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UBC Extended Learning Launches First-of-its-Kind Data Science Certificate for Data-Curious Adults Looking to Acquire In-Demand Skills

Offered in conjunction with the UBC Departments of Computer Science and Statistics, the UBC Certificate in Key Capabilities in Data Science is 100% online and provides a flexible, part-time curriculum for early- and mid-career learners.UBC Extended Learning has launched a new certificate program designed for busy adult learners who may not have a technology background but who would like to gain a solid foundation in data science.The UBC Certificate in Key Capabilities in Data Science is the first of its kind in BC, where post-secondary data science credentials are currently limited to degrees. Prior to being offered as a certificate, the program was available as a series of courses.UBC has established a strong reputation in data science with its highly successful and in-demand Master of Data Science program. In the new certificate program, non-credit students can learn key concepts drawn from the Master program in the areas of data science, machine learning, data visualization and Python. Learners will acquire highly marketable skills to apply to their current work in a range of sectors, as well as insights into data science career options should they be exploring a transition.The certificate offers four courses from which learners select three for a total of 150 hours, typically 8-12 hours per week per course. Participants must first complete Programming in Python and then may take any or all the remaining courses in any order. The certificate is delivered part-time in an instructor-supported, online format that promotes accountability and offers a high degree of engagement.Data science has become essential in our increasingly data-driven economy and is also a major force in the creation of hybrid roles requiring expertise in multiple functional areas. 2019 Burning Glass data holds that “one in eight job postings is now highly hybridized, encompassing more than 250 different occupations.” About UBC Extended LearningWe believe that learning is a continuous, lifelong endeavor. Education – at any stage of life – should be flexible, innovative and accessible.UBC Extended Learning works with UBC faculties to create and deliver programs that meet the career and personal needs of our communities, including alumni, current UBC students and learners of all ages.Together, we provide outstanding learning opportunities, bringing UBC excellence in academics, teaching and research to the communities we serve, and strengthening UBC’s contribution to society, industry and government.

UBC Extended Learning Launches New Programming Courses Aimed at Adult Learners Who Don’t Come from a Computer Science Background

Offered in conjunction with the UBC Department of Computer Science, Introduction to Systematic Program Design in Python are 100% online and provide foundational skills for early- and mid-career learners. UBC Extended Learning has launched a new program aimed at adult learners who are considering a career in software development or need to boost their programming skills for their career, but who don’t have a computer science background. Introduction to Systematic Program Design in Python is a 100% online, not-for-credit two-course program offered in conjunction with the UBC Department of Computer Science. Based on a popular and long-running first-year undergraduate course, this program offers early- and mid-career learners foundational skills in programming using Python, a relatively easy-to-learn and well-documented programming language. While the courses are paced with beginners in mind, they are challenging and rigorous. Learners can expect a university-level curriculum, but a rewarding, adult-oriented learning experience. Unlike other online courses in which learning is fully self-paced and there is no contact with an instructor, both courses in this program give learners access to instructor office hours, an online forum to connect to other learners, graded exercises and a final project. Job postings in BC over the past three years that require Python skills have almost doubled (Source: EMSI). There’s a growing demand for Python as a hybrid skill in roles such as marketing, finance, product development engineering and even in animation/illustration.  Introduction to Systematic Program Design in Python is part of a suite of technology and computing programs offered by UBC Extended Learning. With financial support from the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training, these non-degree programs focus on some of the fastest growing skills globally: machine learning, data science, data wrangling, visualization and software development. Over the next few years, these areas are expected to see the largest projected growth in job postings across all sectors, not just technology. About UBC Extended Learning We believe that learning is a continuous, lifelong endeavour. Education – at any stage of life – should be flexible, innovative and accessible. We work with UBC faculties to create and deliver programs that meet the career and personal needs of our communities, including alumni, current UBC students and learners of all ages. Together, we provide outstanding learning opportunities, bringing UBC excellence in academics, teaching and research to the communities we serve, and strengthening UBC’s contribution to society, industry and government.

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Joseph Xiao

As a member of the Extended Learning (ExL) marketing team, Joseph develops and maintains the content and infrastructure of the ExL website. He works with ExL contributors, IT staff and UBC Web Services to keep the site up-to-date, monitor site health, and identify and troubleshoot issues. Solutions-driven and creative, Joseph brings four years of front-end development and responsive design experience to his role, and is always keen to learn more.

UBC Extended Learning Partners with Circuit Stream to Launch New AR/VR Courses

Courses in extended reality (XR) will help open new career opportunities in Vancouver in the fast-growing XR development industry.Vancouver, British Columbia, November 5, 2021 -- University of British Columbia Extended Learning (UBC ExL) and Circuit Stream have partnered to offer extended reality (XR) training programs targeted to BC learners. The hands-on, project-based courses are designed to help students earn several credentials certifying their skills in the rapidly growing 3D technology market.Vancouver has established itself as a globally recognized centre for gaming, film, entertainment, and other interactive media. More than 150 game companies employ 6,000 professionals based in Vancouver, making it a prime location for augmented and virtual reality development. The global AR/VR industry is estimated to grow by around 25% through 2021 and skills training in this field will help boost the BC economy and prepare students for jobs in high-growth technology sectors of the future like AR/VR.The new UBC Extended Learning XR Development with Unity program gives students the choice of two paths in XR development, and a third, soon-to-be-introduced path, in XR design. Each path offers Circuit Stream's leading curriculum. Students will learn real-time 3D skills throughout both paths and gain the experience needed for various careers in the XR industry.Upon completion, students receive an XR Developer or XR Designer digital badge from Circuit Stream, a certificate of completion from the University of British Columbia Extended Learning, and the chance to earn an Associate Certification from technology partner Unity.The three courses being offered are:XR Development: A 10-week live online course that introduces the fundamentals of creating XR applications with Unity.XR Design: A 10-week live online course that explores best practices to design and prototype intuitive, usable and human-centered experiences for XR.C# Scripting: A 4-week course that teaches C#, the core programming language of Unity.The courses are beginner friendly and there are no prerequisites. “The industry demand for individuals with Unity 3D and XR training is continuing to rise. It's through partnerships with top Canadian universities like UBC Extended Learning that enable us to raise the skill level for future talent in technology markets, and provide students with a significant advantage for in-demand careers in XR development," said Circuit Stream CEO Lou Pushelberg about the collaboration with UBC ExL.Adds Larry Bouthillier, Executive Director for UBC Extended Learning, "Partnering with education expert Circuit Stream enables us to scale our course offerings and meet the needs of BC's fast-evolving technology sector. These courses offer students real-world, job-ready skills that will help them succeed in an XR development career."Graduates of Circuit Stream's XR courses have found job opportunities with companies including Facebook, Unity, Accenture and numerous fast-growing start-ups.The start date for the next XR Development with Unity cohort is Tuesday, November 16, 2021. Learn more here.About Circuit StreamCircuit Stream is the industry leader in providing virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) education. Established in 2015, the company has reached over 40,000 people through courses, workshops, and online resources.The company is a recognized expert in teaching Unity and providing certifications in XR design and development to individuals and companies globally.About UBC Extended LearningUBC Extended Learning works with UBC faculties to create and deliver programs that meet the career and personal needs of our communities, including alumni, current UBC students and learners of all ages. Together, we provide outstanding learning opportunities, bringing UBC excellence in academics, teaching and research to the communities we serve, and strengthening UBC’s contribution to society, industry and government.Media Inquiries:Lou PushelbergCircuit Stream ubc-exl@xrcourse.com

Technology program comparison table

Compare Extended Learning’s data science and Python programs so you can choose the one that matches your professional and career goals.

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