MSc Data Science

The MSc in Data Science at the University of Glasgow is a specialized program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of data analytics, machine learning, and big data technologies. This program equips graduates with the skills necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving field of data science.

Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to offer both foundational knowledge and specialized expertise. Core courses include Programming and Systems Development, Research and Professional Skills, Introduction to Data Science and Systems, Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence for Data Scientists, and the MSc Project for Computing Science. Students also have the option to choose from specialist courses such as Deep Learning, Information Retrieval, Big Data Systems, and various security courses, allowing them to tailor their studies to specific interests.

Research Focus: The School of Computing Science at the University of Glasgow is renowned for its research excellence, consistently ranking among the top institutions in the UK. The school is a member of the Scottish Informatics and Computer Science Alliance (SICSA), a collaboration of Scottish universities aiming to position Scotland as a leader in informatics and computer science research. Additionally, the school collaborates with The Data Lab, a leading research and innovation center in data science, enhancing its research capabilities and industry connections.

Industry Engagement: The MSc Data Science program maintains strong links with industry, facilitated through collaborations with organizations like The Data Lab. These partnerships offer students opportunities to engage in research projects, seminars, networking events, and coding sessions, bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practice. Graduates have secured positions with prominent companies such as Scottish Water, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Expedia, EY, JP Morgan & Chase, and Sky UK, underscoring the program's industry relevance and effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce.

Global Perspective: The University of Glasgow attracts a diverse student body from around the world, fostering a global learning environment. Its membership in international networks like Universitas 21 further enhances its global perspective, providing students with opportunities for international collaboration and exposure. The MSc Data Science program's comprehensive curriculum and industry connections prepare graduates to work in various sectors worldwide, including education, engineering, health services, financial services, government, manufacturing, retail, and transport.

• Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
• English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90, with at least 19 in Listening, 20 in Reading, 19 in Speaking, and 23 in Writing.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 60 with no individual score below 59.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Glasgow offers a variety of scholarships to both domestic and international students to help support their studies. These scholarships are offered at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels and are awarded based on merit and financial need.

Postgraduate Taught Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students studying a master's program and offers a tuition fee discount of up to £5,000.

Postgraduate Research Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students pursuing a research degree and covers the full cost of tuition fees.

Sir Fitzroy Maclean Postgraduate Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students pursuing a postgraduate degree in either the School of Humanities or the School of Social and Political Sciences.

Chancellors Award: This scholarship is available to both domestic and international students studying any discipline at the University of Glasgow and offers a tuition fee discount of up to £10,000.

Glasgow International Leadership Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students studying any postgraduate program and offers a tuition fee discount of up to £10,000.

Glasgow Refugee, Asylum and Migration Network Scholarship: This scholarship is available to students who have sought refuge in the UK and are studying any undergraduate or postgraduate program.

The MSc Data Science program at the University of Glasgow is designed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a variety of careers in the data science field.  

Data analyst-This role involves analyzing large sets of data and presenting findings to management or clients to help inform business decisions.

Data scientist-In this role, graduates would be responsible for developing algorithms and predictive models to identify trends and patterns in data.

Machine learning engineer-This role involves designing and building machine learning systems and applications.

Business intelligence analyst-This role involves collecting and analyzing data to help businesses make better decisions.

Data engineer-This role involves designing, building, and maintaining the infrastructure required to process large amounts of data.

Research scientist- Graduates may also choose to pursue careers in academia or research, where they can apply their skills to various fields, including healthcare, finance, and social sciences.