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.

MS WITH THESIS vs MS WITHOUT THESIS

The MSDS program has two basic categories: MS with Thesis and MS without Thesis. In MS with Thesis, the student needs to complete 18 credit hours to take MS Thesis I (research work) and MS Thesis II (thesis work) of 3 credit hours each over two semesters. In MS without Thesis, the student needs to complete 24 credit hours to implement the MS Project, a one semester, 3 credit hour implementation of an industrial solution to solve a data science problem. For more information: https://cs.iba.edu.pk/msthesisproject/

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.

MS With Thesis

MS Without Thesis

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