Smart Dubai to launch regions first accredited Master of Science in Data Analytics

DUBAI - Smart Dubai, in partnership with the Rochester Institute of Technology, RIT, has developed a ground-breaking Master of Science in Data Analytics. The programme, which has secured official accreditation from the Ministry of Education, tackles the increasingly influential field of data, which has become the cornerstone of advanced services and smart city transformations around the world.

The first of its kind in the region, the programme is now open for registration until 30th September, 2018, with the official launch set for the first week of October 2018. The 11-month Master’s Degree in Data Analytics comprising of 33 semester credit hours was developed following an agreement signed between Smart Dubai and the RIT in Dubai in July 2017. Under the agreement, the former developed the main objectives of the initiative and led the charge in securing scientific accreditation for the programme.

Commenting on the announcement, Younus Al Nasser, Assistant Director-General of Smart Dubai and CEO of the Dubai Data Establishment, said, "Data is the engine of innovation and entrepreneurship that elevates and upgrades the knowledge economy, and we, at Smart Dubai, always look forward to exploring advanced scientific instruments and embedding them into educational programmes and public services in Dubai." "This new programme covers all areas that can benefit from data collection and analysis, particularly when used for emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence, and machine learning, among others," he added.

The programme will ultimately drive further progress in innovation and research by preparing generations of young and highly qualified data analysts and scientists. It was designed to cover the advanced aspects of data collection and analysis, and highlight their applications in smart decision-making.

In turn, Dr. Yousef Al Assaf, President of RIT, said, "This joint Data Analytics programme, developed with Smart Dubai in accordance with international best practice, allows us to offer a sophisticated, hands-on academic curriculum for students and professionals interested in advancing their education in this vital sector."