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Undergraduate courses » Data Science

Data Science

Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science

Data Science logo

Gateway to a new discipline

Data Science BSc and Data Science MSci are single honours courses specifically designed for individuals keen to be exposed to the sophisticated theory and methods required for addressing modern data-analytic challenges. They equip you with the knowledge, skills, and attitude required by emerging challenges in the information age.

These courses are the first of their kind in the UK. They emphasise a mathematical approach to the computational analysis of data.

The 21st Century has brought new challenges in the analysis of data, and it is increasingly apparent that these can be addressed by investing in the interaction between statistics and computer science. This realisation has led to a great demand for people both in industry and in research who are able to draw upon the mathematics of statistics and computation to make sense of the large amounts of data that are collected in order to solve major problems.

Global demand for combined statistical and computing expertise outstrips supply. Data Science graduates have the opportunity to forge successful careers in a critical area.

A graphic showing the structure of the Data Science course.

Underpinnings and practice of Data Science

These degrees are our interdisciplinary response to the surging demand for Data Scientists. Students follow a carefully designed curriculum from Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science.

The compulsory modules in the first year build a strong mathematical foundation. You will also be introduced to mathematical programming, data structures, probability and the foundations of data analysis.

In the second year, statistical topics are explored in considerable depth, and students are exposed to algorithms, databases and software engineering. There are a number of optional modules, including those that introduce machine learning and AI.

The third year of the BSc and MSci allows you to select more advanced modules in statistics and computer science. It also includes a Data Science project, which is your opportunity to showcase and expand your data-analytic knowledge and skills.

The final year of the MSci offers a range of advanced modules from across data science, and you also choose a Master's-level dissertation project from a wide selection of topics.

Student in a lecture

Find out more

Visit the university course pages to find out more:

These pages have more information about the modules you will study and the careers you might go on to after your degree, including firms that have previously employed graduates from our department.

You may also be interested in:

Statistics also runs degrees in MORSE (Maths, Operational Research, Stats and Economics) and Mathematics and Statistics.

Data Science BSc

BSc Data Science and Data Science MSci are nearly the same during the first two years making it easy to reconsider your preference during your first two years at university.

Course structure (3 year)

A graphic showing the structure of the Data Science BSc course.

Mathematics (MA), Statistics (ST), Computer Science (CS), Business School (IB), Optional (Opt). Additional optional modules may be taken each year.

Course structure (4 year)

A graphic showing the structure of the Data Science MSci course

Mathematics (MA), Statistics (ST), Computer Science (CS), Business School (IB), Optional (Opt). Additional optional modules may be taken each year.

Data Science MSci

Transfer onto the four year degree is possible up until the beginning of year 3, dependent on performance in years 1 and 2. Students often choose this degree to deepen their knowledge in their chosen specialism, and to gain further experience of project work through a dissertation supervised by an academic.

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