Certificate in Computing and Data Analytics
Program Overview
The Certificate in Computing and Data Analytics (CCDA) at Saint Mary's University is a flexible, 18-credit (6 courses) program designed to build practical skills in programming and data analysis. It is open to domestic and international students from any discipline, including applicants coming directly from high school, current undergraduate students, Computer Science majors and professionals looking to upskill or move into data analytics. The program can be completed in 12 months full-time or 24 months part-time, in person or online. No prior programming or computing background is assumed.
What You'll Learn
Computing and Data Analytics is about using computers, programming and analytical thinking to turn raw data into useful insight. You learn how to collect, clean and organize data, find patterns, build predictions and explain results clearly. The certificate covers Python programming, databases, algorithms, machine learning and AI, big data and the responsible use of data. These skills are used in health care, business, finance, environmental studies, public policy, science and technology.
Two Ways to Take It
The stand-alone stream is for non-degree learners, high school graduates and working professionals. It starts with CSCI 1227, which builds your programming skills from the ground up. The embedded stream lets current SMU students, including CS majors, complete the certificate alongside their degree.
Hands-On Learning
Many CDA courses include opportunities to work with real datasets and applied projects, helping you build practical experience and a portfolio that can be valuable for employers and graduate study. Classes are small and taught by active researchers and award-winning teachers in the Department of Mathematics and Computing Science. CS majors who add the certificate can also access co-op and the SMU Entrepreneurship Centre, working with local businesses on paid IT and data projects.
Who It's For
The program is a strong fit for STEM students, business and social science students who want data skills, working professionals upgrading or changing careers, international students with solid quantitative backgrounds and honours students interested in applied analytics.
Sample Courses
- Computer Programming and Problem Solving (CSCI 1227/1228)
- Introduction to Data Analytics (CSCI 2227)
- Database Systems (CSCI 3461)
- Introduction to Machine Learning (CSCI 3470)
- Artificial Intelligence (CSCI 3482)
- Machine Learning for Graphs (CSCI 4478)
- Introduction to Health Informatics (CSCI 4479)
- Big Data Management and Visualization (CSCI 4480)
Careers and Further Study
Graduates will be well positioned for roles such as:
- Data analyst: interpreting and visualizing data to support decisions
- Business intelligence analyst: turning data into insights with tools like Tableau or Power BI
- Database administrator or data engineer: designing and maintaining data infrastructure
Combined with a degree in computing or a related field, the certificate also builds toward roles such as:
- Data scientist: building predictive and descriptive models
- Machine learning engineer: developing and deploying AI/ML systems
The certificate can also strengthen a student’s preparation for further study in computing and data analytics, including SMU’s 16-month MSc in Computing and Data Analytics or other graduate programs, subject to their respective admission requirements.
Learn more about this program and its courses in the Academic Calendar.