At a glance
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Duration
6.5
IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
The Data Science program at the University of Waterloo offers a comprehensive education in this rapidly evolving field. You will gain a strong foundation in core mathematical subjects such as algebra and calculus, alongside essential computing and data analytics skills. The curriculum covers areas like database management, statistics, and machine learning, preparing you to work with complex datasets. This program is designed to be hands-on, allowing you to learn from leading researchers and engage in practical experiences within the field of data science.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic requirements for the Data Science program?
- The Data Science program is administered by the Cheriton School of Computer Science and the Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science. Specific academic prerequisites may apply depending on your faculty and prior coursework. Please refer to the program page for detailed admission requirements.
- How do I apply to the Data Science program?
- To apply, submit your application through the university's applicant portal. You will also need to complete a Declaration of Academic Experience and submit required documents such as official transcripts and English language test scores by the program's document deadline.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- International students can demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS Academic (6.5 overall, 6.5 writing/speaking), TOEFL iBT (90 overall, 25 writing/speaking for tests before Jan 21, 2026; 4.5 overall, 5 writing/speaking after Jan 21, 2026), or PTE Academic (63 overall, 65 writing/speaking).
- Are there exemptions from English language test scores?
- Yes, you may be exempt if your first language is not English but you have completed your four most recent years of full-time education in an entirely English-language school system. You will need to provide official transcripts or a letter confirming the language of instruction.
- How are tuition fees calculated for international students?
- Tuition fees are assessed based on international immigration status. You can use the university's Tuition Fee Estimator for an estimate of tuition and incidental fees for the 2026/2027 academic year. This estimator does not include living costs or other personal expenses.
- What career opportunities are available for Data Science graduates?
- Graduates of the Data Science program are prepared for various roles in the expanding field of data science. The curriculum focuses on providing a strong foundation for careers in this area.
Entry requirements
Bachelor of Computer Science in Data ScienceAdministered by the Cheriton School of Computer Science. Students already in a Computer Science program who have completed STAT 231 can start taking Data Science courses.
Bachelor of Mathematics in Data ScienceAdministered by the Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science. Students in the math faculty who are enrolled in, or have completed CS 136, may apply for BMath Data Science during the lecture period. Applications are considered at the start of the next term following your application. This program cannot be combined with other Honours or Joint Honours academic plans in the Faculty of Mathematics, nor with a Statistics, Computer Science or Computing Minor.
IELTS Academic6.5 overall, with 6.5 in writing and speaking, and 6.0 in reading and listening.
TOEFL iBT90 overall, with 25 in writing and speaking (for tests completed before January 21, 2026). After January 21, 2026, the requirement changes to 4.5 overall, with 5 in writing and speaking.
PTE Academic63 overall, with 65 in writing and speaking.
You may be exempt from submitting English language test scores if your first language is not English, but you have completed your four most recent years of full-time education in an entirely English-language school system (in Canada or abroad). Official transcripts or a letter from your previous school(s) confirming the language of instruction are required. If you do not meet the direct admission requirements, the Bridge to Academic Success in English program is available.
Fees
Tuition (international)Refer to the Tuition Fee Estimator for an estimate. Estimates are based on the 2026/2027 academic year for Fall 2026 entry and do not include costs for preliminary English language training programs.
Tuition (home)Refer to the Tuition Fee Estimator for an estimate. Estimates are based on the 2026/2027 academic year for Fall 2026 entry.
LivingThe Tuition Fee Estimator does not provide estimates for off-campus housing, groceries, textbooks, or other personal expenses.
Tuition fees are assessed based on domestic residency or international immigration status. The Tuition Fee Estimator provides an estimate of tuition and incidental fees, and potentially residence and meal plan costs. It does not cover other living expenses.
How to apply
1. Apply OnlineSubmit your application through the university's applicant portal.
2. Complete Declaration of Academic ExperienceOnce you have applied, complete this declaration in the applicant portal to determine if you need to provide English language test scores.
3. Submit Required DocumentsUpload or send official transcripts, English language test scores (if required), and any other supporting documents by the program's document deadline.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic requirements for the Data Science program?
+
The Data Science program is administered by the Cheriton School of Computer Science and the Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science. Specific academic prerequisites may apply depending on your faculty and prior coursework. Please refer to the program page for detailed admission requirements.
How do I apply to the Data Science program?
+
To apply, submit your application through the university's applicant portal. You will also need to complete a Declaration of Academic Experience and submit required documents such as official transcripts and English language test scores by the program's document deadline.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International students can demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS Academic (6.5 overall, 6.5 writing/speaking), TOEFL iBT (90 overall, 25 writing/speaking for tests before Jan 21, 2026; 4.5 overall, 5 writing/speaking after Jan 21, 2026), or PTE Academic (63 overall, 65 writing/speaking).
Are there exemptions from English language test scores?
+
Yes, you may be exempt if your first language is not English but you have completed your four most recent years of full-time education in an entirely English-language school system. You will need to provide official transcripts or a letter confirming the language of instruction.
How are tuition fees calculated for international students?
+
Tuition fees are assessed based on international immigration status. You can use the university's Tuition Fee Estimator for an estimate of tuition and incidental fees for the 2026/2027 academic year. This estimator does not include living costs or other personal expenses.
What career opportunities are available for Data Science graduates?
+
Graduates of the Data Science program are prepared for various roles in the expanding field of data science. The curriculum focuses on providing a strong foundation for careers in this area.