Data Science MSc

This MSc Data Science is an intensive course designed for graduates who are new to computer science and want to gain essential data science and AI skills. It offers you hands-on experience with programming languages and combines rigorous academic training with practical application. It is ideal if you are looking to transition into a data science career.

Why choose this course?

* You will learn highly sought-after programming and data analysis skills with Python, R and Java, which are essential for careers in data science.

* You will benefit from exclusive access to cutting-edge research and industry collaborations through Birkbeck’s Computational Intelligence Research Group.

* This MSc places a strong emphasis on employability and real-world applications through your engagement in practical coursework.

What will I learn?

You will learn foundational skills in data science, from programming in popular languages to specialised topics such as natural language processing and deep learning.

The course’s valuable practical focus will also equip you with the knowledge to handle real-world data challenges, providing a solid foundation for a career in data science, software development or AI.

How will I learn?

This MSc Data Science offers you a blend of lectures, hands-on practical sessions and group projects. You will also have the chance to develop your skills in independent research and practical problem-solving on your final project.

You can study this course full-time, starting in January or October, or part-time starting in October only. Both involve daytime and evening classes, although part-time students may choose evening only where options permit.

This course will suit graduates who are new to computer science. If you already hold a degree in computer science, you should apply for our MSc Advanced Computing.

Highlights

* Birkbeck has a long-established reputation as a pioneer in computing education. We set up one of the first computing departments in the UK in 1957 and our research dates back to the late 1940s. We now house the Computational Intelligence Research Group and the Information Management and Web Technologies Research Group, both of which collaborate with other research groups and with industry, in the UK and abroad, and undertake interdisciplinary research in the life, natural and social sciences, and the humanities.

* We provide you with a stimulating teaching and research environment, with academic specialists in all fields, including information and knowledge management, web and pervasive technologies, computational intelligence, and information systems development, among others.

* Birkbeck was ranked in the top 25 universities in the UK for its Computer Science and Informatics research in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.

Careers and employability

Upon successfully completing this MSc Data Science, you will have developed a diverse skill set that can be applied across various industries, including:

* proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R and Java

* robust data analysis and interpretation skills, allowing for informed decision-making

* experience in project management, particularly in leading data-driven initiatives

* critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, particularly in handling large data sets and developing machine learning models.

Studying this course will prepare you for a career path in a range of fields:

* data scientist: analysing complex data to drive business solutions

* machine learning engineer: building and deploying AI models

* data engineer: managing and optimising data pipelines and architectures

* business intelligence analyst: providing insights to support business strategies

* software developer: focusing on developing data-intensive applications.

Graduates have gone on to work at leading organisations in technology, finance and consulting, including Google, Amazon, IBM, PwC and Microsoft.