TORONTO, ON--(Marketwired - Jan 10, 2014) - In a pioneering step to provide students with a competitive edge, Seneca College is integrating Marketwired's social media monitoring and analytics solutions, powered by Sysomos, into its unique Social Media Graduate Certificate program.

Students will learn the ins-and-outs of Marketwired's MAP and Heartbeat solutions. MAP offers sophisticated research and analytics capabilities to tap into the social media universe, find the conversations that count, see why they're happening and identify who's driving them. Heartbeat is an easy-to-use monitoring and engagement tool that allows users to tune in to social media conversations, track brand mentions, identify and engage with key influencers, as well as understand metrics including buzz and sentiment.

"We are delighted to partner with Marketwired to provide students with the hands-on training that will prepare them for exciting careers in the growing social media industry," said Bhupesh Shah, Coordinator of Seneca's Social Media Graduate Certificate program.

After completing Seneca's social media program, students will be eligible to successfully pass a Marketwired certification MAP and Heartbeat exam. Armed with this industry-recognized certification, Seneca grads will be highly desirable to employers. According to a recent analysis by Indeed.com, a global job search engine, there has been a spike in recruiters looking for employees with specific social media skill sets.

"Social media is integral to the future of business. We applaud Seneca for being forward thinking in their program offerings and identifying the need to equip graduates with skills in social media monitoring and analytics," said Jim Delaney, Marketwired CEO. "This partnership reinforces our commitment to providing students and professionals with the tools and knowledge they need to harness the power of social media influence in their industry."

About Seneca
With campuses across the Greater Toronto Area, Seneca offers degrees, diplomas and certificates renowned for their quality and respected by employers. Combining the highest academic standards with practical, hands-on learning, expert teaching faculty and the latest technology ensures Seneca graduates are career-ready.

Find out more at www.senecacollege.ca
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About Marketwired
 Partnering with companies of all sizes -- from start-ups to Fortune 500 enterprises -- Marketwired is an innovative, social communications company offering best-in-class, global news distribution and reporting. Powered by Sysomos, Marketwired's products also provide state-of-the-art social media monitoring and analytics. This critical business intelligence provides instant and unlimited access to all social media conversations, allowing brands to see what's happening, why it's happening, and who's driving the conversations.

Marketwired is majority-owned by OMERS Private Equity (www.omerspe.com).