Ludwig talks about his studies in Mathematical Data Science
Hello, my name is Ludwig.
I'm currently studying Mathematical Data Science in the 5th semester at the University of Würzburg. In this article, I'll talk about my experiences so far and give you a little insight into this relatively new degree programme.
Why did I choose Mathematical Data Science?
My path to the degree programme was not completely straightforward, but it was all the more deliberately chosen. I initially started a science degree programme at the University of Würzburg and studied for a while. During this time, however, I realised that I was most enthusiastic about mathematics. As Würzburg is a great city to study, I took a closer look at the mathematical degree programmes on offer here.
Mathematical Data Science particularly appealed to me. I liked the fact that mathematics takes centre stage and at the same time you learn how to understand and explain modern topics such as machine learning and data analysis using mathematical methods. The compact size of the degree programme also appealed to me. This is because students meet each other regularly, get to know each other quickly and can network well.
How does the start of the degree programme work?
Shortly before the start of the first semester, the pre-courses are due. Just the right thing so that you are not thrown in at the deep end. The maths pre-course and the voluntary but highly recommended programming pre-course prepare you for the first few weeks of your studies and everyday life at university. This should make the transition from school to university a little easier. And don't worry, you don't need any prior knowledge here.
Together with the Student Orientation Day, these are also great opportunities to get to know some of your fellow students. This really helped me, as I found a small study group before the semester even started. This makes the start of the degree programme much more relaxed and takes some of the excitement out of it.
What can you expect during your studies?
The first two semesters are mainly about the mathematical basics. In addition to analysis and linear algebra, you will learn how to argue clearly, conduct proofs and acquire a mathematical way of thinking step by step. At the same time, there is an introduction to algorithms, AI and data science. Here you learn about basic data structures and search methods, practise algorithmic thinking and gain initial insights into machine learning.
In the following semesters, you quickly realise how important the solid foundation from the first two semesters is, as almost all topics build directly on it. It feels as if you have put together a small toolbox that you can fall back on again and again from now on. In the compulsory elective area, you have the opportunity to adapt the course of study to your own interests. Here you can familiarise yourself with new areas of mathematics and/or computer science or deepen your knowledge. The two labs also offer a nice change of pace, where you can work intensively on a specific topic and gain initial experience in scientific work.
The degree programme is definitely challenging and involves a lot of work. The continuous work on the exercise sheets in particular takes up a lot of time and often leads to long nights. But it's worth it! You notice how you constantly improve, how proofs become easier and you suddenly understand complex relationships. Instead of just studying for the next exam, you gradually build up a lasting understanding that you can use again and again.
What is my impression so far?
Looking back, I am very glad that I chose Mathematical Data Science. I particularly like the fact that I can work intensively with maths and also get to know the mathematical background of AI and data science. This allows you to build up a fundamental understanding that goes beyond pure application.
I also appreciate that the degree programme offers a lot of flexibility in the mandatory elective courses. You can specialise according to your own interests and are therefore not tied to a specific Master's degree later on. This leaves the decision open as to whether you want to develop further in the direction of maths, data science or another area. I myself have so far focussed more on mathematics and plan to do a Master's in mathematics afterwards.
