QS Rank:
46
The University of British Columbia, Vancouver
British Columbia
,Canada
Program Rank
35
Program Name
Master's in Data Science
Deadline
January 31st, 2024
Overview
The Master's in Data Science program at The University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, is a highly esteemed offering that meticulously prepares students for the dynamic world of data science. This rigorous program spans a compelling 10-month duration, designed to equip students with the requisite skills needed to navigate all stages of the data value chain. Through an innovative curriculum, participants will learn to extract and manipulate data, apply advanced analytical techniques, and effectively communicate their findings to stakeholders and domain experts alike. Whether you are looking to launch your career in data science or elevate your existing expertise, this program aims to be a transformative experience that fosters both individual growth and professional success.
Delivered in a full-time, accelerated format, the program is uniquely structured to provide a condensed yet comprehensive educational experience. Students will engage with 24 one-credit courses, each lasting four weeks, allowing them to delve deeply into specific topics without overwhelming commitments. This structure not only fosters intense focus but also encourages collaboration among students. The program culminates in an eight-week capstone project, where students work with real-world datasets, applying their learned skills in a practical setting while also collaborating with peers. This hands-on approach ensures that graduates leave the program not just with theoretical knowledge, but also practical experience that is invaluable in the job market.
At UBC, the curriculum is crafted with significant input from experts in both computer science and statistics, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education that blends technical and analytical skills. Courses are taught by a dedicated core team of faculty members who specialize in data science, offering students unparalleled support throughout their academic journey. The faculty's commitment to teaching, combined with their extensive industry connections, enriches the educational experience, making students well-prepared for various career pathways in the field of data science.
The program also boasts strong ties to local industry partners, including startups and established tech companies, which provide ample networking and internship opportunities. This access to real-world connections not only enhances the learning experience but also significantly improves job placement percentages for graduates. With an impressive 88% job placement rate and a median base salary of $101,352, alumni of the program are well-positioned to excel in a variety of roles such as Data Scientist, Data Engineer, and Business Analyst, among others.
The Master's in Data Science program at UBC is distinguished by its commitment to academic excellence and practical application. The curriculum is continually updated to reflect the latest trends and technologies in data science, ensuring that students are learning relevant and applicable skills. UBC's Vancouver campus offers a vibrant, diverse community, fostering an engaging and culturally rich university experience—essential for students looking to broaden their horizons both academically and socially.
Why Study Data Science at The University of British Columbia
- A 10-month, accelerated program allows for quick completion and entry into the workforce.
- Curriculum developed by leading experts in computer science and statistics, ensuring a comprehensive education.
- Real-world data sets integrated into all courses, providing practical experience across multiple domains.
- Strong industry connections leading to numerous internship opportunities and career pathways.
- Supportive faculty dedicated to teaching and mentoring students throughout the program.
- A diverse student body enhances cultural understanding and collaboration.
- A beautiful Vancouver campus setting that enriches the overall academic experience.
Curriculum
The curriculum is meticulously designed to include 24 one-credit courses delivered in a lab-oriented format. Courses are structured to be engaging and are complemented by blended online content, facilitating flexible learning. The program is divided into six segments, each focusing on a different aspect of data science. This allows students to build a robust foundation before undertaking their capstone project.
In addition to theoretical coursework, students will engage in hands-on activities where they will learn how to gather data for experiments, apply cutting-edge techniques in data analysis, and present their findings effectively. The capstone project, which is a significant component of the program, challenges students to synthesize their learning while collaborating with peers on real-life data challenges, further cementing their preparedness for the workforce.
Faculty Expertise and Teaching Methodology
The faculty at UBC's Faculty of Science are not only educators but also active researchers and industry practitioners. This dual role enables them to bring current trends, technologies, and real-world applications into the classroom. Their teaching methodology emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, essential for success in the ever-evolving field of data science. Regular guest lectures and workshops from industry leaders further enhance the learning experience.
Research Opportunities and Resources
Students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and resources, which include data analytics labs and software tools commonly used in the industry. Engagement in ongoing research projects is encouraged, allowing students to contribute to significant advancements in the field while enhancing their resumes. UBC’s emphasis on research helps students stay ahead of trends and developments in data science, fostering a culture of innovation.
Career Pathways and Job Outcomes
Graduates of the Master's in Data Science program are well-equipped for a multitude of career paths. With a diverse set of skills, alumni can pursue roles in various sectors such as technology, finance, healthcare, and marketing. The program’s 88% job placement rate reflects the strong demand for data professionals and the effectiveness of UBC's career support services. Notably, positions such as Product Manager, Data Architect, and Business Intelligence Analyst are among the career outcomes for graduates.
Alumni Success Stories
Alumni from the program have gone on to secure impactful roles in leading organizations worldwide. Many have shared testimonials highlighting how the program transformed their careers, providing them with the skills and networks necessary to excel. From launching startups to advancing in established corporations, UBC data science graduates are making significant contributions to the field, exemplifying the program's impact.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for the Master's in Data Science program, applicants must meet specific entry requirements. Prospective students should hold a relevant undergraduate degree and submit various documents including:
- Official transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE
- A personal history statement
- Two academic letters of recommendation and one professional letter of recommendation
- A current resume
Applications must be submitted by January 31st, 2024, for the upcoming Fall intake. With a competitive acceptance rate of 52%, the program attracts a diverse and talented cohort of students.
Total Tuition Fees
$52,126
Duration
10 Months
Median Salary
$1,01,352
Ranking
#46
QS World University Rankings
Intake
Fall ( Sept - Nov )
Class Profile
Class Size
200
Average Age
20
Average Work Experience
2 Years
Rentention Rate
82
Diversity
Others:
6%Ontario:
10%Others:
20%British Columbia:
45%Alberta:
12%Quebec:
7%Career Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
$1,01,352 / year
Graduation Rate
62%
Job Placement
88%
Prospective Job Roles
Product Manager
Data Engineer
Advertising Manager
Database Administrator
Data Scientist
Business Analyst
Operations Manager
Project Manager
Data Architect
Marketing Manager
Data analyst
Business Intelligence Analyst
Top recruiters
Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
TOEFL
100
IELTS
7
PTE
65
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.
Application Fee: 168
Transcript
Passport
TOEFL
IELTS
PTE
Degree Certificate
Personal History Statement
Resume
Academic LOR
Academic LOR
Professional LOR
Application Deadlines
| Standard Deadline | |
|---|---|
| Fall | Jan 31, 2024 |
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
$52,126 / year
Overall Cost
$70,466 / year
Funding Options
Department Funding
Scholarships
As soon as you receive an offer of admission to UBC, you’ll automatically be considered for these merit-based awards. Consideration is based on your demonstrated academic achievement and your extracurricular involvement.
International Major Entrance Scholarship
International Major Entrance Scholarships (IMES) are awarded to exceptional international students entering undergraduate programs at UBC. Students receive their IMES when they enter their first year at UBC, and the scholarships are renewable for up to three additional years of study. The number and level of these scholarships awarded each year vary, depending on available funding.
For the 2024/2025 academic year, IMES awards will be valued at $10,000 – $20,000/year.
Eligibility
To be considered for the IMES, you must:
- Be new to UBC, entering directly from secondary school.
- Be an international student who will be studying at UBC on a Canadian study permit (student visa). (Changes to your citizenship status will affect your IMES eligibility.)
- Demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and intellectual promise, as well as impressive extracurricular and community involvement.
- Not be nominated for a need-and-merit-based International Scholars award.
Outstanding International Student Award
The Outstanding International Student (OIS) Award is a one-time, merit-based entrance scholarship awarded to qualified students when they are offered admission to UBC. Students selected for this award show strength academically and display involvement outside of the classroom.
For the 2024/2025 academic year, OIS awards will be valued at $10,000 – $25,000.
Eligibility
To be considered for an OIS Award, you must:
- Be new to UBC, entering directly from secondary school or post-secondary (university or college).
- Be an international student studying at UBC on a Canadian study permit (student visa). (Changes to your citizenship status will affect your scholarship eligibility.)
- Demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and strong extracurricular involvement.
- Not be nominated for a need-and-merit-based International Scholars award.
How to apply?
If you apply to UBC by the admissions deadline, you will automatically be considered for the International Major Entrance Scholarship and the Outstanding International Student Award.
The University of British Columbia
FAQs
- The UBC MDS Vancouver and Okanagan campuses as well as the Computational Linguistic program offer the same merit-based entrance scholarships: $25,000 CAD awarded to a Canadian student and an international student. The admissions committee makes the selections based on the strength of students’ applications. No separate applications or documents are required. Learn more. Vancouver Campus only scholarship: Master of Data Science Scholarship for Indigenous Students - Scholarships of up to the full cost of tuition have been made available annually by the Master of Data Science program for outstanding domestic or international students in the Master of Data Science program who identify as Indigenous. The scholarships are made on the recommendation of the Master of Data Science Admissions Committee. Master of Data Science Scholarship for Black or Person of Colour Students - Scholarships of up to the full cost of tuition have been made available annually by the Master of Data Science program for outstanding domestic or international students in the Master of Data Science program who identify as Black or a Person of Colour. The scholarships are made on the recommendation of the Master of Data Science Admissions Committee.
- MDS will accept professional references instead of academic references but strongly encourages at least one academic reference. The goal of the reference should be to highlight your skills and suitability for the program. References should be selected based on how they can promote your abilities, not simply based on the reference's position or reputation.
- The UBC Master of Data Science program does not require a GRE or any other academic test score for admission
- If your undergraduate or graduate degree was not completed at an English-speaking university, proof of English-language proficiency is required as this program requires a significant amount of reading, writing and oral communication. See the International Students page for more information on which English language proficiency exams we accept.
- The UBC MDS program is a very competitive program. The Admissions Committee will review and consider all applications as a whole, including the mandatory prerequisites, personal interest statements, transcripts for all current and previous post-secondary study, academic/professional references, resumes and other experiences and English language tests (if applicable)
- While work experience is great in supporting your application package, we still require you to have university credit courses for the pre-requisites.
- Because the MDS is a cohort-based program, we have only one intake per year in September. All of our courses are developed specifically for the program and build on each other. As such, all students start the program together, take the same courses in the same order and graduate as a cohort.
- Offered at the Vancouver campus, the Computational Linguistic program is a degree tailored to those with a passion for language and data. Over 10 months, the program combines foundational data science courses with advanced computational linguistics courses—equipping graduates with the skills to turn language-related data into knowledge and to build AI that can interpret human language.
- No, the MDS program is a cohort based program. All our courses are developed specifically for the program and build on each other. As such all students start the program together, take the same courses in the same order and graduate as a cohort.
- The programs were both designed by computer science and statistics experts, with input from local industry, to give students the skills they need to succeed in a data science career. The curricula are very similar, with only minor variances in focus. The program at the Okanagan has a stronger emphasis on optimization and statistics, while the program at the Vancouver campus is designed to give students a broader skillset. The more significant differences are related to cohort size and specific industry partners. The Okanagan campus offers an intimate learning environment and tight-knit MDS cohort, which is limited to 60, leaving students with a strong network of peers. Industry partners include numerous organizations and companies within the Okanagan region, which is home to 2,000 tech start-ups, as well as organizations throughout Canada such as Interior Health, ScotiaBank, and Statistics Canada. The Vancouver campus offers an engaging, culturally enriched university experience on a 400-hectare campus, with a diverse cohort of up to 100 students. Its location in Vancouver provides strong connections with a wide variety of industry partners, resulting in diverse networking/career options.
- If you receive a conditional offer of admission and wish to accept, you must: submit a non-refundable $3,000 deposit to confirm your acceptance of the admission offer (this deposit will be credited to your first tuition payment); arrange to have your official transcripts sent directly to the appropriate UBC Master of Data Science office; and fulfil any other conditions described in your conditional offer of admission. They will then send you an unconditional letter of acceptance.
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