Program Overview

MSc Advanced Computer Science with Data Science (January start)

The MSc Advanced Computer Science with Data Science (January start) is a postgraduate program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in a range of industries. The program focuses on the challenges posed by the data revolution and provides students with a comprehensive understanding of classical statistical techniques and their application in modern data analysis.

Key Facts

• Start date: January
• Study mode and duration: 12 months full-time

Why this Course?

The MSc Advanced Computer Science with Data Science (January start) gives students the skill set needed in various industries, including finance, films and games, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, consumer products, and public services. Data scientists are in high demand across these sectors, requiring individuals with the right combination of technical, analytical, and communication skills.

What you'll Study

Students will choose leading classes that span the breadth of both computer and information sciences, including:

• Machine learning
• Deep learning
• Data wrangling
• Legal and ethical aspects of data science
• Software engineering
• Use of contemporary tools and packages

Research Project

The research project is a significant piece of work that students will undertake over the summer semester. It can include:

• Analyzing a problem and designing, implementing, and evaluating a solution
• Conducting an in-depth experimental analysis of a technique or technology
• Performing an analysis of a large data set and building and evaluating models of the data

Facilities

The course will involve extensive laboratory-based instruction and student work. The Department of Computer and Information Science utilizes its own specialist laboratories to provide practical student tuition on large-scale advanced applications. The University library also has a sufficient body of resources to support this course.

Learning & Teaching

The teaching and learning methods include lectures, tutorials, laboratory practicals, and combinations of individual and group work. These methods will develop students' expertise in computer science and data science, as well as in communication, team-working, and analytical skills.

Assessment

Methods of assessment and learning include written examinations, formative and summative approaches, written group/individual reports, oral presentations, and moderated peer assessment.

Entry Requirements

• Academic requirements: Minimum second-class (2:2) Honours degree or international equivalent in computer science or another closely related discipline. Significant programming experience, preferably in a programming language, for example, Python, Java, C++.
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.0 (with no component below 5.5)

Fees & Funding

• Scotland: £11,900
• England, Wales & Northern Ireland: £11,900
• Republic of Ireland: If you are an Irish citizen and have been ordinary resident in the Republic of Ireland for the three years prior to the relevant date, and will be coming to Scotland for Educational purposes only, you will meet the criteria of England, Wales & Northern Ireland fee status.
• International: £30,250

Careers

Opportunities for graduates of the MSc Advanced Computer Science with Data Science exist in various industries, including:

• Finance
• Films and games
• Pharmaceuticals
• Healthcare
• Consumer products
• Public services

Salaries for graduates can range from:

• Data scientist: £25,000 to £30,000 (junior), £40,000 to £60,000 (experienced), and upwards of £60,000 (lead and chief data scientists)
• Data analyst: £23,000 to £25,000 (entry-level), £25,000 to £30,000 (graduate schemes), £30,000 to £35,000 (experienced), and £60,000 or more (high-level and consulting jobs)
• Software engineer: £28,000 (typical graduate), £40,000 to £60,000 (experienced), and up to £70,000 or more (senior or management level)