Graad 12 vereistes

Die minimum toelatingsvereistes in graad 12 om toegelaat te word tot die BDatSci program is:

•           NSS of IER gemiddelde van 80% gebaseer op die beste ses vakke, uitsluitend Lewensorientering

•           Wiskunde 80%

•           Huistaal 60%

•           Indien Engels nie die huistaal is nie, is Engels Eerste addisionele taal 75%

FAQ

What is the difference between BCom Mathematical Sciences & BSc Computer Science degrees with focal areas Data Science and BDatSci?

The BCom and BSc degrees are only three-year degree programmes. You need to do a Honours degree after the initial three years to be able to register for a Master's. The BCom and BSc degrees do not offer specific Data Science modules in the programme and are more Commerce/Business orientated for BCom and more natural Science orientated for BSc. You can register for a Honours degree in any of the majors of the third year in BCom and BSc. The big advantage in BDatSci degree is that you specialise in a very specific data-rich envirionment by selecting one of the much sought-after focal areas. Your research project in the fourth year is a direct application and specialist research in the particular data-rich environment.

Can you change from BCom Mathematical Sciences or BSc Computer Science to BDatSci any time?

Yes, depending on what modules you have completed. You will have to register however still for the Data Science modules from year 1. It may mean that you need to study more than 4 years to complete the degree. Focal areas also need very specific modules. You cannot follow other modules that are not specified by the focal area. In BDatSci degree the focal area modules are compulsory modules from second year onwards - you still need to register for all of them. You need to apply to Prof PJ Mostert at pjmos@sun.ac.za with a motivational letter. Your application will be considered by the BDatSci programme Committee for approval. No student will be allowed to register for BDatSci without prior approval.

Can you change between BDatSci focal areas?

Yes, provided the required modules in that focal area are still followed. It may mean in certain cases that you need to study more than 4 years to complete the compulsory modules for a particular focal area. Modules in a focaal area cannot be replaced by other modules in other degree programmes.

Can you switch from BCom Actuarial Science to BDatSci

Having started with BCom Actuarial Science, the easiest switch to BDatSci is at the end of semester 1 of your first year. After first 6 months data Science 141 is taken and then follow the rest of BDatSci first year modules. The change to BDatSci will then be official at the end of year 1. The longer you wait, the more BDatSci modules you need to catch up on. For example, if you change to BDatSci at the end of year 1 without registering for Data Science 141, means that an extra year is added to your studies, since Data Science 141 is a pass requisite for Data Science 241 etc and these two modules cannot be taken simultaneously. The two degrees are very different, despite having the same minimum admission req​uirements. Always consult the faculty calendars to see what modules are required in degree programmes. Approval to change to BDatSci should be obtained from the BDatSci programme Committee by emailing pjmos@sun.ac.za.

Can you change from BDatSci to BCom/BSc after year 1 or year 2?

You may, provided you follow the required modules of the respective degrees. Each of the degrees BCom and BSc have very specific modules to follow  as elective and compulsory modules.

What is the difference between BDatSci and the Data Engineer specialist area when studying BEng Electric and Electronic (E&E) engineering?

Computer Science, Mathematical Statisics and Mathematics modules are followed by both students of BDatSci and BEng E&E. BEng E&E students will follow more engineering modules as compulsory modules, resulting in an engineering qualification after 4 years. BDatSci not only present you with a qualification in Data Science, but also allow you top specialise in one of the most sought-after specialist areas in Data Science.

What are the job prospects?

The Harvard Review claims Data Scientist: The sexiest job of the 21st century. Follow the link here to read more on the need of Data Scientists.