Academic Resources

Access course planning tools, sample schedules, and past papers to help you succeed in your data science journey at SFU.

Sample Course Schedules

Explore recommended course sequences for different data science pathways. These schedules are designed to help you plan your academic journey effectively.

Data Science Major
4-Year Program Schedule
Year 1Foundation Courses
  • • CMPT 120 - Intro to Computing Science
  • • MATH 150/151 - Calculus I/II
  • • STAT 270 - Introduction to Probability
Year 2Core Foundations
  • • CMPT 225 - Data Structures & Programming
  • • STAT 350 - Linear Models in Statistics
  • • MACM 316 - Numerical Analysis
Year 3Advanced Topics
  • • CMPT 353 - Computational Data Science
  • • STAT 452 - Statistical Learning & Prediction
  • • CMPT 419 - Special Topics in AI
Machine Learning Focus
Specialized ML Track
PrerequisitesRequired Background
  • • Linear Algebra (MATH 232/240)
  • • Probability & Statistics (STAT 270/285)
  • • Programming Experience (CMPT 225+)
Core ML CoursesEssential Skills
  • • CMPT 726 - Machine Learning
  • • CMPT 419 - Special Topics in AI
  • • STAT 452 - Statistical Learning
ElectivesSpecialization
  • • CMPT 762 - Deep Learning
  • • CMPT 733 - Programming for Big Data
  • • CMPT 459 - Database Systems
Statistics Path
Statistical Analysis Focus
Core StatisticsFoundation
  • • STAT 350 - Linear Models
  • • STAT 410 - Statistical Analysis
  • • STAT 450 - Statistical Theory
Applied MethodsPractical Skills
  • • STAT 452 - Statistical Learning
  • • STAT 460 - Bayesian Statistics
  • • STAT 475 - Applied Discrete Data Analysis
ProgrammingTechnical Skills
  • • CMPT 353 - Computational Data Science
  • • STAT 341 - Introduction to Data Sci (R)
  • • Choose additional programming electives
Minor in Data Science
Complementary Studies
Required Courses12 Credits
  • • CMPT 120 - Intro to Computing
  • • STAT 270 - Intro to Probability
  • • CMPT 353 - Computational Data Science
Elective Options9 Credits
  • • STAT 350 - Linear Models
  • • CMPT 459 - Database Systems
  • • STAT 452 - Statistical Learning
  • • CMPT 419 - Special Topics in AI
Perfect for students in business, biology, economics, or other fields looking to add data science skills.