The Faculty of Data Science (FDS) of City University of Macau (CityU) is dedicated to benchmarking against international technological frontiers, emphasizing innovative development, and maximizing its disciplinary advantages to support the development policies of the Macao SAR. FDS actively engages in driving the growth of smart industries in Macao and the Greater Bay Area. Its primary objective is to establish an integrated teaching model that encompasses talent cultivation, innovative research and development, and project implementation to foster exceptional leaders in data science and information technology.
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Distinctive Programs with Interdisciplinary Settings
To support Macao’s industrial diversification, FDS has launched comprehensive programs at bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree that encompass three leading fields of data science, information security, and artificial intelligence. FDS offers undergraduate in intelligent technology and services, as well as master's, and doctoral degrees in data science, and computer science. The curriculum is designed based on an interdisciplinary approach, drawing reference from the educational systems of top international universities. By optimizing the curriculum, the program aims to enhance the systematic and professional development of talent. Its primary focus is to cultivate versatile professionals who possess a strong foundation in both data science and information technology, enabling them to excel in both theoretical understanding and practical application.
The Bachelor of Intelligence Technology and Services program carries typical interdisciplinary features. It focuses on the comprehensive cultivation of knowledge, skills, and innovation, aiming to nurture high-caliber professionals in the modern service industry while possessing expertise, service quality, and humanities.
The Master of Data Science program covers data science, computer science, artificial intelligence, data security, and blockchain technology, with the objectives of cultivating a new cohort of high-end interdisciplinary talent in data analysis and processing with solid theoretical knowledge and exceptional innovative capabilities.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Data Science program incorporates an interdisciplinary curriculum to nurture students with a big data mindset and expertise in analysis and application. The program cultivates future talents in data science and big data, who possess knowledge across different fields, solid capabilities, innovation, and team spirit.
The Bachelor of Computer Science program cultivates students with a broad global perspective, equipping them with the ability to address complex problems and challenges faced by humankind through cross-cultural communication and collaboration. The program aims to develop practical professionals in data science, artificial intelligence, and information security, who possess a strong foundation of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are aligned with the needs of the country and Macao's development.
The Master of Computer Science program focuses on the in-depth study of computer science and technology. The program aims to cultivate innovative talents with a curriculum that covers artificial intelligence and information science. The program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in natural science and information science theory, as well as specialized knowledge and skills in scientific research and technological development. It aims to develop advanced professionals who possess a strong theoretical background and expertise in their field, capable of conducting scientific research and contributing to technological advancements.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science program focuses on exploring the principles and logical reasoning of computer science studies and applying them to tackle cutting-edge scientific problems within and outside the field. The program covers artificial intelligence and information science, as well as relevant knowledge in interdisciplinary subjects such as smart healthcare, innovation and engineering, and fintech. It emphasizes the cultivation of high-level professionals with a global perspective, a passion for innovation, effective communication skills, and a strong foundation of theory and practice. The program aims to develop versatile and advanced talents who possess a deep understanding of computer science and able to make significant contributions through original research studies.
Eminent Academic Figures Lead Discipline Development
The faculty is led by renowned and internationally acclaimed expert Professor Zhou Wanlei, who has over thirty years of academic and professional experience in Australia. Professor Zhou is a distinguished expert in the fields of data science, computer science, and network security. As an experienced doctoral supervisor, his academic papers have been widely cited, and he has been listed among the top 2% scientists worldwide for three consecutive years, as recognized by Stanford University. This highlights Professor Zhou’s significant influence in the international academic community.
FDS boasts a group of outstanding young faculty members who possess a strong academic background and expertise in data science, computer science, network security, image processing, climate change, and other related fields. These faculty members bring strong teaching and research to the faculty. They have valuable experiences of pursuing advanced studies and research at renowned universities worldwide and have gathered rich research experience in cutting-edge technology fields such as blockchain and applications, privacy computing, and security and collaboration in cloud-edge setting. Moreover, they actively lead and participate in national-level research projects and have published numerous papers in internationally recognized journals, significantly advancing the development of their respective academic fields.
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Industry-Education Collaboration: Classroom outside the Campus
FDS has collaborated with leading companies to establish several joint laboratories, aiming to enhance teaching quality and enrich student learning resources and platforms. It has partnered with Zhiwang Anyun (Wuhan) Information Technology Co., Ltd. to establish the Joint Research Laboratory on Data Security and Protection. Together, they seize the opportunities in the development of data security and intelligent protection industries and pioneer a new model of industry-academic collaboration. With complementary advantages and shared resources, they are committed to contributing to the development of high-tech industries in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the cultivation of innovative talents.
It has partnered with Zhuhai Orbita Aerospace Science and Technology Co., Ltd. to establish the Joint Laboratory for Spatio-Temporal Data and Artificial Intelligence. By jointly embracing the opportunities in the aerospace big data industry, they leverage complementary advantages, market orientation, and shared resources to achieve mutual beneficial development and tackle technological challenges through collaborative innovation and industry-academia collaboration. Together, they aim to build a comprehensive and in-depth long-term cooperation to promote the application of remote sensing data in the Greater Bay Area and the high-quality development of science and technology innovation and talent cultivation.
In addition, FDS has established the Joint Laboratory for Local Domain Roots and Blockchain with Shenzhen Pengcheng Laboratory, as well as the City University of Macau and Vcomin Joint Laboratory with the Shenzhen Vcomin Technology Co., Ltd. They have also partnered with Gree Electric Appliances to establish the Joint Laboratory for Industrial and Intelligent Manufacturing and collaborated with DataStory to establish the Business Intelligence Laboratory. These partnerships aim to strengthen the exchange and cooperation of research talents and promote the transformation of scientific and technological achievements.
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Diverse Exchange Activities Help Students Broaden their Horizon and Gather Experience
FDS regularly organizes outbound exchange and cultural activities aimed at broadening the academic perspectives and practical experiences of both faculty and students. Every academic year, the faculty conducts multiple academic visits and field visits to companies and organizations. For example, visits to renowned universities such as Xidian University and Xi’an University of Technology were organized for in-depth academic exchanges. Additionally, visits to companies such as DataStory, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Cooperative Innovation Center in Hengqin, and Zhuhai Orbita Aerospace Science and Technology Co., Ltd. were arranged to gain insights into their operations, future plans, and to experience scientific research exhibits. All these aims at empowering students’ academic and practical capabilities.
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Academic Conferences Bring Together Distinguished Scholars and Experts to Address Frontier Topics
FDS has hosted or organized several seminars, inviting renowned scholars such as Academician Fang Binxing from the Chinese Academy of Engineering, experts, and scholars from various prestigious universities worldwide to deliver keynote speeches. Constructive and in-depth discussions have been conducted with local industry professionals and associations in Macao on cross-border data.
FDS will also host a variety of international academic conferences, including the 2024 2nd International Conference on Big Data and Privacy Computing, as well as the 24th International Conference on Algorithms and Architectures for Parallel Processing. These conferences will bring together experts and scholars from various fields to provide participants with a platform for exchanging the latest research findings, technological developments, and industry trends. By organizing these academic conferences and seminars, the faculty will be one of the driving forces in knowledge innovation and practical applications.
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Diverse Competition Practices Pave the Way for Promising Career Prospects
FDS encourages students to actively participate in various professional competitions at all levels, aiming to enhance their ability to integrate data science with multidisciplinary knowledge and improve their overall competence. In competitions such as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area IT System Development Competition, the 2022 Macau Cyber Security Competition, and the “Optics Valley of China‧Huawei Cup” The 19th China Post-Graduate Mathematical Contest in Modeling, FDS students have excelled their strengths and received outstanding awards.
Furthermore, graduates enjoy broad prospects in employment and further education. Their studies at FDS have prepared them to excel in diverse fields such as tourism, finance, healthcare, education, and other comprehensive roles. Additionally, they have the opportunity to pursue careers in industry data analysis, management, and specialized research.
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Let's see what the newcomers have to say about their learning experiences!
First-year student Wu Xin, Bachelor of Intelligence Technology and Services
"As a first-year student in the bachelor's degree program in Intelligent Technology and Services, I have experienced many differences since studying in Macao. Firstly, the campus environment is exceptionally beautiful, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Since arriving at CityU, I have been captivated by the picturesque surroundings, nestled amidst mountains and water. This has brought me great joy and motivation. Secondly, my curriculum setting is incredibly enriching, and the professors are highly responsible, allowing me to experience the joy of learning. Additionally, through participation in professional academic activities, I have made many like-minded friends and experience how classroom knowledge could be applied in a practical setting. Lastly, our extracurricular activities and lectures are diverse and exciting, providing opportunities to take a break, enjoy the moment, and cultivate our sentiments."
First-year student Guan Kaiqing, Bachelor of Computer Science
"The scenery of the university is first-rate, and in the evening, we can enjoy the beautiful sunset. Although our university is small in size, it is well-equipped with facilities such as the library, laboratories, and student activity center, providing us with an excellent learning environment. The university values interaction between faculty and students. During the lessons, their instructions help us resolve our puzzles. Our university also assigns group assignments and individual presentations, allowing us to improve our communication and public speaking skills. In our spare time, the university organizes various interesting activities, lectures, and competitions for us to participate in, enriching our university life."
First-year student Yan Siyu, Master of Computer Science
"As a first-year student in the master’s degree program in Computer Science, I have experienced the university’s development towards internationalization and enjoyed a high-quality learning environment for all students. The university offers a wide range of academic activities, student events, and competition opportunities. I actively participate in these activities and am eager to try different experiences. The classroom atmosphere is enjoyable and engaging. The teachers are both mentors and friends, and I feel comfortable approaching them with any questions or issues, whether they are related to academic knowledge or personal matters. Despite the nearly three-hour-long classes, I never find them boring. The classes are filled with valuable content, and I cherish every minute of them. I believe that while it is important to fill in any knowledge gaps, academic research is also of great importance. It is not merely an abstract concept but must be rooted in reality and practice. The supervisors provide detailed guidance and allocate research tasks in a timely manner. Their wise counsel has benefited me greatly, helping me delve deep into my studies and acquire relevant knowledge and skills. It has broadened my horizons and enhanced my professional competence."
First-year student Wang Yani, Master of Data Science
"CityU, for me, spans a distance of three thousand kilometers. Perhaps this is the furthest distance between Inner Mongolia and Macao, or it could be the beginning of a new journey. Walking up the hills every day, my favorite moment is watching the sunset beneath the Nine Dragons Wall. Occasionally, I even saw the firework display performance in the distance from the rooftop. This was my initial impression of CityU. The university upholds its social responsibility and educational mission of “serving Macao and integrating into the Greater Bay Area.” It follows the spirit of the motto “Virtue‧Knowledge‧Practice” and aims to cultivate outstanding applied and research-oriented talents for society and the country. The university provides students with modern classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and other facilities, creating a convenient learning environment. The university boasts a top-notch faculty team with profound academic accomplishments and rich teaching experience in their respective fields. The teachers not only provide professional guidance in the classroom but also frequently organize academic lectures, seminars, and other activities to bring the latest academic trends and research advancements to the students."
First-year student Liu Meng, Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science
"Each faculty at CityU is equipped with a strong teaching staff, with solid expertise in both research and professional backgrounds. Unlike the relatively singular examination exercise in mainland China, the teaching model in Macao emphasizes the ability of expressing our own ideas. As a gateway to the Greater Bay Area, connecting mainland China with the world, studying in Macao allows students to experience comprehensive international educational system without going overseas. There is no language or cultural barriers. In general, pursuing higher education in Macao is a good choice for students who enjoy freedom but also possess self-discipline, and who are aimed at broadening their horizons and experiencing diverse cultures."
First-year student Zhang Yangzong, Doctor of Philosophy in Data Science
"I deeply appreciate the unique academic atmosphere and educational philosophy of the university. Every corner of the campus is filled with an academic ambiance, whether students are immersed in intense studying at the library or diligently working in the laboratories. It allows me to experience the rigor and dedication of academic pursuits firsthand. The university also places great emphasis on academic exchange, regularly organizing various academic lectures and seminars, and inviting renowned scholars from both domestic and international backgrounds to engage with us. These platforms have provided us with opportunities to learn and stay updated on the latest developments and research directions in the field of data science. Through participating in these activities, I have gained a wealth of new knowledge and expanded my academic horizons."
Open for program applications! Join Faculty of Data Science!
- Bachelor’s degree programs: Bachelor of Intelligence Technology and Services, Bachelor of Computer Science
- Master’s degree programs: Master of Data Science, Master of Computer Science
- PhD programs: Doctor of Philosophy in Data Science, Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science
