CDS 302: Scientific Data and Databases

CDS 302-K01: Scientific Data and Databases
(Fall 2026)

02:00 PM to 04:40 PM W

Mason Korea (119 Songdomunhwa-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, Korea) TBA

View the schedule of classes

Section Information for Fall 2026

Course Description and Objective:  
CDS 302/502 is an approved Mason Core curriculum and fulfills requirements for Information Technology and Computing. Thus, the course is a writing-intensive course that focuses on the design and implementation of Relational Database Management Systems (DBMS). 

• Topics Covered: 
  • E-R and Relational Models
  • SQL Queries, Views, and Transactions
  • Indexing, Hashing, and File Storage
  • Query Processing and Visualization of Results
  • Advanced Topics Beyond Traditional DBMS
• Course Focus: 
  • Theoretical Foundations and Practical Applications using real-world datasets.
  • In-class examples and homework assignments to help students store, manage, 
    and query databases.
  • Emphasis on scientific writing, including the use of LaTeX as the preferred 
    typesetting system.
• Course Structure:
  • Divided into weekly modules.
  • All materials (slides, readings, lab data, rubrics) will be available online via Mason LMS Canvas (https://canvas.gmu.edu/).  
• Time Commitment:
  • This is a 3-credit-hour course.
  • Weekly expectations:
    • 3 hours for online lectures and labs.
    • 6 hours for independent study (textbook reading, lab assignments, exam 
      preparation) to achieve a C grade.

Learning Outcomes:  
By the end of the course, students will:  

1. Understanding Database Fundamentals: 
   • Gain a broad knowledge of the theory, fundamentals, and applications of 
     Database Management Systems (DBMS).
2. Communicate Effectively:
   • Articulate and communicate data management concepts effectively to both 
     experts and non-experts in professional settings.
3. Apply Knowledge Practically:
   • Use acquired skills to design and manage hypothetical and real-world 
     databases. 
4. Develop Technical Skills:
   • Gain hands-on experience with indexing, querying, mining, and visualizing 
     data from scientific databases using SQL.
5. Enhance Scientific Writing:
   • Develop the ability to write scientific manuscripts, articles, and reports using 
     proper math notations, tables, references, and citations.
6. Utilize Programming for Data Manipulation:
   • Use Python (or another high-level language) to manipulate data within a 
     DBMS.

Mason Core Writing-Intensive Requirements: To fulfill the Mason Core writing-intensive 
criteria, students will: 

1. Writing to Learn:
   • Use informal or formal writing to deepen their understanding of the subject 
     matter and its relevance to the field.
2. Writing to Communicate:
   • Compose written works in field-specific genres (academic, public, or professional) 
     tailored to specific audiences and purposes.
3. Writing as a Process:
   • Draft and revise written assignments based on feedback from instructors and 
     peers, utilizing strategies tailored to the genre, audience, and purpose. 

Course Information from the University Catalog