What is it like to study a master's in data science in Shenzhen, China?

Sponsored by Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 

Several decades ago, Shenzhen was just a small fishing village in Guangdong in south-eastern China.  

Today it’s referred to as ‘the new Silicon Valley’ – a global centre in tech design and manufacturing, attracting ambitious tech graduates and global corporations from around the world.  

Here’s what it’s like to study a master’s in data science in one of the fastest growing tech areas in mainland China.  

You’ll be living in a tech-centred city, surrounded by tech companies 

If you choose to study a master’s in data science in Shenzhen, you will be surrounded by tech giants such as Tencent, ZTE and Huawei, as well as a host of dynamic start-ups. In fact, more than 14,000 tech companies are based here and the tech industry in Shenzhen only seems to be growing.  

One reason for this is because Shenzhen is situated in China’s Special Economic Zone (SEZ) – one of the designated areas of China where there is less government intervention in businesses. This gives the market in these areas more economic freedom and makes them more attractive to investors.  

As a result, Shenzhen has transformed into one of the world’s most developed cities, making it an inspiring study destination for students studying technology- and business-related degrees. 

You’ll study at one of the world’s best universities 

Shenzhen is home to some of the best higher education institutions in the world, including Tsinghua University, Peking University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), which all offer high-quality education. 

The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen aims to bring together China and the west, combining tradition with modernity to create a unique educational experience. It’s committed to producing graduates who have international vision, but who also understand Chinese tradition and have a grounding in social responsibility. 

“The CUHK motto, ‘through learning and temperance to virtue’(博文約禮), places equal emphasis on both the intellectual and moral aspects of education,” said MSc in Data Science graduate Wang Xudong. 

CUHK-Shenzhen’s MSc in Data Science reflects the university’s aim, preparing students for an international career and helping them solve complex problems in new, innovative ways.  

The programme uses knowledge from the fields of statistics, mathematics and computer science to develop the skills needed to find patterns, derive meaningful information and make business decisions.  

You’ll be able to study on a flexible study period basis and make the most of Shenzhen 

At CUHK-Shenzhen, the MSc in Data Science is offered on a full-time basis. The normative period is two years. Alternatively, students may participate in a wide range of industrial internships, research work, world-wide exchange programmes, studying more courses and extend their studies to 3 years. While students must complete three core modules, there is the freedom to select eleven electives from a list, giving students the opportunity to specialise. 

This will give you the time to pursue work experience opportunities at one of Shenzhen’s tech companies. CUHK-Shenzhen’s School of Data Science and School of Management and Economics prepares students for the workplace by combining theoretical teaching with practical application, using a blend of industry, education and research to ensure students have the skills they need to succeed. 

There are plenty of ways to relax and unwind after a busy day 

Although student life as a data science student in Shenzhen can be very fast paced, there are plenty of relaxing places to unwind after a long day.  

Shenzhen’s skyscrapers and modern architecture contrast with its scenic gardens and the nearby beaches in Yantian and Longgang, as well as the mountains in Wutong and Tanglang, are just a short train journey away. Shenzhen also boasts a diverse culture, with contemporary art galleries, sprawling marketplaces and quaint bookshops and coffee shops. 

Wang Xudong says that when he feels overwhelmed by academic work, he knows he can rely on his classmates and lecturers at CUHK-Shenzhen for support. “The teachers at the university, especially in the MSc in Data Science team, are very patient to help us and provide useful suggestions,” he said.  

CUHK-Shenzhen has a green campus with modern facilities, offering a vibrant student life as well as an inspiring, quiet atmosphere to study.  

Wang relaxes from a busy day by going to the university gym. He said: “The university’s gym is particularly rich in fitness facilities. My favourite part is our Olympic-size swimming pool. When I’m in a low mood, exercise helps me calm down. Then, I find my problems, whether they are in research or in daily life, can be addressed much more smoothly.”