IIE Postgraduate Diploma in Data Analytics

Are you an analytical thinker who loves turning raw data into actionable insights?

Master the tools and techniques to transform complex data into strategic business insights

About this qualification

The purpose of the IIE Postgraduate Diploma in Data Analytics, available at Emeris, is to undertake advanced reflection using systemic thinking, practices and research methods in data analytics. The programme aims to further the development of fundamental knowledge in Big Data, Data Visualisation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and Statistics. Upon completion of the programme, graduates would have attained the theoretical and technical skills in Data Analytics to inform business decisions and articulate into an appropriate Master’s degree.

Since the aim of the qualification is to develop a Data Analyst who is equipped with theoretical, technical and practical knowledge, it is all important that graduates attain a thorough grounding in statistical and mathematical fundamentals. Therefore, the Statistical and Mathematical Analysis module will provide students with mathematical and statistical theory, concepts and practical knowledge which are required to interpret and interrogate data.

Course

Admission requirements

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • An appropriate HEQSF Level 7 Bachelor’s degree; OR
  • An appropriate Advanced Diploma; OR
  • An equivalent NQF Level 7 qualification
  • International Applicants: A SAQA Evaluation Certificate with NQF L7 equivalence in an appropriate field.
  • Notes: The qualification must include modules that provided the applicant with at least an introductory level background in programming, databases, and statistical or numerical methods. Alternatively, the candidate must have a minimum of 3 years’ experience working in a data analytics role; or they must first complete additional modules or short courses that will provide them with an introductory level background in programming, databases, and statistical or numerical methods. Example modules would include Programming 1A, Databases, and Mathematical Principles for Computer Science; or alternatively short courses such as Python or Java programming, database theory, and statistical or numerical methods.

For alternative admission options, please click here or reach out to student recruitment.

Please note, requirements for entry to this qualification are correct at the time of publication, however, these may change.

Curriculum

1 Year Structure:

Year 1 – Semester 1

  • DANA8411: The purpose of this module is to introduce students to data analytics and big data (structured and unstructured). Students will be equipped with theoretical and practical knowledge to undertake basic data analytics for simple business problems.
  • SMAA8411: This module introduces mathematical and statistical techniques, models, and algorithms that underly data analytics.
  • PDAN8411: This module deepens and extends existing programming and development of knowledge and skills into specialist field of Data Analytics. Students use appropriate software tools to retrieve, prepare, explore, model data and present the result to solve business problems.
  • RPDA8411: The purpose of this module is to expose students to the theoretical and practical knowledge in proposal development. Students are exposed to
  • fundamental aspects such as philosophy of science, methodology and research planning.

Year 1 – Semester 2

  • DANA8412: This module builds on the foundational knowledge of Data Analytics 1 module. The purpose of this module is to develop the knowledge, skills and practical application of machine learning, statistical methods, artificial intelligence and algorithmic processes to inform business processes and decisions.
  • DASC8412: This module introduces students to the fundamental concepts, principles, tools and techniques of data science. Students will be able to identify various ways of preparing, managing, exploring and visualising data to provide insight into specific business problems.
  • PDAN8412: The purpose of this module is to build on the knowledge and skills gained in Programming for Data Analytics 1 and to develop scalable solutions using data analytics to solve business problems using machine learning algorithms, models and methods.
  • RPDA8412: The purpose of this module is to develop students’ skills in critical analysis, and academic discourse to complete a self-directed research project in data analytics, culminating in a research report.

Study further with our pathways

In the IIE Faculty of Science and Technology: School of Computer Science, graduates of the Postgraduate Diploma in Data Analytics can articulate into the Master of Strategic Information and Communication Technology Management

Accreditation

The IIE Postgraduate Diploma in Data Analytics is accredited by the Higher Education Quality Council (HEQC) of the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and is registered by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) as a 120-credit qualification on level 8 (SAQA ID: 117788).

Career opportunities

  • Data analyst
  • Data scientist
  • Data engineer
  • Big data analyst
  • Business intelligence analyst
  • Quantitative analyst
  • Any field that requires the analysis of data to yield strategic value

Teaching and Learning strategy

At Emeris, we believe that effective teaching is about creating experiences that foster student growth. Our academic team design activities that challenge students and identify their strengths, allowing for real-time adaptation in the learning journey. By combining subject expertise with teaching insights and digital tools, we extend learning beyond the classroom. This approach ensures students not only keep up but thrive.

Device specifications required for School of Computer Science Full Time Students:

NOTE: It is advised that you purchase your own :

  • 500GB HDD
  • 8GB RAM minimum


Should you wish to run Android Studio on your laptop- you will need the following:

  • Processor: i5/i7
  • RAM: 32GB
  • HDD: 500GB SSD


Students will also receive access to a Virtual Machine to run required software – this is accessible from your own device as well or can be accessed via the campuses’ lab Computers.

Programme information

Duration

1 year full-time


Intakes

February



Mode/s of study


Information

  • Postgraduate Diploma
  • Course code: PDDA0801
  • NQF Level: 8
  • Credits: 120
  • SAQA ID: 117788

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