Program Overview

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Introduction to the MSc in Health Data Science

The MSc in Health Data Science is a postgraduate program designed to train a new generation of world-leading health data scientists. This program will equip students with the essential statistical and computing skills needed to become data science specialists in the healthcare, biopharmaceutical, and medical technology sectors.

Program Details

• Title of Award: Master of Science
• Course Code: MSC-HDS
• Average Intake: 23
• Delivery: On Campus
• NFQ: Level 9
• Award Type: Major
• Next Intake: September 2026
• Duration: 1 year, full-time
• ECTS Weighting: 90

Why Choose This Course?

• Practical Training: All core modules are applied in nature, driven by important issues and case studies in healthcare and health research.
• Unique Course: The only course in Ireland combining in-depth statistical and computational training oriented around the needs of health research and innovation.
• Scholarships: A number of scholarships are available for both EU and non-EU students.
• Employability: Emerge from this course ready for a data science career in healthcare companies, the public health system, or academia.

Course Information

What Will I Study?

This program is designed to train people from a wide range of backgrounds, offering a wide range of pathways via elective modules complementary to the health data science core courses. These involve statistics, computer science, genomics, mathematics, and health economics.

Core Modules:

• Statistics for Health Data Science
• Clinical Research Design
• Statistical Computing for Biomedical Data 1 and 2 (Semesters 1 and 2)
• Statistical Modelling for Health Data Science
• Predictive Modelling and Statistical Learning

Optional Modules:

• Introduction to Programming
• Machine Learning
• Data Visualisation
• Modern Statistical Methods
• Introduction to Bioinformatics
• Introduction to Bayesian Modelling
• Economic Evaluation in Health Care
• Applied Statistics

Unique Features

• Master Core Concepts: Develop a solid foundation in statistics and programming, applying them to real-world contexts in healthcare and health research.
• Enhance Analytical Skills: Build the ability to process, visualize, and interrogate data using advanced tools and methodologies.
• Strengthen Problem-Solving Abilities: Learn to approach statistical and programming challenges critically, using both theoretical and practical perspectives.
• Learning How to Think Statistically: Learn to assess evidence and claims in health research critically, understanding uncertainty in estimation and potential for bias.
• Improve Communication Skills: Learn to effectively present and articulate findings to a range of audiences.

Careers

Data science skills are in unprecedented demand from many industries, particularly in healthcare. Graduates of the MSc in Health Data Science will develop the key statistical and computing skills needed to design studies, analyze complex datasets, and interpret and translate research findings to evaluate healthcare interventions, services, programs, and policies.

Who Teaches This Course?

The course is taught by a team of experienced faculty, including:

• Prof. John Newell
• Prof. Andrew Simpkin
• Dr. Neil O'Leary
• Dr. Davood Roshan Sangachin
• Prof. Carl Scarrott
• Dr. Nicola Fitz-Simon
• Dr. John Ferguson
• Dr. Paul Wilson

Learning and Assessment

How Will I Learn?

The MSc in Health Data Science combines innovative teaching methods with practical, hands-on learning to ensure a comprehensive educational experience. You will learn through a mix of interactive lectures, seminars, and workshops led by expert faculty.

How Will I Be Assessed?

Throughout the program, your progress is assessed through various coursework, in-class assessments, and written exams, including reports, presentations, and computing assignments.

Entry Requirements and Fees

Minimum Entry Requirements

Candidates must hold at least a Second-Class Honours Level 8 primary degree in a related subject area. Candidates with degrees from a wide range of areas, including healthcare, computing, statistical, mathematical, engineering, and business, are welcome.

English Language Entry Requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, an English language proficiency of IELTS score of 6.5 is required (with no less than 6.5 in Writing and no less than 6.0 in any other band) or equivalent.

Fees for Academic Year 2026/27

• EU Tuition: 9,150
• Student Contribution:
• Non-EU Tuition: 27,500
• Levy: 140
• Total Fee (EU): 9,290
• Total Fee (Non-EU): 27,640

Scholarships

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships

This scholarship is valued at 1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if you have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at the University of Galway and have attained a first-class honors (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.

Global Scholarships

The University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU.