A new Medicine Hat College (MHC) program builds analytical skills in an online delivery format designed for working professionals.
Launching in Fall 2024, the eight-month Data Analytics for Business certificate provides an intensive learning experience for employed individuals and enhances their ability to transform the workplace data they already have into practical intelligence that can be used to inform decision making.
"Working professionals will benefit from enhanced analytical skills transferable between roles and industries, while employers will benefit from enhanced strategic decision making and efficiency, by building analytical skills among existing employees," explains Dr. Morgan Blair, dean of business and continuing studies at MHC.
Learners will gain skills and knowledge in data literacy, strategic communications, marketing and social media analytics, and data analysis and visualization. They receive approximately 150 hours of online learning and 480 hours of on the job application over two semesters. This format provides the best of both worlds, as employees aren't required to take time off work or come to campus to complete the program and the learning they acquire will be applied immediately within their organization.
"This program is unique in the market because we support the employee and employer in the application of their new skills throughout the program. The certificate is centered around the interactive relationship between the employee, their employer, and a Workforce Coach. They work together to lead the organization into a new era of data-enhanced decision making," says Blair, adding that employers can apply for the Canada Workforce Grant to support their employee's education and reduce the cost to the organization by up to two-thirds.
"We are excited to offer this valuable training to our region, recognizing that understanding data to support decision making is critical to the success of any organization, and ultimately to the prosperity of southeaster Alberta."
Learn more about Data Analytics for Business.
