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 Tuesday, Nov. 15 for Winter 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
Email: 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.
