The UBC Master of Data Science programs partner computer science and statistics experts, providing the foundation for a comprehensive approach, as these two disciplines are at the very core of the emerging field of Data Science. Through active and flexible learning techniques, students will be given the opportunity to put theory into practice and to work with real-world data.
Students learn from faculty working at the forefront of their fields. Internationally respected, these leading researchers collaborate with industries, governments and organizations to develop innovative solutions and make a tangible difference to our world. These thought leaders are passionate about their work, committed to student education and eager to share their knowledge.
"I am passionate about the field of data science and look forward to connecting with employers, program alumni, and enthusiastic students who share my dedication to this exciting discipline."
Jean Caballero is an accomplished professional with over 7 years of experience in an administrative support role at UBC. Holding a Bachelor of Arts degree from Simon Fraser University, she has a strong academic foundation. Previously, Jean served as an executive assistant to the Computer Science Department Head, refining her organizational and administrative skills. In her current role as MDS ...
“The MDS Computational Linguistics program is where rigorous data science meets the complexity of human language. What excites me most is watching students arrive with raw potential and leave with the confidence—and skillset—to shape how the world uses AI and language.”
Tom Coules is the Program Manager for the Master of Data Science in Computational Linguistics . He works closely with students, faculty, and partners to support every stage of the program—from recruitment to graduation—making sure the experience is both academically strong and personally supportive. Tom is passionate about building thoughtful systems, fostering community, and helping students ...
“The continued growth of Data Science jobs across many different industries and the ability to impact business, community and societal decisions makes this a really exciting field of work to be in.”
Angela Pau is an advisor and educator with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals to reach their career goals. She has a Bachelor of Arts from Simon Fraser University and has experience working in both the public and non-profit sector. At UBC she has developed career programming for both undergraduate and graduate students across a multitude of faculties and departments. She also has ...
Graduate Program Assistant, MDS Computational Linguistics
"The MDS Computational Linguistics program prepares students for professional jobs in data science and computational linguistics. Their passion for this field is what makes me enthusiastic about my job to work with them."
Adrianne Chang received her BA in Linguistics and Language Education at the University of British Columbia. She supports graduate students in the MDS Computational Linguistics program as well as the MA and PhD Linguistics program at UBC Vancouver. She's passionate about helping current and prospective students in the program through their academic journey.
"I am always amazed and blown away with all the students who pass through the MDS program. They all come from diverse backgrounds who learn from each other as they go through this intensive 10-month program on their path to a new career in data science."
Vanessa Ho obtained her Bachelor's of Journalism degree from the University of Regina and worked for four years as a technology journalist in Toronto. Vanessa moved back to Vancouver in 2008 and transitioned into a career as a digital content creator for a variety of technology companies in the Vancouver area. She started at the MDS program in 2018 as the marketing coordinator chronicling the MDS ...
“With the vast amount of data in the world, learning about the creative ways in which students use data to make meaningful insights is inspiring.”
Hema Ratnasami completed her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at the University of Northern British Columbia in Prince George. After which she returned to the Lower Mainland to work in Human Resources at a local aerospace company. She has been an administrative staff member at UBC since 2020 starting with Financial Operations before moving onto the School of Biomedical ...
"I love how data science skills are used to show the breadth of knowledge in all fields, particularly for marine biology in my case. The more visuals the better!"
Zac move to Canada from Australia in August of 2021 and joined the MDS team in January 2022 as a TA whilst studying his Masters of Science in Oceans and Fisheries at UBC. Prior to his time at UBC, Zac worked as an IT Support Assistant and an Aquarium Aquarist whilst he studied a combination of Marine Biology & Web Development. Zac looks forward to being a part of the learning journey for the next ...
"The applications of data science have grown tremendously, and businesses are always looking for new and improved ways of interpreting and leveraging data. The MDS program empowers students to become successful professionals in a high-demand field."
Betty Zhao graduated from the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business with a combined major in business and computer science. She was born in Johannesburg but grew up in Shanghai. She has also lived in Gaborone for six years before coming to Vancouver. Since January 2022, she is honored to work as the course coordinator for the MDS program, and is passionate about helping ...
“The MDS program provides students the tools they need to tackle real-world problems in a variety of industries. Focusing on both theoretical and applied aspects of data science, the faculty at MDS strive to prepare students to be successful outside of the classroom.”
Katie completed her PhD in Statistics at the University of Alberta where her academic work focused on increasing the computational efficiency of nonparametric approaches such as bootstrapping using concentration of measure. Prior to that, she completed her undergraduate and master’s degrees in Mathematics and Statistics, respectively. Katie has a passion for statistical outreach and education and ...
