Master in Data Science

Overview

The Master in Data Science (MDS) program is meticulously designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in data science, ensuring they are well-prepared for various professions requiring expertise in this field. Graduates of this program will be:

  • Data Science Specialists with Advanced Knowledge: Capable of making or assisting in decision-making based on data-driven insights and solving complex problems using data.
  • Technically Proficient Innovators: Equipped with enhanced technical and numeracy skills to provide innovative solutions in the area of data science and analytics.
  • Effective Communicators and Leaders: Possessing strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills to interact effectively with stakeholders.
  • Lifelong Learners with an Entrepreneurial Mindset: Committed to engaging in lifelong learning activities and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit.
  • Ethical Professionals: Upholding and defending ethical conduct, professional practices, and integrity in their work.

The MDS program utilizes cutting-edge computing tools to provide a high-quality learning experience. This integration of technology ensures that learners receive an education that is both practical and theoretically robust. Students engage with advanced software and analytical tools, gaining hands-on experience essential for solving real-world problems.  By connecting the data science discipline directly to career advancement opportunities, the program offers significant benefits to its learners, enhancing their employability and potential for growth in the industry. This aligns with OUM’s mission to widen access to quality education and provide lifelong learning opportunities by leveraging technology, adopting a flexible mode of learning, and offering a conducive and engaging learning environment at competitive and affordable costs.


Year



Semester


Course CodeCourse Name

Classification



Credit Hour


1


1


CMPD5103Programming for Data Science

Core


3


CMRM6104Research Methodology

Core


4


2


CMDM5103Data Mining

Core


3


CMBD5103Big Data

Core


3


3


CMSS5103Statistics for Data Science

Core


3


CMDE5103Data Engineering

Core


3



2


4


CMPA5103Predictive Analytics

Core


3


CMMP6003Data Science Project I

Core


3


CMCC6103Cloud Computing Technology

Elective


3


CMDG6103

Data Governance & Management


Elective


5


CMMP6106Data Science Project II

Core


6


6


CMDL6103Deep Learning

Elective


6


CMSM6203Information Security Management

Elective


CMSM6103Social Media Analytics

Elective


Total Credit Hours

40


Malaysian Learner Fees

Year 1 RM4,361 (Sem 1) RM3,738 (Sem 2) RM3,738 (Sem 3)
Year 2 RM5,607 (Sem 4) RM3,738 (Sem 5) RM3,738 (Sem 6)
TOTALRM24,920

Discount for the Physically Challenged Learners (OKU) and Senior Citizens

* Fees applicable to Malaysians and Permanent Residents only.
* The University reserves the right to revise the fees without prior notice.

The University offers 50% discount for:
1. Senior citizens aged 60 and above on registration date; and
2. Physically challenged learners – a valid Orang Kelainan Upaya (OKU) is required.
The discounts are not valid for second time registration and repeating of subjects.
Learners who receive this discount are not entitled to other discounts and promotions.

Note
Processing fee: RM50
Re-registration fee of RM220 per semester is chargeable for extension of the Research Thesis/Dissertation 

Financial options:Payment Mode:
EPF (Account 2); orJomPAY
Education or Personal Loan from commercial banks; orInternet Banking
HRDF (subject to employer’s eligibility); orDebit/Credit Card.

International Learner Fees

Year 1RM4,361 (Sem 1)RM3,738 (Sem 2)RM3,738 (Sem 3)
Year 2RM5,607 (Sem 4)RM3,738 (Sem 5)RM3,738 (Sem 5)
TOTALRM 29,905

Notes:
1 – Fees applicable to International applicants
2 – The fee above excludes registration fee, processing fee and resource fee. Fee imposed first semester only-non refundable . (Diploma RM2,700; Bachelor RM3,200, Master RM3,700, PhD/Doctorate RM4,200).
3 – Financial method: Telegraphic Transfer , PayPal (Invoice will be prepared in MYR and will be added 6% to cover PayPal transaction fees.)
4 – The fees are for subject fees only and are not applicable for research, registration, repeating of subjects and other fees.
5 – 60% payment of the semester fees must be made before the semester starts, 40% payment before the examination week.


* The University reserves the right to revise the fees without prior notice.

**LATEST UPDATE: 8 August 2024

PEO 1

Data science specialists have advanced knowledge and can make or assist decision-making based on data-driven problems or insights;

PEO 2

Data science specialists capable of applying enhanced technical and numeracy skills to provide innovative solutions in the area of data science and analytics;

PEO 3

Data science specialists have leadership skills, good interpersonal and communication skills to interact with stakeholders effectively;

PEO 4

Data science specialists who engage and advocate lifelong learning activities and have an entrepreneurial mindset; and

PEO 5

Data science specialists who uphold and defend ethical conduct, professional practices and issues in maintaining the integrity
PLO 1Integrate advanced knowledge related to data science.
PLO 2Recommend innovative solutions related to data science.
PLO 3Construct data science solutions in terms of their usability, efficiency and effectiveness.
PLO 4Demonstrate effective interaction within a group and with a diverse audience through discussions and participation in discourses related to data science.
PLO 5Exhibit effective communication by publishing and presenting technical materials in the field of data science.
PLO 6Utilise digital skills to acquire, interpret and extend knowledge in data science.
PLO 7Apply numerical skills to acquire, interpret and extend knowledge in data science.
PLO 8Demonstrate leadership, teamwork, autonomy and responsibility in delivering services related to data science.
PLO 9Exhibit capabilities to extend relevant data science knowledge through life-long learning.
PLO 10Exhibit capabilities of having an entrepreneurial mindset in data science.
PLO 11Uphold professional and ethical practices in conducting research and delivering services related to data science.

 

  1. Why should I join the MDS programme?
    Data is a crucial element in today’s world, driving decision-making and innovation across various industries. The MDS program is tailored for graduates from both IT and non-IT backgrounds, aiming to augment their knowledge and skills in data science. This program enhances career prospects by equipping you with the expertise needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving data-driven industry. Whether you seek to advance in your current role or pivot to a new career in data science, the MDS program provides the comprehensive education and practical experience necessary to succeed.
  1. Is the MDS programme accredited?
    The MDS program is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), the sole authority that oversees the quality and standards of higher education in Malaysia. This accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards, providing you with a recognized and valuable qualification.
  1. Can I join MDS with just my Diploma certificate?
    Yes, you can. Through the flexible entry of APEL (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning) not only can working adults gain admission into OUM by leveraging on their prior learning experiences, they can also use their experiences to earn credits in order to shorten their study duration.

APEL.A Entry

      • Malaysian; AND
      • You must be at least 30 years old when you apply.
      • Possess at least STPM.
      • Possess relevant work experience.
  1. I do not have Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or Information Systems, what do I need to do?
    For the MDS program, a bachelor’s degree in any field is accepted. For candidates without a degree in computing, two prerequisite modules in computing are offered to adequately prepare you for the MDS program. These courses are Database and Software Engineering. Once you have passed these courses, you can apply to enroll in the MDS program. If you have relevant work experiences in computing/related field, you may be exempted from taking these courses (or any one of the courses) after undergoing the internal  evaluation session.
  1. The MDS programme is offered as a part-time or full-time programme at OUM?
    All OUM programmes offered in Malaysia are run in part-time mode, making them suitable for working adults seeking to upgrade their qualifications and skills in Information Technology, without having to give up their jobs or compromise on their life responsibilities.
  1. How do I know if my admission is successful?
    You will get an offer letter via email on the success of your application. You can then join the Postgraduate Open Day will familiarise you with our programme, the Programme Director, the myINSPIRE portal, digital library and many more.
  1. When should I join the MDS programme?
    OUM has three intakes in a year, January, May and September
  1. What is the assessment like for the courses in the MDS programme?
    Most of the courses have assignment and final exam. Some courses may have 100% coursework
  1. Do I need to attend the tutorials, how many times do I need to attend?
    The MDS program is offered fully online, allowing you to follow the OUM programme from anywhere in Malaysia at your own pace. You can engage with your peers on our myINSPIRE portal and receive guidance from your e-tutor. The program includes ten synchronous tutorials, each lasting two hours. Attendance is not compulsory but is highly encouraged to enhance your learning experience.
  1. Do I need to purchase any textbooks?
    All core learning materials in the form of e-books/modules are provided to you as a student. We also have an extensive digital collection in our digital library.
  1. Will I need to learn programming?
    There will be TWO programming courses in this programme, namely (i) Programming for Data Science and (ii) Predictive Analytics
  1. What can I do after MDS?
    Upon completing the program, you will be well-equipped to pursue a variety of career paths, including:
      • Data Scientist: Analyze and interpret complex data to help companies make informed decisions.
      • Data Analyst: Perform statistical analysis and create visualizations to communicate findings.
      • Machine Learning Engineer: Develop algorithms and models that enable machines to learn from data.
      • Business Intelligence Analyst: Use data to provide insights that inform business strategy and operations.
      • Big Data Engineer: Design, build, and manage large-scale data processing systems.
      • Data Consultant: Provide expert advice on data strategy, management, and utilization to organizations.
      • Research Scientist: Conduct advanced research in data science and contribute to academic and industrial advancements.

These roles span various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, marketing, and more, providing a diverse range of opportunities to apply your data science expertise.

Common career fields and examples of career opportunities for graduates with a Master of Data Science (MDS):

  1. Data Scientist: Analyze and interpret complex data to help companies make informed decisions.
  2. Data Analyst: Perform statistical analysis and create visualizations to communicate findings.
  3. Machine Learning Engineer: Develop algorithms and models that enable machines to learn from data.
  4. Business Intelligence Analyst: Use data to provide insights that inform business strategy and operations.
  5. Big Data Engineer: Design, build, and manage large-scale data processing systems.
  6. Data Consultant: Provide expert advice on data strategy, management, and utilization to organizations.
  7. Research Scientist: Conduct advanced research in data science and contribute to academic and industrial advancements.

 These roles span various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, marketing, and more, providing a diverse range of opportunities to apply your data science expertise.

Syed Hussein Syed Abdul Rahman
Syed Hussein Syed Abdul RahmanJohor Bahru

The struggle to balance study and work gave me better insight into productivity and efficiency. I was able to apply the lessons learned to my occupation. My study at OUM was my progress in development. The encouragement and guidance from OUM gave me the platform and confidence to succeed in my studies. Today, my degree has given me generous employment recognition, added edge in promotion, and salary advances.

Syed Hussein Syed Abdul Rahman
Syed Hussein Syed Abdul RahmanJohor Bahru

The struggle to balance study and work gave me better insight into productivity and efficiency. I was able to apply the lessons learned to my occupation. My study at OUM was my progress in development. The encouragement and guidance from OUM gave me the platform and confidence to succeed in my studies. Today, my degree has given me generous employment recognition, added edge in promotion, and salary advances.

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