Micro-Certificates in Applied Data Science (CADS)
The Micro-Certificates in Applied Data Science (CADS) at the University of Victoria are designed for professionals and part-time learners who want to advance their careers by building advanced data science skills — without pausing work or life commitments.
Informed by UVic's nationally and internationally recognized Master of Engineering in Applied Data Science (MADS), CADS offers a flexible, modular pathway to graduate-level credentials.
Learn part-time, apply your skills immediately and earn credentials that translate into real-world impact and career momentum.
Why CADS?
CADS are built for professionals and motivated learners who want practical, high-impact data science training, whether to advance in their current roles or to build skills to increase employability.
Learn in a way that fits your life
Study part-time and develop advanced, job-ready skills, whether you are continuing to work, balancing other commitments, or pursuing new opportunities.
Attend from anywhere
Flexible hybrid delivery lets you join remotely or in person, without sacrificing quality, connection or engagement.
Build expertise that employers value
Gain focused, in-demand data science competencies that you can apply immediately.
Strengthen your career prospects
Each CADS micro-certificate is a complete, industry-relevant credential that stands on its own, helping you to upskill, reskill and demonstrate expertise to employers right away.
Keep the door open
All CADS courses are for-credit and may be applied toward the Master of Engineering in Applied Data Science (MADS) degree, subject to admissions and program requirements.
Program structure
CADS includes three standalone micro-certificates in applied data science that can be taken individually or sequentially stacked towards a Master of Engineering in Applied Data Science (MADS), subject to admissions and program requirements.
Micro-Certificate in Machine Learning Fundamentals
Build a strong foundation in the core principles of machine learning, including:
- algorithm and data models
- optimization techniques for machine learning
- real‑world applications through a professional seminar
Learners develop the ability to select and apply machine learning methods to practical problems.
CADS‑MLF begins September 2026.
Micro-Certificate in Data Analysis & Management
Extend your skills into large-scale data systems and advanced analytics, with an emphasis on:
- systems for massive datasets
- data analysis and pattern recognition
- applied data science in professional contexts
Learners develop the ability to extract insight from complex, large-scale data environments.
CADS-DAM begins January 2027.
Micro-Certificate in Advanced Data Mining
The final micro-certificate will deepen expertise in advanced data mining and analytics techniques, completing the applied data science micro-credential sequence.
CADS-ADM is currently in development and anticipated to begin in 2027.
Why now?
Demand for data science expertise continues to grow across industries. CADS responds to this need by making high-quality, graduate-level education:
- accessible
- flexible
- aligned with real-world applications
Contact us
For questions pertaining to Micro-Certificates in Applied Data Science (CADS), please contact us at cads_info@uvic.ca.