Machine learning is on an unprecedented rise: really, getting computers to act without being explicitly programmed is a huge step forward that makes us catch our breaths: innovation from self-driving cars to practical speech recognition, from improved web search and onto a largely improved understanding of the human genome is now reality.

But there are really a few who have mastered this “art” to its fullest in Armenia. We’re quite lagging behind in terms of gaining skills in this vital area of studies. Karen Keryan, Master’s Program Manager, and Michael Poghosyan, Head of the Financial Mathematics Department of YSU, Faculty of Mathematics and Mechanics, have something in mind to change the situation.

Gathered in SFL’s Yerevan office, they went over the need of having a program that would connect theoretical knowledge in machine learning with the requirements of the modern workplace.

How was the Program Initiated?

The path towards better insights into machine learning lead Karen and Michael to the Innovative Solutions and Technologies Center (ISTC)- and soon, the plan for a Joint Master’s Degree Program by Yerevan State University Faculty of Mathematics and Mechanics in cooperation with ISTC — called “Applied Statistics and Data Science” was conceived. Aimed to launch in September, the program will prepare specialists in the sphere of applied statistics and data science.

This program will allow students to be part of the data revolution happening in the world. The subjects taught in the scope of the program are Machine Learning, Time series analysis, Python, Deep Learning, Optimization, Advanced Statistical Modeling, Applied Statistics with R, Statistical Analysis of Financial Data, etc.

The duration of the program is 2 years, with an annual tuition fee of AMD 1 million. SFL is proud to announce that we’re offering two 50% scholarships for the whole duration of the program to the most talented participants. Why do we care? Because we believe in giving back to the community, cutting down the time necessary for a beginner to become a professional.

Why is this actual?

During the talk, Michael said:

“Machine learning is a very actual, rapidly developing sphere but there hasn’t been a course offering formal education in this domain yet. There’s a number of problems that lead to this situation- a shortage of experienced resources, with very few specialist ready to teach and share their knowledge. This resulted in us looking for ways to tackle the situation on our own- and soon enough, the idea of running the course was conceived”.

Karen continued to speak about the importance of such a program:

“We want to keep the traditions of formal education at the university, at the same time bringing in specialists from the industry so the course participants can acquire the skills required in the workplace. Our plan is to create an ecosystem for machine learning professionals, but this master’s degree is a step forward in formal education that will prepare top notch professionals and tutors that will be armed with knowledge to teach the generations ahead”.

SFL expressed its readiness to support the program at all stages of its development- from initiation, to offering master classes and seminars, and well into financial reimbursement for the most talented students. The duration of the course will be divided into 2 parts- 1.5 years of formal education followed by a half-year long internship program with Armenia’s leading software development companies to prepare the students for the demands of the modern market.

While the Master’s program is launching this fall, Karen and Michael are positive that the Bachelor’s Degree program will be tailored and market-ready by the fall of 2019.

Michael noted they are also planning to ensure the ability for course graduates to pursue a PhD degree abroad.

What are my next steps?

As the program is about to launch, it’s time to consider the next “awesome” in your career path. If you’re interested in the program, follow the link for more information: http://math.ysu.am/asds/

About this author:

Armine Hakobyan is a content writer with a heart for technology and innovation.

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