Data Scientist
One of the fastest-growing careers in Canada - turning data into decisions for every industry.
Data Scientist Salary in Canada
Data Scientists in Canada earn about $70,000 at entry level and around $150,000 in senior roles.
- Entry level: $70,000
- Senior level: $150,000
Finance and tech sector data scientists earn at the top end. Senior ML engineers often exceed these ranges.
About the Career
Data skills are widely used across industries, but the job market is crowded - Job Bank rates prospects moderate to limited, and many roles now expect a master's degree or AI/ML skills.
Job Outlook
Competitive demand. Data skills are widely used across industries, but the job market is crowded - Job Bank rates prospects moderate to limited, and many roles now expect a master's degree or AI/ML skills.
How to Get There
- 4-yr BSc (Statistics, Math, CS or Data Science) + often a master's degree
- Time to career: 4-6 years post-Grade 12
Degrees That Lead Here
- Statistics – high 80s
- Mathematics – high 80s to low 90s; CEMC contest scores are relevant at Waterloo
- Computer Science – high 80s to high 90s depending on school
- Data Science – mid 80s to low 90s depending on school and entry route
Key Skills
- Statistical Modelling
- Python, R & SQL
- Machine Learning
- Data Visualisation
- Business Communication
Typical Employers
- Tech companies
- Banks & insurers
- Consulting firms
- Healthcare & pharma
- Government agencies
High School Roadmap
- Excel in math. Take Data Management if available. Learn to use Excel and Google Sheets deeply.
- Start learning Python or R - both are essential data science tools. Take Statistics if available.
- Enter CEMC math contests. Learn basic statistics and data visualisation.
- Apply to Stats, Math, or CS undergrad programs. Build a data project (Kaggle competitions are excellent).
Top Universities for This Path
- University of Waterloo – Waterloo, ON
- University of Toronto – Toronto, ON
- University of British Columbia – Vancouver, BC
- McGill University – Montreal, QC
- Simon Fraser University – Burnaby, BC
Insider Tips
- A master's degree significantly increases earning potential in data science.
- Python and SQL are the two most essential technical skills - learn both before university.
- Kaggle competitions are excellent portfolio pieces and are recognised by Canadian employers.