Carleton is the first university in Canada to offer a graduate program in applied statistics and data analysis aimed at social science audiences. The Graduate Diploma in Social Statistics and Data Analysis (SSDA GDip) will provide education and training in quantitative social research methods and analysis of survey (or similar) data, with a focus on the applied (the “how”) aspects of statistics and less so on the mathematical (the “why”) ones.
The SSDA GDip is designed to educate students in all facets of the quantitative research process — planning and design, collecting and analyzing data, and communicating research results. Many important topics will be explored over the course of the program including observational and experimental research methods, meta-analysis, measurement and sampling theory, and advanced statistical techniques. Students will be trained to apply this knowledge using an assortment of common and specialized statistical software.
The program may be most appealing to students in fields where survey and related research methods are widely used such as psychology, public policy and administration, political science, cognitive and health sciences, and engineering.
Type 2 vs. Type 3 Graduate Diplomas
The SSDA GDip is offered to those currently enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program (Type 2) and those not currently enrolled at Carleton (Type 3). The concurrent (Type 2) program will offer students the opportunity to increase their comprehension and training in quantitative research methods for academic or employment purposes. The direct-entry (Type 3) option will upgrade or extend the knowledge base of practicing professionals with interest in quantitative social research and data analysis. The SSDA GDip does not have a statistics course prerequisite.
Career Opportunities
Many large federal government departments, such as Employment and Social Development, Health, Justice, Statistics, and Transport Canada, rely heavily on survey methods and data. The focus on research methodology and statistical analysis of survey data, coupled with the experiential learning offered through the SSDA GDip, will help with the employability and future success of its graduates. The GDip (Type 3) will also offer an option to working professionals in the National Capital Region to upgrade or expand their knowledge and skills in social statistics and data analysis.