Best Certificate Programs in Data Analytics of 2021

By:
Last updated June 28, 2021

How can my startup better predict consumer trends and behaviour? What is the potential of 3D printing and robotics to improve my company’s manufacturing processes? How much do Canadian hospitals spend per year on in-patient care, and how can my hospital maintain spending while improving outcomes? Canada’s leading certificate programs in data analytics are helping teach professionals how to derive actionable insights from large data sets—and answer precisely these sorts of questions and more.

The ICTC forecasts Canada’s demand for digital talent will reach 305,000 by 2023, with data-driven roles leading the pack. But while job prospects are strong for analysts with skills in statistics and computer programming, successful graduates understand that business context and the ability to present data to non-technical colleagues is what will distinguish recent hires for future leadership roles.

Whether you’re already a seasoned business professional interested in a short certificate course in SQL, R or Python, or you want to make a career change with in-depth university training in business, computing and big data, here are the Canadian schools CourseCompare users say are helping them make the grade with employers across North America.

CourseCompare’s annual rankings for “Short Courses & Certificate Programs” are determined using a process that considers several core metrics and principles. Read more about our methodology here.


Notice: Trying to get property 'ID' of non-object in /var/www/html/staging/coursecompare.ca/wp-content/themes/coursecompare/blog-list-template.php on line 105

1.

The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education, Ryerson University 5/5

Read more

Notice: Trying to get property 'ID' of non-object in /var/www/html/staging/coursecompare.ca/wp-content/themes/coursecompare/blog-list-template.php on line 105

2.

WeCloudData 5/5

Read more

Notice: Trying to get property 'ID' of non-object in /var/www/html/staging/coursecompare.ca/wp-content/themes/coursecompare/blog-list-template.php on line 105

3.

BrainStation 4.75/5

Read more

Notice: Trying to get property 'ID' of non-object in /var/www/html/staging/coursecompare.ca/wp-content/themes/coursecompare/blog-list-template.php on line 105

4.

University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies 4.05/5

Read more

Notice: Trying to get property 'ID' of non-object in /var/www/html/staging/coursecompare.ca/wp-content/themes/coursecompare/blog-list-template.php on line 105

5.

CareerFoundry 4.95/5

Read more

Notice: Trying to get property 'ID' of non-object in /var/www/html/staging/coursecompare.ca/wp-content/themes/coursecompare/blog-list-template.php on line 105

6.

York University School of Continuing Studies 3.4/5

Read more

Notice: Trying to get property 'ID' of non-object in /var/www/html/staging/coursecompare.ca/wp-content/themes/coursecompare/blog-list-template.php on line 105

7.

McGill School of Continuing Studies 5/5

Read more

Notice: Trying to get property 'ID' of non-object in /var/www/html/staging/coursecompare.ca/wp-content/themes/coursecompare/blog-list-template.php on line 105

8.

University of Calgary 5/5

Read more

Notice: Trying to get property 'ID' of non-object in /var/www/html/staging/coursecompare.ca/wp-content/themes/coursecompare/blog-list-template.php on line 105

9.

George Brown 3.2/5

Read more

Notice: Trying to get property 'ID' of non-object in /var/www/html/staging/coursecompare.ca/wp-content/themes/coursecompare/blog-list-template.php on line 105

10.

Lighthouse Labs 4.8/5

Read more
1

The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education, Ryerson University

$ $ $ $

The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education at Ryerson University is Canada’s largest, most successful continuing education program, with approximately 70,000 enrolments each year. The former polytechnic prides itself in providing superior and innovative programming; teaching staff who are thinkers and practitioners; connectedness through industry partnerships; a community of motivated students; and a collaborative teaching model that invites the city of Toronto into the university.

Why Study Data Analytics at The Chang School?   

The Chang School combines degree accredited courses, dedicated Big Data Analytics Computer Labs, in-class coaching, and remote after-class tutoring services (included in the price of tuition) to provide a learning experience that’s as academically rigorous as it is career focused. Course curricula are updated regularly in consultation with employers. And the Certificate in Data Analytics, Big Data and Predictive Analytics allows learners to meet the educational requirement for the INFORMS CAP Exam.

What Students Are Saying

This program offers a good introduction to statistics, data science, data management, working with large data sets, analytics theory and big data tools. As someone who hasn't coded for 10+ years, I was able to pick it up pretty quickly and complete all of the coding via what was taught in the class or tutorials/lab sessions. The program has exposed us to most of the standard tools: SQL, RegEx, R, Watson, Hive, Pig, Spark, Hadoop, etc.. Also, you get exposure to analytics methodologies (clustering, regression, decision trees, machine learning). The program has been a mix of theory and more practical learning - which helps ensure you really understand the purpose of the tool or method and how to apply it to real-world or business problems. The program has been a great way for me to build up my knowledge and expertise in big data and machine analytics. I am not a full-time technologist, but work with many, and we now have a common language and tool set to problem solve with together. This course would also be a great complementary skill set for someone who is already a technologist or already a data analyst who could then take what they learned and build more depth on it through their professional activities.

Anonymous,

Certificate Programs 

The Chang School’s most popular certificate programs in data analytics are the Certificate in Data Analytics, Big Data and Predictive Analytics, and its 15-week accelerated format offered in the spring/summer term called Data Analytics Fast Track. The university also offers popular part-time intro courses in Python programming, Hadoop and Tableau, and Big Data, to name a few. For more, check out the school’s full offering of data analytics courses.

Locations

Online, Toronto

2

WeCloudData

$ $ $ $

WeCloudData prepares you for the next generation of data science challenges and offers everything you need to succeed in career transformation. WeCloudData is a leading data science education and career service provider in Canada. The school is known for serving as a bridge between devoted and passionate data scientists and companies who need help with challenging business problems in data analytics.

Why Study Data Analytics at WeCloudData?

WeCloudData was one of the first bootcamps in Canada to offer advanced training in data science, including applied instruction in machine learning, cloud computing and data engineering. For beginners, WeCloudData offers introductory courses in Excel, SQL and Tableau for as little as $300, making it one of the most affordable options on this list. What’s more, WeCloudData co-founder, Shaohua Zhang, still spends plenty of time in the classroom, where he consistently gets top marks for teaching. Before co-founding WeCloudData, Zhang taught big data at Ryerson University and managed research and development projects at Blackberry.

What Students Are Saying

I am an engineering master student in Canada. After my graduation, I put a lot of effort to find a job but failed. When I was confused about my future, I got a chance to join Weclouddata. I spent 5 months here not only learned plenty of knowledge about data science but also make friends with many excellent persons. I really appreciate the staffs of Wecoluddata. They helped me a lot with every aspect of my life. If you are in the similar situation like me, please do not hesitate to join this big family to inspire your own bright future.

Hongri Jia,

Certificate Programs

WeCloudData doesn’t currently offer certificate programs, but its introductory and advanced classes are popular among data professionals at the beginning and intermediate stages of their career—which is why we’ve included the school here. Beginners, check out Data Science with Python or Python Fundamentals. For full-time training, the Data Science Immersive Bootcamp offers significant career support. If you’re already a data science professional but interested in more advanced training, try Advanced Machine Learning or Spark in Depth.

Locations

Online, Toronto

3

BrainStation

4.75/5
$ $ $ $

BrainStation is a global leader in digital skills training. BrainStation empowers individuals and organizations to achieve digital success through courses, workshops, events and corporate training. BrainStation’s Education team of 250 industry professionals has trained over 50,000 people through campuses in New York, San Jose, Toronto and Vancouver.

Why Study Data Analytics at BrainStation?   

BrainStation’s part-time data analytics certificate (5-10 weeks) is the perfect introduction to the field for anyone interested in understanding data’s vast real-world and business applications who also wants hard skills — from advanced functions and pivot tables in Excel to SQL and Tableau.

The bootcamp’s live online learning platform, Synapse, and 20,000 square-foot Toronto campus also make it seamlessly accessible, with tech panels, student workshops and community events held almost weekly. With career-focused, employer-designed learning experiences and industry-leading instructors, BrainStation is a living laboratory for Toronto’s aspiring tech talent.

What Students Are Saying

I took the 10-week Data Analytics course in-person in Vancouver, BC and had a great experience. My instructors, Raymond Kwok and Lauren Bates, were very approachable and provided helpful answers to questions. They also have a passion for data and have relevant industry experience, which was greatly beneficial. I would recommend this course to anyone who is looking to learn or advance their Excel, SQL, and Tableau skills. The course also focuses on general data analytics frameworks and data visualization. There is a lot of useful content that is taught, which would be beneficial for anyone in an analyst role or looking to get into one.

Laetitia Lim, Data Analytics

Certificate Programs

BrainStation boasts a full roster of data science and data analytics certificate programs. Part-time certificate programs include an intro to data fundamentals in Data Analytics, plus the more programming intensive Data Science Course.

In addition to Python, machine learning and part-time data science training, BrainStation also offers a full-time diploma program through its Data Science Diploma.

Locations

Online, Toronto, Vancouver, New York, Chicago, Boston

4

University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies

4.05/5
$ $ $ $

The University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies (SCS) offers an extensive roster of over 700 courses, over 40 program areas, and more than 100 certificates across a broad range of fields that help learners succeed in their careers, satisfy their curiosities, fulfill their passions, and live their best lives. Courses are delivered by a team of 700 instructors, all of whom are industry or subject matter experts who are passionate about teaching and learning.

Why Study Data Analytics at the University of Toronto?   

Canada’s preeminent research university is known for attracting first-rate faculty able to teach a breadth of data analytics specialties. These include IT courses and certificates focused on IT and business, and how the two intersect, covering the fields of Privacy, Access, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Risk Management, Governance and Security, Data Analytics, Enterprise Architecture, User Experience Design, Data Science, and Artificial Intelligence. Programs are also designed to prepare learners for a variety of internationally recognized certifications.

What Students Are Saying

Overall, the courses helped me develop the skills needed to manage analytics in a corporate environment. The program is recognized by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and it includes three courses: Managing Predictive Analytics & Big Data, Maximizing Value for Predictive Analytics and Big Data, and Advanced Management of Data Analytics. My only feedback for UofT is that there should be a faster way to finish the courses. Ryerson has a fast track program and York is introducing one. I was in the middle of a career transition but had to wait an entire semester for one of the courses to become available. There might be better certificates out there for you if your main goal is learn quickly and apply lessons in a new job.

Bart Khatri, Management of enterprise analytics certificate

Certificate Programs

The University of Toronto’s School of Continuing Studies offers three certificates in data analytics and data science: Data Science, Management of Enterprise Data Analytics, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Learners interested in studying AI should understand basic statistics and be comfortable programming in Python.

Locations

Toronto, Online

5

CareerFoundry

coding-bootcamps
4.95/5
$ $ $ $

CareerFoundry offers mentored online courses in UX design, UI design, web development and data analytics. The Berlin, Germany-based online educator is focused on helping beginners become tech professionals in as little as six months with help from dedicated mentors, tutors and career specialists. According to CareerFoundry, 96 percent of graduates land a job in their field within 180 days of graduation.

Why Study Data Analytics at CareerFoundry?   

CareerFoundry added data analytics to its mentored UX design and web development programs in 2020. The new 5-8-month, part-time, certificate program is fully online and flexibly-paced to accommodate busy learners. Split into three parts, the programs begins with an introduction to data analytics before moving on to data immersion through project-based work, followed by a period of intensive job preparation. A carefully calibrated balance of self-paced learning, live support from tutors, and dedicated mentorship and career services continue to set CareerFoundry apart.

What Students Are Saying

CareerFoundry is the best decision that changed my life forever. Best student support, wonderful tutor and mentor, practical exposure to concepts through well thought out curriculum structure makes CF the best ever school online. I feel very grateful to CF team who helped me to rediscover my potential as a UX Designer and boosted my confidence level to a greater extent to survive in UX/UI industry. I would recommend anyone to CF who wants to kickstart a impeccable career. Great work team! Proud to be a part of CareerFoundry!

Umadevi Mohan, UX Design

Certificate Programs 

CareerFoundry offers the 5-8-month online Data Analytics Program, in which students learn statistical analysis and testing, data visualization, data querying and predictive analysis. When it comes to software, graduates can expect to complete their studies with in-depth knowledge of Excel, SQL, Python and Tableau. Issues like data bias, privacy, security machine learning and data mining are also covered.

Locations

Online

6

York University School of Continuing Studies

3.4/5
$ $ $ $

York University is Canada’s third-largest university with approximately 52,300 students, 7,000 faculty and staff, and 295,000 alumni worldwide. The School of Continuing Studies at York University offers a constantly evolving roster of continuing education programs, designed to help you reach your goals (whatever they may be). The School doesn’t do things like other universities. It’s unique cohort program structure goes above and beyond the usual continuing education experience, offering students faster completion times, flexible study formats, and opportunities to develop the cross-functional skills sought by top employers.

Why Study Data Analytics at York University?   

York’s data analytics certificate programs are designed for working professionals, with two 6-month programs running exclusively in the evenings. Students can choose to enroll in the initial certificate or both certificates at the same time to complete the full program, which combines core analytics training with mentorship and internship opportunities after graduation.

What Students Are Saying

I took the certificate in big data analytics and the follow-on certificate in predictive analytics. I worked in finance for a telecommunications company and studied statistics in university. Honestly, I thought the first certificate was a bit basic for me, but the second allowed me to hit my stride and experiment with new tools and interesting business cases. If you want to jump straight into Predictive Analytics, you can do so by demonstrating equivalent work experience. York introduced me to valued mentors and, at the end of it all, helped me switch into a great role at a new tech firm.

Torvolds, Certificate in Advanced Data Science and Predictive Analytics

Certificate Programs

York offers the introductory Certificate in Big Data Analytics and the Certificate in Advanced Data Science and Predictive Analytics. To enrol in the Certificate in Advanced Data Science and Predictive Analytics, you must either complete the Certificate in Big Data Analytics or be able to demonstrate equivalent education/work experience.

Locations

Online, Toronto

7

McGill School of Continuing Studies

mcgill-school-of-continuing-studies
$ $ $ $

The McGill School of Continuing Studies is located at the heart of the city of Montreal, on McGill University’s main campus. The school prides itself in excellence in teaching, innovative programs, entrepreneurial approaches to education and enabling learners through high-quality student services beyond.

Why Study Data Analytics at McGill’s School of Continuing Studies?   

McGill University enjoys a sterling international reputation among even Canada’s best-known institutions of higher learning — and its School of Continuing Studies is no exception when it comes to continuing education. The school has transitioned quickly and effectively into virtual education across a wide range of in-demand subject areas (from aerospace and cybersecurity to entrepreneurship and writing), which are as diverse as its student body. It also attracts top-flight instructors with plenty of classroom and boardroom experience.

What Students Are Saying

The McGill Professional Development Certificate in Data Analytics for Business program was exactly what I needed to step up my career in the banking industry. The skills and expertise, but also the confidence, I now have to make data-driven decisions and manage my team has been invaluable. Learning about machine learning was also eye-opening, even if I don't use ML everyday on the job.

Sam Gallati, Professional Development Certificate in Data Analytics for Business

Certificate Programs

The Professional Development Certificate in Data Analytics for Business is designed for business leaders looking to bring expertise, insight and organization to their data and data teams. The program strives to give learners a holistic understanding of the data analytics cycle while teaching new hands-on techniques in statistical analysis and machine learning. Data governance and compliance knowledge, along with data visualization and storytelling tools and skills, are also emphasized.  Learners are expected to work in cross-functional teams throughout the program. A bachelor’s degree in business or at least two years’ managerial experience are recommended.

Locations

Online, Montreal

8

University of Calgary

$ $ $ $

Founded in 1966, the University of Calgary is one of Canada’s top comprehensive research universities with five campuses and more than 33,000 students. The Faculty of Science, along with the Haskayne School of Business and the Cumming School of Medicine, offers the Certificate in Fundamental Data Science and Analytics.

Why Study Data Analytics at the University of Calgary?

This graduate-level four-course Certificate in Fundamental Data Science and Analytics provides a solid knowledge base and teaches applicable skills to manage large data sets and present real-world data analytics challenges using statistical modelling and data visualization tools. This program is ideal for students who have a four-year bachelor’s degree in any discipline and are looking to change careers or advance in a current role.

Certificate Programs

The Certificate in Fundamental Data Science and Analytics will count for credit toward the Diploma in Data Science and Analytics. You may choose to specialize in business analytics, data science or health data science and biostatistics. The diploma program is for students who have completed the certificate and will add four courses of specialized study.

Locations

Online, Calgary

9

George Brown

3.2/5
$ $ $ $

Located in downtown Toronto at the heart of the city’s business district, George Brown provides students with a unique opportunity to study and obtain hands-on, real-world experience from faculty members who have current industry experience. Industry leaders inform the curriculum. The school has an 84 per cent graduate employment rate six months after graduation.

Why Study Data Analytics at George Brown College?

The eight-month graduate certificate program in Analytics for Business Decision Making prepares students to do data analysis specific to business decision making. Students learn to take data and turn the information into the next steps for an organization. The program combines face-to-face sessions with online delivery. The course prepares people for careers in this booming area of business decision-making and planning. Courses include Computer Applications Involving Analytics, Applied Business Communications, Statistics for Analytics, Digital Media Analysis and Data Mining & Modeling, and a final Data Capstone Project.

A Digital Analytics Program is also offered at George Brown, a combination of web analytics, marketing campaign measurements, data visualization and social media metrics, all part of data analysis for most organizations.

What Students Are Saying

This program gave me the practical skills and experience I didn't get during my undergraduate degree. Classes are taught by industry professionals and the co-op experience was a great way to give my education context. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking for a bridge between university and the digital marketing industry.

Bethany Flynn,

Certificate Programs

George Brown offers a certificate in Analytics for Business Decision Making and a certificate in Digital Analytics which provides the foundation to pursue career opportunities in various fields including digital marketing.

Locations

Toronto

10

Lighthouse Labs

lighthouse-labs-vancouver
4.8/5
$ $ $ $

Lighthouse Labs provides students with the opportunity to learn from professional developers who bring years of experience into the classroom. Founded in 2013, Lighthouse Labs was created by a team of software developers to train the next generation of developers and change the way tech education is delivered.

Why Study Data Analytics at Lighthouse Labs?

This six-week part-time course is an Introduction to Data Analytics certificate program that provides students with the opportunity to learn data analysis using real-world datasets and tools such as MS Excel and Tableau. Whether you are an executive or someone in the early stages of their career, having the skills to analyze and present data is critical in today’s work environment. You will study the analytics process, learn how to ask the right questions, set measurable goals, conduct data collection, data cleaning techniques, perform analysis on data sets and extract insights using Excel, and data visualization using Tableau. The final capstone project tasks students to prepare and present a project from scratch.

Certificate Programs

Lighthouse Labs offers its Intro to Data Analytics Course which is a certificate program that will help you learn and make the most of common tools such as Excel and Tableau as well as how to ask the right questions for data-based decision making.

Locations

Online

CourseCompare Editorial Team

CourseCompare is Canada's marketplace for education. Its editorial staff consists of award-winning journalists, visual storytellers and data analysts working together to help prepare people for the future of work.

One thought on “Best Certificate Programs in Data Analytics of 2021”

  1. Interesting website, i read it but i still have a few questions. shoot me an email and we will talk more becasue i may have an interesting idea for you.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


Notice: Undefined offset: 0 in /var/www/html/staging/coursecompare.ca/wp-includes/class-wp-query.php on line 3389