Program Overview

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MSc Data Science

Overview

MSc Data Science is the programme for you if you want to explore the role of data science in a range of sectors. Nearly every sector requires data science expertise – from healthcare, wellbeing and retail to environment, banking, finance and government agencies.

This conversion programme teaches graduates from a non-computing background the necessary skills to understand the theory of data science and apply it to their area of interest. By choosing optional modules and a research project that match your interests, you can curate a masters in data science that meets your career goals.

Your research project, which is supervised by an expert data scientist, brings together your learning and enables you to apply it to a practical or theoretical problem. You will have access to our latest computer facilities which are world-class spacious teaching labs allowing comfortable, collaborative working in a sensory-friendly environment.

Entry Requirements

Applicants are required to have at least a 2:1 degree in a non-related science undergraduate degree, or a 2:1 in any other degree subject and A Level Mathematics at Grade A or equivalent.

Please note, this is a conversion course designed to allow students from a wide range of backgrounds to pursue a career in data science. If you have studied Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Engineering or other related degree, we very strongly advise that you apply for one of our advanced programmes, please see MSc Advanced Computer Science or MSc Advanced Computer Science with Business.

We may consider applications with non-standard qualifications where there is evidence of exceptional performance in modules relevant to the programme of study, significant relevant work experience, or relevant professional qualifications.

Course Content

The MSc Data Science programme is designed for individuals from diverse academic backgrounds to learn the underpinning theory of data science together with methods for implementation and application. The programme has compulsory modules to ensure you learn a comprehensive set of data science skills alongside a choice of optional modules, enabling you to flex the programme to meet your interests and aspirations.

You have the option to study this programme full-time over one year or part-time over two years.

Full-time Programme Structure

• Term 1: You will complete the compulsory modules COMM108 Data Systems, COMM109 Programme with Python, ECMM443 Introduction to Data Science, and ECMM445 Learning from Data.
• Term 2: In addition to the compulsory modules ECMM422 Machine Learning and SOCM033 Data Governance and Ethics, you will complete 30 credits of optional modules from the list below. The taught element of your course will be completed by May and you will have until September to complete your research project (COMM514).

Part-time Programme Structure

• Year 1: You will complete at least 4 modules (60 credits) which must include ECMM443 Introduction to Data Science and COMM109 Programme with Python.
• Year 2: You must complete at least 4 modules (60 credits) and the compulsory COMM514 Research Project (60 credits).

All students (full or part-time) may choose up to 30 credits of NQF Level 7 modules which are not listed in the optional modules list below, either from within or outside the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy, subject to approval, timetabling and satisfaction of prerequisites.

Not all modules will be available every year, and new modules may be made available from time to time.

Modules

Compulsory Modules

Code	Module	Credits
COMM514	Research Project	60
ECMM443	Introduction to Data Science	15
ECMM445	Learning from Data	15
COMM108	Data Systems	15
COMM109	Programme with Python	15
ECMM422	Machine Learning	15
SOCM033	Data Governance and Ethics	15

Optional Modules

Code	Module	Credits
Select 30 credits
ECMM447	Social Networks and Text Analysis	15
ECMM450	Stochastic Processes	15
MTHM508	Bayesian Philosophy and Methods in Data Science	15
BEMM190	Digital Transformation	15
COMM111	Foundations of Human-Centred AI	15
COMM112	Design Methods for Human-Centred AI	15
COMM042	Introduction to Computer Vision	15
BEMM464	Strategic and HR Analytics	15
BEMM783	Supply Chain Analytics	15

Fees

2025/26 Entry

UK Fees per Year:

£14,300 full-time; £7,150 part-time

International Fees per Year:

£30,300 full-time; £15,150 part-time

Scholarships

The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships. For more information on scholarships and other financial support, please visit our scholarships and bursaries page.

University of Exeter Alumni Scholarship

We are pleased to offer University of Exeter alumni beginning a standalone taught Masters degree (eg MA, MSc, MRes, MFA, LLM, PGCert, PGDip) or research degree (eg MPhil, PhD) with us a scholarship towards the cost of their tuition fees. These scholarships are worth 20% of the first year tuition fee for students enrolling on a postgraduate taught or research programme of study in 2025/26. Full details can be found here.

Academic Partners

Our long-established partnership with the Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s national institute for data science and artificial intelligence, means that we have strong connections to the UK AI research community. Currently we host 11 Turing Fellows and one Turing AI Fellow at the University. Turing Fellows are established scholars with proven research excellence in data science, AI, or a related field. Lectures, conferences and seminars organised by Turing and the Turing University Network are usually open to our students to attend either in person or online.

Teaching and Research

All our courses are taught by active researchers who work closely with industrial partners. Our module leads are renowned in their field with prestigious fellowships and awards, many also consulting with major companies. Teaching is mainly delivered by lectures, workshops and online materials. You will have access to comprehensive online learning materials through the University’s virtual learning environment, including recorded lectures. Each module references core and supplementary texts, or material recommended by module deliverers, which provide in depth coverage of the subject and go beyond the lectures.

Careers

Data Science is changing the way people do business. Mountains of previously uncollectable data, generated by huge growth in online activity and appliance connectivity, is becoming available to businesses in every sector. The opportunities for businesses and individuals who can manage, manipulate and extract insights from these enormous data sets are limitless. A direct result of this is the dramatic increase in demand for individuals with the skills to turn this information into insight is outstripping supply.

Graduate Destinations

Whether you’re looking to take your career in a new direction or for an MSc that will sit alongside your undergraduate degree to land you an exhilarating graduate job, you’re unlikely to find a better choice than Data Science. Examples of graduate roles include data scientist, machine learning scientist, Python programmer and software engineer.

Dedicated Careers Support

You will receive support from our dedicated Career Zone team, who provide excellent career guidance at all stages of career planning. The Career Zone provides one-on-one support and is home to a wealth of business and industry contacts. Additionally, they host useful training events, workshops and lectures which are designed to further support you in developing your enterprise acumen. Please visit the Career Zone for additional information on their services.