Master of Data Science,MDS

Are you keen to find out more about the field of data science and learn the latest techniques used in the sector? Designed by data scientists for the next generation of data scientists, the Master of Data Science (MDS) develops the specialist skills you will need to manage and analyse different types of data efficiently. This advanced understanding of complex data will give you a head start in this dynamic field for your future career.

The Durham MDS provides training in contemporary data science in a supportive environment, learning from practicing researchers who are making a difference across a range of industries. From personalised medicine, to smart cities and sustainable solutions, data science is building a better world. At the same time, developments in technology have made the field of data science more accessible than ever, creating new opportunities to gain insight into the interactions between people and their environment. This has led to a significant increase in demand for skilled data scientists, and this demand is predicted to further grow.

The MDS opens up a future in data science even if your first degree is in a non-quantitative subject (including the social sciences, the arts and humanities). The course equips you with the skills to process and analyse data, communicate your findings to a wide audience whilst applying this knowledge to practical situations.

You’ll begin by mastering a range of introductory modules before progressing to more advanced contemporary techniques in machine learning to expand your knowledge and understanding. We offer an extensive range of optional modules which allows you to focus on an area of interest such as text analytics and data visualization. The MDS culminates in the research project, an in-depth investigation in which you apply the skills learned during the course to a research problem working alongside an expert in the area of application of your choice.

The course is part of a suite of courses which share some common modules, you can choose the general route or take one of the specialist pathways in:

• Bioinformatics and Biological Modelling
• Digital Humanities
• Earth and Environment
• Health
• Social Analytics
• Heritage

Designed by experts in the field, the MDS develops the specialist skills you will need to manage and analyse different types of data efficiently. This advanced understanding of complex data will give you a head start in this dynamic field.

A UK first or upper second class honours degree or equivalent in ANY degree that doesn’t include a strong data science component including those in social sciences, the arts and humanities, business, and sciences.

Evidence of competence in written and spoken English if the applicant’s first language is not English:

• minimum TOEFL requirement is 92 IBT (no element under 23)
• minimum IELTS score is 6.5 with no component under 6.0

English language requirements

The skills and knowledge that constitute a Masters qualification in Data Science are widely sought by employers around the globe. In today’s data-driven society, the ability to capture, analyse and communicate information and trends from the data generated by business, governments and their agencies, communities and organisations is highly prized.

It follows that Data Science is a rapidly expanding career sector with opportunities for stimulating and rewarding work in many sectors including the areas of science, humanities, health, environmental and social where understanding and expertise in data is leading to transformations in the way people live and work.