Graduate Diploma in Health Data Analytics (GDHDA)
Shape the future of healthcare with the power of data.
Next intake: January 2026
The Graduate Diploma in Health Data Analytics (GDHDA) is a program designed to equip professionals with the skills to harness data science and analytics for real-world healthcare challenges. Developed in collaboration with Nova Scotia Health, the GDHDA blends hands-on, technical expertise with leadership training. Students master digital health technologies, data integration, and ethical analytics to improve healthcare delivery and policy.
12 months (3 semesters)
Full-time, In-person
Designed for working professionals, all classes held on weekends in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
January 2026
Canadian and PR students: $15,000
International students: $21,000
- Finish in one year. Build the technical and leadership skills shaping the future of healthcare.
- Earn micro-credentials. Stand out with recognized training in analytics, AI, and data visualization.
- Co-designed with Nova Scotia Health. Learn from real challenges and real data in today’s healthcare system.
- Pathway to the MBAN program. Earn graduate credits that transfer toward the Master of Business Analytics (MBAN). Those who complete the GDHDA can apply to the Master of Business Analytics (MBAN).
- Health data analytics for care delivery, population health, and system performance.
- Applied technical skills in programming, visualization, and geo-spatial tools.
- Ethics and governance to ensure responsible data use and security.
Program overview
The Graduate Diploma in Health Data Analytics (GDHDA) is where healthcare meets data, preparing graduates to turn complex data into meaningful solutions that improve care, strengthen operations, and inform better decisions at every level of healthcare.
This program focuses on the unique challenges of health systems, equipping graduates to transform data into insights that improve patient care, optimize operations, and strengthen decision-making.
Built for innovators, analysts, and future health leaders, the GDHDA blends analytics, technology, and strategy in a curriculum that moves from foundational programming to applied problem-solving. Every course is hands-on, relevant, and built around real-world healthcare challenges, giving you the skills to create an impact from day one.
The demand for health analytics professionals continues to rise across Canada and beyond. Graduates of the Graduate Diploma in Health Data Analytics (GDHDA) are equipped to shape the future of healthcare through data-driven insight and innovation. They go on to roles such as healthcare data analyst, clinical informatics specialist, population health analyst, or health systems performance lead, applying analytics to improve patient outcomes, streamline operations, and guide organizational decision-making.
GDHDA graduates are sought after by hospitals, health authorities, public health agencies, insurers, research institutes, and technology firms working in healthcare. Students build not only advanced technical skills but also the professional readiness to lead AI and data innovation across the health sector.
- Small classes with big impact.
- A welcoming and diverse learning community.
- Connections to industry and research partners.
- Apply your learning through hands-on projects and real healthcare scenarios.
- Learn within the prestigious Sobey School of Business.
Upon successful completion of the Graduate Diploma in Health Data Analytics (GDHDA), participants will be awarded a physical and digital certificate of completion by the Sobey School of Business.
Note: After successful completion of the program, your verified digital certificate will be emailed to you in the name you used when registering for the program. All certificate images are for illustrative purposes only and may be subject to change at the discretion of the Sobey School of Business.
Admissions requirements
The Graduate Diploma in Health Data Analytics (GDHDA) is designed for analytical thinkers who want to apply data to real healthcare challenges.
Admission to the GDHDA program is competitive and applicants should demonstrate strong quantitative ability, academic readiness, and a commitment to professional growth in healthcare or analytics.
- Six IBM Micro-Credentials
- Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS) - with specific elective
- Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)
Sobey School is one of a select group of schools designated as PRME Champions in the Principles for Responsible Management Education initiative of the United Nations.
FAQs
Successful candidates are curious, analytical thinkers who enjoy solving problems with data. They’re often professionals or graduates from quantitative or technical fields looking to make an impact in healthcare.
Not necessarily. Many students join from business, tech, or science backgrounds. The program introduces healthcare concepts alongside analytics, so you can build confidence in both areas.
The GDHDA was co-developed with Nova Scotia Health and focuses specifically on applying analytics in healthcare — from hospital operations to population health. It’s not just about data, but about improving care and outcomes.
Expect a mix of lectures, lab work, and applied projects using real health data. Collaboration is key — you’ll work in small, diverse teams to tackle real-world health challenges.
You’ll gain hands-on experience with Python, R, SQL, Power BI, and Tableau, plus exposure to AI, machine learning, and data governance frameworks used across the healthcare industry.
Graduates work in roles such as healthcare data analyst, clinical informatics specialist, population health analyst, and health systems performance lead — across hospitals, government agencies, research institutes, and health-tech firms.
Apply now. Early applications are encouraged for scholarship consideration and to allow time for study permits and other preparations.