Develop a strong foundation in the theory and practice of data science and specialist skills in statistics ready for a career in the global healthcare industry.

Data science, statistics and machine learning are revolutionising healthcare. These methodologies are improving our understanding of disease cause and progression, influencing clinical and governmental decision-making, and rapidly becoming vital components of the modern healthcare system.

This course will equip you with the analytic skills sought after by employers such as pharmaceutical companies, hospitals and healthcare analytics companies.

Who is this course for?

This course is designed for graduates in highly numerate disciplines who are interested in a career in the healthcare industry and would like to build on a foundational knowledge of statistics and develop skills in machine learning and data science. It provides training in programming, machine learning and applied statistics that will give you the skills and knowledge to challenge real-world health data using more advanced analytical techniques.

Course highlights

• Learn strong statistical foundations of relevance to healthcare analytics.
  
• Gain expertise in statistical and probabilistic modelling, including the design, collection, analysis and presentation of health data.
  
• Study the mathematical theory and practical implementation of modern data science and machine learning techniques.
  
• Undertake an optional 12-month placement with a company or public sector body to improve your employability.
  
• Be part of our supportive postgraduate community.
• Live and study in a beautiful world heritage city.

Summer research project

Your summer research project will usually involve analysis of real-world health research data. You’ll be able to choose from a wide variety of areas. Some projects may be carried out in collaboration with the Department for Health, the Department of Life Sciences, or the Department of Psychology.

Typical examples include:

• Machine learning for early detection of psoriatic arthritis
• Ensemble learning for medical imaging
• Bayesian methods for interim decision-making in clinical trials

Career prospects

On graduation, you’ll be well-equipped for a range of specialist data science and statistics careers in healthcare - from large-scale commercial enterprises to the public sector to innovative tech start-ups. Our dedicated careers team offers individual guidance and can help you decide between employment and further study.

Recent roles for graduates from our department include health data scientist, biostatistician and machine learning engineer.

Find out more on maximising your employability while at Bath.

Find out more about studying at Bath

• Department of Mathematical Sciences
• Postgraduate study at Bath

• IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
• The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
• TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

You will need to get your English language qualification within 24 months prior to starting your course.

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.