Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (MSc)

Discover how tech companies gather and use data and explore both the databases that power our daily lives and the data languages underpinning them on this msc. You’ll receive a thorough grounding in mathematics and statistics, data mining, artificial intelligence and the fundamentals of programming as you develop a toolkit of skills in data science and emerging technologies. 

Introduction

• With organisations increasingly reliant on data science and artificial intelligence (AI), understanding how to analyse, validate and interpret data can significantly enhance your employability.
• If you’re a graduate in a subject that’s not related to computer science, this MSc will complement your first degree and prepare you to meet the high demand for professionals in data science and AI technologies.
• With the roots of data science embedded in mathematics, we’ll start by introducing you to linear algebra, differential calculus, probability theory and statistics. This will prepare you for working with data mining algorithms and experimenting using real-world data.
• You’ll receive an overview of how to design and create software, including an intensive introduction to programming, and explore key topics in AI. We’ll also provide a thorough grounding in how to plan and conduct research in preparation for your dissertation.
• Further opportunities to specialise and enhance your knowledge of big data, web programming, bio-inspired algorithms and modern information systems are available through a range of optional modules.

Who is this course for?

• This MSc is suitable if your first degree was in a subject not related to computer science and you are seeking career opportunities in data science and artificial intelligence.

What you'll learn

• How to design and create software using a modern programming language
• Essential mathematical concepts and techniques in linear algebra, differential calculus, probability theory and statistics
• Key topics in artificial intelligence, including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing (NLP) and computer vision
• How to develop web applications
• The role of artificial intelligence in communication
• Data mining techniques and challenges using real-world datasets
• Application of visualisation methods to data mining
• Research skills in computer science
• Bio-inspired algorithms for optimisation and machine learning
• How big data is collected and used in modern society
• The role of structured query language, SQL, in information systems.

Compulsory modules

• MSc Project (COMP702)
• Programming Fundamentals (COMP517)
• Research Methods in Computer Science (COMP516)
• Maths and Statistics for AI and Data Science (COMP533)
• Applied Artificial Intelligence (COMP534)

Optional modules

• Database and Information Systems (COMP518)
• Big Data and Society: Foundations, Politics, and Policy B (COMM752)
• Data Mining and Visualisation (COMP527)
• Web Programming (COMP519)
• MSc Group Project (COMP530)
• Machine Learning and BioInspired Optimisation (COMP532)
• Computational Intelligence (COMP575)
• Artificial Intelligence and Communication B (COMM718)
• Big Data and Society: Algorithms and Platforms B (COMM754)

Supporting your learning
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

• Careers and employability support, including help with career planning, understanding the job market and strengthening your networking skills
• A dedicated student services team can help you get assistance with your studies, help with health and wellbeing, and access to financial advice
• Confidential counselling and support to help students with personal problems affecting their studies and general wellbeing
• Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.

An exciting place to study Computer Science

• You will be taught by some of the best researchers in the field. In the most recent Research Excellence Framework, the research output of our department was ranked 5th in the UK. This research expertise shows through in our teaching
• We teach in state-of-the-art PC and Mac laboratories running a variety of different operating systems, as well as iOS and Android tablets to encourage creativity and innovation within a stimulating environment in which to work and study
• Our programmes are continually updated to reflect new technologies and trends.

Careers and employability

• Data science and artificial intelligence driven technologies are becoming integral parts of our lives and changing the ways people do business.
• Nearly every organisation uses data science and artificial intelligence to refine and streamline their business practices. The significant opportunities afforded by the application of data science and artificial intelligence across so many different sectors, from IT and healthcare to government agencies, mean that professionals in this area are in high demand, with job opportunities far outstripping supply.
• This MSc addresses this skills gap by preparing you for an exciting career in data science and artificial intelligence. This includes interdisciplinary opportunities tailored to your individual expertise, achieved by coupling knowledge of data science and artificial intelligence with the knowledge that you acquired from your first degree.

Career support from day one to graduation and beyond

• Career planning- Our Careers Studio and career coaches can provide tailored support for your future plans.
• From education to employment- Employability in your curriculum for a successful transition
• Networking events- Make meaningful connections with like-minded professionals

Your future
You’ll be well placed on graduation to secure a variety of roles, including:

• Data analyst
• Data scientist
• Data engineer
• Database manager or administrator
• Machine learning practitioner
• Data architect
• Statistician
• Business analyst
• IT consultant.

Your expertise working with data will also provide ideal preparation for potential PhD study.