FAQ

The Data Sciences Institute is a University of Toronto hub and incubator for data science research, training, and partnerships. The DSI’s mission is to provide leadership and capacity to catalyze the transformative nature of data sciences across a broad range of disciplines. 

This Machine Learning Foundations microcredential is designed for learners who already have foundational data science skills and are interested in building practical machine learning capabilities for applied and production-oriented contexts. It is well suited for those who have completed the Data Science Foundations microcredential or who bring equivalent experience in data analysis and basic coding. 

This offering is appropriate for individuals seeking to upskill or formalize existing machine learning experience, as well as those preparing for roles that involve developing, deploying, or supporting machine learning systems. 

Learners may include professionals and researchers from industry, government, academia, or non-profit sectors who work with data and want to deepen their understanding of how machine learning models are implemented, evaluated, and maintained in real-world settings. 

 Yes. This microcredential is designed for learners who already have foundational data science skills. 

Completion of the Data Science Foundations microcredential, or equivalent experience, is required. Learners are expected to be comfortable with: 

• Unix shell and Git for reproducible workflows 

• Python for data analysis and model implementation 

• SQL for working with structured data 

• Foundational statistical modeling concepts, including linear regression and classification 

This microcredential builds on the skills developed in Data Science Foundations and focuses on applied machine learning practices used in research and industry settings. Learners gain hands-on experience with core machine learning workflows, algorithms, and system-level considerations that support building, evaluating, and maintaining machine learning models in real-world contexts.  

Through applied exercises and a case study, learners strengthen their analytical and computational skills and develop confidence working with more complex datasets, models, and workflows. The microcredential provides a flexible pathway to deepen machine learning expertise, enhance a résumé, and earn a University of Toronto Data Sciences Institute–branded credential that can be stacked with Data Science Foundations toward the Data Science and Machine Learning Certificate. 

The microcredential modules are offered live, online over a six-week period. 

Sessions are held three days per week for 2.5 hours per day (Tuesday–Thursday, 6:00–8:30 PM). Optional support and facilitated work periods with learning support staff are available for half an hour before and after each class, as well as Fridays from 1:00–2:30 PM. During these sessions, participants can ask questions and receive help with assignments; no new material is introduced. 

This microcredential features an applied case study in Algorithms & Data Structures, giving participants hands-on experience working with real-world datasets. These case studies provide practical insight into common data analysis workflows and help bridge the gap between foundational concepts and applied data science practice.   

Evaluation: Completion of this microcredential is evaluated based on successful completion of assignments and achievement of the learning outcomes. 

Participants must attend synchronous sessions for about 7.5 hours per week over eight weeks. Sessions include homework and assessments designed to help you apply newly learned skills and demonstrate your understanding. 

Full engagement is essential because new topics are introduced each week, and timely completion of assessments ensures you keep pace with the course. 

A recording can be made available to you upon request.

U of T staff may be eligible to apply for the Staff Tuition Waiver for this microcredential, depending on their employee group and how the learning relates to their role. For details and the application form, please see the central tuition waiver information and consult with your manager and HR.

Waiver forms are available through the People Strategy, Equity & Culture website. Please note that the application process is managed by your divisional HR office. Interested staff should use the existing Staff Tuition Waiver form and include a link to the Data Science Foundations webpage and the registration fee (pre-tax). Central Benefits will determine eligibility and the amount that can be covered on an individual basis.  If approved, you will be provided guidance on the payment process and recording microcredential completion.

Learn more and access the form here.

Yes, U of T postdoctoral fellows can register for Data Science Foundations.

Postdoctoral fellows can explore funding support through the School of Graduate Studies Professional Development Reimbursement for Postdoctoral Fellows . Please contact your unit’s HR representative for guidance.

Within four to six weeks of successful completion, you will receive your microcredential badge indicating achievement of the outlined learning outcomes and competencies. Microcredentials are tamper-proof, verifiable, blockchain-based, and 100% digital, and can be included on your résumé and shared on social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Facebook. 

Learners who complete both the Data Science Foundations microcredential and the Machine Learning Foundations microcredential are eligible to receive the Data Science and Machine Learning certificate. Learners who have completed a full DSI certificate may email the DSI team to request a certificate request form. Once submitted, the certificate will be issued electronically as a PDF via email. 

Participants may withdraw from the microcredential at any time by requesting withdrawal via email.

• Refunds are eligible only if the withdrawal request is received at least twenty-five (25) working days before the start date.
• Refunds are issued to the original payee via the original method of payment. Please include your payment receipt when requesting a refund.
• Refunds are subject to a $75 CAD administrative charge per microcredential.
• No refunds are possible if your request is submitted less than twenty-five (25) working days before the start date.
• Requests to defer enrolment will not be accommodated.

All cancellation requests must be sent by email to courses.dsi@utoronto.ca.

Yes. Participants receive the T2202 Tuition and Enrolment Certificate. T2202 forms are issued based on the year the microcredential is completed—not the year when payment was made.