Computer Science (Data Science)

Our four year BSc Computer Science (Data Science) Honours degree is oriented to constructing robust and useable systems. We aim to teach you not just how to deploy cutting edge tools and techniques, but how to build the next generation of software tools that other system constructors will use. This programme aims to give a well-integrated balance of theoretical underpinnings and practical experience, strongly informed by the research expertise of our academic staff. The Data Science specialism will provide you with the skills needed to be a data scientist. Specifically, you will have the ability to develop and perform large-scale, repeatable data analyses grounded in statistical modelling. Data Science is becoming increasingly important as huge amounts of complex academic, business and government data are being generated from many largely online sources. This swelling lake of data needs increasing numbers of skilled staff with the capacity to analyse and make sense of it all. That in turn requires staff trained in the latest skills and techniques in data science. That’s where you come in!

Please visit our website for further information on our 3 year honours degrees

Heriot-Watt is 2nd in the UK for positive graduate outcomes (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2025). As Scotland’s top producer of CEOs (Novuna, 2025), their programmes focus on giving you real-world experience and strong industry links to help you kick-start your career success story. You'll have lifelong access to their award-winning Careers Service with guidance on CV tailoring, careers fairs and job applications.

They guarantee accommodation for students on their safe, green parkland campus, with all energy and Wi-Fi bills included. For students coming from England, Wales and Northern Ireland, Heriot-Watt provides a free semester of accommodation to help you with the costs of starting university.

You’ll also be living and studying in a top 2 UK student-friendly city (QS Best Cities, 2026) – Edinburgh. With a vibrant nightlife, eclectic food scene and plenty of shops and green spaces, it's a great city to be a student.

At Heriot-Watt University, you can choose to study flexibly with a 3-year honours degree, allowing you to complete the typical four-year Scottish Bachelor Honours degree in just three years while still enjoying the full student experience, including Welcome Week, Freshers’ events, and support from your Personal Tutor. This can save you both time and tuition fees while allowing you to graduate at the same time as students across the rest of the UK.

Register for your Heriot-Watt Priority Pass to make sure you are first in line when Clearing opens, or to chat with their friendly team