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A new training initiative launched by the University of Toronto’s  (DSI), an , is helping Canada meet its growing need for talent in data science and machine learning.

Applications for the  opened in October to strong demand. DSI is now gearing up for a second session, scheduled to begin on Jan. 15.

By 2026, digital literacy is projected to be essential for 90 per cent of jobs in Canada

The certificates offer affordable, flexible and rigorous upskilling opportunities, designed for learners with a university degree or college diploma who have three or more years of work experience. 

Prospective DSI Certificate participants can be employed or actively seeking employment and do not need experience or education in the field of data science. These certificates are accessible to individuals from all backgrounds, and do not require prior affiliation with the university.

The certificates are powered by , a national initiative run by  and funded by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). Upskill Canada is designed to meet the talent needs of high-growth sectors while building a more inclusive economy.

Supported by funding from ISED’s Upskilling for Industry Initiative, more than 15,000 Canadian workers will benefit from an innovative approach to skills training. Central to the Upskill Canada initiative is the role of community training providers, who work closely with local and national employers to identify precise suites of skills being sought by industry. Equipping workers with these skills will create new career pathways for Canadians and better position Canadian companies to compete both domestically and internationally.

“What we’re hearing from our partners in industry is that targeted training in key areas can greatly increase the available talent pool in this fast-moving sector,” says Lisa Strug, academic director of the Data Sciences Institute, a senior scientist at the Hospital for Sick Children and professor in the departments of statistical sciences and computer science in the Faculty of Arts & Science, and the division of biostatistics in the Dalla Lana School of Public Health.

“We’re pleased to be able to leverage U of T’s leadership in machine learning and data sciences to provide new opportunities for workers in the digital economy.”

“Through the industry advisory group, prospective employers like Thomson Reuters are actively engaging with the Data Sciences Institute as they develop learning opportunities that address the evolving data science and machine learning demands across small-, medium- and large-sized enterprises,” says Carter Cousineau, vice-president, data and model (AI/ML) governance and ethics at Thomson Reuters.

“This collaborative approach helps ensure learners gain the necessary skillsets to pursue new roles, or identify opportunities for advancement, in this swiftly changing landscape.”

Both certificates offer foundational concepts in data science and machine learning knowledge and provide opportunities for practical application through employer case studies. Each certificate also includes sessions dedicated to career advancement – from support for resume writing to networking and interview skills development.

The technical and job readiness programming will be delivered as online modules with in-person and hybrid opportunities for professional networking. Certificate recipients will be well positioned for roles such as data analysts, data managers or applied machine learning analysts.

The courses and job readiness sessions are offered part-time, allowing learners time to balance existing commitments and still accomplish their career goals. Over the course of the next two years, five cohorts of learners are expected to complete the 16-week certificates.  Initially, the training will be offered to learners at a substantially reduced rate of $425 (+HST) per certificate, thanks to the support of Upskill Canada. The DSI has also committed accessibility funding for those with financial need.

“We’re so proud to formally launch Upskill Canada with our inaugural class of workers and training service providers,” says Rhonda Barnet, CEO of Palette Skills, which was chosen by ISED to run the Upskill Canada initiative.

“This is a big first step – but it’s only the beginning. We’re looking forward to working with our supporters in government and industry to upskill many more Canadians so they can transition into high-demand roles in the modern workforce – and help fast-growing companies achieve their full potential.”