Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence

Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence

Help doctors to detect and predict diseases in an early stage. Or accelerate the energy transition by developing intelligent systems that predict our energy needs. Applied Data Science & AI is not just about numbers and algorithms, but about crafting solutions that enhance our daily lives.

Registration for academic year 2024-2025 in Studielink is open

  • Location Maastricht
  • Duration 4 years, start in September
  • Language English
Does Applied Data Science and AI suit you?

What will you learn?

Get ready to challenge real-world problems with a practical approach, using logic for instance. Technology is important, but there’s more to it. Embrace curiosity and creativity as part of your identity. You're not just learning about AI; you're shaping it. What is the impact of AI on society? What about ethics? Dive into understanding and influencing how humans and society interact with AI. If blending tech-savvy with a human touch excites you, then Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence is your calling.

Check out our Miro board where you will find all kinds of practical information for a successful launch at the Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence programme. Also, check the Get Prepared page of Zuyd.

What does your week look like?

Kick off your week with captivating lectures, where you and your international peers explore new topics. In group discussions you dive deeper into the material with your group, always guided by a lecturer. You need to dedicate about 40 hours a week to your studies, mostly working on innovative projects. Initially, these are practice projects, but soon you'll be working on real-world regional innovations. This often involves collaborating with companies like those of our partner at the Brightlands campuses.

  • Guidance

    You will have a personal study coach to help you with any questions or concerns you have. This ensures that you always have someone to turn to for advice and support.

    As a student of Applied Data Science & AI, you become part of a vibrant learning community, receiving both individual guidance and support. Our community offers opportunities to network with industry professionals, participate in workshops and events that prepare you for your future career. Furthermore, we also organise social activities, which strengthen bonds among students and our local community.

study-structure

Programme structure

  • Year 1: introduction and foundation

    In your first year, you'll establish a solid foundation in the core areas of Data Science and AI. You'll get familiar with programming, algorithms, and data structures. But it's not just about tech; you'll also explore how people, data, and machines interact. And let's not forget about math; an important component in year one.

    Vakken

    Block 1
    Block 2
    Block 3
    Block 4
    • Introduction to Applied Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Programming Fundamentals
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Discrete Mathematics
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Introduction to Human-Data-Computer Interaction
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Cognitive Science: Cognition, Perception, Processing
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Evolutionary AI
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Introduction to Software Engineering
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Data Structures and Algorithms
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Linear Algebra
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Introduction to Data Engineering
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Design of Interactive Systems
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Calculus
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
  • Year 2: in-depth and application

    The second year takes you deeper. Machine learning, statistics, and interaction design equip you to tackle increasingly complex problems. Ever heard of ‘deep learning’? After this year you will. Year two also introduces topics like eXtended Reality and responsible research and innovation, enhancing your understanding of the field's ethical aspects.

    Vakken

    Block 1
    Block 2
    Block 3
    Block 4
    • Machine Learning
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Probability and Statistics
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • AI Ops
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Deep Learning for Communication
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • eXtended Reality
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Responsible Research and Innovation
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Simulation, Reasoning and Planning
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Intelligent Search
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
  • Year 3: internship and electives

    During the first part of the third year, you learn-by-doing in your internship at a regional organization. The second part is dedicated to electives. Electives offer you the chance to broaden or deepen your knowledge through a variety of options. In total you get to follow four electives (two in year 3 and two in year 4). You’ll follow at least two electives within our programme. We offer four electives: Multi Agent Robotics, Beyond Desktop, Data Driven Business Intelligence and Explainable AI.

    Vakken

    Block 1
    Block 2
    Block 3
    Block 4
    • Internship
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Elective
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Elective
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
  • Year 4: electives and bachelor thesis

    Your final year includes two more electives, allowing you to tailor your learning to your interests and career goals. The culmination of your Applied Data Science & AI studies is your bachelor thesis. You can use your skills and knowledge to solve a specific problem by applying data science and AI techniques.

    Vakken

    Block 1
    Block 2
    Block 3
    Block 4
    • Elective
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Elective
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
    • Thesis
      Block 1
      Block 2
      Block 3
      Block 4
Entrance requirements

Entrance requirements

  • Havo & vwo
    • Profile Science & Technology
    • Profile Science & Health
    • Profile Economics & Society

    Specific requirements apply to the profile below:

    • Profile Culture & Society: plus Mathematics A or Mathematics B or OMPT-C
  • Mbo 4

    With a level 4 vocational education (mbo-4) diploma, you are admitted to the programme.

  • 21+

    Exemption of the pre-university requirements is only possible on the basis of a binding admission examination. You are only eligible for this examination if you are 21 years of age or older. Read more about the 21+ test.

    In addition you need to pass the OMPT test level C for mathematics. You are also required to take an IELTS (score at least 6) or TOEFL test (paper based 550 or internet based 80 ). Please note that your test results must be valid at the start of the programme. TOEFL and IELTS scores expire after 2 years. Cambridge certificates are valid indefinitely.

  • Non-Dutch

    A secondary school diploma equivalent to the Dutch levels (MBO-4, HAVO and VWO) , e.g.:

    • Abitur, Fachhochschulreife
    • International baccalaureate, European Baccalaureate
    • High school, GPA average at least 3.0

    Extra admission requirements

    English language

    EU
    Additional proof of English for EU students is only needed when they did not have English as their exam course.

    Non-EU
    Students from outside of the EU are required to take an IELTS (score at least 6) or TOEFL test (paper score at least 550 or Internet 80). Please note that your test results must be valid at the start of the programme. TOEFL and IELTS scores expire after 2 years. Cambridge certificates are valid indefinitely.

    Mathematics
    Given the prerequisite for mathematics knowledge and skills in the ADSAI programme, you must demonstrate proof through the submission of a relevant certificate or examination result from one of the following:

    • Dutch havo or vwo: diploma including Mathematics A or B
    • International: EQF level 4 diploma with mathematics up to and including the final year

    If you do not meet these mathematics requirements you have to pass the OMPT test level C.

    Immigration regulations
    Do not forget to check the immigration regulations imposed by the Dutch authorities. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa for The Netherlands. This can be a time-consuming and expensive process. Therefore, start your application process well in advance to avoid disappointment.

    Application deadline
    Applications for enrolment should be in our possession before the deadline. They differ for EU- and Non-EU students:

    • NL students: 1st of July
    • EU students: 1st June
    • Non-EU students: 1st May
Career

After graduation

Career opportunities

Data scientists and AI engineers are in high demand in the Netherlands, with a growing number of job openings and increasing salaries. According to LinkedIn's 2023 Emerging Jobs Report, Data Scientist is the third most in-demand job in the Netherlands.

  • Data Scientist: Data scientists are responsible for collecting, cleaning, analyzing, and interpreting large datasets to extract meaningful insights and inform business decisions.
  • Machine Learning Engineer: Machine learning engineers build and maintain machine learning models, ensuring they function effectively and meet specific requirements.
  • Business Intelligence Developer: Business intelligence (BI) developers design and build BI dashboards, reports, and data visualizations to help businesses make informed decisions.
  • Artificial Intelligence Engineer: Artificial intelligence (AI) engineers develop and implement AI-powered solutions, such as chatbots, virtual assistants, and image recognition systems.
  • Data & AI Consultant: Data and AI consultants advise businesses on how to leverage data science and AI to improve their operations, enhance customer experience, and gain a competitive edge.
  • Research and Development (R&D) Scientist: Involved in pioneering new AI-technologies or applications, often requiring a higher level of theoretical understanding.

Continue studying

Do you want to further develop your academic skills through a master's programme? There are options. Our programme has agreements with nearby universities, including Open Universiteit and Maastricht University. These collaborations offer you pathways to continue your academic journey.