Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics (1 Year) (Co-Op)
Red Deer Polytechnic Campus, Canada
Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics Post-Baccalaureate Certificate (Co-Op Specialization)
Red Deer Polytechnic
Artificial Intelligence & Data Analytics
Program Overview: AI and Data Analytics Post-Baccalaureate Certificate (Co-Op)
The Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics Post-Baccalaureate Certificate (AIDA PBC) at Red Deer Polytechnic is designed for graduates who want to add machine-learning and data analytics skills to their existing degree. You will learn the complete machine learning and data analytics process, including data mining, text scraping, sensor data collection, data preprocessing, exploratory analysis, storytelling, and deploying models with security in mind.
The Co-Op Specialization provides a structured work experience component, allowing you to network with industry professionals and apply your classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Students in the Co-Op stream complete four terms over two years, including a required 420-hour minimum paid work term, and are eligible for a 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Located in Red Deer, Alberta — halfway between Calgary and Edmonton — Red Deer Polytechnic offers small class sizes, hands-on learning, and expert faculty with deep industry experience. Graduates emerge with the skills to perform data engineering, data visualization, and design AI solutions that enhance productivity across a variety of industries.
Key Program Highlights
- Co-Op work term with a minimum 420-hour paid placement providing real industry experience
- Eligible for a 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for international students
- Hands-on curriculum covering machine learning, data mining, NLP, and model deployment
- Designed for graduates from any discipline seeking to add AI and analytics expertise
Curriculum & Modules
The AIDA PBC Co-Op program is structured across four terms over two years. You will progress through foundational data analytics and machine learning courses before advancing to model deployment and your co-op work placement. Most courses are held in-person on RDP's main campus, with a few available online.
Data Mining and Collection
CoreLearn techniques for data mining, text scraping, and sensor data collection to gather raw datasets from diverse sources for analysis and model building.
Data Preprocessing and Exploratory Analysis
CoreDevelop skills in cleaning, transforming, and exploring datasets. Master data storytelling techniques to communicate insights effectively to stakeholders.
Machine Learning Algorithms and Data Systems
CoreBuild and evaluate machine learning models, understand algorithm selection, and develop data systems that can identify patterns and make predictions.
Model Deployment and Security
CoreLearn to deploy machine learning models into production environments with a focus on security best practices, scalability, and responsible AI implementation.
Work-Integrated Learning Preparation (WIL 1100)
CorePrepares you for workplace readiness with resume writing, interview preparation, and professional skills development before your co-op placement begins.
Co-Operative Education Work Term (COOP 2100)
CoreComplete a minimum 420-hour paid work term with an employer, applying your AI and data analytics knowledge in a professional setting. Secured on a competitive basis.
Elective and Specialization Options
Admission Requirements
Admission to the AIDA PBC Co-Op program is offered on a first-come, first-served basis to qualified applicants who meet all minimum requirements. This program is specifically designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree and wish to add AI and data analytics skills. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on your application.
Academic Requirements
- Prior EducationSuccessful completion of a 4-year Canadian degree in any discipline from a recognized institution, or international equivalent
- Statistics PrerequisiteBUS 2306 (Business Statistics I), STAT 1251 (Introduction to Statistics), or equivalent
- International CredentialsDegrees earned outside Canada require a WES or IQAS assessment to verify equivalency
- Co-Op PrerequisitesStudents must meet COOP 2100 prerequisites during the program to qualify for the Co-Op Specialization
- Admission BasisFirst-come, first-served for qualified applicants who meet all minimum requirements
English Language Proficiency Requirements
- IELTSOverall 6.5 with minimum 5.5 on each band
- TOEFL iBTMinimum 83
- Duolingo English Test115-125
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Red Deer Polytechnic distributes over CAD 2 million annually in scholarships and financial awards to students. Awards are granted based on academic achievement, financial need, background, and field of study. Contact Uni4Edu for help identifying and applying for funding opportunities relevant to this program.
RDP International Student Bursary
A needs-based bursary available to international students who attended a Red Deer Polytechnic credit program as full-time students and are continuing their studies in the upcoming academic year.
RDP Entrance Awards
Entrance awards available to newly admitted students based on academic achievement and program of study. Multiple awards are distributed each year across various programs.
External Scholarships and Government Funding
VariesInternational students may also be eligible for external scholarships and government-funded programs. The program is eligible for Alberta Student Aid funding. Uni4Edu can help you explore all available options.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the AIDA PBC Co-Op program are prepared to enter a growing job market where AI and data analytics expertise is in high demand across industries such as business, manufacturing, health, agriculture, transportation, energy, and forestry. The Co-Op work term gives you a competitive advantage by providing direct industry experience before graduation.
Potential Job Roles
Industries and Employers Hiring AI Graduates in Alberta
Rankings & Recognition
Red Deer Polytechnic is a growing institution recognized for its applied research impact and commitment to industry-relevant education. RDP has been steadily climbing national research rankings and has joined the AI Workforce Readiness program led by Amii (Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute), supported by Google.org.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Top 50 Research Polytechnics & Colleges in Canada | Research Infosource Inc. | #31 (up from #43) |
| Applied Research Investment | Research Infosource Inc. | CAD 4.6M+ in 2024 |
| AI Workforce Readiness Consortium | Amii / Google.org | Inaugural Member |
| Graduate Employment Rate | RDP Institutional Data | 91% within 6 months |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
Similar Programmes
Master's & Postgraduate
30 months
Computer Science (Conversion) (30 Months) MSc
London South Bank University, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
October 2025
Gross Tuition
18750 £
Bachelor's Degree
12 months
Computer Science (Top-up)
University of Roehampton, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
17628 £
Bachelor's Degree
12 months
Web Design and Development (Top-up)
University of Roehampton, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
June 2026
Gross Tuition
16950 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Software Engineering BEng (Hons)
University of Bradford, Bradford, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
June 2025
Gross Tuition
24456 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Computer Information Systems
Loyola University New Orleans, New Orleans, United States
Earliest Intake
January 2027
Gross Tuition
47390 $
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
