3250 - Foundations of Data Science
Course Description
If you want to work in the growing field of data science, and have some prior knowledge and experience of basic programming, this course is for you. You’ll learn how to help organizations leverage the increasing variety and volume of data they own or can find on the Internet. You’ll explore the evolution of the fields of data science and predictive analytics. You’ll learn up-to-date techniques for data retrieval, preparation, analysis and visualization. Through hands-on exercises, you’ll build critical programming skills you can use in subsequent courses in the certificate program.
The Data Science courses are also offered online in partnership with University of Waterloo - WatSPEED.
Learning Outcomes
As a result of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand the basic techniques, evolution and promise of data science
- Build hands-on skills in programming languages such as Python and SQL
- Extract data from databases, websites and social media
- Store, clean and analyse data using Pandas
Notes
Not sure if you have the required programming skills? OR Need to brush up your programming skills?
Take any of the courses below before you enroll in this course
- Learn to Program- The Fundamentals offered by University of Toronto/Coursera
- Introduction to Python 3 Programming, offered by University of Waterloo - WatSPEED
Recommendations
Laptop Computer with the following Specifications:
System Type: 64 bit operating system, X 64-based processor; Windows 7, 8 or 10; Mac OS/X or Linux running on similar hardware.
Processor: Intel ® i5-3230M CPU @ 2.6 GHz or better; Installed Memory ( RAM): 8 GB or more.
Software needed for this course is free and mostly open source. You will receive instructions for download/install/use in class
Academic Requirements: A degree in Engineering, Mathematics, or Computer Science is recommended, but not required. Basic knowledge of programming and programming languages is also recommended.
This course may be applied towards the SCS Certificate(s) in
- Data Science : Required Courses
Saad is senior manager for the data science and advanced analytics capacity at Ontario's Ministry of Health. He has extensive industry experience in leading data science teams and working with clients, particularly in the healthcare sector. Currently, Saad is leading the delivery of advanced analytics products to support the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Saad was selected as the inaugural data scientist for the Ministry of Health, and entrusted with the ambitious task of establishing an artificial intelligence capacity in the Ministry. As an instructor, Saad recognizes and attends to the unique needs of each student, and complements technical and programming concepts with the business skills needed to thrive in the workplace.