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Students must apply via one of the following online application forms:-
If you are applying for this course for January 2025, click Apply Now.
Course starts: 20 January 2025Apply now
If you are applying for the September 2025 intake, click apply now.
Course starts: 15 September 2025Apply now
Current undergraduate students of the University of Sunderland, please use this apply linkApply now
Join this fast-growing area of computer science. Study the fundamentals of data science, data mining and machine learning. Undertake a placement and put your new skills into practice.
The UK Government has identified a huge shortage of specialists in data science and artificial intelligence. The University of Sunderland is looking for a new generation of idealists, visionaries and problem solvers to help business, industry and government make the right decisions in our increasingly complex and uncertain world.
This course is designed for students who have computing, STEM experience or prior experience in working with data (e.g. statistics), to gain the knowledge and skills required to work in data science or data analytics in the real world. We are looking for people who ask questions, who don’t jump to conclusions, and who respond with caution. We want people who are able to find and communicate the best possible solutions.
On this course, you'll study subjects including the fundamentals of data science, data mining, machine learning, data analytics and visualisation, and security of big data. In addition, you'll have the opportunity to undertake a placement (subject to availability) and put your skills into practice, enhancing your employability. You can find your own placements or develop professional practice projects, working in our Digital Incubator or research-based projects with one of our academic research teams.
This highly practical course means you’ll have the opportunity to experience the latest technologies and tools used in industry, giving you the confidence to be productive and effective when you go out into the workplace.
We use a wide variety of teaching and learning methods which include lectures, group work, research, discussion groups, seminars, tutorials and practical laboratory sessions. Compared to an undergraduate course, you will find that this Masters requires a higher level of independent working.
Assessment is 100% coursework-based with no exams. Methods include written reports and research papers, practical assignments and the Masters project.
Placements
The MSc in Applied Data Science provides an opportunity to undertake a placement related to data science and helping students develop their skills, turning theory into practice.
Our typical offer is:
| Qualification | Minimum grade |
|---|---|
| a Canadian bachelor's degree | GPA 2.40 |
| a USA bachelor's degree | GPA 2.5 |
If you already hold a postgraduate qualification, please see our Applying for additional postgraduate degrees Help and Advice article.
If you don't meet our standard entry requirements, you can take one of the foundation pathways at our partners ONCAMPUS Sunderland. Find out more information and whether your course is eligible on our ONCAMPUS page.
If your qualification is not listed above, please contact the Student Administration team at studentadmin@sunderland.ac.uk for further advice.
We usually require applicants to hold an honours degree (2:2 or above) or equivalent in a computing or related non-computing discipline (mathematics, statistics, engineering) or an honours degree (2:1 or above) in relevant non-computing or related degree (degree which has numeracy included and/or application of big data as a significant theme).
Students who have five years relevant business or industry experience will also be considered.
If English is not your first language, please see our English language requirements.
Fees are:
See the scholarships and bursaries that may be available to you.
This information was correct at the time of publication.
Businesses and industries across the UK have identified a skills gap in data science and currently the role of a Data Scientist is one of the highest paid jobs in the computing discipline.
Progress in some of the most attractive fields and industries, including government agencies, high technology companies, consulting and market research firms. Benefit from the University’s close links with businesses and employers in the North East and join an industry-driven programme.
This course provides you with the opportunity to undertake professional practice by either undertaking a placement in an industry organisation (subject to availability) or undertaking professional or relevant, research-based practice work.
The placement will allow you to develop your research, knowledge and technical skills, and will improve your interpersonal, team working and project management skills, boosting your academic performance and future employability prospects.
We cannot guarantee external placements for all students but will support you in securing these and will offer professional or research-based practice projects if an industrial placement is not possible.