About the MSDS Program:

Data Science lies at the intersection of machine learning, stochastic models, linear algebra and big data analysis. The MSDS program prepares students to extract valuable insights from data through a robust and comprehensive methodology. The program is designed for students who want to begin or advance their careers in the field of data science. The vision of the program is that our graduates create an impact in the industry.

MSDS develops a strong foundation in statistical modeling, probabilistic and Bayesian reasoning, machine learning, deep learning, business intelligence, and management of massive data sets. The program targets both CS/SE/IT and STEM students and prepares them to apply the knowledge of Data Science to a wide range of corporate domains.

Each year, the admission cycle starts from the Fall semester. Only Non-CS/SE/IT students are eligible for admission in Fall and are required to take foundation courses. Then, in the ensuing Spring semester, only CS-students are inducted are are joined by skilled Non-CS intake of the previous Fall semester to complete core courses.

The potential of this program in terms of imparting useful advanced computing skills and professional growth is measured by the readiness of the job market and advanced learning schools in absorbing graduates. The curriculum design ensures that the graduates can creatively find technology-based solutions, think critically and analyze systems and emerging problems independently.

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAM

• Develop a competitive blend of theoretical and practical (hands-on) skills, centered on statistics, probability, linear algebra, optimization, machine learning and all prominent dimensions of data analytics.
• Develop a unique mindset of problem solving and analytical thinking, due to the severely practical and comprehensive conduct of courses.
• Prepare students to bring a revolutionary change by initiating and enhancing data science initiatives in their respective corporate sectors by employing the skills and knowledge acquired in this program.
• Facilitate job promotion for students, from mid-level IT/analytics positions to senior-level positions by adding to their skills and academic qualifications.
• Engage students with qualified faculty of international recognition and encourage them to undertake research that may potentially lead to doctoral work.

CATEGORIES

MS CS has three basic categories: MS with Thesis, MS with Project and MS with Coursework.

MS with Thesis: To be eligible for MS Thesis, it is required to first complete 18 credit hours of course work and have a minimum CGPA of 3.00 or above (from 18 credit hours). Students should opt for Thesis only if they are interested in a research/PhD career path. It should be supervised by a permanent faculty member. The student first registers in MS Thesis-I (3 credit hours). On successful completion (pass grade), it would be required to register and complete MS Thesis-II (3 credit hours) in the consequent semester. It is strictly advised to complete the thesis in these two consecutive semesters. The format for MS Thesis is show below.

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MS With Project: To be eligible for MS Project, it is required to complete 24 credit hours of course work and have a minimum CGPA of 3.00 or above (from 24 credit hours). The MS Project is an industrial implementation which solves a critical and required industrial problem. However, it can also be a prototype which solves an academic research problem. The MS Project must also be supervised by a permanent faculty member, or jointly by permanent faculty and an industrial counterpart. We have designed and uploaded report templates to ensure quality and impact of MS Project.

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MS with Coursework: In MS with Coursework, the student does not opt for MS Thesis or MS Project and takes ten academic courses to complete 30 credit hours.

CURRICULUM OF THE PROGRAM

*BS (CS) graduates are exempted from the foundation courses. For other candidates, the interview panel will decide which foundation courses are exempted.

**Students have option to take 1 additional course and an MS Research Project in place of MS Thesis.

MSDS COURSES

The foundation, core and electives offered in MS Data Science program are mentioned below:

The Masters in Data Science program is a program with a total of 4 semesters with a total of 30 credit hours. The semester wise breakup along with credit hours is provided below.
*BS (CS / SE / IT) graduates are exempted from the foundation courses. For other candidates, the interview panel will decide which foundation courses are exempted.
**Students have the option to take 1 additional course and an MS Research Project in place of MS Thesis.

For any query, please contact at msds-queries@iba.edu.pk or msds@iba.edu.pk