Master of Science in Big Data
The Master of Science in Big Data develops data architects who apply a deep knowledge of computer science to create new tools that find value in the vast amounts of information generated today. Students are well-prepared to become data scientists/programmers, data solutions architects, and chief data officers capable of offering insights that influence strategic decision-making. The curriculum was developed and is constantly being refined using input from an advisory panel of industry leaders. Through SFU's respected co-op program, students tackle real-world challenges, gain valuable project management experience, and grow their network of industry contacts.
CURRICULUM
The current curriculum of the Master of Science in Big Data covers (but is not limited to) the following topics:
- Analysis of scalability of algorithms to big data.
- Data warehouses and online analytical processing.
- Efficient storage of big data including data streams.
- Scalable querying and reporting on massive data sets.
- Scalable and distributed hardware and software architectures.
- Software as a service. Cloud Computing (e.g. Amazon EC2, Google Compute Engine).
- Big data programming models: map-reduce, distributed databases, software for implementing streaming and sketching algorithms.
- Dealing with unstructured data such as images, text or biological sequences.
- Scalable machine learning methods such as online learning.
- Data mining: methods for learning descriptive and predictive models from data.
- Distributed algorithms over very large graphs and matrices.
- Social media analysis.
- Visualization methods and interactive data exploration.
SPECIAL LAB ACCESS
Students in the MSc in Big Data program enjoy a strong connection to SFU’s Big Data Initiative. Students receive special access to lab space at SFU’s Big Data Hub, located at the Burnaby campus. The newly renovated lab features sophisticated, state-of-the-art computer hardware and software to help you find value in data. With breakout spaces nearby, students can collaboratively work while instructors and TAs can conduct impromptu discussions.
As part of the Hub, students can access hands-on training workshops, attend events featuring Big Data thought leaders, and connect with a larger community of people engaging in big data questions and approaches. Learn more about SFU’s Big Data Hub at www.sfu.ca/big-data.
COURSEWORK
Students will take mandatory hands-on lab courses along with specialized courses in Big Data. All students need to take a graduate co-op or capstone project.”
Course outlines can be found here.
Interested in the MSc in Big Data program? Check Admission Requirements and learn How to Apply
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