Data Analytics and Social Statistics

Entry requirements

An Upper Second (2:1) class honours degree, or the overseas equivalent in a social science discipline.

We may also consider exceptional applicants with a Lower Second (2:2) class honours degree if you have research experience or equivalent professional experience.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Learn to master social data

The field of data analytics is developing rapidly. With the rise of ever larger and more specialised datasets, it’s essential to understand how to collect, handle, evaluate and interpret data to unleash its true potential.

Through studying this fully online, part-time course, you will learn to process and analyse complex social data effectively, improving your skills and professional outcomes in the process. Leveraging real-world data and R software, this practical course will ensure you learn applicable techniques to take into the workplace.

Who this course is for

If you are interested in upskilling and discovering the power of data for predicting trends and improving outcomes, this course is ideal. Data Analytics and Social Statistics is designed for any professional working in an industry which uses big data and social data. It is multidisciplinary, using methods that are applicable and relevant in diverse fields, from education, health, and business analytics, to public, private and non-profit sectors such as charities and NGOs.

Whether you have a background in data analytics or are looking for a big data course to gain this knowledge, this course offers a thorough grounding in this exciting field. Incorporating data collection, analysis, and presentation, with acknowledgement of big data and machine learning, this course will ensure you are at the forefront of developments in social data analysis.

This course is suitable for both working professionals who already work in this field and those who wish to change careers. Extensive experience in big data or heavy mathematics skills are not required. If you do not have professional experience in data analytics but have a strong background in social sciences, you can use this course as a conversion to transition into a new vocation in this dynamic field.

What you will learn

Through Data Analytics and Social Statistics, you will learn the practical, applied knowledge to empower you to unleash the true value of data. Throughout this course, you will learn to carry out advanced statistical modelling and create dynamic data visualisations to show new insights. You will create and manage datasets of various sizes, boosting your skills and realising the true potential of these valuable data.

You will also understand the key concepts of uncertainty and randomness in scientific writing. This course will teach you to exhibit a critical awareness of operationalisation and measurement issues in the social sciences. You will gain strong academic writing ability in the social sciences, using independent thinking to express research using data analytics.

Where and when you will study

This course is 100% online, allowing you to study with The University of Manchester from anywhere in the world. You can learn flexibly at a time and pace that suits you. You will gain access to the University’s quality teaching, benefiting from the expertise and reputation of our School of Social Sciences, ranked 5th in the UK (The Times Higher Education Guide 2022).

All course material is available through the virtual learning environment (VLE) and includes video, assessments, workbooks and more. You will also benefit from interactive teaching and the chance to collaborate with your course peers from your global community.

How it will benefit your career

Professionals who can process and interpret rich data are in high demand across many different industries such as public policy, market research, education, non-profit organisations and more. Many of the significant policy challenges of our time are global, from food insecurity, war, disease and public health, and climate change. Big data plays an increasingly important role in helping social scientists understand and address these issues. Analysis of big data has the potential to reveal patterns that are not so easily understood or readily observable, leading to more robust strategies and responses.

Through studying Data Analytics and Social Statistics, you will develop the skills needed to advance in this field and drive your career forward. Learning to leverage data, you will be able to spot and predict trends and understand social behaviour more accurately. If you are looking to change careers, this course will give you a thorough grounding in big data analysis to empower you to make that move.

Fees and funding

Early application discounts are available. Please view the course page on The University of Manchester website for more details.