Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (Co-op) - Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (MDSAI)

Rear entrance of the Davis Centre building

The Davis Centre building (DC) on Waterloo's main campus

Are you looking to expand your knowledge of data science and artificial intelligence in both the classroom and the workforce?

If so, the Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence co-op full-time program may be the right fit for you. Through a combination of strong core theoretical in-class training and hands-on co-op work experience in the field, the program will prepare you for the new changes, demands and challenges from industry.

You'll have the opportunity to build your network of professional contacts through exclusive events with industry professionals and our Data Science Advisory Board, while enhancing professional development, skill articulation and experience through graduate work-integrated learning (GradWIL).

Program highlights

  • Real-world, hands-on experience with paid co-op placements to give you a competitive edge.

  • Ranked #2 in Canada for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence by QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024.

  • Exclusive access to the Graduate Data Science Job Board for opportunities from our industry partners.  

  • MDSAI is a Vector Institute recognized master’s program, giving you access to scholarships and exclusive job opportunities.   

  • Study and interact in dedicated lab and lounge space, and get access to Faculty members from our world-renowned departments and schools in the Faculty of Math.

Program overview

Department/School: Data Science
Faculty: Faculty of Mathematics
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December)
Delivery mode: On-campus
Program type: Co-operative, Master's, Professional
Length of program: 16 months
Registration option(s): Full-time
Study option(s): Coursework

Application deadlines

  •  January 15 (for admission in September)

Key contacts

Marie Kahkejian and Andrea Blyth-Estabrooks      ds.grad.admin@uwaterloo.ca

J.J. Liang

Throughout the program, I watched myself improve as I worked hard alongside my peers and learned from their perspectives.

J.J. Liang, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, MDSAI

Admission requirements

  • Honours Bachelor's degree or equivalent in data science, computer science, statistics, mathematics or a related field, with a minimum overall average of 78%.
  • Experience at the senior level in at least one of computer science or statistics.

Degree requirements

  • Review the degree requirements in the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar, including the courses that you can anticipate taking as part of completing the degree

Application materials

  • Resume
  • Supplementary information form (SIF)
    • The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the application documents web page for more information about this requirement
    • If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion

  • Transcript(s)

  • References
    • Three references are required; at least two academic
  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
    • TOEFL 100 (writing 26, speaking 26), IELTS 7.5 (writing 7.0, speaking 7.0)

Tuition and fees