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University of Southern Punjab

BS Data Science

Introduction

Data Science is an interdisciplinary field that combines statistics, mathematics, computer science, and analytical techniques to extract meaningful insights from structured and unstructured data. It involves the systematic collection, processing, analysis, and interpretation of large volumes of data to identify patterns, discover trends, and support informed decision-making. The BS Data Science program aims to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to work with data throughout its life cycle, from data collection and preparation to analysis, visualization, predictive modeling, and interpretation of results.

Data Science spans a wide range of areas, from statistical analysis and data management to advanced developments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data analytics, and predictive modeling. The overall scope of Data Science may be viewed in the following three categories:

  • To extract meaningful insights from data: Data Science develops effective methods to collect, organize, process, and analyze data to solve complex problems. It uses statistical techniques, mathematical models, and computational tools to identify patterns, relationships, and trends within large datasets. These techniques help organizations understand past performance, predict future outcomes, and make evidence-based decisions in fields such as business, healthcare, education, finance, and scientific research.
  • To develop intelligent and predictive solutions: Data Science combines machine learning, artificial intelligence, and statistical modeling to develop systems that learn from data and make predictions. These technologies support applications such as recommendation systems, fraud detection, disease prediction, customer behavior analysis, and intelligent automation. Through the effective use of data-driven techniques, Data Science enables researchers and organizations to discover new opportunities, improve existing processes, and develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
  • To design and implement data-driven systems: Data Science provides students with the knowledge and practical skills required to design, develop, and deploy systems that transform raw data into useful information. It covers database management, data visualization, big data technologies, data engineering, and cloud-based analytical systems. The program also emphasizes the ethical and responsible use of data, including privacy, security, and data quality. This comprehensive foundation prepares graduates to adapt to emerging technologies and pursue careers in data analysis, machine learning, business intelligence, artificial intelligence, and other data-intensive fields.

Eligibility Criteria

Duration of the Program and Award of Degree

At minimum 130 credit hours are required for award of BSDS degrees in any computing discipline mentioned in this document.

The minimum duration for completion of BSDS is four years. The HEC allows maximum period of seven years to complete BS degree requirements.

A minimum 2.0 CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) on a scale of 4.0 is required for award of BS Computing Degree.

The students after successful completion of 04 semesters in BS Computing Programs may exit with Associate Degree in Computing subject to completion of all requirements for the award of associate degree, i.e., Credit Hours, CGPA, and compulsory courses.

Program Mission

To equip students with the knowledge and skills to extract insights from data through analytical, statistical, and computational methods. The program nurtures data-driven decision-makers who can apply data science principles to real-world problems while adhering to ethical standards and promoting sustainable development.

Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)

PEO-I

Graduates will analyze and interpret data to solve real-world problems and support informed decision-making.

PEO-II

Graduates will follow ethical data practices and communicate results effectively in multidisciplinary environment.

PEO-III

Graduates will continue learning to stay updated with data science tools, techniques, and trends.

Graduate Attributes

GA-1 Academic Education

To prepare graduates as computing professionals

GA-2 Knowledge for Solving Computing Problems

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.

GA-3 Problem Analysis

Identify, formulate, research literature, and solve complex computing problems reaching substantiated conclusions using fundamental principles of mathematics, computing sciences, and relevant domain disciplines.

GA-4 Design / Development of Solutions

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.

GA-5 Modern Tool Usage

Create, select, adapt and apply appropriate techniques, resources, and modern computing tools to complex computing activities, with an understanding of the limitations.

GA-6 Individual and Team Work

Function effectively as an individual and as a member or leader in diverse teams and in multi-disciplinary settings.

GA-7 Communication

Communicate effectively with the computing community and with society at large about complex computing activities by being able to comprehend and write effective reports, design documentation, make effective presentations, and give and understand clear instructions.

GA-8 Computing Professionalism and Society

Understand and assess societal, health, safety, legal, and cultural issues within local and global contexts, and the consequential responsibilities relevant to professional computing practice.

GA-9 Ethics

Understand and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities, and norms of professional computing practice.

GA-10 Life-long Learning

Recognize the need, and have the ability, to engage in independent learning for continual development as a computing professional.

Mapping of PEOs to GAs

S. No. GAs PEO1 PEO2 PEO3
1.
Academic Education
2.
Knowledge for Solving Computing Problems
3.
Problem Analysis
4.
Design / Development of Solutions
5.
Modern Tool Usage
6.
Individual & Team Work
7.
Communication
8.
Computing Professionalism and Society
9.
Ethics
10.
Life-Long Learning

Generic Structure for BSDS

Credit Hours Courses
46
14
18
6
21
7
12
4
3
1
30
12
Total = 130
Total = 44

Scheme of Study BS Data Science Program

Total Credit Hours = 130

Courses
Introduction to ICT
Programming Fundamentals
Discrete Structures
Calculus & Analytical Geometry
English Composition & Comprehension
Object Oriented Programming
Database Systems
Linear Algebra
Probability & Statistics
Communication & Presentation Skills
Data Structures & Algorithms
Information Security
Artificial Intelligence
Digital Logic & Design
Differential Equations
Computer Networks
Computer Organization & Assembly Language
Analysis of Algorithms
Programming for AI
AI – Elective 1
Operating Systems
Artificial Neural Networks
Machine Learning
Knowledge Representation & Reasoning
AI – Elective 2
Parallel & Distributed Computing
Computer Vision
Natural Language Processing
University Elective -1
AI – Elective 3
Software Engineering
AI – Elective 4
University Elective -2
University Elective -3
Technical & Business Writing
Final Year Project – 1
University Elective – 4
Professional Practices
Pakistan Studies
Islamic Studies
Final Year Project – 2
AI Electives (Domain Electives)
Fuzzy Systems
Theory of Automata & Formal Languages
Data Mining
Deep Learning
Advance Statistics
Speech Processing
Reinforcement Learning
Evolutionary Computing