Stellenbosch University

Bachelor of Data Science

Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Information Technology and Computer Sciences

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification in Data Science

Purpose

The qualification aims to address the needs of the fourth industrial revolution by developing learners with a multi-disciplinary skill set. Learners will be able to convert data into actionable business strategies, utilizing skills from Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, and Computational Engineering.

Key Objectives

  • Manipulate data efficiently for decision-making purposes
  • Apply mathematical, computational, and statistical methods to detect patterns in data sets
  • Communicate mathematical ideas effectively
  • Construct software systems to meet computing needs
  • Utilize emerging technologies and computing concepts independently
  • Ensure correctness and ethical use of data in all aspects of the data cycle

Rationale

The field of Data Science is evolving rapidly across various industries. The qualification aims to address the increasing demand for skilled data scientists. With projections indicating a shortage of such professionals, this qualification seeks to equip learners with the necessary skills to fill this gap in the job market.

Key Points

  • Data Science is crucial in driving data-driven decision-making
  • Industry demands well-trained data science professionals
  • Shortage of data scientist talent globally
  • Increasing demand for data scientists in various sectors
  • Importance of multi-disciplinary qualifications in addressing industry needs

In conclusion, this qualification in Data Science aims to produce graduates equipped with the expertise needed to excel in a data-rich environment, fulfilling the growing demand for skilled professionals in this field.

Outcomes

  1. Manipulate data using a variety of software packages and data handling techniques to represent data efficiently and in the most informative way for decision-making purposes.
  2. Use mathematical, computational and statistical methodology on small or big data sets to detect patterns relating to problem-solving and model selection.
  3. Demonstrate in-depth knowledge in the foundational areas of the mathematical sciences amongst others for example Statistics, Computer Science and Mathematical Sciences.
  4. Communicate mathematical ideas using numerical, graphical and symbolic representations to colleagues, researchers and clients.
  5. Construct software systems that satisfy the computing needs of the specialist field.
  6. Learn independently to use emerging technologies and computing concepts and be able to master new methodologies and technologies in the field of Data Science.
  7. Use the foundational data science ideas to further strengthen theoretical concepts.
  8. Verify the correctness and efficiency of algorithms, programmes, and system implementation and further value and safeguard the ethical use of data in all aspects of the data cycle.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Generate visual and numerical data summaries using Excel.
  • Perform basic data cleaning for analysis.
  • Translate data into actionable insights.
  • Manage files and data using Linux.
  • Assess and compare various models.
  • Interpret machine learning results.
  • Draw graphs of multivariable functions.
  • Perform exploratory and descriptive data analysis.
  • Compute expected values and variances.
  • Understand continuous statistical distributions.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Fit a linear model in Excel.
  • Identify clear business objectives for Big Data analysis.
  • Transform text into data for Natural Language Processing.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Define fundamental data science concepts.
  • Describe the data cycle and CRISP data mining process.
  • Recognize ethical and legal issues in data science.
  • Collaborate effectively as a Data Scientist.
  • Explain the importance of Big Data analytics.
  • Model patterns in complex datasets.
  • Apply statistical learning techniques.
  • Discuss approaches to the "curse of dimensionality."
  • Explain traditional statistical procedures in data mining.
  • Answer theoretical questions on machine learning techniques.
  • Define and apply distribution theory.
  • Apply limit distributions to practical problems.
  • Explain different approaches to inference.
  • Discuss Bayesian inference and its application.
  • Explain vector calculus theorems.
  • Use integration techniques in multiple integrals.
  • Interpret linear algebra algorithms using matrices.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Demonstrate effective written communication of data analysis.
  • Analyze and summarize data visually.
  • Communicate data solutions effectively.
  • Present research findings and methodology.
  • Write structured scientific documents.
  • Use appropriate referencing in scientific writing.
  • Present oral reports on projects.
  • Present machine learning results effectively.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

  • Evaluate model performance on Big Data and text data.
  • Program in Python with Numphy and Matplotlib.
  • Implement machine learning techniques in Python.
  • Work alone or in a team on software development.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

  • Design algorithms for data-related problems.
  • Aggregate data from various sources.
  • Adapt to new models and technologies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

  • Apply Big Data tools for business decision-making.
  • Transform random variables for probability distributions.
  • Use central limit theorem and sampling distributions for estimation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

  • Understand negotiation, leadership, and communication in software development.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Flexible assessment involves various assessment methods.
  • Examination system includes tests and exams for final marks.
  • Formative assessments in practicals and tutorials.
  • Summative assessments in tests and exams.
  • Learners are responsible for their learning and engagement.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
480
SAQA Source
More Information

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Stellenbosch University
Description
Stellenbosch University is a public research university located in Stellenbosch, South Africa. It is one of the oldest universities in the country, established in 1918. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts and social sciences, science, engineering, health sciences, and business. Stellenbosch University is known for its high academic standards and research output, with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability. It is also recognized for its multicultural and inclusive campus environment, attracting students from diverse backgrounds both locally and internationally.

This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.