Data Science for Business

    Data Science for Business

    Duration6 month(s)
    Tuition Fee
    GBP 32,569 / year(s)
    Next IntakeSeptember 1, 2026
    Data Science for Business

    About

    This exciting MSc Data Science for Business is the first in Scotland to be developed with input from SAS, a global leader in business analytics solutions, leading financial services organisation HSBC and The Data Lab to ensure it meets industry needs.

    The course provides you with a deep understanding of the industrial and scientific relevance of advanced analytics and their application in strategic and operational decision-making while addressing the shortage of business leaders and managers with a detailed working knowledge of data analytics. As a graduate you’ll have a highly sought-after blend of data analytics, business acumen and advanced management skills.

    You can develop specialist skills by choosing elective modules from finance, computing science and management. You’ll work on real life consultancy projects alongside industry leaders in data analytics. Our extensive network of external organisations across all sectors provides opportunities to build your knowledge, skills and experience for a successful career in business analytics roles.

    We are AACSB accredited

    The University of Stirling is accredited by AACSB International in recognition of our excellence in business education. This puts the University of Stirling Management School among the top 6% of business schools globally.

    The Data Lab

    We work closely with The Data Lab, an internationally leading research and innovation centre in data science. Established with an £11.3 million grant from the Scottish Funding Council, The Data Lab enables industry, public sector and world-class university researchers to innovate and develop new data science capabilities in a collaborative environment. Its core mission is to generate significant economic, social and scientific value from data. As a student you’ll benefit from a wide range of learning and networking events that connect leading organisations seeking business analytics skills with students looking for exciting opportunities in this field.

    Preparing business leaders of the future

    Postgraduate education at the University of Stirling Management School goes beyond text books and lecture rooms, we also focus on your personal and professional development.

    Our unique Flying Start Leadership Programme equips you with the awareness, knowledge and techniques essential for building a successful career. These range from practical skills, like effective public speaking, to developing ways to work under pressure in difficult situations and manage conflict. Find out more about Flying Start.

    Top reasons to study with us

    You’ll have the opportunity to work on real life consultancy projects
    The flexible design of this Masters course means you can specialise in finance, marketing or data science and management
    The course is endorsed by The Data Lab — one of Scotland’s innovation centres that helps universities develop new data science capabilities in a collaborative environment

    Course objectives

    Over the two semesters of taught classes you’ll:

    • acquire knowledge, skills and experience for a successful career in data driven roles;
    • understand the applications and implications of data analytics in organisations across different sectors;
    • develop knowledge and skills of data analytics tools and techniques for business decision-making;
    • enhance your capabilities and confidence for championing data analytic projects;
    • enhance and develop critical, analytical, interpersonal and other transferable skills.

    Research overview

    In REF 2021, 80% of our research impact in Business and Management Studies was classed as world leading or internationally excellent.

    Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    Academic requirements

    A minimum of a second class Honours degree or equivalent. Applicants without these formal qualifications but with significant appropriate/relevant work/life experience are encouraged to apply.

    Other routes of entry

    If you don't currently meet our academic requirements, INTO University of Stirling offers a variety of preparation programmes that can earn you the qualifications and skills you need to progress onto some of our courses. Explore INTO University of Stirling to see the pathway and pre-masters routes available.

    International entry requirements

    View the entry requirements for your country.

    English language requirements

    If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:

    • IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each sub-skill.
    • Pearson Test of English (Academic) 60 overall with a minimum of 59 in each sub-skill.
    • IBT TOEFL 78 overall with a minimum of 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing.

    See our information on English language requirements for more details on the language tests we accept and options to waive these requirements.

    Pre-sessional English language courses

    If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this course, our partner INTO University of Stirling offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for entry to this degree.

    Find out more about our pre-sessional English language courses.

    English Requirements

    • PTEMin 62
    • IELTSMin 6.5
    • TOEFLMin 80

    English Program Requirements

    If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:

    • IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each sub-skill.
    • Pearson Test of English (Academic) 60 overall with a minimum of 59 in each sub-skill.
    • IBT TOEFL 78 overall with a minimum of 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing.

    See our information on English language requirements for more details on the language tests we accept and options to waive these requirements.

    Career

    The UK is facing “explosive demand” for data science skills according to a Burning Glass Technologies analysis commissioned by the Royal Society. The report “Dynamics of Data Science Skills” shows demand for data scientists and data engineers tripled over the past five years, rising 231%, making this a lucrative field for graduates seeking employment. 

    The Tech Partnership UK estimate that:

    • big data professionals earn on average 31% more than other IT professionals
    • 77% of companies say it is difficult to recruit people with the big data skills they need.

    Stirling's MSc Data Science for Business was developed in partnership with industry and is designed to produce graduates with the skills that companies need.

    Average salaries are higher in data analytics jobs than the IT average and the skills shortage will make that gap bigger.

    The University of Stirling Management School has a dedicated Employability Manager and from the very beginning of the course your career is our focus.

    Employability skills

    Everything you do while studying at Stirling is designed to help you build the personal skills that will make you stand out to future employers.

    The course has a high level of engagement with industry, research and recruitment partners in the course design, delivery, project work and skill development activities.

    Advance your career with work experience

    On this Data Science for Business Masters course you may have the opportunity to enhance your career prospects by taking part in work-based project designed to prepare you for the next step on the career ladder.

    Consultancy projects

    If you’re seeking to enhance your employability and add value to a business client you may have the opportunity to undertake a 3-month consultancy project over the summer, as an alternative to the traditional dissertation.

    Consultancy projects allow you to work with an organisation to investigate a ‘real-world’ issue, enhance your transferable business skills and make professional connections that may lead to a job offer in the future. Current clients range from start-up businesses to international organisations in public, private and not-for-profit sectors.

    Participation in the consultancy projects is subject to business availability.

    Fee Information

    Tuition Fee
    32,569 / year(s)
    Data Science for Business
    University of Stirling
    University of Stirling
    United Kingdom

    United Kingdom, Stirling

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