Master of Science in Data Science

Data science is becoming a key concept/competency for large private businesses, public institutions, and research. While it is not easy to define data science in a few words, data science deals with the methods and tools needed to analyse (large amounts of) data and draw actionable conclusions from the results gained in the process. These methods and tools (covering big data and their analysis, data modelling, machine learning, and simulation methods) are located at the intersection of three subjects: computer sciences, mathematics, and statistics. Consequently, this new Master's programme at Trier University is jointly taught by lecturers from the fields of computer sciences, mathematics, and statistics (whereas other data science programmes typically only cover one or two of these fields). This ensures that graduates will have a broad knowledge of the discipline and will be able to approach actual problems from different angles. They will also be trained to be life-long learners, able to rapidly adapt to changing demands in their working environments. In the first semester of this multidisciplinary programme, propaedeutics courses make sure that students coming from different study backgrounds will be able to successfully follow the programme. State-of-the-art e-learning concepts (e.g. flipped classrooms, electronic tutorials, etc.) engage students and offer additional flexibility regarding learning periods. A small research project is a compulsory part of the programme. During this project, students will apply their acquired knowledge to real world problems and learn to approach these problems with scientific methods. The project also serves to strengthen the students' soft skills. A broad choice of courses (including other subjects like economics, environmental sciences, etc.) enables students to tailor their course of study to their specific needs and targeted working environments. Students will be able to earn a double Master's degree in combination with computer sciences, business informatics, applied mathematics, business mathematics, or applied statistics. The MSc in Data Science also serves as a solid foundation for future PhD students in the related fields. The Master's programme covers the following module types: Compulsory modules: Introductory/advanced courses (e.g. Big Data Analytics, Data and Web Mining, Numerical Optimisation for Data Science, Statistical Methods of Data Science) as well as propaedeutics courses Elective modules within the following specialisation tracks: Algorithmic Optimisation, Applied Statistics, Data and Knowledge Systems, Financial Economics, Geoinformatics, Natural Language Processing, Simulation Studies Research case studies Master's thesis