New Applied Data Analytics and Visualization program addresses need for business intelligence specialists

Sheridan’s Pilon School of Business (PSB) is introducing a graduate certificate program that prepares business intelligence specialists for employment across all sectors.

Applied Data Analytics and Visualization responds to Canada's urgent need for professionals who can analyze, visualize and communicate data effectively. Data literacy is widely considered to be quickly becoming the second language of organizations and integral to digital proficiency — an area in which Canada ranks below the global average, according to the recent Digital Skills Index by Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

The program can be completed in as few as two semesters, providing fastest entry or re-entry into the workforce. A three-semester pathway provides an optional co-op term for industry experience, and a four-semester pathway includes Canadian business context courses and a mandatory co-op — ideal for international students seeking a two-year post-graduate work permit (PGWP.)

"Organizations across all sectors need business intelligence specialists who can gather data, interpret it and create strategic insights through visualization and storytelling," says Marcie Theoret, Associate Dean in PSB. "Sheridan is proud to deliver training for these in-demand roles and access to current, leading-edge software in a way that recognizes and accommodates the diverse needs and goals of our students."

“Organizations across all sectors need business intelligence specialists who can gather data, interpret it and create strategic insights through visualization and storytelling.”

– Marcie Theoret, Associate Dean, Pilon School of Business

Each pathway option shares foundational curriculum that blends theory with hands-on practice, covering such topics as statistics, data governance, artificial intelligence and cloud-based analytics platforms. Students will gain proficiency using industry-standard tools, including Python, R, Tableau, Power BI and SQL, to develop compelling visualizations and apply ethical decision-making frameworks.

The final semester of each pathway option includes a capstone project that culminates the learning journey and showcases students’ ability to drive data-informed decision making in real-world contexts. Working with an instructor or industry partner, learners will identify a problem, develop a data-driven approach, and implement appropriate analytics and visualization techniques to generate meaningful insights.

The program also features embedded pathways towards industry-recognized certifications such as Microsoft Certified, Power BI Data Analyst Associate and Tableau Certified Data Analyst, providing graduates with a competitive edge in the job market.

All classes will be taught in person at Sheridan’s Hazel McCallion Campus in Mississauga, with the first cohort of students expected in May 2026. To apply to the program or for more information, please visit the Applied Data Analytics and Visualization graduate certificate program page.