Program Overview

Introduction to Python and Data Science Tools (DATASCI 217)

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to essential tools and skills for data science, focusing on Python programming and industry-relevant tools. Students will learn command line basics, version control with Git, documentation with Markdown, remote execution, and high-performance computing (HPC). Integrated throughout the course, the Python component covers syntax, flow control, data management, visualization, libraries for data science, and algorithms and data structures common in interviews.

Objectives

At the conclusion of this course, students will be able to:

• Navigate the command line, execute file operations, write shell scripts, and execute commands remotely using SSH.
• Use Git for version control, including branching, merging, collaboration on GitHub, and documenting with Markdown.
• Develop Python scripts for data management, visualization, and basic machine learning with applications in research and industry.

Prerequisites

• BIOSTAT 213 or equivalent (knowledge of probability/statistics and familiarity with programming concepts, e.g., from using R).
• This course is part of the Health Data Science Masters and Certificate Program and may have space limitations.

Faculty

• Course Director: Christopher Seaman, MA

Format

• Weekly lectures with demonstration and hands-on exercises.
• Lectures will be held on Wednesday, 8:45 to 10:15 AM, September 17 through December 10.
• Labs will be held on Wednesdays, 1 PM - 2:30 PM, September 17 through December 10.
• This will be a variable 1-2 unit course.
  • Students taking the 1 unit version will complete the first five weeks focused on basic Python and complementary data science tools (Git, shell scripting, remote execution).
  • Students taking the 2 unit version will continue for the full 10-week course, delving deeper into Python programming.

Materials

• All course materials and handouts will be posted on the course's online syllabus.

Grading

• Only UCSF students (defined as individuals enrolled in UCSF degree or certificate programs) will receive academic credit for courses.
• Official transcripts are available to UCSF students only.
• A Certificate of Course Completion will be available upon request to individuals who are not UCSF students and satisfactorily pass all course requirements.

Policies

• UCSF Graduate Division Policy on Disabilities applies to this course.