Sunway University

Online Master of
Data Science
Master a world of data
JPT/BPP(U)(N-DL/481/7/0824/PA14838)08/26
Drive.
Unlock data-driven opportunity
in a connected modern world.

Analyse.
Leverage complex real-time
insights for informed decision-making.

Transform.
Unleash your potential with
effective and ethical data use.

Achieve.
Build a strategic understanding
of data for personal and
business success.
Table of
Contents
Introducing our Master of Data Science 03
Benefits of a Master of Data Science 04
What online learning means 05
Connect to your potential 06
Learn from the experts 07
Meet the programme lead 08
How it works 09
Inform your success 11
Cost and eligibility 12
Prerequisite pathway 13
Subject descriptions 16
Invest in your future 28
Introducing our
Master of Data Science
The Sunway University Online Master of Data Science is Malaysia’s first
100% online data science programme.
In this pioneering programme, be guided
by a team of passionate academics with
extensive industry experience in real-world
data science applications.
5 entry points per year

This programme is designed to empower

you with the concepts, theories, and tools 1 subject at a time in
of data science, enabling you to connect 7-week blocks
an understanding of the discipline with
benefits to your career and business. Learn
to apply data-driven insights alongside
6 subjects per year
technical and managerial capabilities, (maximum)
demonstrating value across industries and
providing a platform of informed insights to 2 years total
guide decision-making and unlock emerging
programme time
opportunities.

100% online

Part-time study,
leaving room for work

No limit
on student location

Anytime, anywhere,
on any device

Total tuition fee:

MYR 40,000

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Benefits of a
Master of Data Science
A Master of Data Science at Sunway University Online unlocks the power
of data to transform your potential and provides an exciting pathway to
expanding career opportunities.

Data science expertise is a high-demand skill set in industries from oil and gas to healthcare,
financial services and exciting new digital platform ecosystems. You will develop both the
technical know-how and business understanding to thrive in a world of data.

Are you ready to unleash your data potential?

Unlock new job opportunities

Master the tools to lead in a data-
driven world and excel in new roles in
existing industries alongside exciting
emerging roles.

Excel at analysis
Embrace critical analysis skills to
inform your success in a data-rich
business landscape.

Manage a world of data

Develop your ability to manage and
communicate complex data insights.

Build ethical practice

Become a sustainable leader with
an understanding and awareness of
appropriate and ethical data use.

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What does
online learning mean?
We recognise the time pressure that working professionals face. That’s
why at Sunway University Online, we’ve designed a unique, 100% online
Master of Data Science that provides all the educational support of on-
campus learning, with the flexibility to fit your busy lifestyle.

You will gain access to thought-leading data science education anytime, anywhere, on the
device of your choice. That means all the learning content and support to succeed is at
your fingertips. Just sign up, log on and enjoy the benefits of a world-class education.

Intuitive online learning experience

Better work-life-study balance
Fit study around your lifestyle
Interactive online sessions
Digital engagement with peers
Comprehensive online support

At Sunway University Online, we are

committed to making online learning
as engaging and inspiring as on-campus
study.

Unlock your data-driven future with a

flexible degree that’s perfect for our
modern digital landscape.

5
Connect to
your potential
Data is the foundation of modern opportunity. Business and society are
transforming into connected, data-rich landscapes where complex data
insights and informed decision-making are crucial drivers of success.

The ability to extrapolate, analyse, understand, and turn data into actionable insights and
recommendations for the senior leadership is an in-demand skill that will unlock remarkable
employment opportunities and boost your career potential.

Embrace a future of opportunity Stay ahead of the competition

In 7 out of 12
surveyed industries globally, data 91%
analysts and data scientists were the of Malaysian employees see the
top-ranked roles that business leaders need to reskill or upskill.2
planned to hire in the coming years.1

Rapidly expanding
Inform your future
industry potential

Experts predict that between By 2022, IDC estimates that the big data
3.3 million and 6 million jobs³ and business analytics industry will bring
will be created in Malaysia thanks to in USD274 billion4, a 62% increase
Industry 4.0. from 2018.

Accelerate your earnings

Data scientist salaries are one of the fastest-

growing of any role, with one US study showing a
12.8% annual salary growth from 2019 to 2020.5

1 WEF Data Science In the New Economy

2 UOB ASEAN Consumer Sentiment Study
3 McKinsey & Co (McKinsey), Automation and adaptability: How Malaysia can navigate the future of work
4 IDC Worldwide Semiannual Big Data and Analytics Spending Guide
5 LHH Jobs Bulletin
6
Learn
from the experts
Sunway University Online is a world-class institution that boasts a respected global reputation.

In the top 1.5% of

QS five-star rated
Asian educational
institution6
institutions8

Ranked Malaysia's top Recognised as a Premier

private university7 Digital Technology
University9

The Sunway University Online Master of Data Science provides real-world

understanding, delivered by an experienced team of educators and industry experts.

Passionate academics with extensive global experience

Respected thought leadership from industry experts
Data-driven education founded on real-world experience
Comprehensive support from Education Counsellors
Education that emphasises peer networks and support
Provisionally MQA accredited

6 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings 8 QS Asia University Rankings

7 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2021 9 Malaysian Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) assessment
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Meet the
programme lead
Dr. Low Yeh Ching is Associate Dean (Education) and Programme
Lead (Master of Data Science) at the School of Engineering and
Technology, Sunway University, as well as an active academic
researcher in the field of applied and computational statistics.
She holds a PhD in Applied and Computational Statistics,
University of Malaya, an MSc in Statistics, University of Malaya,
and a BSc in Statistics, University of Malaya.

She has been published in a number of international journals

and publications, including Telematics and Informatics, and
Communications in Statistics - Theory and Methods, and has
presented papers at international conferences on a range of
Dr. Low Yeh Ching data science topics. She was awarded an Excellent Paper
Award at the 2nd International Conference on Mathematical
Associate Dean Sciences and Statistics in 2016 for a co-authored paper.
(Education), Programme
Lead (Master of Data
Dr. Low is also a member of professional associations, namely the
Science), School
of Engineering and
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), IEEE, International
Technology, Sunway Statistical Institute, and Malaysia Institute of Statistics. Her
University research interests include statistical modelling and distribution
theory, computational statistics, statistical methods in data
science and statistics education.

8
How
it works
The Sunway University Online Master of Data Science delivers a world-class learning
experience that offers flexible education and engagement for ambitious modern professionals.

5 entry points per year

10 core subjects
7 weeks per subject
2 capstone project subjects
6 subjects per year (maximum)

Core Subjects

Subject Description Credit

Principles and Practices Develop your fundamental knowledge of the

3
of Data Science principles of data science and key subject concepts.

Understand the basic principles of programming

Programming for
for data science and the collection, storage, 3
Data Science
organisation, management and analysis of data.

Build an understanding of the visualisation of

Data Visualisation complex data sets and skills necessary to clearly 3
communicate this information.

Explore statistical techniques inherent in data

Statistical Methods
science to analyse data and produce results with 3
for Data Science
the use of statistical programming.

Learn how to practically apply the knowledge

Data Mining 3
and skills of data mining.

Get to grips with big data modelling and

Big Data Management large-scale data management in distributed 3
and heterogeneous environments.

Learn how to design and implement scientific

Research Methodology research projects for the eventual completion 3
of a research thesis.

Develop an understanding of predictive tools and

Forecasting Analytics 3
their application in forecasting analytics.

Deep Learning for Understand techniques and processes for deep

3
Data Science learning and the development of neural networks.

Explore the field of cloud infrastructure, enabling

Cloud Infrastructure technologies, building blocks and hands-on
3
and Services experience through projects utilising public
cloud infrastructures and services.
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Research
project
Alongside 10 core subjects, the Sunway University Online Master of Data Science also
includes a double-value research project, enabling you to apply the knowledge gained
during your studies to a real-world scenario.

Capstone Project
Subject Description Credit

Build on subject knowledge to study and

investigate a topic of interest related to data
Data Science science. Identify a problem area, work with
Capstone Project 1 stakeholders to explore the topic and undertake 5 each
and 2 appropriate analysis to solve the defined
problem through data science techniques within
the specific domain area.

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Inform your
route to success
Data powers our modern digital society. It informs our businesses and underpins our
connected global economy.

Inform your future with a Master of Data Science from Sunway University Online and
connect to remarkable potential in our transforming world.

Boost earning potential

Develop sought-after skills that unlock new and emerging job
opportunities that enhance your earnings potential.

Empower your learning

Benefit from passionate academics and global industry experts
to power up your understanding.

Thrive with flexibility

Let your education flourish with flexible study that fits into your
busy schedule.

Support when you need it

Enjoy comprehensive end-to-end support throughout the learning
journey with an Education Counsellor.

“The ability to take data—to be able to understand it,

to process it, to extract value from it, to visualise it,
to communicate it—that’s going to be a hugely
important skill in the next decades.”

Hal Varian,
Chief Economist at Google.

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Cost
and eligibility
Fees Intake Programme length

MYR40,000 total cost. Five entry points per year 10 core subjects +
in January, March, May, 2 capstone project
Click here to learn more July and September. subjects.
about funding options.

Entry requirements

A bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Software

Engineering, Business Information Systems, Analytics, Cyber Security or equivalent
with a minimum CGPA of 2.75 out of 4.00 or its equivalent qualifications.

OR
A bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Software
Engineering, Business Information Systems, Analytics, Cyber Security or equivalent
with a minimum CGPA of 2.50 and not meeting 2.75 out of 4.00, subject to a
rigorous internal assessment process.

OR
A bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Software
Engineering, Business Information Systems, Analytics, Cyber Security or equivalent
with a CGPA lower than 2.50, with at least 5 years of relevant work experience.

OR
The completion of two prerequisite subjects specified by the University for those
with a bachelor’s degree in a non-related discipline, with a minimum CGPA of 2.50,
and without relevant work experience.

OR
An APEL-A Certification (APEL T-7) (Recognition of Prior Learning)

AND
English-Language Requirement: Applicants whose medium of instruction
for their first degree was not English will be required to provide evidence of
language ability via an IELTS (average score of 6.5) or TOEFL (score of 600 -
paper-based or score of 250 - computer-based) test result.

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Prerequisite
pathway
Students with a non-related bachelor’s degree have the opportunity to enrol in the online
Master of Data Science programme upon the completion of two prerequisite subjects
– Foundations of Programming, and Database Concepts and Principles – which can be
finished in a total of 7 weeks or under, and taken one at a time or concurrently. 

Cost 

RM1,500

Subject overview 

These non-credit bridging subjects have been carefully designed to familiarise

students with the terms and concepts fundamental to the field of data science,
as well as to test the ability to solve problems analytically.

In Foundations of Programming, you will gain a practical understanding of Python,

an easy-to-learn language that is highly valued by computing professionals. 
 
Database Concepts and Principles, meanwhile, provides primary knowledge of the
key concepts needed to analyse, design and implement databases using Structured
Query Language (SQL).

Learning Outcomes 

• Gain a fundamental understanding of Python, one of the most suitable

programming languages for novices to learn and highly valued by professionals. 
• Recognise the underlying concepts of data modelling and relational database
systems, and use SQL to query relational database systems. 
• Design and construct relational databases, and write, run, and debug short
Python scripts to perform automated actions.

Call our Education Counsellors at 1800 180 029 (International: +60 3 2705 2663) to
find out more.

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Next steps
to get you started
1. Take your free eligibility assessment: Email us your resume, bachelor's
certificate, bachelor's transcript (or APEL certificate) and, if available, your
IELTS/TOEFL test result to [email protected]

2. Call 1800 180 029 (International: +60 3 2705 2663) to discuss your eligibility and
the application process, and ask any questions you might have.

Schedule a Call

3. Submit application: As soon as your dedicated Education Counsellor confirms

your eligibility for the programme, you can submit your application. Find more
information on the required documents on the next page.

Apply Now

If you prefer to communicate with your Education Counsellor exclusively via email,
please mention this when sending your documents to:

[email protected]

If you choose this option, we will provide the result of your eligibility check and
any relevant information via email.

We highly recommend you speak with us on a call to give you the best possible
chance of success on your journey to further study.

Click here to find out why it is important to speak with your Education Counsellor.

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Documents
required
You will need to supply the following documents with your application:

1 recent passport-format digital photograph

Certified true copies of academic qualifications
Bachelor’s or APEL-A Certification (APEL T-7) (Recognition of Prior Learning)
Resume (if application is based on work experience)
IELTS/TOEFL test result if your bachelor's was not taught in English (IELTS
average score of 6.5, or TOEFL score of 600 - paper-based or score of 250 -
computer-based; no older than two years)

Book your English-language test with

IDP

or

British Council.

15
Subject
descriptions

16
Principles and Practices
of Data Science

Subject Overview

This subject is designed to help you understand the field and nature of data science. It
covers the 5W (What, When, Who, Where, Why) and 1H (How) of elements of data science
in the era of big data.

The subject also establishes the fundamental knowledge of data science that underlines
different types of machine learning algorithms, processes, analytics life cycle, data science
thinking concept, data warehousing and ETL. It will also explore the importance of connecting
business intelligence (BI) systems with other information systems, and the importance of,
and issues in, integrating BI technologies and applications.

Learning Outcomes
Apply major concepts, theories, models and methods in data science to generate
solutions to some characteristic problems.
Evaluate the suitability of different types of machine learning algorithms to
investigate a range of data science and BI problems.
Plan a data science project on a new application area using complex and integrative
knowledge of the data life cycle and analysis process, including data warehousing
and data mining.

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Programming
for Data Science

Subject Overview

This subject will provide you with a basic introduction to programming for data science. It
will cover topics related to the collection, storage, organisation, management and analysis
of data, both structured (record-based) and unstructured (such as text).

Learning Outcomes
Use a programming language to perform data-handling tasks.
Appraise the suitability of different analytical approaches for investigating data
science problems.
Design, implement and test programmes to retrieve, manage and analyse multiple
data formats from various sources.

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Data
Visualisation

Subject Overview

This subject will teach you all about data and the art and science of turning data into readable
graphics. The subject explores the principles and techniques of visualisation to transform
and model large data sets to aid knowledge discovery and decision-making.

You will learn the principles, techniques and practical skills necessary to communicate
data insights clearly and effectively through data visualisation. You will also be exposed
to methods for acquiring, parsing, analysing and visualising different data types, including
multivariate, temporal, text-based, spatial, hierarchical and network/graph-based data.

By the end of the subject, you will implement and apply the theory, and use tools to
communicate information out of data clearly and effectively through graphical means.

Learning Outcomes
Conduct exploratory data analysis using visualisation to investigate some
characteristic data science problems.
Apply knowledge of perception and cognition to evaluate visualisation design
alternatives.
Create data visualisations that communicate effectively to key stakeholders in
a range of data science and business contexts.

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Statistical Methods
for Data Science

Subject Overview

This subject will introduce you to statistical techniques inherent in data science that will
enable you to analyse data and produce results using statistical programming.

Upon completing the subject, you will demonstrate a conceptual understanding of statistical
inference and modelling for informed decision-making and communicate the statistical
results effectively.

Learning Outcomes
Interpret descriptive statistics to analyse and evaluate data science problems.
Conduct inferential statistics procedures to arrive at logical conclusions in
problem-solving.
Apply statistical programming to analyse data for problem-solving.

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Data
Mining

Subject Overview

This subject will teach you how to practically apply the knowledge and skills of data mining.
It will explore the skills of using, analysing, comparing and interpreting exploratory and
predictive data models. It will include analysis of case studies and implementation of data
modelling applications.

Learning Outcomes
Apply and evaluate data understanding and preparation in data mining processes.
Evaluate, compare, interpret and select data models for knowledge discovery.
Implement exploratory and predictive modelling techniques using data mining tools
for knowledge discovery.

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Big Data
Management

Subject Overview

This subject wil equip you with the skills and understanding to perform big data modelling
and large-scale data management in distributed and heterogeneous environments.

You will also learn the principles of big data management, gaining the experience and
understanding to prepare you for a career as a data scientist, independent of continuous
technology changes.

Learning Outcomes
Understanding of the principles of big data management.
Apply state-of-the-art representation formalisms to develop storage and
management solutions for big data.
Develop the ability to model big data with schema languages.

22
Research
Methodology

Subject Overview

This subject equips you with skills in designing and implementing scientific research projects
for the eventual completion of a research thesis at the doctoral level.

The subject covers quantitative, qualitative and mixed research methods, as well as sampling
concepts, quantitative data collection, and applied and descriptive statistics for conducting
meaningful research. You will also work through writing workshops to enhance your thesis
writing skills.

Learning Outcomes
Justify research methods for data analysis and interpretation to carry out research
in data science.
Design a plan for a scientific research project in the area of data science.
Design a research project.

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Forecasting
Analytics

Subject Overview

This subject will introduce you to data pre-processing, over-fitting and model tuning. This will
enable you to measure performance in regression models, linear regression models, non-
linear regression models, regression trees and rule-based models, measuring performance
in classification models, discriminant analysis and other linear classification models.

Learning Outcomes
Develop an understanding of predictive tools and their applications.
Evaluate various predictive techniques.
Enable inference of use of predictive modelling in various industries.

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Deep Learning
for Data Science

Subject Overview

This subject equips you with the foundations of deep learning and an understanding of
how to build neural networks. You will also learn how to lead successful commercial data
science projects using deep programming frameworks.

Learning Outcomes
Evaluate the suitability of deep learning techniques to investigate different data
science or business problems.
Investigate a specific data science or business problem using fundamental
knowledge of deep learning methods, tools and techniques.
Design a deep learning solution for a specific data science or business problem.

25
Cloud Infrastructure
and Services

Subject Overview

This subject will provide you with an overview of the field of cloud infrastructure, its enabling
technologies, main building blocks and hands-on experience through projects utilising
public cloud infrastructures and services.

In addition, it will cover the topics of cloud infrastructures, virtualisation, software-defined

networks and storage, cloud storage and programming models. The subject will also introduce
you to the motivating factors, benefits and challenges of the cloud, service models, service
level agreements (SLAs), security, and examples of cloud service providers and use cases.

Learning Outcomes

Explain the core concepts of the cloud computing paradigm, including the
characteristics, advantages and challenges brought about by the various models
and services in cloud computing.
Analyse the trade-offs in power, efficiency and cost in cloud infrastructures to build
and deploy resilient, flexible and cost-efficient applications.
Evaluate and implement various cloud models and services to solve problems on
the cloud.

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Data Science
Capstone Project 1 and 2

Subject Overview

The capstone project provides you with the opportunity to study and investigate in depth
a topic of interest related to data science.

You will be expected to select a problem area, typically with access to necessary data
and potential stakeholders, to carry out the project. Students are encouraged to engage
organisations or companies to collaborate on the project.

The capstone project requires students to formulate research questions and hypotheses
based on literature review, appropriate methodology and analysis using data science
technologies.

The first phase of this research project will focus on literature review, project design and
initial development/investigations. The second phase will focus on its implementation,
evaluation and documentation.

Learning Outcomes - Data Science Project 1

Organise the relevant literature to make informed choices in planning the project.
Critique the relevant literature to identify a gap and propose a solution to the
identified problem space.
Plan a data science project for the identified problem space.

Learning Outcomes - Data Science Project 2

Develop a data science product that solves a problem in a specific domain area.
Assess the best solutions to the identified problem with sound justifications.
Communicate with all stakeholders ethically and professionally, and confidently
defend ideas and research outcomes.
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Invest
in your future
Now is the time to invest in your future and
develop the skills and experience to succeed
in a changing business landscape.

The future doesn’t wait.

Start your journey today.

5, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway,

47500 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

[email protected]
or
[email protected]

1800 180 029 (International: +60 3 2705 2663)

Schedule a Call

studyonline.sunway.edu.my

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