Scientific Computing and Data Analysis (Earth and Environmental Sciences),MSc

Developments in fields such physics, engineering, Earth sciences or finance are increasingly driven by experts in computational techniques. Those with the skills to write code for the most powerful computers in the world and to process the biggest data sets in the world have the potential to make a positive impact on issues relating to the Earth and its environment.

Our suite of Masters in Scientific Computing and Data Analysis (MISCADA) offers an application-focused course to deliver these skills with three interwoven strands:

• Computer Science underpinnings of scientific computing (algorithms, data structures, implementation techniques, and computer tool usage)
• Mathematical aspects of data analysis and the simulation and analysis of mathematical models
• Implementation and application of fundamental techniques in an area of specialisation (as well as Earth and Environmental Sciences we offer options in Astrophysics, Computer Vision and Robotics, or Financial Technology)

The MISCADA specialist qualification in Earth and Environmental Sciences is designed to equip you with advanced knowledge and skills in the use of sophisticated datasets and tools to tackle cutting-edge and societally-relevant problems relating to the Earth’s environment and management of its scarce resources. We introduce a variety of Earth and environmental datasets, as well as the specialist mathematical and software tools required for their quantitative and computational analysis. You can find out more here.

There’s great synergy between the modules and you will be given plenty of opportunities to put your learning into practice from the start of the course, including analysis of data across a range that includes satellites and handheld devices. Our research-led approach allows you to take some of the newest theoretical ideas and directly translate them into working codes in their respective application areas. If you have an undergraduate degree in a science subject with a strong quantitative element, including computer science and mathematics and want to work at the highest level in earth and environmental sciences, either in academia or in industry, then this could be the course you’re looking for.

Using the latest in scientific computing and data analysis techniques to understand the fundamental structure of the Earth, the risks and hazards of the environment, and the exploitation of natural resources.

• In Physics or a subject with basic physics courses OR
• In Computer Science OR
• In Mathematics OR
• In Earth Sciences OR
• In Engineering OR
• In any natural sciences with a strong quantitative element.

Additional requirements

• Applicants must demonstrate strong programming skills in at least one compiled language, preferably C or C++, although Rust, Java, C#, Fortran, or Pascal are also acceptable. Proficiency in Python may suffice if the applicant has a strong background in their chosen specialization. Those lacking experience in C or C++ are advised to enrol in our pre-sessional course.

• Additionally we require knowledge of undergraduate-level mathematics, covering linear algebra, calculus, integration, ordinary and partial differential equations, and probability theory.

• Please see the University guidance here for information on required English language levels.

English language requirements

Qualifications in computer science are highly sought after by employers across the globe and an award from our Department provides the academic skills, industry insight and research-informed approach that sets postgraduates up for careers in a broad range of sectors.

Many postgraduates have gone on to work as software engineers, analysts, consultants, programmers and developers. Some have founded their own start-ups or work in leading software companies, high-technology consultancies, banking and finance, retail, engineering, the communications and IT industry.

The Department has strong research links, spanning both industry and government, including the automotive sector with Jaguar Land Rover and Renault, the defence and security sector with QinetiQ and Boeing, with government in the Civil Service and at GCHQ and in the manufacturing sector with Procter & Gamble. Other high-profile employers include BAE Systems, Google and BT.