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MSDM

Data-Driven Modeling

MSDM 5001
Introduction to Computational and Modeling Tools
[3-0-0:3]
Description
The basics about CPU, GPU and their applications in high performance computing; introduction of the operating systems; introduction of the parallel program design, implementation and applications in physics and other areas; basics about quantum computation: the concept, algorithm and future hardware.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Identify hardware requirement for high performance computing.
- 2.
  Explain the basic structure of CPU and GPU.
- 3.
  Use basic algorithms for some of the numerical problems.
- 4.
  Explain the basics about parallel computing.
- 5.
  Explain the main ideas about quantum computation.
MSDM 5002
Scientific Programming and Visualization
[3-0-0:3]
Description
The Python programming language and its application to scientiﬁc programming (packages such as Scipy, Numpy, Matplotlib); introduction to Matlab, Mathematica, Excel and R; visualization techniques for data from scientiﬁc computing, everyday life, social media, business, medical imaging, etc. (stock price, housing price, highway traffic data, weather data, fluid dynamics data) (3 hours lecture in computer lab)
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Use Python to write computer programs.
- 2.
  Apply Matlab, Mathematica, Excel and R to write programs.
- 3.
  Select suitable figures to represent data clearly.
- 4.
  Create animation to show the evolution of data.
- 5.
  Solve simple scientific problems and show the results clearly.
MSDM 5003
Stochastic Processes and Applications
[3-0-0:3]
Background
Working knowledge in at least one computer language, and basic training in calculus and linear algebra.
Description
Probability theory; maximum likelihood; Bayesian techniques; principal component analysis, data transformation and filtering; Brownian motion and stochastic processes; cross-correlations; power laws; log-normal distribution and extreme value distributions; Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution; Monte Carlo methods; agent-based models; evolutionary games; Black-Scholes equation.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Use appropriate mathematical tools to reveal the statistical parameters of data sets.
- 2.
  Process data sets to extract their salient features.
- 3.
  Formulate mathematical equations for stochastic processes.
- 4.
  Summarize the behaviors of data sets using typical statistical laws and distributions where applicable.
- 5.
  Relate stochastic process equations to the macroscopic properties of many-component systems in real-life based on their microscopic behaviors.
- 6.
  Apply stochastic process techniques to make predictions in real-life problems.
MSDM 5004
Numerical Methods and Modeling in Science
[3-0-0:3]
Exclusion(s)
PHYS 5410 (prior to 2022-23)
Background
The basic knowledge of multivariable calculus and linear algebra is required.
Description
Fundamental numerical techniques: error, speed and stability, integrals, derivatives, interpolation and extrapolation, least squares ﬁtting, solution of linear algebraic equations, mathematical optimization, ordinary differential equations, partial differential equations; Fourier and spectral applications, random processes, Monte Carlo simulations, simulated annealing.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Apply numerical methods for derivatives and integrals and explain their errors.
- 2.
  Apply numerical methods for interpolation, extrapolation, and least squares fitting.
- 3.
  Apply numerical methods to solve linear algebraic equations.
- 4.
  Apply numerical methods to solve ordinary differential equations and partial differential equations.
- 5.
  Apply mathematical optimization.
- 6.
  Explain Fourier and spectral methods.
- 7.
  Apply Monte Carlo simulations.
MSDM 5005
Innovation in Practice
[2-1-0:3]
Description
Three topics will be selected each term. For each topic, specialists from the industry will be invited to introduce the industrial landscape and related issues. Students will then form groups to explore methodology of collecting useful data and propose innovative solutions related to the topics based on real data. This course enables students to apply mathematical theories to real context and gives students hands-on experience on data science.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Explain the use of data science as a platform to impact the society and business decisions.
- 2.
  Identify and describe the common themes and topics in data science in modern business and society.
- 3.
  Conduct experiential workshops using data from industries under real life or simulated situation.
- 4.
  Apply data analytics model, coding in real life situations.
- 5.
  Apply Web scraping, Web robots, and other Ai automation tools.
MSDM 5051
Algorithm and Object-Oriented Programming for Modeling
[2-1-0:3]
Description
Data structures (such as list, queue, stack), algorithms (such as recursion, sorting and searching), concepts and design patterns of object-oriented programming are introduced. Students are expected to understand and use these techniques to handle data.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Define and use data structures in solving programming problems.
- 2.
  Describe and implement recursion, searching and sorting algorithms.
- 3.
  Explain and apply object-orientated programming.
- 4.
  Explain and apply design patterns in modeling.
MSDM 5053
Quantitative Analysis of Time Series
[3-0-0:3]
Exclusion(s)
MSBD 5006, MAFS 5130
Background
Statistics courses at the UG level (e.g. MATH 2411) are desirable.
Description
The course introduces some fundamental concepts of time series, including strict stationarity and weak stationarity, and series correlation. Students will study some classical time series models, including autoregressive model, moving averages model and ARMA model, seasonal ARIMA models, multivariate time series models, and some new financial time series models, including ARCH and GARCH models. Students will also learn the forecasting techniques based on those time series models and build up time series models for real time series data in natural science, engineering and economics.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Check if a data set is from white noise/series correlation.
- 2.
  Identify relevant models of time series.
- 3.
  Perform estimation and model selection.
- 4.
  Make forecasts based on time series.
- 5.
  Model volatilities.
MSDM 5054
Statistical Machine Learning
[2-1-0:3]
Exclusion(s)
MATH 5470, MFIT 5010
Background
Basic knowledge in probability, statistics and computer science.
Description
This course introduces modern methodologies in machine learning, including tools in both supervised learning and unsupervised learning. Examples include linear regression and classification, tree-based methods, kernel methods and principal component analysis. Students will practice R or Python, and apply them to real data analysis.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Recognize and use appropriately important concepts in machines learning.
- 2.
  Describe the methods in machines learning and apply them in concise form.
- 3.
  Apply machine learning tools in real data analysis.
- 4.
  Explain and use software such as R or Python.
MSDM 5055
Deep Learning for Modeling: Concepts, Tools, and Techniques
[2-1-0:3]
Exclusion(s)
CSIT 5910
Background
Basic knowledge in probability, linear algebra, and programming
Description
This course introduces deep learning methodologies, including basic concepts, programming frameworks, and practical techniques. Topics include regression neural network, convolutional neural network, generative adversarial network, variational autoencoder, normalizing flow, reinforcement learning, and sequential models. Students will learn to implement typical models in PyTorch and apply them to various datasets in many real-world applications.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Explain and use appropriately important concepts in deep learning.
- 2.
  Explain important algorithms in deep learning.
- 3.
  Assess programming frameworks, such as NumPy and PyTorch.
- 4.
  Apply appropriate deep learning algorithms in real data analysis cases.
- 5.
  Implement important algorithms in deep learning.
MSDM 5056
Network Modeling
[2-1-0:3]
Background
Students are required to have working knowledge in at least one computer language, and basic training in calculus and linear algebra.
Description
Empirical study of networks in social science, economics, ﬁnance, biology and technology, network models: random networks, small world networks, scale free networks, spatial and hierarchical networks, evolving networks, methods to generate them with a computer, dynamical processes on complex networks: network search, epidemic spreading, rumor and information spreading, community detection algorithms, applications of network theory.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Analyze real world networks empirically.
- 2.
  Apply fundamentals of graph theory and techniques to calculate various properties of complex networks.
- 3.
  Predict the outcomes of dynamical processes that evolve on networks.
- 4.
  Apply network theory to trace the factors determining the properties of real world complex (social, financial, biological, technological) systems.
- 5.
  Develop computational algorithms for calculating network properties and analyzing large scale networks.
MSDM 5057
Business Literacy for Data Professionals
[3-0-0:3]
Description
This course is designed to build essential business acumen to equip students with the attitudes, skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s data-driven world. Diving into specialized modules covering management, decision making, business communications and collaborations, the course will help students to develop a foundational understanding of key business concepts and terminology. Students will work in groups and get exposure to industry experts to gain authentic learning experience.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Demonstrate understanding of fundamental business concepts and terminology.
- 2.
  Understand the role of data in solving complex business problems.
- 3.
  Communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders using data-driven insights.
- 4.
  Analyze real-world business scenarios through an interdisciplinary lens.
- 5.
  Present and showcase integration of business literacy with data skills.
MSDM 5058
Information Science
[2-1-0:3]
Background
Good performance in undergraduate mathematics
Description
This course will cover: (1) decision theory and its applications to ﬁnance; options and payoff diagrams, binomial trees; (2) portfolio management of financial time series using mean variance analysis; (3) evolutionary computation for optimization, with applications in ﬁnding good prediction rules in finance; (4) measure of information, various information entropies, and methods of maximum entropy; (5) game theory and its applications in competitive situations; (6) multi-agent systems modeling and applications to social networks and financial systems.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Explain the concept information measure, mutual information, and various types of information entropy.
- 2.
  Describe and explain the method of Bayesian decision criterion and other common tools in decision theory.
- 3.
  Explain association rule in prediction using decision theory and data pre-procession.
- 4.
  Define options with examples in payoff diagrams and binomial tree.
- 5.
  Explain the method of mean variance analysis in portfolio management.
- 6.
  Assess the financial time series database to form new tools of FinTech.
- 7.
  Describe and explain the method of evolutionary computation (genetic algorithm) and its applications.
- 8.
  Explain and apply the game theory (zero and non-zero sum games, Nash equilibrium and Pareto optimum).
MSDM 5059
Operations Research and Optimization
[2-1-0:3]
Background
Working knowledge in at least one computer language, and basic training in calculus and linear algebra.
Description
This course will introduce the concepts and techniques of optimization and modeling in systems and applications with many variables and constraints. Topics to be discussed include pivot tables, linear programming, network flow models, project management, support vector algorithms, kernel methods, convex sets, duality, Lagrange multipliers, 1-D optimization algorithms, unconstrained optimization, guided random search methods, and constrained optimization.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Explain the underlying principles of optimization techniques and algorithms.
- 2.
  Assess the differences and pros and cons of different optimization techniques and algorithms.
- 3.
  Select the appropriate optimization methods for solving various optimization problems.
- 4.
  Apply software tools to solve optimization problems.
- 5.
  Formulate real-world problems in terms of models and solve them.
- 6.
  Assess whether optimization techniques used in applications are used effectively.
MSDM 6771
Data-Driven Modeling Seminars and Tutorials
[0-1-0:1]
Description
All students in the MSc in Data-Driven Modeling program are required to take this course. Appropriate seminars and small group tutorials are scheduled to expose students to a variety of issues in data science and industry, and to enhance students' communication with industry experts and faculty. This course lasts for one year. The students are required to attend the seminars and tutorials in two regular terms. For students of MSc in Data-Driven Modeling only. Graded PP, P or F.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Formulate the future plans about their careers and explain them to faculty members and fellow students in both small and large group settings.
- 2.
  Identify the latest key developments in data industry from the expert sharing seminars.
- 3.
  Participate in small group discussions with confidence on various topical issues.
- 4.
  Apply communication skills at work, both as individuals and when in large groups.
- 5.
  Search for and retrieve information on a variety of topics relevant to career development and lifelong learning in data science.
- 6.
  Apply basic skills for preparing successful resumes, cover letters and job interviews.
MSDM 6980
Computational Modeling and Simulation Project
[3 credits]
Description
Under the supervision of a faculty member, students will carry out an independent research project on computational modeling and simulation. At the end of the course, students need to summarize their results in the form of short theses and give oral presentations. Enrollment in the course requires approval by the course coordinator and supervisor.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Initiate new research areas, identify goals of significant importance, search relevant literature, and collect new data.
- 2.
  Construct data-driven models, test hypothesis, write simulation programs, and interpret simulation results.
- 3.
  Draw meaningful conclusions, write convincing reports, and propose further directions.

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