Entry requirements

Here at the University of Essex Online, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That is why we offer both an academic and work-based experience route onto our MSc Data Science.

As part of the application process, you will be asked to take a short aptitude test which is designed to test your ability to handle the intellectual and practical demands of the course. Please note that we will consider your performance in the aptitude test as part of your overall application, so if you don’t pass the test, you may still be accepted onto the course. Additionally, you will need to pass your first assignment set within your two-week induction period of the course in order to continue your studies.
Academic entry route
You must have the following qualifications as a minimum:
  • an undergraduate degree from an approved institution, equivalent to a UK Honours degree, or a relevant professional qualification
Work experience entry route
You must meet the following criteria:
  • as a minimum you must have at least three years’ relevant work experience in IT or computer science
English language requirement
Our courses are taught in English so to study with us you must have an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 or equivalent. If you don’t hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification, you will be required to pass a free online English test to assess your proficiency. You don’t need to prove your English ability if you are a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of these countries.

Months of entry

April, July, October

Course content

Unlock the power of data with our 100% online conversion degree. Designed with those in mind who do not hold a professional or academic background in computer science, this MSc Data Science provides the technical foundation needed to break into the field. You’ll discover the tools to successfully analyse and interpret data, whilst implementing your knowledge across real-world scenarios.
Enhance your programming language knowledge in SQL, R and Python and develop an exciting variety of programmes and applications. Throughout the course, you will also be given the opportunity to collaborate on projects to replicate working practice in this fast-paced and highly sought-after industry. Firstly, you will be introduced to the basics underpinning the discipline, moving onto interesting concepts such as data, business decisions and statistical methods. Other topics include:
  • How to process and analyse data sets for presentations
  • Big data and data wrangling
  • Machine learning and the application of algorithms
  • Algorithm patterns and where to gain value
The peak of this course will involve the individual production of a computing artefact. If any areas of innovation have sparked an interest for a deeper level of study, this is your prime opportunity to spend focusing on a specialised area.
Following a successful advisory visit, BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, will undertake a full accreditation visit in the 2021/22 academic year, to consider programmes for accreditation towards Chartered IT Professional (partial CITP).

Fees and funding

UK students
£12,167
International students
£12,428

10% anniversary scholarship available when you enrol by 31 July 2024.

20% impact scholarship available for our April 2024 intake.

Learn more about our discounts and scholarships here.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MSc
    part time
    24 months
    • Online learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Enquiries team
Email
enquiries@online.essex.ac.uk
Phone
+441206489358