MSc Operational Research with Data Science

Postgraduate entry requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

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 Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the MSc Operational Research with Data Science program at The University of Edinburgh are well-equipped for a wide range of rewarding career opportunities in industries where analytical skills, computational expertise, and data-driven decision-making are in high demand. With their combined knowledge of operational research techniques and data science methodologies, graduates are prepared to tackle complex organizational challenges and drive strategic decision-making in various sectors, including logistics, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, consulting, and technology.  

1. Operations Research Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as operations research analysts, leveraging their expertise in mathematical modeling, optimization techniques, and data analysis to optimize organizational processes, improve efficiency, and drive cost savings. They work for consulting firms, government agencies, or large corporations, helping organizations make data-driven decisions and implement effective strategies.

2. Data Scientist/Analytics Manager: Graduates with strong skills in data science and analytics can pursue careers as data scientists or analytics managers, working for tech companies, startups, or large organizations. They analyze large datasets, develop predictive models, and derive actionable insights to support business decision-making, drive innovation, and optimize performance across various domains.

3. Supply Chain Manager/Logistics Analyst: Graduates may work in supply chain management or logistics roles, optimizing supply chain networks, managing inventory levels, and coordinating logistics operations. They use operational research techniques and data science methodologies to minimize transportation costs, improve delivery performance, and enhance overall efficiency in supply chain operations.

4. Financial Engineer/Quantitative Analyst: Graduates with expertise in computational finance and quantitative analysis can pursue careers in finance as financial engineers or quantitative analysts. They develop mathematical models, conduct financial analysis, and assess investment opportunities, using data science techniques and optimization methods to inform investment decisions and risk management strategies.

5. Business Analyst/Consultant: Graduates may work as business analysts or consultants, helping organizations solve complex problems, optimize processes, and drive strategic initiatives. They use their analytical skills and data-driven approach to identify opportunities for improvement, develop actionable recommendations, and implement solutions that deliver measurable business value.

6. Healthcare Operations Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers in healthcare organizations as operations analysts, optimizing healthcare delivery processes, managing resources, and improving patient outcomes. They use operational research techniques and data analytics to enhance healthcare efficiency, reduce costs, and improve quality of care in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems.

7. Research Scientist/Academic Researcher: Graduates interested in research and academia can pursue careers as research scientists or academic researchers, conducting cutting-edge research in the fields of operational research, data science, and optimization. They may work in academic institutions, research laboratories, or industry research centers, exploring new methodologies, algorithms, and applications in optimization and data analysis.

8. Project Manager/Operations Manager: Graduates may work in project management or operations management roles, overseeing complex projects and operations in various industries. They use their analytical and problem-solving skills to plan, execute, and monitor projects, ensuring that they are completed on time, within budget, and according to quality standards.