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Graduate Diploma in Big Data
Overview
The Graduate Diploma in Big Data equips students with practical skills in data analytics, large-scale data processing, and data-driven decision-making. Graduates are prepared for roles such as data analysts, data engineers, and big data specialists who can support organizations in extracting insights from complex datasets and applying data solutions to real-world challenges.
Curriculum
The current curriculum of the Graduate Diploma in Big Data covers (but is not limited to) the following topics:
- Foundations of large‑scale data storage, processing, and management.
- Principles of distributed and scalable computing environments.
- Real‑time data ingestion and processing pipelines.
- Non‑relational data management for high‑volume, high‑velocity datasets.
- Cloud‑based strategies for scalable analytics and computation.
- Data preparation, statistical analysis, and effective visualization.
- Machine learning and deep learning techniques for real‑world problems.
- Large‑scale analysis of text, images, graphs, and other complex data types.
- Ethical, responsible data science practices.
- Communicating insights and creating impactful data products.
- Part-time
- Industry-Aligned Curriculum
- Hands-on technical training
- Pathway to master’s
- Tuition: $1,300 per unit
Admission Requirements
FOUNDATIONS:
In order for students to succeed in this program, it is expected that they have the following knowledge/experience prior to beginning their studies:
- Ability to program in Java, Python and C++. Familiarity with programming and ability to learn new languages. Students planning to take courses in computer graphics, computer vision, etc., may not need Java and C++, but need Matlab.
- Knowledge of advanced math - calculus, linear algebra, and advanced statistics.
- Knowledge of data structures and algorithms, databases, and operating systems.
To qualify, students must satisfy the admission requirements laid out here as well as the University's admission requirements for a graduate diploma program, as stated in SFU Graduate Regulation 1.3.5.
STUDENTS WHO HAVE COMPLETED THEIR DEGREES IN CANADA
Students must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent in computer science or a related field with a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of at least 2.5/4.33 or the equivalent. Alternatively, a minimum GPA of 2.67/4.33 on the last 60 credits of undergraduate courses will also meet the GPA requirements for admission to the program.
STUDENTS WHO HAVE COMPLETED THEIR DEGREES OUTSIDE OF CANADA
Students applying to this program must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent in computer science or a related field. Please see here for minimum equivalent qualifications, academic standing and required credential for students who have completed their degree outside of Canada. The academic requirement is listed by country.