Book an Open DayGet info and updates
Transform complex data into meaningful insights and real-world impact, developing the skills to turn information into informed decisions that drive modern businesses forward.
Gain a powerful combination of technical expertise and practical experience across data analysis, visualisation, and storytelling, preparing you to excel in a data-driven world.
Build industry-ready skills using leading tools such as SAS, Tableau, SQL, Oracle, and R, equipping you to step confidently into a professional data science career.
Overview
Your gateway to the world’s most in-demand tech skills
This postgraduate Masters course is uniquely designed for both computing and non-computing graduates wishing to pursue a career in data science community.
Data science is at the intersection of the fields of computer science, statistics, and design. In a rapidly evolving world, new types of big data are emerging from mobile devices, sensors, instruments, transactional systems, web logs, social media, the cloud and other sources. Businesses are accumulating big data at a rate that often exceeds their capacity to extract value from it.
MSc Data Science is ideally placed to provide you with technical knowledge and employer-focused skills required in a data scientist role. The course will develop your specialist knowledge of data acquisition, data cleansing, data analysis, information extraction, prediction, visualization, story-telling and explanation.
You'll gain hands-on experience using industry standard tools for data science, business intelligence and analytics including SAS, Tableau MS SQL Server, Oracle Database, and R Programming. Visit our School of Computer Science and Digital Technologies webpage to explore the full list of facilities.
Work placement options are available! The work placement option is seeking accreditation from the British Computer Society (The Chartered Institute for Information Technology).
Course Content
Data Management and Data Quality are increasingly at the heart of every commercial and research enterprise, as the value of data increases along with the need for adaptive security. This module will give you a critical and evaluative knowledge of the theory, practice and research of software engineering techniques for Data Management amid today’s complex and changing business/commercial/research environments. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
This advanced module equips students with critical mathematical and statistical foundations necessary for data science, machine learning, and data mining. Key areas of focus include Probability and Stochastic Processes, Statistics, Linear and Matrix Algebra, Multivariable Calculus, Optimisation, and Bayesian Statistics. Additionally, the module addresses algorithm complexity to assess computational efficiency in data-driven solutions. Students will apply these concepts through practical problem-solving using industry-standard tools such as R Studio, Excel, and Matlab, gaining hands-on experience in statistical modelling and analytical techniques essential for modern data science.
The module introduces you to the basic theory, concepts, and techniques of machine learning using Python. It will cover the main topics and essential theory in the area. The module also focuses on developing practical skills in designing and developing machine learning systems using suitable software and algorithms in order to solve real-world problems. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
Future Internet technologies comprise set of enablers to deal with the limitation of existing Internet. This includes but not limited All-IP Networking Architectures, evolution towards 4G+/5G networking architectures, open-based networking technologies, Cloud Computing challenges and IoT technologies and its interworking with 4G+/5G networks. The module will provide both theoretical knowledge and practical exposure to the students. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
The module introduces you to the basic theory, concepts, and techniques of data mining, and its role in data science and business intelligence. It will cover the main topics in the area. The module also focuses on developing practical skills in solving real-world data mining problems by using appropriate software suites. Base SAS®, SAS® Enterprise Miner, SAS® Enterprise Guide and Tableau® may be taught and used for this purpose.
To develop an in-depth, critically evaluative knowledge of concepts of security in networks and systems and the acquisition of knowledge about the processes, techniques, and security technologies to achieve an end-to-end security system. The course will analyse the security requirements and the vulnerabilities that threaten the smooth functioning of a computer system / network and will inform about ways of prevention, protection, recognition, and treatment of malicious attacks using appropriate technologies and security tools. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
The module provides students with the ability to discuss, evaluate and use a variety of research methods and techniques for their chosen subject area of Computer Science and Informatics and to develop a professional and ethical approach to carrying out research-based projects. It also equips students with entrepreneurial and innovation skills increasingly sought by industry and employers. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
The module requires students to undertake an independent piece of research / development work, investigating in depth a subject, in which they have a particular interest and of their own selection. The dissertation assesses students’ ability to integrate information from various sources, to conduct an in-depth investigation, where necessary specify, appropriately develop bespoke software/technology-based solutions, to critically analyse results and information obtained and to propose improvements/further work. Each student will submit a dissertation of between 12,000-15,000 words. Assessment: 100% coursework.
The placement gives you the opportunity to spend a year in the workplace, honing your transferable skills and proving your academic learning in the development of real-world systems. The assessment of the placement is designed to support and accredit the experience by formalising personal development outcomes, and by contextualising prior learning. Regular on-line contact with tutors, peer-contact and placement support will be maintained throughout the year. Assessment: 100% coursework.
Teaching and Assessment
Subject-related and generic resources available
Students will have access to approximately 200 PCs in 10 teaching computer labs, running under Windows or Linux. The installed software includes the typical MS Office suite, and a range of programming languages and IDEs. A cyber security lab is used for specialised modules, and 3 labs sport state-of-the-art workstation with GPUs for running machine learning and deep learning models. A new lab with 90 high specs GPU-enabled workstations will be setup at the beginning of 2023 in the Perry building
Generic resources include:
- Perry library - provides access to traditional books, journal sources, PCs to use and laptops to borrow. The Perry Library is open throughout the week, and during the term are staffed from 08.30 until 21.00 from Monday – Thursday, and 10.30 to 16.20 at weekends. There is seating capacity for 600 students in the library and the book-stock is in excess of 600,000 volumes. The building provides wireless access.
- The Students' Support Centre - provides a first stop service for students on academic, personal and financial matters. It is aimed at improving student experience and offers LSBU’s best employability, development and student services. The center also offers home to our Students’ Union.
- Fitness - there is also a sports hall, fitness suite and gymnasium
- Catering - there is a large refectory, with a selection of smaller cafes and eating outlets on campus.
Learning support
Subject-related and generic resources available
Students will have access to approximately 200 PCs in 10 teaching computer labs, running under Windows or Linux. The installed software includes the typical MS Office suite, and a range of programming languages and IDEs. A cyber security lab is used for specialised modules, and 3 labs sport state-of-the-art workstation with GPUs for running machine learning and deep learning models. A new lab with 90 high specs GPU-enabled workstations will be setup at the beginning of 2023 in the Perry building.
Generic resources include:
*Perry library - provides access to traditional books, journal sources, PCs to use and laptops to borrow. The Perry Library is open throughout the week, and during the term are staffed from 08.30 until 21.00 from Monday – Thursday, and 10.30 to 16.20 at weekends. There is seating capacity for 600 students in the library and the book-stock is in excess of 600,000 volumes. The building provides wireless access.
*The Students' Support Centre - provides a first stop service for students on academic, personal and financial matters. It is aimed at improving student experience and offers LSBU’s best employability, development and student services. The center also offers home to our Students’ Union.
*Fitness - there is also a sports hall, fitness suite and gymnasium
*Catering - there is a large refectory, with a selection of smaller cafes and eating outlets on campus.
We support students throughout their course in many different ways, such as:
- personal tutoring
- support sessions on core math's & programming skills taking place weekly
- peer student led support sessions
- practical skills workshops
- labs equipped with the latest hardware and software
- lectures, seminars, personal tuition
- online learning materials
- varied assessment methods
- advice on work experience and career options
- opportunities for internships, work placements and projects with employers
- tailored field trips
- training in research methods and assistance with independent research projects.
Careers
What’s in it for me?
Employability Service
We are University of the Year for Graduate Employment for the second year in a row - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2018, 2019.
At LSBU, we want to set you up for a successful career. During your studies – and for two years after you graduate – you’ll have access to our Employability Service, which includes:
- An online board where you can see a wide range of placements: part-time, full-time or voluntary. You can also drop in to see our Job Shop advisers, who are always available to help you take the next step in your search.
- Our Careers Gym offering group workshops on CVs, interview techniques and finding work experience, as well as regular presentations from employers across a range of sectors.
Our Student Enterprise team can also help you start your own business and develop valuable entrepreneurial skills.
Career opportunities range from IT services to business consultancy, and this course will prepare you for a career in the business intelligence community working actively with a range of resources including tools from major commercial vendors such as Microsoft and SAS.
As a graduate of this course you should to be able to work within the areas of business intelligence or business and data analytics, in roles such as a business intelligence specialist, data or business analyst or business intelligence developer.
Recent guest lecturers include Tom Gilb, author and expert in agile project management, Tony Baker from IBM and Chris Miller from Dell.
In order to ensure the course runs in accordance with industry recognised standards we are seeking accreditation for both Chartered Engineer (CEng) status as well as Chartered IT Professional (CITP) accreditation by the British Computer Society, the Chartered Institute for Information Technology.
We are also seeking Chartered Engineer (CEng) status with both the Institute of Engineering and Technology and the Engineering Council.
LSBU CareerSmart is your ultimate gateway to career success. Our innovative programme is designed to ensure you graduate with more than just a degree, providing the support you need to stand out in a competitive job market. We've got all the tools you need, including:
- AI Powered Career Sets - Get instant personalised feedback on your CV and cover letter by submitting it via our AI powered career tool.
- Gamification Interviews - Get ready to pass those interviews with unlimited training access to our gamification interviews and psychometric tests!
- Personalised Career Development Dashboard - Keep up with your skills progression with free access to practical assessments, LinkedIn learning, mentoring, and industry-standard facilities.
We understand that you’re in the driver’s seat of your career, which is why we’re committed to matching your passion and energy every step of the way.
Entry Level Requirements
- 2:2 UK honours first degree or international equivalent in a relevant Computing/Mathematical/Statistical subject; or
- A Higher National Diploma in a relevant subject and a minimum of three years relevant professional experience; or
- We recognise that many people have a wealth of valuable skills and knowledge they've developed at work or through training. If candidates have the potential to succeed in postgraduate or post-experience studies we'll consider their application on its individual merit. Applications may be considered where candidates demonstrate a combination of educational qualifications and work experience.
- For all applicants experience of Computing/Programming will be sought.
- We welcome qualifications from around the world. English language qualifications for international students: IELTS score of 6.5.
Choose your country
- Afghanistan
- Albania
- Algeria
- Angola
- Argentina
- Australia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Bahrain
- Bangladesh
- Barbados
- Belgium
- Botswana
- Brazil
- British Council Women in STEM Scholarships
- Bulgaria
- Cambodia
- Cameroon
- Canada
- Chile
- China
- Colombia
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Dominican Republic
- Egypt
- Estonia
- Ethiopia
- Finland
- France
- Gambia
- Georgia
- Germany
- Ghana
- Greece
- Hungary
- India
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Iraq
- Ireland
- Italy
- Jamaica
- Japan
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kenya
- Kuwait
- Latvia
- Lebanon
- Libya
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malaysia
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Mongolia
- Morocco
- Myanmar
- Nepal
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Nigeria
- Norway
- Oman
- Pakistan
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Romania
- Russian Federation
- Saudi Arabia
- Senegal
- Serbia
- Sierra Leone
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Somalia
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sri Lanka
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Thailand
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tunisia
- Turkiye
- Uganda
- Ukraine
- United Arab Emirates
- United States of America
- Uzbekistan
- Venezuela
- Vietnam
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Apply
Course delivery modes and application methods
| Mode | Duration | Start date | Application code | Application method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time | 1 year | September | 4940 | Direct to LSBU |
| Part-time | 2 years | September | 5084 | Direct to LSBU |
| Full-time | 15 months | January | 5619 | Direct to LSBU |
| Full-time | 2 years (with placement) | September | 6041 | Direct to LSBU |
| Full-time | 2.5 years (with placement) | January | 6042 | Direct to LSBU |
| Full-time | 1 year | May | 6163 | Direct to LSBU |
| Full-time | 2 years (with placement) | May | 6177 | Direct to LSBU |
International (non Home) applicants should follow our international how to apply guide.
How to apply
Read more about how to apply for undergraduate courses.
International students
International applicants can apply directly to LSBU and should consult our international how to apply guide for further information on the application process and key dates.
Accommodation
Read more about applying for accommodation at LSBU.
Prepare to start
Applicant events
After you’ve received your offer we’ll send you emails about events we run to help you prepare for your course. You’ll also be invited to our Applicant Taster Day so keep your eyes peeled!
Enrolment
Before you start your course, we’ll send you information on what you’ll need to do before you arrive and during your first few days on campus. You can read about the process on our enrolment pages.
Fees
United Kingdom
£14040
Tuition fees for home students
International
£20160
Tuition fees for international students
Tuition fees are subject to annual inflationary increases. Find out more about tuition fees for Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses.
full-time
Full-time Year 1 - All Available Courses
MSc Data Science (FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £12780 | International fee: £18900 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 4940 | Session code: 1FS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
MSc Data Science (FT) (JAN) - Year 1 FT Southwark JAN
| UK fee: £12780 | International fee: £18900 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 5619 | Session code: 1FS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
MSc Data Science (with placement)(SEPT)(FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £14040 | International fee: £20160 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 6041 | Session code: 1FS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £14040 |
| International: £20160 |
MSc Data Science (with Placement) (JAN) (FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark JAN
| UK fee: £14040 | International fee: £20160 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 6042 | Session code: 1FS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £14040 |
| International: £20160 |
MSc Data Science (with Placement) (MAY) (FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark MAY
| UK fee: £12780 | International fee: £18900 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 6177 | Session code: 1FS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
part-time
Part-time Year 1 - All Available Courses
MSc Data Science (PT) - Year 1 PT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £5680 | International fee: £8400 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 5084 | Session code: 1PS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
MSc Data Science (BLOCK) (PT) - Year 1 PT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £4260 | International fee: £6300 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 5086 | Session code: 1PS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
Part-time Year 2 - All Available Courses
MSc Data Science (PT) - Year 2 PT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £7100 | International fee: £10500 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 5084 | Session code: 2PS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
MSc Data Science (BLOCK) (PT) - Year 2 PT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £8520 | International fee: £12600 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 5086 | Session code: 2PS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
For more information, including how and when to pay, see our fees and funding section for undergraduate students.
Please check your fee status and whether you are considered a Home, EU or International student for fee-paying purposes and for our regulatory returns, by checking at the the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) find your fee status page.
Visit our Policies and procedures page for details on fees policies.
Possible fee changes
The University reserves the right to increase its fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions.
The fees for international students are reviewed annually and the University reserves the right to increase the tuition fees to reflect increased costs of delivery and to maintain an a high-quality student experience. This increase would be no more than Consumer Prices Index (CPI) increases plus 5%.
Scholarships
We offer several types of fee reduction through our scholarships and bursaries. Find the full list and other useful information on our scholarships page.
