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Flexible Study Modes at DSTI

Embark on your educational journey with Data ScienceTech Institute (DSTI) and discover the array of study modes designed to suit your unique needs and aspirations. Whether you’re stepping straight out of high school or are a seasoned professional seeking to upgrade or pivot your career, we have tailored learning experiences that cater to your specific circumstances.

Initial Education

Tailored for current students transitioning from high school or university, typically under the age of 30, these study modes are crafted to shape you into proficient data scientists, engineers, or analysts. Two study rhythms are available:

Fulltime

Engage fully in your studies with comprehensive fulltime modes, involving end of year/end of programme internships.

Part-time Apprenticeship

Balance academic theory and practical experience with our programmes in part-time apprenticeship mode (in France only, see conditions below).

Continuing Education

Tailored for professionals typically aged 30 and above, these study modes allow you to upskill or pivot your career while balancing professional commitments. Available only for Applied MSc programmes, the following modes are offered:

Blended Learning

freedom of online, face-to-face or asynchronous learning. This mode offers two rhythms:

Accelerated Pace

Fast-track your learning in nine months followed by a six-month mandatory internship or equivalent full-time job.

Self-Paced Online Course (SPOC)

This hyper-flexible mode allows you to complete your programme at your own pace within a duration of 15 to 36 months.

Part-time Sandwich

This mode allows to “learn while you earn”, splitting your time between academic studies and professional work (in France only, see conditions below).

DSTI operates daily as a global school.

Each mode, regardless of the pace or delivery method, ensures the same rigorous coursework, assessments, and recognition of degree upon successful completion. At DSTI, we ensure that flexibility does not compromise the quality of your education. Embrace the future of data science and AI engineering with DSTI’s diverse study modes.

In all these modes, except for SPOC, students have the freedom to engage in live classes from our two campuses in Nice Sophia-Antipolis & Paris, or virtually from anywhere with a compatible time zone. 

Our faculty teaches from a specific campus, and students participate from wherever their circumstances permit. This way, we ensure that our diverse study modes not only provide flexible learning opportunities but also a truly international educational experience.

Initial Education – Full-Time

Ideal for first-time students, our full-time mode fully submerges you in the realm of data science and AI. By choosing this mode, you can regularly interact with our dedicated faculty and classmates, thereby fostering a rich and collaborative learning experience. Our direction of studies team follows up with each student regularly to track their progress. 

Furthermore, Full-Time mode includes internships at the end of the year or programme, allowing you to gain valuable practical experience.

Applied Bachelor:

“On-campus” at Nice Sophia-Antipolis and Paris campus.

Applied MSc programmes:

  • “On-campus” mode at our Nice Sophia-Antipolis and Paris campuses
  • “Off-campus” (online), in real time, from any location with a compatible time zone.

Thanks to this intensive pathway, you will be fully prepared to tackle the challenges of the data science and AI field upon graduation.

Applied Bachelor Programme – Fulltime Mode

First Year

In the first year of our Applied Bachelor programmes, students dive into computer engineering and information systems concepts and technologies for “data & IA” applications.

  • Students explore foundational principles and gain a solid grounding in the field.
  • Pursue an end of year eight-week internship, providing a practical taste of the industry and an opportunity to apply your newfound knowledge.

Second Year

In your second year, flexibility is key. Students have the option* to continue in full-time mode or transition to our apprenticeship mode. Should you choose to continue full-time, another eight-week minimum internship concludes the year, further enriching your practical experience in data science and AI.

* DSTI Direction of Studies will assess the readiness of students wanting to start an apprenticeship, with respect to academic results and the necessary maturity level for joining a company.   

Third Year

The final year of the Applied Bachelor programmes is designed with a hands-on approach in mind and is exclusively conducted in apprenticeship mode. This allows you to master your skills while gaining valuable work experience in the field.

Programme Features

First Year

550 hours of teaching + 8-week internship

Second Year

550 hours of teaching + optional apprenticeship or end-of-year internship

Third Year

550 hours of teaching + mandatory apprenticeship

Applied MSc – Fulltime Mode

Immerse yourself in the intricacies of data science with DSTI’s Applied MSc programmes. Available in Data Science & AI, Data Engineering for AI, and Data Analytics, these two-year full-time programmes empower you with a deep understanding of data science principles and practical technological skills necessary for a successful career in the field.

In the first year, you'll deeply engage with your chosen specialisation, mastering both the scientific theories and technical tools integral to data science. An optional internship provides an opportunity to apply your newfound knowledge in real-world settings, allowing you to gain practical experience in the industry.

The second year further expands your scientific understanding and technical prowess, culminating in a mandatory six-month internship. This hands-on experience in the industry not only reinforces the skills you've acquired but also provides valuable exposure to the professional landscape of data science.

Whether you’re learning on-campus or off-campus (online in a compatible time zone), our Applied MSc programmes ensure active, real-time participation in classes. This allows you to interact with our esteemed faculty and diverse student body, whether you’re studying in Nice Sophia-Antipolis, Paris, or anywhere in the world. With DSTI’s Full-Time Applied MSc programmes, you’re set to embrace a globally recognised Masters’ level education, tailored to your lifestyle and aspirations.

Initial Education – Part-Time Apprenticeship – In partnership with CFA AFIA

Are you under 30, an EU/EEA citizen (or already in France and long-stay visa holder) and a French speaker*?

Embrace an exciting journey with the part-time apprenticeship studies at DSTI. This unique mode of study offers an unrivalled opportunity to delve into the data sciences while gaining practical, on-the-job experience, thereby significantly accelerating your professional maturity and employability.

Apprenticeship schemes in higher education, particularly within data science curricula, seamlessly blend academic instruction with real-world industry experience. By uniting classroom learning with hands-on work in a company setting, students cultivate a profound understanding of both theoretical concepts and their practical applications. This symbiosis doesn’t just enrich the learning process, but it also equips students with a competitive edge in the job market and the ability to foster valuable professional networks.

A real benefit of apprenticeship schemes lies in the financial support they provide. Tuition fees are fully covered, and students receive a salary from their host companies. This alleviates financial concerns, allowing students to focus entirely on their educational journey and career development.

Choosing an apprenticeship doesn’t mean compromising on the quality of your education. Students engaged in part-time apprenticeship programmes receive the same rigorous curriculum and expert instruction as their peers in full-time study modes.

Experience the remarkable advantages of part-time apprenticeship studies in all DSTI programmes. Forge your future with our immersive, hands-on approach to learning, and flourish in an educational environment that champions growth, collaboration, and success.

Thanks to its flexibility, being an apprenticeship student at DSTI is possible from our two campuses of Nice Sophia-Antipolis & Paris, but also anywhere else in France, with our off-campus modality. Over a quarter of our current students are spread across the country, taking on exciting roles in various industries!

*Some companies may recruit non-French speakers, but it’s a rare occurrence.

Initial Education - Summary

Students currently in education, typically under 30

You may refer to the following table to understand the details of different modes for our programmes.

Undergraduate

Mode

Programme

On-Campus (live)

Online (live)

Asynchronous

Internship

Full-time

Applied Bachelor

Year 1

Year 2 (option A)

Nice Sophia-Antipolis

Paris

No

No

(recordings and courses content always available for catch-up / revisions)

Yes (8 weeks)

Apprenticeship

Applied Bachelor

Year 2 (option B)

Year 3

Nice Sophia-Antipolis

Paris

Yes

No

(recordings and courses content always available for catch-up / revisions)

N/A

Option A: 8 weeks end of studies internship

Option B: Apprenticeship

Postgraduate

Mode

Programme

On-Campus

Online

Asynchronous

Internship

Fulltime

Applied MSc (years 1 & 2)

Nice Sophia-Antipolis

Paris

Yes

No

(recordings and courses content always available for catch-up / revisions)

Optional in Year 1

Mandatory 6-month in Year 2

Apprenticeship

Applied MSc (years 1 & 2)

Nice Sophia-Antipolis

Paris

Yes

No

(recordings and courses content always available for catch-up / revisions)

N/A

Continuing Education – Blended Learning

With a wealth of experience in addressing the unique needs of mature students (aged 30 and above), from various countries and diverse professional backgrounds, DSTI offers a robust platform for those seeking to elevate their skills. 

This could be by augmenting existing expertise, typically in computer science, engineering, and statistical analysis, or by embarking on a transformative journey into the dynamic realm of data sciences and AI. Our mature students typically approach their learning journey in two ways:

Accelerated

They pause their existing professional activities, dive headfirst into their studies, gain initial experience, and then re-enter the job market with an upgraded skill set. This path is typically chosen by those seeking to accomplish their goals “as swiftly as possible”. This is what we term our ‘Accelerated Pace’.

SPOC

They need to continue in their current roles, balancing their studies with professional commitments. These students prefer to learn at their own pace, supported by continuous, one-on-one guidance over an extended period, often spanning several years. We cater to these students with our ‘Self-Paced Online Course’ or ‘SPOC’ pace.

At DSTI, we’ve designed our blended learning modes with the understanding that every learner’s circumstances, goals, and preferred pace of learning are unique. Our mission is to provide you with the flexibility, support, and world-class education you need to succeed in your chosen path.

Blended Learning - Accelerated Pace

Unleash your potential and fast-track your journey into the world of data science and AI with DSTI’s Blended Learning – Accelerated Pace mode. This intensive path is thoughtfully designed to compact our Applied MSc programmes – Data Science & AI, Data Engineering for AI, and Data Analytics – into nine months of immersive, high-impact classes.

The Accelerated Pace mode represents a challenge, inviting you to immerse yourself in rigorous studies, delve into complex data science and AI topics, and apply industry-leading tools and techniques. This journey requires a profound commitment and an intense desire to learn, grow, and succeed. But with dedication, this mode offers an unrivalled opportunity to swiftly acquire a comprehensive skill set in data science and AI.

Regardless of your chosen study mode, rest assured that all our Applied MSc programmes maintain the same high-quality curriculum, expert instruction, and valuable practical experience. The Accelerated Pace mode concludes with a six-month mandatory internship or equivalent full-time employment. This invaluable phase allows you to apply your newly gained knowledge and skills in a professional context, further bolstering your readiness for a thriving career.

Our hundreds of successful graduates are a testament not only to the effectiveness and quality of our programmes, but also to their relentless commitment and effort. Their success is a shared achievement – a testament to the strong partnership between DSTI’s dedicated faculty, direction of studies and our hard-working students.

So, are you ready for the challenge? With the Accelerated Pace mode at DSTI, you can fast-track your way into a rewarding career in data science and AI, joining the ranks of our successful alumni.

Blended Learning – Self-Paced Online Course (SPOC) pace

Are you a working professional seeking to enhance your expertise in data science and AI but unable to commit to traditional study schedules?

DSTI’s Self-Paced Online Course (SPOC) pace within the Blended Learning mode is designed precisely for you, allowing you to study at your own rhythm while balancing your educational journey and professional commitments. All our Applied MSc programmes – Data Science & AI, Data Engineering for AI, and Data Analytics – are open to this mode, ensuring you gain the advanced knowledge you need, in your own time.

One of the unique aspects of the SPOC pace at DSTI is the format of our class recordings. Rather than featuring a lone professor lecturing to a camera, our class recordings capture real-time classroom interactions in Full HD, including discussions and questions from live students. This vibrant approach brings the classroom to life, providing a dynamic, interactive learning experience, even in an asynchronous mode.

Moreover, all SPOC students have the opportunity to join live classes, depending on their availability and the live class schedules. They can also participate in support sessions and any DSTI event, ensuring they remain an integral part of our vibrant academic community. To further foster this sense of community, we organise a quarterly SPOC meeting where all SPOC students are invited to share their experiences, tips, and insights. This collaborative environment is not just enriching, but also greatly beneficial for networking and shared learning.

Our SPOC students are a cherished part of what we fondly call the “third campus” of DSTI. With nearly 150 working professionals currently enrolled and around 25 graduates who have significantly boosted their careers, the SPOC pace is a testament to the flexibility, inclusivity, and effectiveness of DSTI’s approach to learning.

In the SPOC pace, our dedicated Direction of Studies team creates individualised learning paths for each student. These paths not only manage course dependencies within each programme but also cater to each student's immediate professional needs, delivering the most relevant skills at the right time. This personalised approach ensures that our SPOC students receive an education that is tailored to their specific circumstances. And these learning paths are dynamic, constantly evaluated and adjusted to meet shifting professional environments or personal goals.

In the SPOC pace, your career progression doesn’t need to be put on hold. Upskill while continuing to excel in your current role and become an even greater asset to your organisation. Join our successful graduates and propel your career to new heights with DSTI’s innovative SPOC pace.

Blended Learning – Part Time Sandwich

Are you 30 or above, an EU/EEA citizen (or already in France and long-stay visa holder) and a French speaker*?

Consider an enriching career shift into data sciences with DSTI's part-time sandwich studies. This distinctive study mode presents a great opportunity to transition into data sciences while acquiring hands-on professional experience, thereby strengthening your professional maturity and employability. It's essential to be cognisant that this mode, referred to as a ”Contrat de Professionnalisation”, bears a significantly higher cost for employers compared to the apprenticeship scheme for those under 30.

As a result, finding positions under this scheme can be more challenging. The key lies in finding a real alignment between your prior education and work experience, and an employer who is eager to bring you onboard and enhance your skills. Despite the higher cost of this scheme, the organisation of work and studies aligns perfectly with the apprenticeship scheme outlined above, creating a seamless and supportive learning environment.

*Some companies may recruit non-French speakers, but it’s a rare occurrence

FAQ's

Can an international student apply for an apprenticeship from their home country?

Non-European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) citizens must possess a valid residence permit in France and be registered in a French higher education institution to be eligible to apply for an apprenticeship. As a result, Non-EU / Non-EEA students cannot apply for an apprenticeship while living in their own countries.

Additionally, they may be required to demonstrate their fluency in French, as most employers will demand proficiency in the French language.

EU & EEA citizens, on the other hand, are typically free to apply for apprenticeships in France without holding a residence permit as they possess the freedom to work and study in France under the European Union’s freedom of movement regulations.

How can I apply for an apprenticeship of either type with the Data ScienceTech Institute (DSTI)?

The application process for an apprenticeship at DSTI is the same as the regular application.

An interested student can fill in the application form with all documentation and pursue further processes. If the admission decision is favourable, students sign a contract with DSTI so that we can help them find appropriate opportunities.

To implement the “contrat d’apprentissage”, a regulated work contract, DSTI has partnered with CFA AFIA, a leading provider of apprenticeship schemes in higher education for IT and digital technology in France. Over nearly three decades, our CFA partner institutions have trained more than 15,000 apprentices. A CFA, or Centre de Formation des Apprentis, is an accredited body that manages these “contrats d’apprentissage”. They have the option to either provide the education themselves or delegate the educational programmes to partner establishments, like AFIA does. CFAs handle all the legal, administrative and quality control aspects of these contracts, ensuring a seamless and efficient learning experience for our students.

Continuing Education – Blended Learning - Summary

Professionals, typically over 30

You may refer to the following table to understand the details of different modes for our programmes.

Postgraduate

Mode

Programme

On-Campus (live)

Online (live)

Asynchronous

Internship (or equivalent employment)

Blended Learning

Accelerated Pace

Applied MSc (full programmes in 9 months)

Nice Sophia-Antipolis

Paris

Yes

No

(recordings and courses content always available for catch-up / revisions)

6-month, mandatory.

Blended Learning

SPOC pace

Applied MSc

(between 18 to 36 months)

Occasionally, if student availability and programmes’ schedules match

Occasionally, if student availability and programmes’ schedules match

Yes

6-month, mandatory (including with their current employers, if possible).

Part-Time sandwich

Applied MSc, in a “work and study” rhythm (14 to 24 months)

Nice Sophia-Antipolis

Paris

Yes

No

(recordings and courses content always available for catch-up / revisions)

N/A

Book One on One Online Meeting with DSTI

At DSTI, we provide one-on-one online meetings with prospective students. Here we answer all their questions regarding our Applied Bachelors and Applied MSc courses.

Join DSTI's Weekly Online Group Meetings (English)

At DSTI, we organize online group meetings where we share valuable information about our selection of Applied Bachelors and Applied MSc courses in data and AI.

Join DSTI's Weekly Online Group Meetings (in French)

DSTI organizes online group meetings to provide information about our range of Applied Bachelor and Applied MSc programs in data and AI.

Open House Sessions at DSTI Paris Campus

Every Wednesday from 2PM to 6PM CEST, DSTI’s Paris Campus hosts an open day for all, no appointment necessary. Inquiries regarding admission, courses or other related topics are welcomed. We are delighted to provide answers to your questions.

Explore careers in Data and AI on 3 April 2024.

Attend two seperate Open Day sessions: one in English and another in French.

  • On-Campus and Online Modes
  • Interactive Sessions on careers in data and AI.
  • Socialise with current and future students.
  • Know the Admissions Process.