Master of Science [M.Sc] [Data Science] From University of Edinburgh

Data science is the study of the computational principles, methods, and systems for extracting and structuring knowledge from data; and the application and use of those principles. Large data sets are now generated by almost every activity in science, society, and commerce - ranging from molecular biology to social media, from sustainable energy to health care.

As an MSc Data Science student, you will explore how to efficiently find patterns in these vast streams of data. Many research areas have tackled parts of this problem:

Machine learning focuses on finding patterns and making predictions from data.
Ideas from algorithms and databases are required to build systems that scale to big data streams.
Separate research areas have grown around different types of unstructured data such as text, images, sensor data, video, and speech.

Data science is a major growth area within both the commercial and public sectors and there is a shortage of professionals that have the required range of data science knowledge and skills. This work-based learning MSc Data Science programme addresses this shortage.

The programme is aimed at those working in a data-related role within their organisation, whether in a technical, software or business context and want to enhance their skills and understanding of contemporary data analysis tools and techniques.

Edinburgh Napier University has excellent research and knowledge transfer links with many local, national and international organisations in data science related areas.

The acquisition of knowledge and skills on the programme will enable students to drive improvements within their organisations, enabling them to focus on areas of specialisation within their professional field and to broaden their knowledge and skills to enhance their career development.

You'll enter the Master of Data Science with a background in computer science or statistics (or both), and the course will be tailored to build your skills in the other discipline. 

Core subjects will give you a solid grounding in data science, so you’ll have the technological and analytical abilities that are vital for managing and interpreting large, complex collections of data.

Beyond the core subjects, elective subjects give you the freedom to dive deeper into a specialist area of data science.

• The entry requirement for this course is a Bachelor (Honours) Degree at a 2:2 or above in an appropriate field, for example, software development, computing, or business analytics. 
• Applicants will be expected to be working in a role related to data analytics, whether in a technical or business context and will be required to provide a letter of support from their employer. Some experience of associated technologies such as databases, software development and related tools is assumed.