Data Science (2 years) Heriot-Watt University

Overview

Heriot-Watt University stands out as the 6th best institution in Scotland for Computer Science, as per The Complete University Guide 2022. The university's commitment to industry-driven employability ensures that the curriculum is aligned with the needs of employers, providing students with a competitive advantage in the job market. The programme is designed to foster mastery of essential tools such as Python, R, and SQL, which are crucial for data scientists today. Furthermore, the revamped course structure enhances synergy between various subject areas, including statistics, machine learning, and big data engineering, allowing students to effectively tackle complex data challenges.

The tuition fees for the MSc Data Science programme at Heriot-Watt University are as follows:

• Domestic Students: £12,192 per year
• International Students: £25,480 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

The MSc Data Science programme is structured over two years, with a blend of mandatory and optional modules:

• Year 1:
• Software Engineering Foundations
• Databases and Information Systems
• Knowledge Management
• Mathematical Tools for Data Science
• Advanced Software Engineering
• Project Management
• Sociotechnical and Soft Systems
• e-Commerce Technology
• Year 2:
• Data Mining and Machine Learning
• Statistical Modelling and Analysis
• Big Data Management
• Data Visualisation and Analytics
• Masters Project and Dissertation

Optional modules include areas such as Biologically Inspired Computation, Computer Network Security, and Introduction to Natural Language Processing, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests.

The demand for skilled data scientists continues to rise across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and technology. The MSc Data Science programme equips graduates with the necessary skills to meet this demand, preparing them for diverse roles in a rapidly evolving job market.

The programme includes a substantial project component, where students may collaborate with industry partners, providing valuable real-world experience and enhancing their employability upon graduation.

Graduates of the MSc Data Science programme can pursue various career paths, including:

• Data Scientist: Analysing and interpreting complex datasets to inform business decisions.
• Data Engineer: Designing and maintaining data infrastructure and pipelines.
• Machine Learning Engineer: Creating and refining machine learning models.
• Business Analyst: Leveraging data to drive improvements and solve business challenges.
• Data Journalist: Uncovering stories through data analysis and visualisation.
• Research Scientist: Conducting research using data science methodologies.
• Quantitative Analyst: Developing mathematical models to optimise business practices.

The comprehensive training provided by Heriot-Watt University ensures that graduates are well-prepared to excel in these roles, contributing to their respective fields with confidence and expertise.

Accreditation

Our MSc Data Science (2 year) programme is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS).