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.
- Professional designations
- Program Schedule and Format
- Admission Requirements
- Program Faculty
- Tours and Events
- Finance Laboratory
The Master of Financial Data Analytics (MFDA) will prepare students for the Part I Exam of the Financial Risk Manager (FRM) professional certification.
Recognized in every major global market, the FRM is the leading certification for Risk Managers. Earning your FRM proves your knowledge and skills are up to the latest international standards.

" 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."
William May, Global Head of Certifications and Educational Programs – GARP
What are the study requirements of the program? |
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What are the start dates for the program? |
September and January |
What is the delivery method? |
In person |
What is the application process? |
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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. |
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 undergraduate degree (or its 3-year equivalent from a recognized institution in countries where it is the accepted practice), preference is given to applicants whose undergraduate degree is in the field of business, economics, finance, information technology, computer science, modelling and computer science, engineering, mathematics, statistics, physics, actuarial science, or other quantitative fields.
- While not required, GMAT/GRE/CFA Level 1 may be recommended to strengthen your application or in lieu of GPA requirement.
- A statistics course is required. Linear algebra and calculus are highly recommended.
- If applicable, a minimum score of 7 on the IELTS or 100 on the TOEFL. (Note that these English language proficiency scores are slightly higher than those required for some other graduate programs.) Visit the English language proficiency section of this calendar for additional details.
- There may be an interview for applicants prior to admission.
- 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