Artificial Intelligence Diploma

Program Overview

The Artificial Intelligence Diploma prepares individuals with the practical knowledge and technical skills to design, build, and apply artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions in real-world environments. This program is focused on hands-on learning, allowing students to explore how AI can enhance decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and drive innovation across various industries.

Graduates will be equipped to develop intelligent solutions, evaluate emerging technologies, and assist organizations in responsibly adopting AI to address business and operational challenges.

Importance of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence transcends its status as a futuristic technology, becoming a foundational capability within nearly every industry. Organizations are increasingly investing in AI to automate routine operations, enhance customer experiences, improve decision-making, reduce costs, and identify new growth opportunities. This surge in AI adoption has led to a rising demand for professionals who not only understand AI technologies but can also apply them effectively to resolve real business issues.

Graduates from this program report an average salary of nearly $80,000, with a median of $84,000, underscoring the increasing value of practical AI skills in the job market.

Program Highlights

• Applied curriculum emphasizing artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science
• Hands-on learning with industry-relevant AI tools and technologies
• Focus on ethical AI practices
• Instruction from industry-recognized professionals with practical experience
• Career preparation support, including resume building
• Opportunities for student membership in the Canadian Artificial Intelligence Association and Tech Manitoba

Tuition & Fees

• Tuition Costs: $13,100, which includes a $100 UWSA Fee (costs are tentative).
• Textbook Expenses: $1,000 - $1,500, depending on selection choices (new, rental, used, or electronic).

Duration

The program spans 12 months, with classes scheduled Monday through Friday. The schedule may vary, potentially including daytime or evening sessions from 9 AM to 9 PM. Students will experience two breaks of one week during the program as well as a two-week winter break.

Ideal Candidate

This program is suitable for individuals who are:

• Curious about the transformative impact of AI across industries
• Eager to solve problems utilizing technology and data
• Interested in gaining practical AI and machine learning skills
• Seeking career-ready skills in demand across various sectors

Learning Model

The program adopts a hybrid learning model, integrating in-class sessions with live online instruction and scheduled online coursework. This structure allows for dynamic and adaptive educational experiences, promoting engagement between students and instructors while developing essential workplace skills such as digital collaboration and effective communication.

Objectives & Outcomes

Objectives

The program aims to equip graduates to:

• Design, develop, and implement practical artificial intelligence solutions for real-world challenges
• Establish a strong foundation in machine learning, data science, and responsible AI practices

Outcomes

Graduates will be able to:

• Prepare AI-Ready Data: Implement data acquisition, management, and preparation processes for AI applications.
• Develop Intelligent Solutions: Utilize machine learning techniques and statistical methods to address real-world problems.
• Design AI Architectures: Create supportive frameworks for AI implementation within organizations.
• Identify AI Opportunities: Evaluate business challenges and recommend appropriate AI solutions.
• Apply Responsible AI Practices: Engage with ethical, legal, privacy, and societal considerations throughout the AI lifecycle.
• Implement AI Solutions: Design, test, and deploy practical AI applications.

Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

• An undergraduate degree or college diploma in Business, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or Physics.
• Significant work experience in data analysis may be considered on an exceptional basis if an applicant lacks a degree/diploma.

Programming knowledge is strongly recommended.

Work Experience

• Applicants with an IT degree earned within the last two years that included courses in Python, JSON, and SQL are not required to provide work experience.
• Those without a related degree must have a minimum of one year of relevant work experience within the last five years, utilizing Python and SQL, with additional experience in Java and XML preferred.

English Language Proficiency

Applicants with previous education not completed in Canada must provide proof of meeting accepted English language proficiency measures.

Accreditation

Graduates will be academically prepared to pursue professional certification as an Artificial Intelligence Engineer (AIE) through the Artificial Intelligence Board of America (ARTiBA).

Course Descriptions

• AI & Machine Learning Theory & Practice
• Applied Statistics for Data Science
• Big Data Platforms
• Data Acquisition & Management for Data Science
• Database & Programming Essentials for Data Science
• Effective Oral Communication
• Effective Written Communication
• Foundations of Data Science
• Indigenous Insights
• Introduction to Machine Learning
• Project in AI & Machine Learning
• Project Management Fundamentals
• Resume Building & Job Search Techniques
• Topics in Data Science
• Writing for Academic Success
• Generative AI in the Workplace
• Business Fundamentals

Student Life

The program offers extensive support services to enhance student success, including:

• Dedicated Recruitment Coaching
• Academic Support Services
• Career Advising
• Networking Opportunities
• Access to University Resources
• Inclusivity Support Services

Career Opportunities

Graduates may pursue various career paths, including:

• Data Scientist
• AI Programmer/Specialist/Engineer
• Machine Learning Engineer/Specialist
• AI/ML Researcher
• AI/ML Data Architect
• Deep Learning Engineer

Certifications

Upon completing the program, students earn the Artificial Intelligence Diploma and are prepared to pursue certification as an Artificial Intelligence Engineer (AIE) through ARTiBA.

Technical Requirements

Students must have a laptop that meets the program requirements, which include specifications for both PC and Apple hardware.

Additional Comments

Students will have opportunities to connect with Canada's AI community, accessing professional development, networking opportunities, and relevant industry events as part of their experience in the Artificial Intelligence Diploma program.

This program is designed to prepare individuals to thrive in the growing field of artificial intelligence and its applications across diverse sectors.

The University of Winnipeg Professional, Applied and Continuing Education (PACE) is the continuing and professional education division of The University of Winnipeg, one of Canada's leading liberal arts and sciences universities. Since 1972, PACE has been nurturing minds and advancing careers through high quality, dynamic and innovative programs, offering more than 600 full-time and part-time programs, courses and seminars across a wide range of career and academic fields.

PACE is located in Buhler Centre in the heart of downtown Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. It operates under the academic umbrella and outstanding reputation of The University of Winnipeg, which is recognised nationally for academics, inclusion and socially just values. PACE students have access to UWinnipeg's broader campus community, facilities and student services while benefiting from PACE's focused, career-aligned and flexible programming.

Mission and educational philosophy

In a world of constant change, lifelong learning is a means to success. PACE's mission is to expand the potential of every student through a unique education model that blends university-level academics with practical, hands-on experience. Programs are designed in high-growth career fields with strong employment prospects, and are continually evolving to meet the changing needs of the job market.

The success of students is at the heart of everything PACE does. PACE provides unparalleled advantages including small class sizes and industry-aligned programs taught by accomplished professionals who bring real-world knowledge directly into the classroom. PACE's connections to industry leaders, professional associations and the local community provide additional benefits and often serve as a bridge to employment. 96% of PACE students reported satisfaction with the quality of their education.

Full-time diploma programs

PACE's full-time diploma programs are designed in collaboration with industry to prepare graduates for in-demand careers, delivered in just over one year. They combine applied learning, experienced instructors and real-world projects to enable graduates to transition confidently into the workforce. Current full-time programs include:

• Advanced Project Management and Technology Diploma (Hybrid)
• Applied Data Analytics Diploma (In-Class)
• Artificial Intelligence Diploma (In-Class)
• Business Analysis and Transformation Program (Hybrid)
• Construction Project Management Diploma (Hybrid)
• Educational Assistant Diploma (Hybrid)
• Human Resource Management Diploma — Accelerated (Hybrid)
• Strategic Communications and Digital Marketing Diploma (Hybrid)
• Supply Chain Management Diploma (Hybrid)

Part-time programs and courses

PACE's part-time offer spans evening, weekend and online formats, making it accessible to working professionals, career changers and lifelong learners at every stage. Over 600 part-time programs, courses and seminars are available across areas including project management, human resources, business management, network and ICT security, big data and machine learning, marketing, public relations and strategic communication. A dedicated Part-Time Timetable and online registration system allow students to plan and manage their studies flexibly.

Corporate Solutions

PACE's Corporate Solutions division works directly with organisations to design and deliver customised workplace training. From skill upgrading to leadership development and sector-specific professional development, Corporate Solutions provides tailored programmes that meet the needs of Manitoba employers and their teams, delivered on-site or at PACE facilities.

55 Plus Program

In partnership with The University of Winnipeg, PACE supports the 55 Plus Program, which offers mature learners the opportunity to audit regular UWinnipeg courses and engage in lifelong learning at the university level.

International students

PACE welcomes international students from around the world to its full-time diploma programs, offering a pathway to career-focused Canadian post-secondary education in Winnipeg. Dedicated support covers admission requirements, the study permit and immigration process, tuition and fees for international students, homestay and accommodation, student life and living in Winnipeg, and graduation and future pathways. PACE also runs regular live webinars for prospective international students and publishes detailed fact sheets and publications. International student success stories are featured on the PACE website, highlighting the career outcomes of graduates from a wide range of countries.

Pathways to UWinnipeg

PACE provides formal pathways for students to continue from PACE diploma programs into degree programs at The University of Winnipeg. Transfer credit arrangements allow eligible PACE graduates to apply their completed coursework towards a UWinnipeg undergraduate degree, extending the academic value of a PACE qualification and opening doors to further university-level study.

Internships and career development

Work-integrated learning is a core feature of PACE's full-time programs. Students have access to internship placements with industry partners, career development activities including résumé writing, interview preparation and job search support, networking opportunities, guest speakers and career fairs. PACE's industry connections across Manitoba mean that internship partners and employer contacts are embedded into program design from the start.

Industry partners

PACE works with a broad network of industry and community partners across Manitoba to ensure programs remain current, relevant and directly connected to the job market. Partners contribute to curriculum development, provide internship placements and participate in networking and career events. Current partners include:

• ACI Manitoba (Creative Manitoba)
• Winnipeg Harvest
• Investors Group
• People First HR Services
• CPA (Canadian Payroll Association)
• Great-West Life
• Canadian Youth Business Foundation
• Vine Multimedia
• George and Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation
• Pinnacle
• Pembina Trails School Division
• Seven Oaks School Division
• Organization and Staff Development, Government of Manitoba (with a formal articulation agreement for credit transfer toward UW Professional Studies programs)

Why UWinnipeg PACE

1. Over 50 years of professional, applied and continuing education since 1972, under the academic umbrella of The University of Winnipeg
2. More than 600 full-time and part-time programs, courses and seminars across high-growth career fields, delivered full-time, part-time, evenings, weekends and online
3. Full-time diploma programs designed with industry and delivered in just over one year, combining applied learning, real-world projects and career development
4. Small class sizes taught by experienced industry practitioners, with a 96% student satisfaction rate
5. A clear pathway from PACE diploma programs into undergraduate degrees at The University of Winnipeg through formal transfer credit arrangements
6. Internship programmes and employer connections built into full-time programs, with a broad Manitoba industry partner network
7. A welcoming, inclusive and socially just university environment in the heart of downtown Winnipeg, one of Canada's most multicultural cities