Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science with a specialism in Data Analytics

Students will learn fundamental skills required by every IT professional, and the basic understanding of programming, mathematical and algorithmic skills. Some specialised modules will provide them basic knowledge of underlying computer systems such as Computer Architecture, operating systems, networking and databases. The modules will also help them develop personal and organisational skills, as well as nurture creativity and innovation.

A broader range of skills will be learnt, in which students will gain better understanding of designing and implementing new software, and solving new computing problems through theoretical and algorithmnic foundations. They will gain solid understanding of platform technology and data analytics through modules in application development and knowledge discovery techniques. We will further nurture their creativity and innovation as well as independent learning to prepare them for the workplace.

Students will undertake an Internship/Industrial Training for a minimum period of 16 weeks to prepare them for a smooth transition from the classroom to the working environment.

Students will make use of their previous studies and industrial experience to extend their familiarity in the field of computer science and to refine their personal and professional development. Students will move further into the focus on advanced analytics through business analytics and intelligence modules. A final year project requires them to investigate and develop a solution for a real-world problem – they will demonstrate their ability to combine technical knowledge, critical thinking and analytical skills to produce a personal achievement portfolio.

Graduates will be equipped with knowledge, skills and experience in three major dimensions: Strategic and Commercial application, “hands-on” ICT skills and Statistics & Analytics. The programme is not merely analytics-oriented, but develops the ability to use analytics to drive key success metrics related to yield management and revenue generation in practically any business domain. There is a tremendous requirement for Data Scientists and Big Data Specialists worldwide now and in the future, with hundreds of thousands of new job opportunities emerging globally. In Malaysia alone, by the year 2020 this need is expected to reach at least 15,000 professionals.

Dream Big: Think BIG - Reasons to Study BIG Data:

1. “The United States alone faces a shortage of 140,000 to 190,000 people with analytical expertise and 1.5 million managers and analysts with the skills to understand and make decisions based on the analysis of big data.” - McKinsey Report on BIG DATA

2. “Starting salaries for data scientists have gone north of $200,000” - Bloomberg

3. “The Whitehouse Administration is investing $200 Million into big data research projects” - Mushroom Networks

4. “Data scientists are the new superheroes,” says Pascal Clement, the Head of Amadeus Travel Intelligence in Madrid

5. “Malaysia needs additional 12,000 Data Scientists” - Ministry of Education

6.  “Data Scientist: The Sexiest Job of the 21st Century.” - Harvard Business Review

Source:
https://hbr.org/2012/10/data-scientist-the-sexiest-job-of-the-21st-century
https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/mckinsey-digital/our-insights/big-data-the-next-frontier-for-innovation
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-06-04/help-wanted-black-belts-in-data
https://www.mushroomnetworks.com/ 

The programme has been carefully designed by APU with inputs and content from our partners, comprising major technology and software solutions providers, university partners as well as industry organisations who use analytics for strategic and competitive advantage.

The strength of these partnerships ensures that the programme comprehensively addresses all key stakeholders – Technology providers, Employers, Government as well as Students – in its learning outcomes, curriculum content, delivery and assessment. Students also obtain certification jointly issued with industry partners, which would certainly give them a head start in the exciting world of Big Data.

Furthermore, APU is also poised to become a frontrunner in analytics research through the establishment of the Asia Pacific Centre of Analytics (APCA), through which research activities will be undertaken to challenge boundaries in the application of analytics.

Graduates from this programme will not only gain an academic qualification from APU, but would also automatically attain a Globally Recognised Professional Industry Certification from SAS. Along the way, graduates would also gain exposure to industrial workshops led by experts from the industry, providing a valuable gateway into future careers.