Master of Financial Data Analytics (MFDA)
The MFDA aims to train highly qualified finance professionals with the computational skills essential for success in today's ever-changing financial markets. The program is the first of its kind in Canada, combining finance, information technology, and data analytics. Students will gain a fundamental understanding of how AI programming and applications play an integral role in today's economy.
There is an immense amount of data created every day, and the financial industry has benefited the most from data analytics. Banking and financial markets use information and analytics to create a competitive advantage for their organizations. The need for professionals who can combine their finance and market expertise while supporting these emerging technologies is growing. Graduates of the MFDA will be trained in how to analyze financial data with data analytics skills, including AI programming and applications.
Applicants to the MFDA can be from a variety of educational backgrounds, from business, economics and finance, to mathematics, computer science, information technology and other quantitative areas.
MFDA is a GARP Academic Partner; the program curriculum equips students with the required knowledge to approach Part I Exam of the Financial Risk Manager (FRM) professional certification.
Build expertise at the intersection of finance, technology and data analytics, with skills designed for today’s evolving financial industry.
Financial Analytics
Analyze financial and market data to uncover insights and support informed decision-making.
Artificial Intelligence
Apply AI programming and applications to financial data, markets and emerging technologies.
Financial Technology
Explore how technology and data-driven tools are transforming banking and financial services.
Risk Management
Develop quantitative and analytical skills to assess financial risk and changing market conditions.
Banking
Use financial data and analytics to understand banking operations and support strategic decisions.
Financial Markets
Examine market behaviour and use data-driven methods to evaluate trends and opportunities.
Ontario Tech University stood out to me due to its innovative MFDA program, the first of its kind in Canada. I was excited for the opportunity to be part of an institution that is at the forefront of industry advancements. Coming from a background in accounting, the MFDA program presented an exceptional opportunity for me to deepen my understanding of emerging technologies and expand on my accounting education and experience by integrating finance, data analytics, and artificial intelligence competencies. Jessica Brandhorst Master of Financial Data Analytics
The most valuable part of the MFDA program is how effectively it integrates in-depth financial theory with modern data science and technology. Beyond teaching financial concepts, the program prepares us to use programming, statistics, and financial modelling to solve real-world industry problems. This blend of disciplines has expanded my analytical mindset and given me a more forward-looking perspective on finance, while building skills that are valuable not only in preparing for professional credentials such as the FRM, but also for developing the technical foundation needed for a career in modern finance. Equally rewarding is learning alongside experienced professors and diverse classmates, creating a strong environment for both technical growth and meaningful professional networking. Eduardo Mota Master of Financial Data Analytics
- Program Schedule and Format
- Professional designations
- Program Faculty
- Program Advisory Committee
- Tours and Events
- Finance Laboratory
What are the study requirements of the program? |
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What are the start dates for the program? |
September (Fall) and January (Winter) |
What is the delivery method? |
In person |
What is the application process? |
View application information and deadlines. In addition to the general admission requirements for graduate studies, MFDA applicants must meet the following program-specific requirements: · While applicants may hold any four-year honours undergraduate degree (or its equivalent from a recognized institution), preference is given to applicants whose undergraduate degree is in the field of business, management, economics, Informatics or related fields. · Minimum overall academic standing of a B (GPA: 3.0 on a 4.3 scale or 73 to 76 per cent), with a minimum B average in the last two full-time years (four semesters) of undergraduate work or equivalent. Work experience or a strong GMAT can be used in lieu of the GPA requirement · Successful completion of at least one course in information systems and one course in advanced mathematics (e.g., linear algebra, calculus, statistics etc.) · For non-English degree of study, the IELTS test of 7.0 or TOEFL of 100 is required · A curriculum vitae (CV) including the applicant's education, employment, teaching and research experience, and publications (if any). |
Is this a STEM program? |
Yes, the Master of Financial Data Analytics (MFDA) is a STEM program. The Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) Canada for the program is 307104 – Financial Analytics. |
GARP Academic Partner
The Master of Financial Data Analytics (MFDA) prepares students for the Part I Exam of the Financial Risk Manager (FRM) professional certification. Recognized in every major global market, the FRM is a leading certification for risk management professionals.
“GARP is very pleased to welcome Ontario Tech to the GARP Partnership for Risk Education. The Master of Financial Data Analytics offered by the Faculty of Business and Information Technology is a dynamic, rigorous program. Its interdisciplinary nature affords students a strong theoretical background in the principles of finance, as well as the opportunity to enhance their data analytic skills. Graduates of this program will be well-positioned to pursue the FRM designation and to assume strategic roles within the global risk management profession.”
- Bloomberg terminal
- IBES
- SDC
- S&P Capital IQ
- Thomson Reuters Datastream
- Thomson Reuters tick history
- LSEG Workspace (ex Refinitiv Workspace)
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FINANCE LAB HERE