Are you ready to launch or accelerate your career in data science and AI? The demand for qualified data scientists far exceeds the current supply, and the industry faces a significant global skills gap. Our online MSc Data Science programme which will be launched from May 2024, is designed to bridge this gap by providing you with the relevant practical skills and expertise needed to excel in data-related roles, giving you a pathway to establishing a fulfilling and potentially lucrative career.
What you'll learn
Our data science degree covers everything from fundamental mathematical concepts to advanced topics like artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, and cloud computing. You'll master essential tools and programming languages such as Python, in addition to gaining proficiency in software tools like Jupyter Notebooks and Tableau.
You’ll also tackle real-world scenarios through our programme's individual modules. Whether you're exploring the ethical and legal constraints of data science or delving into the intricacies of machine learning and deep learning, you'll be immersed in practical applications. Our "Learn by Doing" philosophy ensures you can apply your knowledge to make meaningful business decisions using real data sets.
Ultimately, you'll gain genuine insight into how data science operates, from data gathering and processing to analysis for operational and strategic purposes -- developing a strong understanding of the ethical and legal considerations that shape the role of data science professionals.
High earning potential
Right now, data scientists are in high demand, commanding competitive salaries. With a few years of experience, you can expect to earn between £40,000 and £60,000. For those who rise to lead or chief data scientist positions, salaries can exceed £100,000*.
*Subject to approval
Our MSc Data Science course delivers exciting and up-to-date module content that will help you develop vital career skills. Just some of the course highlights embedded into your modules include:
Explore artificial intelligence and neural networks and learn how to create intelligent solutions for data classification and clustering, driving innovation in various industries.
Discover the world of cloud computing, gain insights into its applications, and dive into Hadoop, a powerful tool for machine learning and unlocking value from extensive data sets.
Bridge theory and practice as you learn to extract insights from 'dark data'. Make data-driven decisions that empower businesses to thrive in the modern data-centric landscape.
Explore the essential pillars of linear algebra, calculus, statistics, and probability. These mathematical tools form the backbone of practical problem-solving in data science.
I like that the course encourages you to study independently, but you still have guidance and can ask the tutors questions whenever you need clarification. The online learning aspect of the course and the features available on ilearn have been excellent.
Our MSc Data Science programme adopts a modern assessment approach designed to immerse you in practical, real-world challenges. Assessment methods include portfolio submissions featuring tangible assets created during each course module using industry-standard tools. By the programme’s end, you'll have a professional portfolio demonstrating your data science expertise, providing compelling evidence of your skills.
Your MSc Data Science journey culminates in the Data Science Research Project, where you’ll solve real-world data science issues through research, design, and implementation. With guidance from a supervisor in your chosen area, you'll emerge not only with a degree but also equipped with practical, industry-ready knowledge to showcase to prospective employers.
The following vendor courses will be available for you to study in parallel with your degree. As part of studying these courses during your Arden degree, you’ll have free access to Azure Labs, allowing you to explore the practical side of the course content immediately.
These courses also form the foundation of Azure ML, Azure’s widely used and industry-recognised machine learning platform.
Arden is a Cisco Network Academy and AWS Academy, giving you access to resources that align with the Big Data and Cloud Computing module, and even more opportunities to build on your skills and credentials.
You’ll also get hands-on experience with the latest data science tools during your studies, giving you the practical skills you’ll need in your current or future role:
At Arden University we consider applications on a case by case basis. If you have significant work experience, have qualifications you have gained elsewhere, or a degree or qualification that isn't a clear pathway to this degree - we are more than happy to discuss your application.
Our aim is to make learning as accessible as possible by ensuring that you can study in a flexible and convenient way. That's why we keep our requirements simple. All you need is a laptop or desktop PC (we recommend one running the latest version of Windows), and a good internet connection. Through ilearn, our online university campus in the cloud, you'll be able to access your course calendar, support services, learning materials, and our online library containing thousands of ebooks, as well as tools for creating assignments, keeping notes, and collaborating with other students on your course.
Our aim is to make learning as accessible as possible by ensuring that you can join us, wherever you are.
That's why we keep our requirements simple. All you need is a laptop or computer (we recommend one running the latest version of Windows), and a good stable internet connection. With this one tool, you'll be able to access information, advice, support, learning materials and our online library, as well as create assignments, keep notes, and collaborate with other students effectively.
We’ll also support you with getting access to the resources you need, wherever you study from, including assistance with obtaining any software you need to successfully complete the course.
Standard entry requirements:
Typical non-standard entry requirements:
Standard English language requirements:
We also offer an internal English test for applicants who are unable to provide the above evidence of English proficiency. More information can be found here.
Our data science course, with its focus on hands-on learning, will give you the skills you need to be able to analyse and interpret data to make business decisions. Across modules and topics such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, distributed and cloud computing, and programming for data science, you will see how modern businesses use a range of tools and platforms to manage and exploit 'big data'. I look forward to welcoming you to the Arden University family.
Right now, careers in data science are positively thriving, driven by the rise of AI and the ever-increasing importance of data in making business decisions. Advancements in technologies such as edge computing and machine learning have also fuelled the growth of the Internet of Things, providing new avenues for business efficiency. This demand has led to very competitive salaries, often surpassing those of other comparable professions.
*sourced from PayScale.com, 2024.
This brand-new MSc Data Science course provides a structured pathway that enables you to get cutting-edge skills while developing your critical thinking and presentation abilities. Whilst boot camps can be great for acquiring a small amount of new knowledge in a short period of time, a degree course such as ours is a much better option if you want to develop a wide range of data science skills over a longer period and gain an accredited, globally recognised qualification with industry currency and lifetime value.
Here are some other reasons why many students choose a master’s degree over a boot camp:
Your journey through our MSc Data Science programme will lead to exciting career opportunities in a rapidly evolving industry. Here's how the skills you acquire can shape your future:
You'll develop robust programming skills, essential for transforming data into actionable insights. This capability enables you to work with data effectively, creating innovative solutions and automating data-driven processes.
Proficiency in handling, analysing, and visualising data empowers you to extract meaningful insights from vast datasets. This skill is in high demand across industries seeking data-driven decision-making.
With the ability to develop neural networks, you enter the realm of artificial intelligence and machine learning, unlocking opportunities to create intelligent systems and predictive models.
The course equips you with a deep understanding of the mathematical underpinnings of data science. This proficiency sets you apart in an industry where professionals sometimes lack detailed maths skills, allowing you to add substantial value to organisations after you graduate.
Career Pathways: Upon completing your degree, you can enter diverse career paths, including:
The skills you’ll acquire on this master’s will help you transition into managerial positions, technical roles, or specialised analyst roles, depending on your career aspirations and interests. By graduating from our programme, you'll not only possess in-demand skills but also be well-prepared to shape the future of data-driven industries, making a significant impact in a variety of roles.
In this postgraduate data science and AI programme, you'll master essential programming languages like Python, along with associated libraries like NumPy, Pandas, Matplotlib, Seaborn, SciPy, and Scikit-learn. This equips you to tackle data science, machine learning, and AI constructs confidently, and even create basic neural networks, future-proofing your career within the data industry.
You'll also excel in creating meaningful data visualisations from large datasets, making complex insights accessible to non-technical leaders in strategic planning—a crucial industry skill set.
All Arden students will have free access to LinkedIn Learning through the Library Portal. LinkedIn Learning is a video-based online learning platform offering over 16,500 expert-led courses across a wide range of subjects including business, technology, and creative skills.
With LinkedIn Learning, you can: