Big Data Science and Technology (MSc)

Develop the skills you need for a career in this fast emerging field of data science. This programme will deepen your understanding of advanced software development, systems for big data analytics, statistical data analysis, data mining, data privacy and security, data visualisation and exploration. 

It is an interdisciplinary programme, designed for students with a first degree in subjects such as:

• Computer Science
• Electrical Engineering
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Economics

Our teaching is strongly linked to research within the Faculty of Engineering and Informatics, which includes aspects of applied computing, theoretical computer science, and communications and networks. Statistical analysis of data across various disciplines is a central theme of our research.

You can tailor your studies to particular areas of interest or career aspirations through our range of optional modules, and in the final dissertation (which is a significant piece of project work).

On graduation you’ll be ready and able to develop solutions to challenges in big data analytics and big data systems.

All of our computer science students are automatically enrolled as student members of the British Computer Society (BCS).

First Year
Core

• Big Data Systems and Analytics
• Big Data Visualisation
• Software Development
• Advanced Machine Learning
• MSc Group Project
• Dissertation

Optional

• Cyber Physical Systems Security
• Risk Assessment and Management

Learning and assessment

• You'll learn through a mixture of formal lectures, practical lab sessions, tutorials and seminars.
• Some modules involve supervised group work, usually with an assigned academic staff member for each group.

Most modules are related to research in the school.

• All modules require students to undertake independent study, supported through distance learning technologies such as our Virtual Learning Environment. Reading lists and suggested resources for independent study provide further direction for students to undertake this work, and regular contact hours and informal feedback throughout the courses provide opportunities for further guidance for learners.
• Assessments for modules mostly take the form of practical coursework, lab tests and written exams, with all forms being well represented across all modules.

Additional costs

• There may be additional costs that you may incur as a student. Though these are not essential to your programme of study you need to be aware of them as a student of the University. A list of the sort of costs you might expect can be found on our fees and finance section.

Financial support

• See our fees and financial support section.

Scholarships

• Every year we award numerous non-repayable scholarships to UK, EU and international students on the basis of academic excellence, personal circumstances or economic hardship. For full details, visit our scholarships section.

Career prospects

• Big data is a major area for future growth and investment. As the global big data industry continues to grow year after year we continue to grow our programme, and continue to produce future leaders in an exciting and rewarding field.

Career support

• The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability and this is an integral part of many programmes. Specialist support is available throughout the course from Career and Employability Services including help to find part-time work while studying, placements, vacation work and graduate vacancies. Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the extensive resources on the Careers website.
• Discussing options with specialist advisers helps to clarify plans through exploring options and refining skills of job-hunting. In most of our programmes there is direct input by Career Development Advisers into the curriculum or through specially arranged workshops.

Study support

• We have a commitment to strong pastoral care for all of our students, which includes a Personal Tutor for all students, regular contact hours for tutor groups and our supportive student service teams who are always ready to help with any questions and provide the advice that you need.
• In addition to standard study support through taught sessions, our Virtual Learning Environment allows students to access resources, participate in group work and submit work from anywhere in the world 24/7.
• University central services are rich with support teams to assist students with every aspect of their journey through our degree programmes. From our Career and Employability Service, through our strong Students' Union, to our professional and efficient Student Finance team, there are always friendly faces ready to support you and provide you with the answers that you need.

Research

• There is much research taking place at the Faculty of Engineering and Informatics related to this Master's programme. This includes aspects of applied computing, theoretical computer science, and communications and networks. Statistical analysis of data across various disciplines is a central theme of our research.
• Teaching informed by research is at the core of this programme. Graduates leave us well prepared to pursue academic research, or industry based research and development positions.