This online MSc is designed to provide you with the essential skills needed to begin or further a career in a data-driven world. It combines elements from fields including statistical analysis, machine learning, programming and data visualisation to help inform strategic decision making, optimise processes and solve complex, real-world problems.
About the Programme
Advances in generative AI are reshaping industries, increasing the need for skilled data specialists across diverse fields including sciences, medicine, arts, and humanities.
Our program doesn't just teach data science—it leads innovations in the field. You'll connect with top research centers and innovation hubs throughout the University, diving deep into the multidisciplinary aspects of data science.
You'll acquire foundational knowledge of today's key technological advances, equipping you for practical applications in various real-world scenarios.
The programme provides a pathway into the field of data science, introducing key programming skills and relevant mathematical concepts before demonstrating how these can be applied in data analytics and machine learning.
Entry Requirements
Our program is designed to be accessible and we welcome a diverse range of applicants:
Academic Requirements: A UK 2:1 honours degree (or international equivalent) in a numerate or computational discipline is typical. A UK 2:2 degree in Computer Science, Informatics, Software Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or a similar field may also be considered.
Work Experience: Applicants with relevant professional experience (typically at least three years)involving data or programming, who do not meet the academic requirements, are also encouraged to apply.
Recommended Skills: Familiarity with SQA Higher or GCE A level Mathematics or equivalent is strongly recommended. We also advise some experience in computer programming (like C, Fortran, Java, Python, or R).
Note: Details for the 2026/27 academic year will be available from 1 October 2025.
Study options
You can study this programme over 1 year full-time or 3 years part-time.
If you study full-time, you will undertake your dissertation and project preparation course with the School of Informatics.
If you study part-time, you can choose to undertake your dissertation and the associated project preparation course with the School of Informatics or EPCC (formerly the Edinburgh Parallel Computing Centre). You will also have more option courses to choose from.
You can choose to exit with a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) or Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert), if you complete 120 or 60 credits respectively.
Career Opportunities
Roles within data science are in high demand, particularly with the increasing prevalence of generative AI.
This programme will prepare you for career opportunities related to data. Its multidisciplinary nature means that you can enter a broad range of sectors.
