MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Biomechanics
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BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Data Science) (with a Placement Year)
Twickenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Data Science) (with a Placement Year) at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, is an intensive four-year undergraduate degree designed to equip students with the comprehensive skills and practical experience necessary to thrive in the data-driven economy. This hands-on program provides a robust foundation in core computer science principles, complemented by a deep dive into specialised data science topics, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, advanced data analysis, and data visualisation. A pivotal element of this degree is the integrated year-long industrial placement, typically undertaken between the second and final academic years, which offers invaluable real-world experience, fostering crucial commercial awareness and professional skills. The curriculum is built on practical assessments such as data science projects, case studies, and computer-based tests, moving away from traditional exams, which aligns with industry demands and significantly enhances graduate employability. This ensures students are not only academically proficient but also job-ready upon graduation, prepared to lead and innovate in the rapidly evolving data landscape.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Data Science) (with a Placement Year) is meticulously structured to provide a comprehensive and progressive understanding of data science principles and their applications. The first year establishes foundational computer science skills with modules such as Computer Systems and Networks, Mathematics for Computer Science, Programming Principles and Techniques, Database Systems, Object-Oriented Programming, 1 and Web Design and Development. In the second year, students delve into core data science concepts through modules including Data Structures and Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis, Machine Learning, Data Visualisation, and a crucial Team Project where they apply their skills to real-world client briefs. The third year is entirely dedicated to the compulsory industrial placement, offering a critical opportunity to apply learned data science skills and gain professional exposure within an industry setting. The final academic year culminates in an Individual Project, allowing for specialised research or development in data science, complemented by advanced modules such as Software Testing and Quality Assurance, Big Data Analytics, Advanced Topics in Computer Science, and the Internet of Things, ensuring graduates are at the forefront of data science knowledge and practical application.
Research Focus: While the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Data Science) (with a Placement Year) is a hands-on undergraduate program, its curriculum at St. Mary's University is continuously informed by current research and cutting-edge developments within the data science, AI, and broader computer science fields. The academic staff, many of whom possess significant industry experience, actively integrate the latest insights in areas such as advanced machine learning algorithms, big data processing, predictive modelling, and sophisticated data visualisation techniques into their teaching. Students are consistently encouraged to develop strong analytical and research capabilities throughout the program, particularly through various data science projects, case studies, and their culminating final-year individual project. This project often involves addressing real-world data challenges, enabling students to engage in applied research and develop data-driven solutions with tangible impact across diverse industries.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a fundamental and integrated aspect of the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Data Science) (with a Placement Year) program at St. Mary's University, designed to ensure graduates are highly employable and possess relevant, real-world skills. The compulsory year-long industrial placement is a pivotal feature, providing students with unparalleled hands-on experience within data science or related computing sectors. Beyond the placement, the university actively fosters strong connections with the tech industry through various initiatives. Students benefit from engaging lectures delivered by industry guest speakers, participate in hackathons and tech meetups, and have opportunities for field trips to leading tech organisations and industry partners. The curriculum also includes a second-year team project where students develop software or data solutions for real clients, providing direct exposure to industry practices and client demands. The university's London location provides exceptional access to networking opportunities and potential career pathways with diverse industry partners seeking data science talent.
Global Perspective: The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Data Science) (with a Placement Year) program at St. Mary's University integrates a strong global perspective, preparing graduates to navigate the interconnected international landscape of data and technology. The curriculum explores universal data science principles, methodologies, and emerging technologies that transcend geographical boundaries, such as global data trends, international data privacy regulations, and the application of data science to solve global challenges in health, environment, and business. The program's emphasis on practical, industry-aligned skills, reinforced by the compulsory placement year, ensures that the expertise developed is highly relevant and transferable across international markets. Moreover, the placement can expose students to multinational corporations or international projects, fostering an understanding of diverse working environments and cross-cultural collaboration in the global data economy.
Location
Twickenham
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 17100
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 55.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
St. Mary’s University Twickenham offers a variety of scholarships to support international students in financing their education and rewarding academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden and recognize the talents and hard work of students coming from all over the world.
International Student Scholarships: St. Mary’s provides International Student Scholarships for students from a range of countries. These scholarships are typically partial fee reductions, aimed at making education more affordable. Eligible students are selected based on academic merit, financial need, and their potential to contribute to the university community. The scholarships are open to both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards available to international students at St. Mary’s University. This scholarship offers a significant reduction in tuition fees for high-achieving students, with eligibility determined by academic performance and specific course requirements. Students from a variety of regions, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America, are encouraged to apply for this highly competitive scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, St. Mary’s offers country-specific scholarships for students from certain regions. These scholarships provide additional financial assistance and are designed to support students from areas where educational opportunities may be limited. International students from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas are often eligible for these specialized scholarships.
Sports Scholarships: For students excelling in sports, St. Mary’s University provides Sports Scholarships. These awards are available to talented athletes who demonstrate the potential to represent the university in competitive sports. Sports scholars benefit from personalized coaching, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and financial support to help balance academic and athletic commitments.
The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Data Science) (with a Placement Year) at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, offers graduates a unique blend of foundational computer science knowledge and highly specialised skills in data science. This degree equips individuals to navigate the intricate world of data, enabling them to extract meaningful insights, build predictive models, and drive data-informed decisions. The integrated year-long industrial placement provides invaluable real-world experience, significantly enhancing their practical abilities and commercial awareness. Graduates from this program are exceptionally well-prepared for a wide range of high-demand roles in the rapidly evolving data-driven economy.
Data Scientist: Graduates are highly capable of collecting, cleaning, analysing, and interpreting large and complex datasets. They apply advanced statistical methods and machine learning algorithms to uncover patterns, build predictive models, and provide actionable insights that guide business strategy across diverse sectors such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. The placement year offers crucial real-world application of these skills.
Machine Learning Engineer: With a strong foundation in AI and machine learning principles, graduates can design, build, train, and deploy sophisticated machine learning models. They are instrumental in developing algorithms that enable systems to learn from data and make predictions or decisions, driving innovation in areas like automation and intelligent systems, often leveraging the practical experience gained during their placement.
Data Analyst: These professionals focus on examining data to discover trends and insights that support decision-making. They are skilled in data manipulation, visualisation, and reporting, translating complex data into understandable narratives for various stakeholders. The hands-on experience from the placement year provides a significant advantage in this role.
Data Engineer: Graduates are equipped to design, build, and maintain robust infrastructure and systems that efficiently collect, store, and process large datasets. Their expertise ensures that data is readily available, reliable, and optimised for data scientists and analysts to perform their work effectively, a skill often honed through real-world projects during their placement.
Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst/Developer: These professionals use data to provide insights into business performance, trends, and opportunities. They are skilled in creating interactive dashboards, reports, and data visualisations that help organisations monitor key performance indicators and make informed strategic decisions. The placement year enhances their understanding of business processes and reporting needs.
Quantitative Analyst (Quant): Particularly relevant in the finance and banking sectors, these roles involve using complex mathematical and statistical models, often incorporating machine learning and programming, to analyse financial data, assess risk, and develop algorithmic trading strategies. The rigorous analytical training and practical exposure make graduates suitable for entry-level quant roles.
AI Specialist/Developer: Leveraging their understanding of artificial intelligence and its applications, graduates can contribute to developing AI-driven solutions beyond traditional machine learning, such as natural language processing systems, computer vision applications, or intelligent automation tools. Their placement often provides exposure to advanced AI projects.
Big Data Architect: Graduates can progress to roles where they design and oversee the frameworks for managing and organising vast amounts of data. They create blueprints for scalable and secure data management systems, ensuring efficiency and integrity for large-scale data initiatives within organisations.
Data Product Manager: Combining their technical data science knowledge with business acumen, these professionals oversee the development and lifecycle of data-driven products. They define product vision, gather requirements, and work collaboratively with data scientists and engineers to bring innovative data-intensive solutions to market.
Research Analyst (Data-focused): For those interested in academic or industrial research, graduates can contribute to projects focused on developing new data analysis techniques, machine learning algorithms, or applying data science to solve complex scientific or societal problems. The individual project in the final year, along with placement experience, provides a strong foundation for research.
