MSc Data Science

• Research methods and professional issues
  This module presents research methodology. It covers different techniques  such as inductive and deductive reasoning and prediction. You’ll evaluate the legal and ethical issues on practice within typical information professions.
• Future internet technologies
  Future internet technologies comprise of a set of enablers to deal with limitations of the existing internet. This includes (but is not limited to)  the evolution towards 4G+/5G networking architectures. The module may present the work driven by major research projects in Europe and USA (e.g. FIRE, GENI).
• Statistical analysis and modelling
  This module develops your understanding of essential scientific principles for the study of statistics and modelling as applied to analytical computer science and software engineering.
• Business intelligence
  This module will give you knowledge of the theory, practice and research of data science techniques used for the storage/analysis of  big data using  business intelligence. You'll use industry standard tools such as  MS SQL Server.
• Data management
  This module will give you a critical and evaluative knowledge of the technology and techniques used for  data quality and Data Management amid today’s complex Big Data environments, including practical techniques for data cleansing, manipulation and reporting for a variety of contemporary and emerging data types. The module is supported using industry standard software  e.g. MS SQL Server and Oracle.
• Machine learning
  This module focuses on the development of computer programs that can teach themselves to grow and change when exposed to new data. Using industry standard software (e.g. SAS) you'll learn how to apply algorithms that iteratively learn from data. You'll also learn to evaluate and apply machine learning techniques that allow computers to find hidden insights from big data without being explicitly programmed where to look.
• Data mining and analysis
  This module teaches the techniques and technologies applicable to the field of data mining including association techniques, sequence or path analysis, classification, clustering and forecasting. The module is supported using industry standard software (e.g. SAS, Tableau) for building dashboards, applying algorithms and applying  analytic techniques to structured and unstructured big data from social media, the cloud and other sources. 
• MSc thesis
  This module will see you undertake a substantial, independent research project synthesizing knowledge and skills from the various disciplines on the taught course. You'll have the flexibility to select a subject of your choice to analyse and respond to.

All modules are assessed by a mix of coursework and examinations.

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.

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.

You'll make use of our e-learning suite and learn in a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops and private study. You'll have access to specialist software including Microsoft SQL Server 2012, Netbeans 7.x with Java 7, Oracle, Python, SAS and Visual Paradigm.

• 2:2 UK honours first degree or international equivalent in a relevant 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.
• We welcome qualifications from around the world. English language qualifications for international students: IELTS score of 6.5.

For more information, including how and when to pay, see our fees and funding section for postgraduate students.

See our Tuition Fees Regulations (PDF File 201 KB) and Refund Policy (PDF File 102 KB).

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 in line with the RPIX measure of inflation up to 4 per cent.

Postgraduate loan (PGL) for Masters study

If you are starting a Masters course, studying either full- or part-time, you may be entitled to apply for a postgraduate study loan. Find out more at our postgraduate fees and funding section.

Scholarships

We offer several types of fee reduction through our scholarships and bursaries. Find the full list and other useful information on funding your studies on the scholarships and fee discounts page.

Fee status

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 reading the UKCISA regulations.