Willis College
Data Analyst
Transform Data Into Career Opportunities in 28 Weeks
Online (Remote Classes)
Program Length:
28 weeks
Program Hours:
680
Credentials:
- ON Diploma
Study Options:
- Online
Start Dates
Online
August 24, 2026
November 23, 2026
January 11, 2027
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Transform Data Into Career Opportunities in 28 Weeks
In just 28 weeks, gain the skills to transform data into decisions. The Data Analyst program at Willis College covers SQL, Excel, Python, statistics, and the data analysis process — everything employers look for in entry-level data professionals. Designed for career starters, switchers, and upskillers, the program blends technical training with career support to prepare you for roles such as Data Analyst, Reporting Analyst, or Research Analyst. With 680 program hours and a focus on practical application, you’ll graduate ready to make an impact in today’s data-driven world.
Build Skills Employers Want Most
Willis College offers two distinct learning paths tailored to your goals* – whether you’re looking for hands-on workplace exposure or focused, resume-building project experience.
- DTA-Applied program: includes a practicum, giving you direct, real-world workplace experience
- DTA-Capstone program: features a capstone project that allows you to apply your skills to a comprehensive, portfolio-ready initiative
Hands-On Learning at the Core of the Program
Get hands-on with the tools employers expect. Whichever path you choose, you’ll build and refine your skills through hands-on learning. This program will also introduce you to the essential technologies used by today’s data professionals:
- Excel
- SQL
- Python
$42.36
Average Wage/HR$61.54
High Wage/HRNational Occupation Classification (NOC) for this program: 2172/21223
Source: noc.esdc.gc.ca & www.jobbank.gcca
Program Outline
Please click on the course title to see the course description.
This course introduces learners to the core hardware and software concepts that underpin modern computing environments used by Data Analysts. Students will explore how computers process, store, and manage data, gaining a practical understanding of system components, operating systems, and common software tools that support data-driven work.
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of data, including common data types and sources. Students will learn how data is read, written, stored, and managed across both structured and unstructured formats. The course also examines key issues related to data storage, quality, security, and responsible use.
Databases are used to store data in a structured way and most organizations today capture their data using one or more databases. This course will introduce students to the concepts of relational databases and how to apply fundamental knowledge of Structured Query Language (SQL) for storing, retrieving, and performing complex database operations in order to generate business insight.
MS Excel is the most widely used spreadsheet application in the market. An easy but powerful tool for extracting actionable insights from data, MS Excel skills are highly valued by employers. In this course, students would learn how to use MS Excel for Data entry, calculation, data analysis, and visualization.
Statistics is concerned with systematic collection, analyzes, interpretation, and presentation of data. It provides us with a set of techniques to transform data into information. This course will introduce the students to statistical thinking and techniques needed for data analysis.
Python is a general-purpose programming language that is easy to learn and versatile with a rich library for data analysis. In this course, students will learn how to solve a broad set of data analysis problems effectively using the Python programming language.
The Data Analytics Process provides a framework that helps us to effectively explore data in order to provide valuable and actionable information. This course will introduce students to the main steps in the data analytic process.
Our Career Management course will introduce students to and teach them how to apply the most effective strategies to achieve employment in the career of their choice. Topics that are covered; effective job search strategies, cover letter and strategic resume writing, interview preparation and effective interviewing skills.
Based on the path selected, the student will either complete a 16-week practicum placement or a capstone project.
PracticumThe 8-week practicum placement is designed as the culmination of the program. The Willis Career Services team will support you in securing a suitable placement with a business, public, or non-profit organization that operates according to standard Canadian business practices.
During your practicum, you may engage in hands-on work, job shadowing, or a combination of both, allowing you to apply the skills and knowledge gained throughout your program. While not all placements will provide opportunities to practice every skill learned, students are encouraged to observe and apply their learning wherever possible.
CapstoneIn your capstone project, you'll apply your data analysis skills to solve a real-world business or research challenge. Working through the full data analysis lifecycle, you'll gain hands-on experience in data acquisition, cleaning, analysis, visualization, and reporting to deliver meaningful insights and recommendations.
This project will allow you to showcase the technical, analytical, and communication skills you've developed throughout the program while demonstrating your ability to turn data into actionable results.
Job Market
Graduates will be prepared for entry-level roles across industries such as technology, finance, healthcare, marketing, retail, government, and education.
- Business Operations Analyst
- Data Administrator
- Data Technician
- Data Warehouse Analyst
- Database Administrator (DBA)
- Database Analyst
- Reporting Analyst
Salary Information
Average Wage ($/hr) – $42.36
High Wage ($/hr) – $61.54
National Occupation Classification (NOC) for this program: 2172/21223
Source: noc.esdc.gc.ca & www.jobbank.gc.ca
Updated: 2026-04
Admissions Requirements
Academic Admission Requirements:
Canadian High School diploma or equivalent. Willis College’s Admissions Team uses the Wonderlic assessment tool.
For Mature Students
Applicants without a high school diploma may qualify under Mature Student Status by meeting the following criteria:
- Age: Must meet provincial minimums (18 in ON; 19 in the rest of Canada), verified via government photo ID.
- Assessment: Achieve minimum cut-off scores on the securely proctored Wonderlic test.
- Prerequisites: Satisfy all program-specific and language proficiency requirements.
For full details, see the Willis College Mature Student Admissions Policy.
Please note that at this time, Willis College can only accept students who are Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents, or Refugees. We are not able to issue the Post-Graduate Work Permits.
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Practicum / Capstone
Willis College offers two distinct learning paths for the Data Analyst program.
- DTA-Applied program: includes an 8-week practicum
- DTA-Capstone program: includes a capstone project
Students must decide their learning path/program of choice prior to enrollment. Once training has started, the student will be unable to change without withdrawing from the initial program, which can carry financial implications.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. You do not need an advanced computer science background to get started. This data analyst program is designed to build your skills step by step, beginning with core concepts in technology and data before moving into areas like Python and database work. If you enjoy problem-solving, spotting patterns, and thinking analytically, you already have a strong foundation for success.
Yes. Data analysis is a practical skill, so your training goes beyond theory. Throughout the program, you will work with industry-relevant tools and apply what you learn through hands-on exercises. You will also complete a practicum, giving you the opportunity to use your skills in a real workplace setting and connect your training to real business needs or have the opportunity to work on a Capstone project.
The Data Analyst – Applied program focuses on the practical foundations of working with data in a business setting, including how to clean, organize, analyze, and present information using tools like Excel, SQL, and Python. The Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence – Applied program goes further into advanced areas such as machine learning, deep learning, and AI-driven applications. The data analyst program is designed for students who want to build core data skills for reporting, analysis, and business decision-making, while the data analytics and AI program is a more specialized path for those interested in predictive models, intelligent systems, and emerging AI applications.
This program is an excellent fit for:
- Analytical thinkers who love problem-solving.
- Individuals starting a career in data or tech.
- Professionals switching into data-focused roles.
- Business or IT professionals ready to upskill.
- New Canadians seeking Canadian credentials and support.
Why choose the Data Analyst program?
- Launch Your Data Career in Just 28 Weeks: Build practical, job-ready skills through an accelerated diploma designed to help you enter one of Canada's fastest-growing fields sooner.
- Learn the Skills Employers Want: Graduate with experience using the technical tools and analytical methods employers expect from today's data professionals.
- Solve Real Business Problems with Data: Develop the ability to turn information into insights that help organizations improve performance and make smarter decisions.
- Gain Real-World Experience: Apply your technical skills during a practicum while building confidence in a professional workplace environment.
- Open the Door to Opportunities Across Industries: Prepare for data-focused careers in technology, healthcare, finance, government, retail, marketing, and many other sectors.
- Graduate Ready to Grow: Build a strong technical foundation that prepares you for entry-level analyst roles today and advanced analytics opportunities as your career evolves.
What You'll Learn
- Data & Technology Foundations: Build a strong understanding of the computer systems, databases, and data environments that support modern organizations.
- Industry-Standard Analytics Tools: Gain hands-on experience with Excel, SQL, and Python to organize, analyze, and interpret data with confidence.
- Data Analysis & Visualization: Learn how to clean, explore, and present data in ways that uncover trends and support informed decision-making.
- Statistics for Better Insights: Apply statistical techniques to identify patterns, test ideas, and transform raw data into meaningful business intelligence.
- End-to-End Data Analysis Process: Follow the complete analytics workflow—from sourcing and preparing data to analyzing results and communicating findings.
- Career-Ready Experience: Strengthen your résumé, interview skills, and job-search strategy while applying your knowledge through a real-world practicum.
Why You'll Love Willis College
- Industry-Aligned Programs: Career-ready curricula designed alongside top employers to ensure your skills match current market demands.
- Instructor-Led, Applied Learning: Hands-on training taught by industry experts who bring real-world knowledge, mentorship, and practical insight into the classroom.
- Flexible Learning Pathways: Tailored study options—in-person, online, or hybrid—that fit your lifestyle and meet you where you are.
- Personalized Small-Class Support: Dedicated guidance and encouragement in smaller group settings where you are a person, not a number.
- Accessible Funding Assistance: Direct support navigating student loans, grants, scholarships, and flexible payment plans to make your education attainable.
- Lifetime Career Services: Continuous job-search support and career counseling to help you transition smoothly from the classroom to the workforce.
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What Our Graduates Are Saying
"I chose this program because I have always wanted to work in an office setting and eventually get into the government. I would recommend anyone to Willis College any day."
Victoria Woolsey
Administrative Assistant Graduate