The field of data science is seeing rapid growth, with vast amounts of data now being generated by major companies and service providers.
Yet, there is a recognised shortage of qualified analysts, both in the UK and globally, to make the most of this data and to meet the demands of industry. In particular, the demand is for graduates who can both manage the data (the computing skills), and analyse the data to extract patterns, build models and make predictions (the mathematics skills). It is only with these analytical skills can the full value of data be extracted.
Launched in 2018, our Masters is one of the
The course will provide you with a strong foundation in mathematical modelling and the analysis of data-driven systems and help you develop your computing skills, from programming Python and R, to advanced techniques including Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, to applying the techniques you learn on a large scale. You will learn the techniques used to approach data and build models using computational analysis and understand the mathematics underpinning these techniques.
Our graduates have gone on to work in financial institutions, major energy firms, sport and fitness, start-ups, software providers, NHS and pharmaceutical organisations, environmental agencies, and the Scottish Government. Many have undertaken PhDs in the UK and across the world.
Stirling is associated with The Data Lab, an Innovation Centre that aims to develop the data science talent and skills required by industry in Scotland. The Data Lab:
- supports our students with funding, networking and routes into employment;
- facilitates industry involvement and collaboration;
- provides funding and resources for students.
"Shape your world with Stirling. I've come from the consulting industry to enhance my data science skill; and the student friendly faculty and concrete curriculum at The University of Stirling provided the right environment for me to do so."
Nuzhat Nishi
Top reasons to study with us
Course objectives
The aim of the course is to teach you the techniques for approaching data sets using computational analysis; to help you understand the mathematics underpinning these techniques; and to be confident in applying these techniques to real-life scenarios.
On successful completion of the MSc Mathematics and Data Science, you will be able to:
- analyse and solve real-world problems using different mathematical and computational approaches;
- build, parameterise and analyse mathematical models to real-life problems;
- expand mathematical methods to approach more complex problems;
- be competent in industry-relevant programming languages, including R, Python and Matlab;
- demonstrate skills in data analytics, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI);
- analyse small and large-scale data sets using mathematical and computational approaches;
- be confident in your own research and data science skills through real-life based projects.
Work placements
The course features a substantial summer project. Where available, these can be done in partnership with a company or technology provider.
Flexible learning
If you’re interested in studying a module from this course, the Postgraduate Certificate or the Postgraduate Diploma then please email Graduate Admissions to discuss your course of study.
Research overview
Our team of academics in the department of Computing Science and Mathematics investigate novel and effective approaches to dynamic and uncertain real-world problems in complex systems and environments. They explore the interdisciplinary connections between computer science, mathematics, life sciences, social sciences and management.
We work collaboratively with a number of organisations, including The Data Lab (Scotland’s Data Science Innovation Centre, which supports students with funding, networking and routes to employment) and the Scottish Informatics and Computing Science Alliance (SICSA), to ensure our students have the best platform to succeed.