Key Capabilities in Data Science

The UBC Certificate in Key Capabilities in Data Science provides skills to help you solve real-life problems using data.

Develop a solid understanding of what data science is, and how its principles can be used in a variety of settings. Gain the confidence and skills you need to start applying data science to data problems in your current role or transition into a new position that requires more data-related knowledge. Make the most of valuable networking opportunities with peers, alumni and instructors both during and after the program.

In this program, you can expect to:

• do transparent and reproducible data analysis
• apply data science techniques in a range of sectors
• engage in project-based learning that helps you apply and test your knowledge
• learn whether a career in data science is right for you
• gain the skills to jump into a more advanced data science training program (e.g., the UBC Master of Data Science program)

This program is designed for adult learners who want to gain in-demand and highly marketable skills or want to explore data science career options. It can help you cross over to an exciting new career or education path or open up a new range of possibilities in your current field.

A background in data or technology is not expected, though some students may have had exposure to data analytics or statistics through their workplace or post-secondary education.

If you want to learn systematic approaches to programming and writing code, you might want to consider Introduction to Systematic Program Design in Python. Use this table to compare these programs to find the one that best suits your skills and career goals.

Each course costs $945 to $995. The total program cost is $2,835 to $3,980 when you register for the prerequisite and two electives. The certificate application fee is an additional $175.

You can pay for one course at a time. Begin with the mandatory prerequisite course and then decide whether to continue with additional courses.

All fees are in Canadian dollars and subject to change. Fees are subject to GST where applicable. Fees may be paid by Visa®, Visa® Debit, Mastercard®, American Express®, money order or certified cheque.

For details on UBC’s payment policies, please see Refunds, Cancellations and Transfers.

The program consists of three courses: a prerequisite course and two electives, ranging from seven to nine weeks each. Each course takes approximately 50 hours to complete.

Programming in Python for Data Science is the prerequisite course in the program. You must complete the prerequisite course before starting any electives. The electives can be taken in any order. When registering, please ensure the start date of the elective(s) you choose is after the end date of the Programming in Python for Data Science course.

Please note space in these courses is limited, and registration may close before the course start date, so we encourage you to register as soon as possible.

Required Courses

Elective Courses

The UBC Certificate in Key Capabilities in Data Science is a part-time 100% online program that is facilitator/instructor supported.

You work through course modules on your own time, which are released weekly. Facilitators/instructors host weekly virtual office hours to help with your questions and assignments, and to support you in the course. You also have access to an online forum in which you can post and discuss questions with other students and course facilitators/instructors.

Expected effort

Each course requires approximately 50 hours of study. Expect to spend a minimum of 8 to 10 hours per week on each course if you have coding experience, or 10 to 12 hours per week for beginners.

Technology requirements

To take this program, you need access to:

• an email account
• a computer, laptop or tablet, using Windows or macOS
• the latest version of a web browser (or previous major version release)
• a reliable internet connection
• a video camera and microphone (to access virtual office hours)

Assessment

You are assessed on each course according to UBC assessment guidelines to ensure successful acquisition of required skills and concepts.

To earn your certificate, you must pass the prerequisite course and at least two elective courses. In each course, you must complete the final project and achieve a minimum of 70%.

Obtaining your certificate

When you’ve successfully completed three courses, complete the certificate request form and pay the certificate application fee of $175 to obtain your certificate by mail.