Data Science
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
This MSc Data Science is an intensive course designed for graduates who are new to computer science and want to gain essential data science and AI skills. It offers you hands-on experience with programming languages and combines rigorous academic training with practical application. It is ideal if you are looking to transition into a data science career.
Why choose this course?
- You will learn highly sought-after programming and data analysis skills with Python, R and Java, which are essential for careers in data science.
- You will benefit from exclusive access to cutting-edge research and industry collaborations through Birkbeck’s Computational Intelligence Research Group.
- We have a long history of innovation and experience in this subject area, including establishing one of the UK’s first computing departments.
- This MSc places a strong emphasis on employability and real-world applications through your engagement in practical coursework.
What you will learn
You will learn foundational skills in data science, from programming in popular languages to specialised topics such as natural language processing and deep learning.
The course’s valuable practical focus will also equip you with the knowledge to handle real-world data challenges, providing a solid foundation for a career in data science, software development or AI.
How you will learn
This MSc Data Science offers you a blend of lectures, hands-on practical sessions and group projects, with a strong emphasis on real-world applications. You will also have the chance to develop your skills in independent research and practical problem-solving on your final project focusing on a specific data science challenge.
This course is available to study full- or part-time, so you can balance your studies with work or other commitments. You can also choose to study this course in the daytime or evening. Please note the daytime study option for this course is available only to full-time students.
- Birkbeck has a long-established reputation as a pioneer in computing education. We set up one of the first computing departments in the UK in 1957 and 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 you with 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.
Upon successfully completing this MSc Data Science, you will have developed a diverse skill set that can be applied across various industries, including:
- proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R and Java
- robust data analysis and interpretation skills, allowing for informed decision-making
- experience in project management, particularly in leading data-driven initiatives
- critical thinking and problem-solving skills, particularly in handling large data sets and developing machine learning models.
Studying this course will prepare you for a career path in a range of fields:
- data scientist: analysing complex data to drive business solutions
- machine learning engineer: building and deploying AI models
- data engineer: managing and optimising data pipelines and architectures
- business intelligence analyst: providing insights to support business strategies
- software developer: focusing on developing data-intensive applications.
Graduates have gone on to work at leading organisations in technology, finance and consulting, including Google, Amazon, IBM, PwC and Microsoft.
These fields and companies represent a broad array of opportunities, all of which are in high demand. This reflects the versatile and in-demand nature of data science expertise, making it a promising field for those seeking a career with excellent job prospects.
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 time24 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
- full time12 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
Course contact details
- Name
- Student Advice Service
- studentadvice@bbk.ac.uk
- Phone
- +44 (0)20 3907 0700