With the current data deluge, companies, governments, and non-profit organizations alike are striving to convert information into actionable information and insight. The sheer “volume”, “velocity” and “variety” of today’s data pose unique challenges and also create unique opportunities. Present data sets require more programming, mathematics/statistics, modelling skills, and domain knowledge than a traditional undergraduate curriculum offers.

In every facet of modern life, from online shopping and social networks to scientific research and finance, we collect immensely detailed information. Data scientists are concerned with turning this data into intelligence through the application of cutting-edge techniques in Statistics, Mathematics and Computer Science.

Global demand for combined statistical and computing expertise outstrips supply, with evidence-based predictions of a major shortage in this area for at least the next 15 years. For graduates of Data Science, this shortage presents opportunities to forge careers in a large number of areas involving quantitative data analysis and computational skills. These include commerce (e-commerce), finance, government, genomics, and other areas of “big science”, entertainment and sport, education, and academic research. Career opportunities include business intelligence analyst, data mining engineer, data architect and data scientist. Graduates will also be highly adaptable to new data-related challenges as they arise, perhaps in hitherto unforeseen fields.

In line with the guidelines provided by HEC Pakistan, the BS (Data Science) program has been designed in such a way that it focuses on computation, simulation, visualization, prediction of complex phenomena (e.g., customer behavior, economic trends, and medical data) and complex mathematical models to facilitate interpretation of data. The School of Computing and IT at IMSciences has a highly research-active faculty, who encourage students to be involved in their applied/research work. BS-Data Science degree is excellent preparation for the job market of the future and Data Science majors take up careers in every imaginable field. Our graduates have enjoyed excellent job placements, both within Pakistan and internationally. Many have chosen to make their own successful companies.

Program Structure

BS (Data Science) has a dual emphasis on basic principles of statistics and computer science, with foundational training in statistical and mathematical aspects of data analysis. This program develops foundations on broad computer science principles, including algorithms, data structures, data management and machine learning. This program will prepare graduates for a career in data analysis, combining foundational statistical concepts with computational principles from computer science.

Eligibility Criteria

  • FA/F. Sc or Equivalent qualifications with at least second division, securing 50% marks in aggregate.
  • The students who have not studied Mathematics at intermediate level must pass deficiency courses of Mathematics of 6 credit hours within one year of their regular studies.
  • Qualifying for the admission test and interview is compulsory. A candidate scoring less than 40% marks in the test and interview will stand disqualified for admission.
  • Candidates who have secured at least 40% in the NTS-NAT are also eligible to apply.
  • The merit of a candidate shall be measured by a 50 % weight age to the marks obtained in HSC or equivalent, 40 % to the marks obtained in the written test, and 10% to the marks obtained in the interview.
  • A candidate shall be given a special credit of thirty marks for admission in each program mentioned above if he/she has studied Computer Science and/or statistics at intermediate level (for BS-Data Science program only) at intermediate level or has done A level.
  • The Hafiz Quran shall be given a special credit of 20 marks.
  • The credit marks shall be added to the marks obtained at HSC or equivalent, subject to fulfilment of basic eligibility criteria of 50% marks.

Degree Requirements

For a BS-Data Science 4-year degree, a student is required to complete a minimum of 130-140 credit hours including a 6-credit hour research thesis/project. The normal duration for completion of BS-Data Science degree is 8 semesters over a period of 4 years. The maximum duration for obtaining BS-Data Science degree shall be 7 years.

Program Educational Objectives (PEOs) for BS-Data Science

PEO 1: To Enable a competitive learning environment to encourage critical thinking for evidence-based policy making and to develop students’ data analytical, programming and machine learning skills by providing them theoretical and practical knowledge of data analysis, data analysis software’s and computer language applicable in wide variety of domains.
PEO 2: To groom its students to communicate effectively, demonstrate leadership qualities and professional integrity.
PEO 3: To inculcate the ability in its students to continue enhancing their computing knowledge and skills after graduation and excel in their careers as researchers, professionals, and entrepreneurs.
PEO 4: To groom its students to be effective, after graduation, in society and diverse professional environments maintaining high ethical standards.

Graduate Attributes (GAs) for BS Data Science Program

The Graduates Attributes (GAs) are exemplars of the qualities and attributes expected of a graduate from an accredited program. Graduates Attributes (GAs) are the components indicative of the graduate’s potential to acquire competence to practice at the appropriate level.
The following GAs for undergraduate computing programs has been adopted from the Seol Accord as recommended by the National Computing Education Accreditation Council (NCEAC).

GA 1:  Gain an understanding of the underpinning theories of fundamental principles and technologies within the area of computer science (Academic education).
GA 2:  Apply knowledge of computing fundamentals, knowledge of a computing specialization, and mathematics, science, and domain knowledge appropriate for the computing specialization to the abstraction and conceptualization of computing models from defined problems and requirements (Knowledge for Solving Computing Problems).
GA 3:  Identify, formulate, research literature, and solve complex computing problems reaching substantiated conclusions using fundamental principles of mathematics, computing sciences, and relevant domain disciplines (Problem Analysis).
GA 4:  Design and evaluate solutions for complex computing problems, and design and evaluate systems, components, or processes that meet specified needs with appropriate consideration for public health and safety, cultural, societal, and environmental considerations (Design/ Development of Solutions)
GA 5:  Create, select, adapt, and apply appropriate techniques, resources, and modern computing tools to complex computing activities, with an understanding of the limitations (Modern Tool Usage)
GA 6:  Function effectively as an individual and as a member or leader in diverse teams and in multi-disciplinary settings (Individual and Teamwork)
GA 7:  Communicate effectively with the computing community and with society about complex computing activities by being able to comprehend and write effective reports, design documentation, make effective presentations, and give and understand clear instructions (Communication)
GA 8:  Understand and assess societal, health, safety, legal, and cultural issues within local and global contexts, and the consequential responsibilities relevant to professional computing practice (Computing Professionalism and Society)
GA 9:  Understand and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities, and norms of professional computing practice (Ethics)
GA 10:Recognize the need, and have the ability, to engage in independent learning for continual development as a computing professional (Life-long Learning)

Curriculum Model for Bachelor of Science in Data Science

The generic structure for computing degree program given before is mapped with the BSCS program in the following tables.

Structure for BS Data Science Program

Areas Credit Hours Courses

Computing Core

46 14

Domain Core

18 6

Domain Elective

21 7

Mathematics & Supporting Courses

12 4

Elective Supporting Courses

3 1

General Education Requirement

30 12

Totals

130 44

Mapping of BS Data Science Program on the Generic Structure:

#

Sem #

Code

Pre- Reqs

Course Title Dom Cr Hr
Computing Core (46/130) 14 Courses

1

CS1xx

Programming Fundamentals

Core 4 (3-3)

2

CS1xx PF

Object Oriented Programming

Core 4 (3-3)

3

CS1xx

Database Systems

Core 4 (3-3)

4

CS1xx

Digital Logic Design

Core 3 (2-3)

5

CS2xx OOP

Data Structures

Core 4 (3-3)

6

CS2xx

Information Security

Core 3 (2-3)

7

CS2xx

Artificial Intelligence

Core 3 (2-3)

8

CS2xx

Computer Networks

Core 3 (2-3)

9

CS2xx

Software Engineering

Core 3 (3-0)

10

CS2xx DLD

Computer Organization & Assembly Language

Core 3 (2-3)

11

CS3xx

Operating Systems

Core 3 (2-3)

12

CS4xx DS

Analysis of Algorithms

Core 3 (3-0)

13

CS4xx

Final Year Project – I

Core 2 (0-6)

14

CS4xx FYP-I

Final Year Project – II

Core 4 (0-12)
Domain Core (18/130) 6 Courses

15

CS2xx

Introduction to Data Science

Domain Core 3 (2-3)

16

CS2xx

Advanced Statistics

Domain Core 3 (2-3)

17

CS3xx

Data Mining

Domain Core 3 (2-3)

18

CS3xx

Data Visualization

Domain Core 3 (2-3)

19

CS3xx

Data Warehousing & Business Intelligence

Domain Core 3 (2-3)

20

CS3xx

Parallel & Distributed Computing

Domain Core 3 (2-3)
Domain Elective (21/130) 7 Courses

21

CS3xx

Advanced Database Management Systems

Domain Elective 3 (2-3)

22

CS3xx

Big Data Analytics

Domain Elective 3 (2-3)
23 CS3xx

Machine Learning

Domain Elective 3 (2-3)
24 CS3xx

Artificial Neural Networks & Deep Learning

Domain Elective 3 (2-3)
25 CS3xx

Business Process Analysis

Domain Elective 3 (2-3)
26 CS3xx

Theory of Automata

Domain Elective 3 (2-3)
27 CS4xx

HCI & Computer Graphics

Domain Elective 3 (2-3)

Natural Language Processing

Domain Elective 3 (2-3)

Text Mining

Domain Elective 3 (2-3)

Simulation and Modeling

Domain Elective 3 (2-3)

Multimedia Technologies

Domain Elective 3 (2-3)
Mathematics & Supporting Courses (12/130) 4 Courses
28 MT1xx CAG

Multivariable Calculus

Maths 3 (3-0)
29 MT1xx CAG

Linear Algebra

Maths 3 (3-0)
30 MT2xx

Probability & Statistics

Maths 3 (3-0)
31 EW4xx ECC

Technical & Business Writing

EW 3 (3-0)
Elective Supporting Courses (3/130) 1 Course
32 SS1xx

Social Science (Example: Introduction to Marketing)

SS 3 (3-0)
. SS1xx

Social Science (Example: Financial Accounting)

SS 3 (3-0)
General Education Requirement as per HEC UG Education Policy (30/130) 12 Courses
33 GE1xx

Application of Information & Communication Technologies

GER 3 (2-3)
34 GE1xx

Functional English

GER 3 (3-0)
35 GE1xx ECC

Expository Writing

GER 3 (3-0)
36 GE1xx

Quantitative Reasoning – 1 (Discrete Structures)

GER 3 (3-0)
37 GE1xx

Quantitative Reasoning – 2 (Calculus and Analytic Geometry)

GER 3 (3-0)
38 GE2xx

Islamic Studies

GER 2 (2-0)
39 GE4xx

Ideology and Constitution of Pakistan

GER 2 (2-0)
40 GE2xx

Social Sciences (Example: Introduction to Management)

GER 2 (2-0)
41 GE2xx

Natural Sciences (Applied Physics)

GER 3 (2-3)
42 GE4xx

Arts & Humanities (Professional Practices)

GER 2 (2-0)
43 GE4xx

Civics and Community Engagement

GER 2 (2-0)
44 GE4xx

Entrepreneurship

GER (2-0)

Semester/Study Plan for BS Data Science

#

Code

Pre-Reqs

Course Title

Domain

Cr. hr (Cont hr)

Semester 1

1

CS1xx

Programming Fundamentals

Core

4 (3-3)

2

GE1xx

Application of Information & Communication Technologies

GER

3 (2-3)

4

GE1xx

Calculus and Analytic Geometry – QR 1

GER

3 (3-0)

5

GE1xx

Functional English

GER

3 (3-0)

22

GE2xx

Islamic Studies

GER

2 (2-0)

Total Cr Hrs

15 (13-6)

Semester 2

6

CS1xx

Object Oriented Programming

Core

4 (3-3)

18

CS2xx

Introduction to Data Science – Domain Core 1

Domain Core

3 (2-3)

10

MT1xx

Linear Algebra

Maths

3 (3-0)

42

GE4xx

Ideology and Constitution of Pakistan

GER

2 (2-0)

21

GE1xx

Expository Writing

GER

3 (3-0)

28

GE2xx

Social Science Course

GER

2 (2-0)

Total Cr Hrs

17 (15-6)

Semester 3

11

CS2xx

Data Structures

Core

4 (3-3)

23

CS3xx

Operating Systems

Core

3 (2-3)

3

GE1xx

Discrete Structures – QR 2

GER

3 (3-0)

9

MT1xx

Multivariable Calculus

Maths

3 (3-0)

44

GE4xx

Civics and Community Engagement

GER

2 (2-0)

8

CS1xx

Digital Logic Design

Core

3 (2-3)

Total Cr Hrs

18 (15-9)

Semester 4

36

CS4xx

Analysis of Algorithms

Core

3 (3-0)

17

CS2xx

Computer Organization & Assembly Language

Core

3 (2-3)

7

CS1xx

Database Systems

Core

4 (3-3)

16

MT2xx

Probability & Statistics

Maths

3 (3-0)

15

CS2xx

Software Engineering

Core

3 (3-0)

20

GE2xx

Applied Physics — Natural Science

GER

3 (2-3)

Total Cr Hrs

19 (16-9)

Semester 5
14 CS2xx

Computer Networks

Core

3 (2-3)

13 CS2xx

Domain Elective 1

Core

3 (2-3)

19 CS2xx

Domain Core 2

Domain Core

3 (2-3)

24 CS3xx

Domain Core 3

Domain Core

3 (2-3)

39 EN4xx

Technical & Business Writing

EN

3 (3-0)

43 GE4xx

Professional Practices — Arts & Humanities

GER

2 (2-0)

Total Cr Hrs 17 (13-12)
Semester 6
25 CS3xx

Domain Core 4

Domain Core

3 (2-3)

12 CS2xx

Information Security

Core

3 (2-3)

26 CS3xx

Artificial Intelligence

Domain Elective

3 (2-3)

27 CS3xx

Domain Elective 2

Domain Elective

3 (2-3)

38 SS1xx

Social Science Course

SS

3 (3-0)

40 GE4xx

Entrepreneurship

GER

2 (2-0)

Total Cr Hrs 17 (13-12)
Semester 7
35 CS4xx

Final Year Project – I

Core

2 (0-6)

31 CS3xx

Domain Elective 3

Domain Elective

3 (2-3)

32 CS3xx

Domain Elective 4

Domain Elective

3 (2-3)

33 CS3xx

Domain Elective 5

Domain Elective

3 (2-3)

29 CS3xx

Domain Core 5

Domain Core

3 (2-3)

Total Cr Hrs 14 (8-18)
Semester 8
41 CS4xx

Final Year Project – II

Core

 4 (0-12)

30 CS3xx

Domain Core 6  

Domain Core

3 (2-3)

34 CS3xx

Domain Elective 6

Domain Elective

3 (2-3)

37 CS4xx

Domain Elective 7

Domain Elective

3 (2-3)

Total Cr Hrs 13 (6-21)