Taught course

Data Science

Institution
Birkbeck, University of London · School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences
Qualifications
MSc

Entry requirements

The degree is designed for graduates who are new to computer science, so the main requirement is at least a second-class honours degree (2:2) or equivalent, in any subject other than single-honours computer science. Applicants with less than the required level of academic qualification may be considered if they have significant experience in the IT industry. Applicants who already hold a degree in computer science are referred to the MSc Advanced Computing.

Upon receipt of application, suitable candidates will be invited to take an online aptitude test. The details of the test will be clearly set out via email. You are expected to take the test before the deadline specified in that email and we aim to get back to you with our decision based on the results of the aptitude test within 10 working days. You can also download the aptitude test notes in advance to prepare. Please note that you can only take the aptitude test once per academic year.

Applications are reviewed on their individual merits and your professional qualifications and/or relevant work experience will be taken into consideration positively. We actively support and encourage applications from mature learners.

Months of entry

January, October

Course content

Our intensive MSc Data Science is designed for graduates who are new to computer science and wish to develop the knowledge and skills for a successful career in data science and AI, working as a data scientist or as a software developer of data-intensive systems. It is also ideal if you are working in IT or data science, without a relevant degree, and want to update your skills and place them in a broader context, while also obtaining a formal qualification in this area of emerging importance.

On this course you will gain a broad knowledge of the techniques and concepts of data science and acquire strong programming and data analysis skills using Python, R and Java - the most popular programming languages used by data scientists today.

Our MSc Data Science also allows you to develop foundational skills in software development and specialist skills such as natural language processing and deep neural networks.

To accommodate graduates at different stages of their career or with different work or care commitments, we offer alternative modes of study:

  • a mix of intensive daytime and evening classes with entry in October or January, and
  • part-time with evening classes spread over two academic years (ideal for those in full-time employment).

For indicative timetable information, please contact our admin team.

Highlights
  • Birkbeck established one of the first computing departments in the UK in 1957. Today, we provide a stimulating teaching and research environment for both part-time and full-time students. Our research dates back to the late 1940s, when one of the first electronic computers was developed at Birkbeck by Dr Andrew Booth. We now house the Computational Intelligence Research Group and the Information Management and Web Technologies Research Group, both of which collaborate with other research groups and with industry, in the UK and abroad, and undertake interdisciplinary research in the life, natural and social sciences, and the humanities.
  • We provide a stimulating teaching and research environment, with academic specialists in all fields, including information and knowledge management, web and pervasive technologies, computational intelligence, and information systems development, among others.
  • You will have 24-hour access to laboratories of networked PCs with a range of language compilers, database and other application software. We are connected, via the SuperJANET network, to the computers of other academic institutions in London, elsewhere in the UK and abroad.
  • The Birkbeck Knowledge Lab draws on multi- and interdisciplinary perspectives and methodologies from across the sciences, social sciences and the arts, to investigate how digital technologies and digital information are transforming our culture and how we learn and work.
  • Birkbeck was ranked in the top 25 universities in the UK for its Computer Science and Informatics research in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.
Careers and employability

Graduates can pursue career paths in software engineering, information systems management, consultancy, or research. Possible professions include:

  • database administrator
  • IT consultant
  • systems developer
  • systems analyst
  • information systems manager
  • IT sales professional
  • technical author.

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.

Information for international students

If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests.

If you don't meet the minimum IELTS requirement, we offer pre-sessional English courses and foundation programmes to help you improve your English language skills and get your place at Birkbeck.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MSc
    part time
    24 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    full time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Student Advice Service
Email
studentadvice@bbk.ac.uk
Phone
+44 (0)20 3907 0700