Data science is the scientific investigation that employs innovative approaches and algorithms, most notably machine learning algorithms, for processing and analysing data. Data Science technologies can be applied to both small and big data, of various types such as relational, images, video, audio, and text. Big data constitutes extremely large data sets that may be analysed computationally to reveal patterns, trends and associations, especially relating to human behaviour and interactions. The data science programmes focus on enabling students to develop innovative optimisation and machine learning techniques to produce novel, efficient and robust data science technologies, for use in Industrial Engineering, Engineering Management and related applications. Examples include forecasting, customer segmentation and targeted marketing, production quality control, supply chair performance prediction and process monitoring.
The Department of Industrial Engineering is hosting two data science related programmes, namely the MEng (Structured) and the Postgraduate Diploma.
The 180 credit MEng (structured) programme encompasses five core data science modules, two elective modules, one specialization module, a module in professional communication, as well as a final 60-credit research assignment.
The 120 credit postgraduate diploma, on the other hand, requires students to complete six core data science modules, two generic modules and a professional communication module.
The modules are spread throughout the year (see timetable). The module duration is typically nine weeks and starts with a pre-block. A lecture block week will be presented in the 3rd week or the 5 lecture days will be presented in smaller blocks (2 days, 2 days, 1 day) spread across 4 weeks. Students must attend all 5 lecture days full time. The lecture days take place at Stellenbosch University or can be attended online. Beyond the lecture week no further contact time will be required.
Modules offered by other departments for the programme can have a different format/presentation mode.
Study time, Full time and part time option
A student may choose to enroll for the programme as a fulltime or a part-time student, where the main difference is the length of time allowed to enroll. Both student groups attend the same modules/teaching schedule/deadlines.
It is expected of a fulltime student to complete the postgraduate diploma in one year or the MEng programme in two years. A part-time student, on the other hand, is expected to complete the postgraduate diploma in two years and the MEng programme in three years. If necessary, students may apply for extension of study time with good motivation.
Once you commence your studies, a change from full time to part time is not possible.
Timetable, status January 2025
Applications for the next year intake year commences in April of the current year.
Applications must be submitted via the University’s postgraduate website.
Current students should apply after their 1st semester marks reflect on the transcripts.
When you apply, select:
MEng(Industrial Engineering) Struct: Data Science for the master’s program
PGDip(Eng)(Industrial Eng) for the postgraduate diploma programme.
Applications for MEng IE structured close
- 31 October 2025 for South African candidates, and
- 31 October 2025 for international candidates.
Applications for the PGDip Ind Eng programme close
- 31 October 2025 for South African candidates, and
- 31 October 2025 for international candidates.
Important:
Admission requirements for MEng IE (struc) are listed here.
Admission requirements for Pg Dip IE are listed here.
Please note that the programmes are quota-managed and have a limited number of places available for students.
Note:
The complete set of documents must be uploaded on the application portal before submitting the application. Documents cannot be added later. The complete application must be submitted on the application portal before the closing date.
Information on postgraduate fees is available on the University’s postgraduate website in the Yearbook Section ‘Student fees’ of the respective year SU Calendar (sun.ac.za)
Use the information in the SU fees calendar in combination with the student fee downloads.
Fees are adjusted annually. Fees differ for South African and International students as well as part time and full time students. It is recommended that you acquaint yourself with the fee structure, especially the yearly registration fees as well as the module fees.
For South African students fees enquiries must be directed to student accounts.
For International students enquiries fees enquiries must be directed to SUIFINANCE [suifinance@sun.ac.za]
Note: There are no scholarships from the IE department available for these programmes. For information on postgraduate funding and support, visit the funding support website.
For general enquiries about the programme, applications and registration, please contact the programme manager, Dr M Frei.
Fee enquiries and requests for quotes must be directed to student accounts (SA students) /SUIfinance
For enquiries on the technical aspects of the online application process please contact info@sun.ac.za
