| Section | 1 |
|---|---|
| Instructor(s) | — |
| Location | None |
| Meeting Times | |
| Fulfills | Elective Specialization - Data Analytics (DA-1) Specialization - High Performance Computing (HPC-2) |
*Please note: This is the syllabus from the 2021/22 academic year and subject to change.*
This course introduces the fundamental concepts and techniques in data mining, machine learning, and statistical modeling, and the practical know-how to apply them to real-world data through Python-based software. The course examines in detail topics in both supervised and unsupervised learning. These include linear and logistic regression and regularization; classification using decision trees, nearest neighbors, naive Bayes, boosting, random trees, and artificial/convolutional neural networks; clustering using k-means and expectation-maximization; and dimensionality reduction through PCA and SVD. Students use Python and Python libraries such as NumPy, SciPy, matplotlib, and pandas for for implementing algorithms and analyzing data.
Apart from lectures, we conduct optional but strongly recommended problem sessions. During these the TAs present homework solutions, and other optional material. These are the only source for homework solutions; in particular, we do not publish any solutions. Recording or streaming the sessions are also not planned. In Spring, 2019, the problem sessions are most likely to be held on Sunday afternoons; but they may be moved to Saturdays based on TA availability.
B+ or above in MPCS 51042 Python Programming, B+ or better in any other Core Programming class with prior knowledge of Python, or Core Programming waiver.
B or above in MPCS 55001 Algorithms.
MPCS 53110 Foundations of Computational Data Analysis (or passing the Data Analysis placement exam). A C+ or better in MPCS 53110 is required; a B or better in MPCS 53110 is recommended. If you have earned at least a C+ in MPCS 53110, but lower than a B, you should reach out to the instructor to discuss if it is advisable to take the course.
Univariate Calculus and Basic Multivariate Calculus (double integrals, partial derivatives, integration-by-parts, Taylor series).
This course requires competency in Unix and Linux. Please plan to attend the MPCS Unix Bootcamp (https://masters.cs.uchicago.edu/page/mpcs-unix-bootcamp) or take the online MPCS Unix Bootcamp Course on Canvas.
This course assumes both mathematical maturity and programming fluency. In particular, students are expected to code complicated machine learning algorithms from scratch (without a template) and debug them on their own.
Not approved for CAPP students. Non-MPCS students must complete the above prerequisites to be eligible to take this class.
This class is scheduled at a time that does not conflict with any other classes this quarter.