Selkirk College's Foundations in Rural Data Science Certificate gives students a community-focused entry point into the fast-growing field of data science.
The new program responds to a growing need for data skills across industries ranging from business and health care to environmental management and public policy. “Data skills power the future,” says Dylan Sargent, school chair, University Arts and Sciences, who was key to the program’s development. “But just as important is where and how those skills are applied. This program is about giving students the tools to work with data in ways that matter to rural communities.”
A Starting Point for In-Demand Skills
Unlike traditional data science programs that often assume prior technical experience, Selkirk College’s Rural Data Science Certificate is an accessible entry point. Students don’t need a background in coding or analytics to get started, just curiosity and a willingness to learn. The curriculum introduces foundational concepts, such as data analysis, visualization and interpretation, while gradually building confidence with industry-relevant tools. It’s a pathway program that can lead to further study or open doors to entry-level roles where data literacy is increasingly valued.
“This is where students can start their data journey,” Sargent explains. “We’re meeting learners at the beginning and showing them what’s possible.”