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MSc Data Science

University of Witwatersrand
Johannesburg , South Africa
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Duration
2 years
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Program Details
Degree
Masters
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview

Introduction to the MSc in Data Science

The MSc by Coursework and Research Report in the field of Data Science provides students with an interdisciplinary perspective on the emerging fields of Data Science. This field integrates various relevant disciplines such as statistics, computing, communication, management, and sociology to turn data into actionable insights.


Overview

The coursework covers topics including statistical modeling, machine learning, data visualization, big data technologies, data ethics, and domain-specific applications. These topics equip students with the skills to analyze and interpret complex datasets and drive data-informed decision-making.


Why Data Science?

Data Science is the driving force behind decision-making in todays data-rich world. It enables organizations and individuals to make data-driven decisions, improve operational efficiency, and innovate across industries ranging from healthcare and finance to technology and entertainment. With an ever-growing reliance on data, the demand for skilled data scientists continues to rise in both industry and academia.


Why Wits?

The University of the Witwatersrand has developed an MSc by Coursework and Research Report (CW/RR) in Data Science in response to the growing demand for data expertise. This program offers candidates the chance to develop cutting-edge analytical skills by engaging in an intensive coursework component and then applying these skills in a research setting through a mini dissertation.


Career Opportunities

A master's degree in data science opens diverse career opportunities across industries. Graduates can work as data scientists, analysts, or engineers, leveraging advanced statistical, machine learning, and programming skills to extract insights from data. Roles like AI specialists, business intelligence analysts, and data consultants are in high demand in technology, healthcare, finance, and marketing sectors.


Curriculum

Compulsory Courses

  • COMS7061A Research Report: Data Science
  • COMS7047A Adaptive Computation and Machine Learning
  • COMS7055A Data Privacy and Ethics
  • COMS7056A Data Visualisation and Exploration
  • COMS7060A Research Methods and Capstone Project in Data Science
  • COMS7063A Statistical Foundations of Data Science

Elective Courses

  • COMS7041A Applications of Algorithms
  • COMS7044A Artificial Intelligence
  • COMS7045A High-Performance Computing and Scientific Data Management
  • COMS7048A Multi-Agent Systems
  • COMS7049A Robotics
  • COMS7050A Computer Vision
  • COMS7053A Special Topics in Computer Science
  • COMS7056A Data Privacy and Ethics
  • COMS7057A Large Scale Optimisation and Data Science
  • COMS7058A Mathematical Foundations of Data Science
  • COMS7059A Large Scale Computing Systems and Scientific Programming
  • COMS7062A Special Topics in Data Science
  • COMS7065A Computational Intelligence
  • COMS7066A Natural Language Technology
  • COMS7069A Advanced Topics in Robotics
  • COMS7071A Reinforcement Learning

Entry Requirements

  • Applicants require a minimum average of 75 percent.
  • Applicants are required to have a Bachelor of Science with Honours degree from a relevant discipline in Science (Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, and Statistics) or a relevant NQF level 8 qualification.
  • Alternatively, a relevant Professional Engineering Degree with demonstrable knowledge of basic principles of Algorithms, Computing, Calculus, Linear Algebra, Probability, and Statistics equivalent to 2nd Year Mathematics and 2nd Year Computer Science.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there a part-time option for this degree and how does the schedule differ from the full-time degree?

A: There is a part-time option. Part-time students attend the same lectures as full-time students but take fewer courses at any given time, spreading the degree over a longer period.


Q: How strict are the minimum requirements with respect to formal Mathematics and Computer Science courses?

A: The minimum requirements are strict. Unless applicants have taken two years of Mathematics and Computer Science courses, they do not meet the minimum requirements.


Q: Can I use extensive work experience in a relevant field as justification for my admission to the programme?

A: Yes, this is possible through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), but it is a rigorous process requiring demonstration of a strong technical background in Computer Science, Mathematics, and Statistics.


University Application Process

Applications are handled centrally by the Student Enrolment Centre (SEnC). Once an application is complete, it is referred to the relevant School for assessment. Applicants can monitor the progress of their applications via the Self Service Portal.


University Fees and Funding

The current average tuition fees can be found on the Fees site, which also provides information about the payment of fees and closing dates for fees payments. The University's Postgraduate Funding portal is a database of scholarships, bursaries, and other funding opportunities available to Wits postgraduate students.


Programme Details

  • Programme Code: SCA00
  • Faculty: Science
  • School: Computer Science and Applied Mathematics
  • Qualification: MSc
  • Duration: Full-time: 1 year coursework and 1 year research. Part-time: 2 years coursework and 1 to 2 years research
  • Study Mode: Full-time; Part-time
  • Closing Date: 31 December
  • Programme Coordinator: Dr Devon Jarvis
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