MSc Data Science (Scientific)

You'll concentrate on the skills which data scientists apply on a daily basis to perform data analyses and to rigorously evaluate the results of those analyses, rather than focusing on theoretical bases or algorithmic structure. This approach will equip you with the skills to succeed even if you don't come from such a formal mathematical or computational background. 

Data science skills are now in huge demand across every field of science from particle physics to ecology, from drug design to climate change.

This course will equip you with the skills needed to solve data science questions in different fields of science, and to be agile enough to adapt to new fields and challenges as economic and scientific demands change.

Course content

• Over the year, you will study four core modules and two option modules. You will be able to choose option modules that explore a range of different scientific fields, allowing you to tailor the degree to your own academic interests.
• You will learn a range of practical skills that are used by data scientists every day, and you will be able to use these skills across a range of different disciplines in future careers. We will also teach you how to read literature from different fields of science, so that you can be prepared to apply that knowledge to new problems.

Modules
Core modules

• Programming for Data Science
• Machine Learning for Data Science
• Skills for Data Scientists
• Data Science Project Development
• Data Science Research Project

Option modules

You will study two option modules. Examples can be found below. Some option module combinations may not be possible. The options available to you will be confirmed after you begin your course.

• Statistical Techniques for Data Analysis and Machine Learning
• Machine Learning in Chemistry: from atoms to atmospheres
• Bioinformatics Group Project
• Spatial Analysis and Modelling for Flood Risk Management
• Data Science in Healthcare

Dissertation
Data Science Research Project

Previous research projects within the department include:

• Reassessing data to find missing chemical modifications
• Hierarchical cluster analysis of biogenic secondary organic aerosol in Beijing
• Bioinformatics of Covid-19
• Identifying stress response regulators in wheat using gene regulatory network modelling
• Predicting persistent depressive symptoms in older adults

The York approach

• Every course at York is built on a distinctive set of learning outcomes. These will give you a clear understanding of what you will be able to accomplish at the end of the course and help you explain what you can offer employers. Our academics identify the knowledge, skills, and experiences you'll need upon graduation and then design the course to get you there.

Teaching and assessment

• You’ll work with world‐leading academics who’ll challenge you to think independently and excel in all that you do. Our approach to teaching will provide you with the knowledge, opportunities, and support you need to grow and succeed in a global workplace.

Teaching format

• The course is taught as a combination of lectures and practical workshops, with most modules featuring more workshops than lectures. The teaching is heavily focused on practical data science skills that you will apply in the real world (including the python programming language), rather than on theory and underlying technologies.

Facilities

• We have well-equipped computer classrooms for you to access, each with a wide-range of installed software on Windows and Linux-based operating systems.

Teaching location

• Most of your teaching will take place in the Department of Chemistry, which is located adjacent to the Science Park, with occasional sessions elsewhere on Campus West. The majority of departments, colleges and facilities are based nearby.

About our campus

• Our beautiful green campus offers a student-friendly setting in which to live and study, within easy reach of the action in the city centre. It's easy to get around campus - everything is within walking or pedalling distance, or you can always use the fast and frequent bus service.

Assessment and feedback

• Each module consists of 20 credits, with the final research task totalling 60 credits. You will be assessed through computer programmes, written reports, oral presentations and a poster. 

Careers and skills

• In 2020, the Emerging Job report from LinkedIn listed data scientist at #3, highlighting the demand for this field.
• This course will equip you with the scientific and professional skills that data scientists apply on a daily basis. You will learn to work across disciplines and to communicate with non-specialists, allowing you to move with the demands of the sector. Our course will prepare you for a range of science and science-adjacent data science jobs. Likely career destinations include science based industries such as the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors, policy areas such as environment and health policy, as well as academic research.
• You'll learn about different types of data, the ethical and practical issues of handling such data, and how to articulate these skills to employers. All of these skills will ensure you are able to work in diverse environments and different job markets.   

Career opportunities

• Data scientist
• Research scientist
• Research software engineer
• Science policy advisor
• Data analyst
• Informatician

Transferable skills

• Team working
• Self-management
• Application of IT and numeracy
• Problem-solving
• Communication and literacy
• Consultancy skills