e-Science University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

Overview

Why e-Science at the University of the Witwatersrand?

The University of the Witwatersrand has established itself as a leading institution in South Africa, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and innovative research. The e-Science programme is part of the DSTI-funded National e-Science Postgraduate Teaching and Training Platform (NEPTTP), which enhances its credibility and relevance in the rapidly evolving field of Data Science. The university's strong partnerships with industry leaders provide students with access to cutting-edge facilities and resources, fostering an environment conducive to interdisciplinary collaboration and practical learning.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the e-Science programme are as follows:

• International Fee: ZAR 42,120 per full year
• National Fee: ZAR 42,120 per full year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The e-Science programme comprises a blend of compulsory and elective modules, requiring students to complete 180 credits. The first year at Wits includes the following compulsory courses:

• Research Methods and Capstone Project in Data Science (15 credits)
• Data Privacy and Ethics (15 credits)

• Adaptive Computation and Machine Learning (15 credits)
• Data Visualisation and Exploration (15 credits)
• Large Scale Computing Systems and Scientific Programming (15 credits)
• Large Scale Optimisation for Data Science (15 credits)
• Mathematical Foundations of Data Science (15 credits)
• Special Topics in Data Science (15 credits)
• Statistical Foundations of Data Science (15 credits)

In the second year, students will undertake a Research Report in Data Science (90 credits) at their Home Institution, which is crucial for developing research skills and applying theoretical knowledge.

Industry Demand

The demand for data science professionals continues to rise across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and finance. Graduates of the e-Science programme are well-prepared to meet this demand, equipped with the skills necessary for roles that involve data analysis, statistical modelling, and strategic decision-making.

Careers with e-Science

Graduates from the e-Science programme can pursue diverse career paths. They often find themselves in data-centric roles within academic institutions, technology firms, healthcare organisations, and financial services. Typical job titles include Data Scientist, Data Analyst, and Research Scientist, where they engage in tasks such as conducting data analyses, applying statistical methodologies, and collaborating with teams to derive actionable insights from complex datasets. The skills acquired through this programme open doors to numerous opportunities in both local and international job markets.