STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY · SOUTH AFRICA
Data Science (BDatSci & BCom Mathematical Sciences)
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 4Years of Study
- BDatSci (Statistical Learning)Specialized Degree
- BCom (Mathematical Sciences)Flexible Degree with Data Science Focus
- Core modules in Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, and StatisticsComprehensive Curriculum
Stellenbosch University offers two undergraduate programs focused on Data Science: the Bachelor of Data Science (BDatSci) with a specialization in Statistical Learning, and the Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Mathematical Sciences with a Data Science focal area. Both programs address the growing global demand for professionals who can extract meaningful insights from vast amounts of data. Data science involves collecting, storing, transforming, visualizing, and analyzing data to make predictions and inferences, skills crucial across various industries. The BDatSci program offers a deep dive into statistical modeling for pattern identification and prediction, preparing graduates for real-world problem-solving. The BCom in Mathematical Sciences provides a broader foundation with the flexibility to specialize in Data Science, equipping students with analytical acumen and skills in areas like artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Curriculum
The programs provide a structured curriculum with compulsory modules across several disciplines, designed to build a strong foundation in data science principles and applications.
- First Year (BDatSci)
- Computer ScienceCS 113 or 114, 144
- Data ScienceDS 141
- MathematicsMATH 114, 144
- Probability Theory and StatisticsSTA 114
- Actuarial Science (Elective)AST 112
- Applied Mathematics (Elective)AM 144
- Economics (Elective)ECO 114, 144
- Second Year (BDatSci)
- Computer ScienceCS 214, 244
- Data ScienceDS 241
- Mathematical StatisticsMT 214, 245, 246
- MathematicsMATH 214, 244
- Operations ResearchOR 214
- Third Year (BDatSci)
- Computer ScienceCS 315, 343
- Data ScienceDS 316, 346
- Mathematical StatisticsMT 312, 316, 344, 364
- Fourth Year (BDatSci)
- Data Science research in Statistical LearningDS 471
- Introduction to Statistical LearningDS 441
- Machine LearningDS 441
- Bayesian Statistics (Elective)MT 441
- Multivariate Statistical Analysis A (Elective)MT 441
- Multivariate Statistical Analysis B (Elective)MT 441
- Stochastic Simulation (Elective)MT 441
- Time Series Analysis (Elective)MT 441
- First Year (BCom Mathematical Sciences)
- Actuarial ScienceAST 112
- Probability Theory and StatisticsSTA 144
- MathematicsMATH 114, 144
- Data ScienceDS 141
- Computer ScienceCS 114, 144
- EconomicsECO 114
- Financial AccountingACC 188
- Second Year (BCom Mathematical Sciences)
- Mathematical StatisticsMT 214, 245, 246
- MathematicsMATH 214, 244
- Data ScienceDS 241
- EconomicsECO 144
- Computer ScienceCS 214
- Business ManagementBMA 113
- Third Year (BCom Mathematical Sciences)
- Business ManagementBMA 142
- Data ScienceDS 316, 346
- Mathematical StatisticsMT 312, 316, 344, 364
- Computer ScienceCS 315, 343
Careers
Graduates with a Data Science background are highly sought after across numerous industries. The skills developed in these programs are applicable to roles that require the analysis and interpretation of complex datasets.
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Statistical Modeler
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Business Intelligence Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Data Science programs?
- For the BDatSci, you need an overall average of at least 70% (excluding Life Orientation) and 80% in Mathematics. For the BCom Mathematical Sciences with a Data Science focal area, an overall average of 70% (excluding Life Orientation) and 75% in Mathematics is required. Minimum English/Afrikaans requirements also apply.
- What is the duration of these Data Science programs?
- The Bachelor of Data Science (BDatSci) is a 4-year program. The Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Mathematical Sciences is also a 4-year program, allowing for a Data Science specialization.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- International student tuition fees need to be verified directly with Stellenbosch University through their official fee structure.
- What are the career prospects after graduating with a Data Science degree?
- Graduates are highly sought after and can pursue roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Statistical Modeler, Machine Learning Engineer, and Business Intelligence Analyst across various industries.
- How do I apply as an international student?
- International students must check admission requirements, gather documents like transcripts and passport copies, complete the online application form, pay the application fee, and submit everything before the deadline.
Entry requirements
National Senior Certificate (NSC) for BDatSciOverall average of at least 70% (excluding Life Orientation), Mathematics 80%.
NSC English or Afrikaans Home LanguageMinimum 60% for BDatSci.
NSC English or Afrikaans First Additional LanguageMinimum 75% for BDatSci.
National Senior Certificate (NSC) for BCom Mathematical SciencesOverall average of at least 70% (excluding Life Orientation), Mathematics 75%.
NSC English or Afrikaans Home LanguageMinimum 50% for BCom Mathematical Sciences.
NSC English or Afrikaans First Additional LanguageMinimum 60% for BCom Mathematical Sciences.
Specific module choices within the BCom (Mathematical Sciences) program are recommendations for the Data Science focal area. Students are free to choose other modules if timetables allow.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the university's official fee structure for international student tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the university's official fee structure for domestic student tuition fees.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided. Please consult the university for guidance.
Tuition and living cost figures are subject to change and should be verified directly with Stellenbosch University.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the overall matriculation average, Mathematics grade, and language proficiency requirements for either the BDatSci or BCom (Mathematical Sciences) program.
2. Gather Required DocumentsPrepare certified copies of your academic transcripts, matriculation certificate, and passport. You may also need proof of English language proficiency if applicable.
3. Complete the Online Application FormAccess the Stellenbosch University online application portal and fill in all required personal, academic, and program-specific information.
4. Submit Application and Supporting DocumentsUpload all required documents through the online portal or submit them via the designated university postal address before the application deadline.
5. Application Fee PaymentPay the non-refundable application fee as specified by the university.
6. Await Admission DecisionThe university will review your application and notify you of the admission decision. This may include further requirements or conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Data Science programs?
+
For the BDatSci, you need an overall average of at least 70% (excluding Life Orientation) and 80% in Mathematics. For the BCom Mathematical Sciences with a Data Science focal area, an overall average of 70% (excluding Life Orientation) and 75% in Mathematics is required. Minimum English/Afrikaans requirements also apply.
What is the duration of these Data Science programs?
+
The Bachelor of Data Science (BDatSci) is a 4-year program. The Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Mathematical Sciences is also a 4-year program, allowing for a Data Science specialization.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
International student tuition fees need to be verified directly with Stellenbosch University through their official fee structure.
What are the career prospects after graduating with a Data Science degree?
+
Graduates are highly sought after and can pursue roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Statistical Modeler, Machine Learning Engineer, and Business Intelligence Analyst across various industries.
How do I apply as an international student?
+
International students must check admission requirements, gather documents like transcripts and passport copies, complete the online application form, pay the application fee, and submit everything before the deadline.