Data Science

Course overview

Study in-person at Aston University London in one of the world’s most exciting cities. Developed to deliver interdisciplinary learning and flexibility, this course enables you to tailor your studies to suit your own requirements and interests.

There has never been a time when so much data has been available in conjunction with the tools to make the most of it, these tools constitute the field of data science. There are almost limitless opportunities to use these tools in the various domains and applications for making a real impact on industry, society, and policymaking.

The MSc Data Science programme has been meticulously designed to offer a comprehensive understanding of the latest advancements in this field. Covering everything from machine learning and artificial intelligence to data visualisation and predictive modelling, the programme equips you with a versatile skill set that aligns with the dynamic needs of the industry in collaborative environment.

On this programme you will learn, collaborate and flourish through project-based learning with students in other digital technology subject areas. This approach of learning mimics the real-life working world, where your career prospects will be enriched by working alongside people with different skill sets, viewpoints and approaches. You will be able to tailor your learning throughout the four years and select your specialisms based on your own interests.

The location of your learning offers unparalleled opportunities for networking and industry connections, thanks to its prime position in the heart of the capital.

"I chose Aston University because of its renowned curriculum and strong emphasis on practical, real-world applications of data analysis, along with its industry connections - this really stood out for me. Additionally, the vibrant range of societies and clubs available provided me with an excellent opportunity for personal and professional growth"

Anagha Satish

MSc Data Science

Current Aston University student (Birmingham)

Why Data Science at Aston University London?

Innovative and flexible content

Flexible choice of innovative content that can be tailored to suit your requirements and career path

One of the world's great cities

Vibrant, multicultural, welcoming. Spend your student years in one the world’s most cosmopolitan and fashionable cities, where the word ‘boredom’ doesn’t exist

Top 10% in the world

Aston University placed in the top 10% of all 5,663 institutions evaluated

Course description

MSc Data Science

You'll engage with a dynamic curriculum that integrates the latest advancements in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence practices with practical and applied real-world scenarios. By being based in London you will be part of a vibrant cosmopolitan city and community, renowned for its diverse skills, cultures, beliefs, and wealth of knowledge.

What we will provide

First-class teaching, in the UK's capital city, delivered by academics and researchers, who are internationally recognised for their work in machine learning and data science. You will connect with a network of industry leaders, practitioners, and alumni in the field of data science and collaborate with peers from around the world, gaining insights into different cultures and approaches that enrich your learning experience and broaden your professional horizons.

We are also an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry.

Aston University London is a gateway to a multitude of industry connections and networking opportunities, set against the backdrop of a city known for its international diversity and cultural richness.

What you will provide

We are looking for students with Mathematical aptitude, that have a willingness to learn how to apply their mathematical knowledge to big data technologies and issues. Excellent communication skills are also key in Data Science, so you can effectively convey insights to non-technical stakeholders through clear and compelling narratives.

What skills we teach

You will be trained in the fundamental underpinning of mathematics and modern technologies. Mastering skills in programming such as python, mathematical foundations machine learning and artificial intelligence. Beyond theoretical knowledge, this programme places a strong emphasis on hands-on, practical experience to enhance your professional soft skills. Engage in real-world projects, case studies, and internships that mirror the challenges faced by data scientists in the field.

Career prospects

The demand for skilled data scientists continues to surge across industries, from finance and healthcare to technology and e-commerce. This programme positions you at the forefront of this data-driven revolution, making you a sought-after professional in fields where data analytics and insights are paramount for success.

By studying in London you will have prime location to open up numerous employment and career opportunities, thanks to the city's extensive industry connections and vibrant professional network.

How you will learn

At Aston University London, every programme on your chosen pathway will begin with a common landing module to introduce key fundamental concepts required by the rest of the pathway and to introduce you to the learning and teaching style of our innovative London courses. You will be taught by a combination of academic and industry experts, and supported by our success coaches who will be with you every step of your journey to ensure you have the best possible chance of success in your degree. Our block teaching model means you will be able to plan your time around two days on campus each week, with the opportunity to spend more flexible time working on your individual and group projects. You will study at most two modules at a time, allowing you to focus in-depth on your chosen specialism and continually work on projects.

What you will learn

The course is structured so you will learn the fundamentals of digital technologies (such as maths in python), then throughout this degree you will go on to study Bayesian stats & data analysis, machine learning and data mining and visualisation.

Finally, you will have multiple pathways you can tailor to your own individual, learning interests. In your first optional module you can chose between information security, database systems or business analytics in practise. For your second option module you have the option of choosing between strategic management and accounting for non-financial managers. This approach ensures that you're not just learning theory but can apply it to industry, preparing you to become a trailblazer in the dynamic world of data.

You will also benefit greatly from the location of your studies, with around one-third of all international students in the UK residing in London, Aston University London provides a dynamic, multicultural learning environment that enhances both personal and professional growth.

Course objectives

Provide a programme of study that meets the needs of local, national and international candidates, enabling them to learn by the exchange of experience as well as formal academic study.
Provide students with opportunities to enhance their employability by developing lifelong learning and personal development skills, leading to graduates who are equipped for and aspire to senior positions.
Cause students to reflect upon and develop their own positions in relation to corporate responsibility, sustainability and ethics.
Develop understanding of the global business environment (including shifting competitive advantages) that influence business decisions and operations.
Enable students to develop a systematic understanding of modern data science technologies and the associated professional skills needed to support sound analysis, design and delivery of AI technology solutions in practice.
Provide practical experience of a substantial data science development project from the initial analysis of a problem, through design and planning, implementation, testing, evaluation, and documentation.
Enable students to select and implement appropriate digital technologies for practical and business-oriented scenarios.
Develop inquiry, applied research and problem-solving skills to enable lifelong learning and professional development.

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Module Title	Credits
Fundamentals of Digital Technologies	15
Bayesian Theory and Data Analysis	15
Applied Machine Learning	15
AI: Vision and Reality	15
Interdisciplinary Collaborative Project	30
Machine Learning for Data Science and AI	15
Strategic Management	15
Total	120

*Availability of any optional modules will be subject to staff availability and a minimum number of students who express an interest in studying the optional modules.

Module Title	Credits
Industry Research with an Entrepreneurial Mindset	15
Independent Industry Project	45
Total	60

*Availability of any optional modules will be subject to staff availability and a minimum number of students who express an interest in studying the optional modules.

Programme outcomes

On successful completion of both the taught and dissertation stage, you will be able to:

Promote social responsibility, sustainability, accountability and ethical practice in business practice.
Critically evaluate a range of complex situations, which may include finance, accounting, organisational behaviour, strategy, IT security, analytics, artificial intelligence, taking account of the inter-relationships of these topics and their interactions with other areas of business, industry and the external environment.
Demonstrate a range of transferable skills that are necessary for a successful career in business and enhance their employability. These may include: IT and computing skills, presentation and report writing skills, communication and teamworking (collaboration) skills, self-confidence, reflective practice, problem solving, leadership, decision making skills and ability to assimilate into multicultural and cross-cultural work teams.
Demonstrate the ability to undertake independent research with an applied business focus.
Apply the fundamental mathematical concepts underpinning modern digital technologies to tackle real-world challenges through the implementation of bespoke computer code and off-the-shelf software packages.
Create and implement data science algorithms using advanced computational skills and be able to appraise the likelihood of successful implementation of these algorithms.
Undertake the critical analysis and evaluation of the methodology and techniques related to data analytics and to employ this knowledge to solving relevant data analytics problems.
Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing software development tasks at a professional level.
Independently communicate complex and technical data analyses to specialist and non-specialist audiences using a range of communication techniques.

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

Entry requirements

We expect applications from graduates of Mathematics, Statistics or Data Science and we encourage applications from candidates with degrees in Computer Science, Engineering, Physics and related disciplines where the candidate has experience of mathematics and programming as part of their degree, with a qualification equivalent to a UK BSc with Honours at 2:2 or higher.

Applicants should have had prior learning in probability theory, statistics, linear algebra, multivariable calculus, and optimisation.

The mathematics and programming grades should all be equivalent to UK 60% or higher in the case where the applicant’s background is not in mathematics, statistics, or data science. All candidates should supply a degree transcript with their application evidencing their knowledge as above, alongside a professional reference. You may also be interviewed before the offer decision.

International students
Extensive work experience

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our postgraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year.

Qualifications in your country

For details of equivalent qualifications in your country, use our area pages below:

English language requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification. Our requirements are:

IELTS 6.0 overall, no band below 5.5 or equivalent

How to apply

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

We recognise the value of extensive professional experience. If you do not have the academic qualifications but have extensive and relevant professional experience and a proven ability to succeed, we would welcome your application.

The information contained on this website details the typical entry requirements for this course for the most commonly offered qualifications.

Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire with the relevant admissions teams prior to application whether or not their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor.

If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch with our team:

Email: contact@london.aston.ac.uk

Call: +44 (0)20 4536 4601

Read our guide to applying

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2024/25)

Annual tuition fees:

£11,150

International students
(2024/25)

Annual tuition fees:

£21,500

More information on fees

The United Kingdom government has confirmed that European Union (EU), other European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals commencing academic courses in England from August 2021 will no longer be charged the same tuition rates as UK students.

Tuition fees for students are reviewed annually and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) to take account of the University’s increased costs of delivering the Programme. Any such increase shall always be in accordance with the law. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies.

Fees and funding

Scholarships

At Aston University London we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

To find out if you are eligible for scholarships and discounts, please contact us now.

Assessment

You will be assessed through a mixture of methods to allow a comprehensive, well-rounded review on how your learning is progressing. Your assessments will include coursework, presentations, individual and group projects, and practical assignments. Our programmes at Aston University London have no exam assessments.

Career prospects

The global data science platform market size is anticipated to reach over $178 billion by 2025. Data science has applications in all areas of industry, science, government and services, from retailing to streaming.

Our graduates will be equipped with the in-depth knowledge and skills they need to develop careers across a variety of fields. Their data science expertise makes them employable in industry, in commercial and finance sectors as well as in applied and scientific research.
Previous graduates have secured positions in a broad range of companies, from start-ups to well-established corporations.

Beyond the classroom, our Careers and Placement team are committed to your career success. Benefit from career development services, workshops, and placement opportunities that empower you to navigate the competitive job market and secure positions in top-tier companies. Being in London will open you to more opportunities for employment and future careers due to its extensive industry connections and vibrant professional network.

Our graduates achieve amazing things all over the world – whether it’s setting up their own businesses, landing jobs with high profile organisations, or making real differences within their communities.

Hear from our graduates

Find your course

Data Science

Course overview

Why Data Science at Aston University London?

Course description

MSc Data Science

How you will learn

What you will learn

Course objectives

Modules