MA/MS in Computing & Data Analytics is a master's degree in Data Science & Analytics programme taught at Saint Mary's University in Halifax, Canada. The programme runs for 16 months, delivered on campus. Tuition for international students is CAD 42,000 per total (CAD 22,000 per total for local students).
At a glance
Degree:Master's Degree
Field:Data Science & Analytics
Duration: 16 months
Delivery: On Campus
Local tuition: CAD 22,000 / total
International tuition: CAD 42,000 / total
Information for the 2027/28 academic year · Last reviewed September 2026 ·
Program details
Overview
The Master of Science in Computing and Data Analytics at Saint Mary's University is a 16-month graduate program split across four terms, combining eight months of on-campus coursework with eight months of paid industry placements and applied projects. The curriculum covers end-to-end artificial intelligence systems, large language model optimization, advanced data analytics including deep learning and natural language processing, data governance, privacy, and ethical considerations, and software development using cloud services and DevOps practices. Students work with tools such as Python, Java, and cloud platforms including AWS and Azure, and are taught to incorporate generative AI into their technical work. Admission typically requires a four-year bachelor's degree in computing science or an equivalent quantitative discipline, and international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL scores. The program suits students seeking a technical career in data-driven fields such as machine learning, analytics, or software development, particularly those who want structured, paid work experience built directly into their degree rather than pursued separately. Graduates become eligible for Canada's three-year Post-Graduate Work Permit, giving the program particular relevance for international students planning to build a career in Canada after completing their studies.
Requirements
Admission Requirements: This MSc normally requires a four-year Bachelor of Science in Computing Science or an equivalent quantitative degree; the programme directs applicants to confirm country-specific minimum-GPA expectations directly rather than publishing one figure. Applicants whose first language is not English, and who lack a degree completed entirely in English, must meet: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, or TOEFL taken after January 2026 on the redesigned scale with at least 4.5 in Listening and no other band below 4.0. The application requires unofficial transcripts with a grading-scale legend, a letter of intent describing career goals, a current CV, three recommendation forms, a $125 processing fee, and a technical interview; admitted applicants pay a $5,000 seat deposit to confirm enrolment. The next intake begins in September.
Application Details
Start Date:September
Application Deadline:Saint Mary's University applies directly, not through a provincial service. For the currently posted cycle, Winter Term 2027 domestic applications close 1 December 2026 and international applications for the same term close 15 October 2026; Entrance Award and Admissions Scholarship consideration requires applying by 15 February 2027. Applications for the following 2027-2028 academic year (Fall 2027 and Winter 2028) opened 1 October 2026, but SMU has not yet published a Fall 2027 closing date for either domestic or international applicants -- the prior cycle's Fall Term domestic deadline was 1 August 2026. Admission is not described as rolling; each term carries a fixed posted deadline, released roughly a year ahead of the term. These are institution-wide dates; this programme publishes no deadline of its own.
