Master of Science (MSc) in Data Science
The MSc in Data Science at Southshore University College is a high-authority postgraduate degree designed to produce the next generation of "Sovereign Analysts" and "Knowledge Architects." Grounded in our TEASE values (Trustworthiness, Experience, Authority, Success, Expertise), the programme integrates advanced statistical theory with the computational Expertise required to manage massive datasets and develop autonomous predictive models. Affiliated with the University of Cape Coast, this degree signifies a safe harbour for professionals transitioning into peak technical authority within the global data economy.
Key Information
Academic Division
School of Computing & Information Technology
Duration
1 Year
Awarding Institution
University of Cape Coast (UCC)
Accreditation
Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC)
Strategic Focus
Predictive Intelligence & African Digital Sovereignty
Institutions
Teaching Institution
SouthShore University College
Awarding Institution
University of Cape Coast (UCC)
Our programme is benchmarked against International Standards (ABET and BCS frameworks) to ensure your technical qualification carries global weight and sovereign authority.
Applied Research Mandate
: 60% of the programme’s technical focus is dedicated to supervised laboratory-based solution building within the ADS (African Digital Sovereignty) Research Cluster.
Mastery Skills Pipeline
A mandatory 100-hour track for graduate researchers focusing on Big Data Engineering (Hadoop/Spark), Advanced MLOps, Research Grant Writing, and Professional Viva Voce Preparation.
Infrastructure Authority
Candidates have 24/7 priority access to the ADS Cybersecurity & Data Lab, featuring high-performance computing (HPC) nodes and specialized AI environments.
Integrity & Trust
In line with our Trustworthiness pillar, the curriculum includes mandatory certifications in Algorithmic Ethics, Data Sovereignty Law, and Privacy-Preserving Computation.
The SISNet Link
As a TALI Graduate School scholar, you gain immediate entry into the Southshore International Scholars Network (SISNet), connecting you with global high-impact fellows and senior industry practitioners.
Quality & Accreditation
Fully accredited by GTEC and monitored by the DOEQA. As an affiliate of the University of Cape Coast, Southshore ensures that the MSc thesis undergoes rigorous external examination by globally ranked statisticians and computer scientists to maintain parity with the world's best research-led institutions.
Admission Requirements
- Academic Qualification
A first degree (BSc) in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related quantitative field from a recognized institution with a minimum final classification of Second Class Upper Division (2:1).
- Technical Aptitude
Demonstrable proficiency in at least one high-level programming language and multivariate calculus.
- Research Aptitude
Submission of a concise Research Intent statement (1,500 words) aligning with the ADS Research Cluster priorities.
- Equitable Admissions
Scholarship paths are available via the Widening Participation pillar for high-potential researchers from underrepresented demographics.
Curriculum Overview
Year 1
Semester 1
GSDS 551: Programming for Data Science
GSST 553: Probability Theory and Distributions
GSDS 555: Mathematics for Data Science
GSST 557: Data Engineering
Data Visualisation (GSDS 559)
GSDS 559: Data Visualisation
GSDS 561: Optimisation Methods in Data Science (Elective)
GSDS 563: Applied Time Series and Forecasting (Elective)
Semester 2
GSST 568: Statistical Inference
GSST 570: Research Methods and Ethics
GSDS 562: Machine Learning
GSST 574: Advanced Statistical Methods
GSST 578: Econometrics (Elective)
GSDS 582: Financial Data Analysis (Elective)
Semester 3
GSDS 571: Deep Learning
GSDS 573: Data Management
GSDS 575: Artificial Intelligence and Ethics
GSDS 577: MSc Dissertation
GSDS 579: Computer Vision (Elective)
GSDS 581: Reinforcement Learning (Elective)
Career Prospects
We target an 85% Success Rate for graduates entering elite analytical or senior leadership roles. Graduates are prepared for:
Lead Data Scientist (Fintech/Health/Tech)
Chief Data Officer (CDO-track)
AI Research Engineer
Senior Quantitative Policy Architect
Strategic Analytics Consultant