McMaster's DeGroote School of Business is launching three new flexible artificial intelligence programs.
McMaster University's DeGroote School of Business has unveiled a suite of new artificial intelligence programs aimed at professionals looking to integrate technology into their careers.
The new programs are perfectly timed as the Canadian government is investing heavily in artificial intelligence in the workplace and in education initiatives as part of its 2025 budget.
“By building an AI ecosystem at DeGroote, the school can become a leader in closing the largest AI gap in the Canadian economy.”
Despite Canada being home to one of the strongest AI research ecosystems in the world, it still lags far behind other countries in actually integrating AI into business operations, according to CD Howe Institute.
Today is only about 12 percent of enterprises report the use of AI to produce goods and provide services. And when it comes to AI learning and literacy, KPMG ranks Canada 44th out of 47 countries.
This is a gap that McMaster University is trying to close.
“AI requires data infrastructure, governance and, most importantly, human expertise and participation to unlock the value we seek,” said Manaf Zargoush, faculty director of the new Center for Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence at the McLean DeGroote Center for Collaborative Research. “By building an AI ecosystem at DeGroote, I believe the school can become a leader in closing the largest AI gap in the Canadian economy, applied responsibly and effectively.”
Here's an overview of DeGroot's new programs and who they're for.
Master of Management in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Data-Driven Decision Making
This is a new graduate program designed for working professionals who want to integrate artificial intelligence and analytics into their daily work.
Master of Management in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Data-Driven Decision Making is a part-time program designed to help managers lead data-driven initiatives, work effectively with analytics teams, and apply artificial intelligence in real-world business contexts. This is not a technical program; no coding required.
“Our perspective on AI programming is unique because most existing initiatives focus heavily on the technical side, which Canada is already strong in, rather than on the application side, which remains a fundamental challenge for Canadian businesses,” Zargoush said.
The 20-month program, designed for professionals with at least four years of experience, combines in-person weekend classes with online learning, giving students the opportunity to learn new skills while continuing to work full-time. The first cohort will begin in January 2026, and applications for future cohorts will be accepted on a rolling basis.
Master of Management in Artificial Intelligence and Analytics
Full day program Master of Management in Artificial Intelligence and AnalyticsAimed at new professionals and recent graduates, the 16-month program provides hands-on training in tools such as Python, R, SQL, Tableau and major cloud platforms. It is designed to combine technical data skills with business strategy backed by real industry experience.
“AI is transforming the workforce, and business schools and our programs must adapt to this challenge,” said Manish Verma, associate dean of graduate education. “Earlier this year McKinsey assessed AI Performance Potential $4.4 trillion across industries, and PwC just recently reported that AI experts not only receive wage increases, but also contribute to employment growth. The message is clear: we must prepare students to thrive in today's economy.”
Data-driven decision making has evolved from a nice-to-have skill to an essential skill. DeGroote's goal is for students to not only understand how AI works, but also know how to use it responsibly, use it to succeed in their roles, and achieve meaningful business results.
Graduate Academic Certificate in Data Science, Applied Artificial Intelligence and Organizational Leadership
For working managers who need a more concise and focused introduction to these concepts, the new Graduate Academic Certificate in Data Science, Applied Artificial Intelligence and Organizational Leadership could be perfect.
Over the course of four months, students take three courses and learn to develop and implement actionable AI and data strategies using tools such as chatbots, AI Agenda, Azure AI and Power BI. The program is designed for middle managers who want to increase their influence by implementing AI and driving organizational change.
“Middle managers face the dual challenge of maintaining their current performance while reimagining their potential in a rapidly changing environment,” said Khaled Hassanein, dean of the DeGroote School of Business. “This certification will not only give them the technical literacy, but also the strategic and ethical foundation needed to confidently and authoritatively lead AI initiatives.”
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All images courtesy of McMaster University.
