MSc Data Science

Data Science

MSc

Summary

Study level
Award
Master's
Full time
1 year
Location
Berlin
Faculty of STEM

What makes Arden University special?

Education
Education for everyone, everywhere
Whether you're constrained by location, cost, time, or other life commitments, we're passionate about giving you access to higher education that fits into your busy, modern life.
Where to study
You decide how and where to study
We offer a wide range of flexible undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in both our online and blended study modes.
Support
Full support both online and on-site
We're also proud to offer non-standard entry, meaning your work experience and previous qualifications are taken into account when assessing your application.
Employability
Strong focus on employability
You will gain in-depth subject knowledge and transferable skills that employers from a huge range of industries will value. Many of our courses at Arden are also accredited by leading professional bodies in the UK.

Course Overview

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

Why choose Arden
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Course details and modules

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:

Empowering data insights with artificial intelligence

Explore artificial intelligence and neural networks and learn how to create intelligent solutions for data classification and clustering, driving innovation in various industries.

Navigating the cloud and Big Data landscape

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.

Turning data into business success

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.

Mathematical foundations

Explore the essential pillars of linear algebra, calculus, statistics, and probability. These mathematical tools form the backbone of practical problem-solving in data science.

Sathesh Paramasivam

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.

Sathesh Paramasivam
MSc Data Analytics & Marketing - Berlin campus

Course Modules

  • Programming for Data Science (20 credits)
  • Mathematics for Data Science (20 credits)
  • Big Data and Cloud Computing (20 credits)
  • Machine Learning (20 credits)
  • Artificial Intelligence and Neural Networks (20 credits)
  • Data Visualisation (20 credits)
  • Research Project (60 credits)

Study support and assessments

A practical assessment strategy

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.

The Data Science Research Project

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.

Additional study skills through vendor programmes, provided free of charge

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.

  • Digital badge with the option to pay for an exam to gain certification
  • Digital badge with the option to pay for an exam to gain certification

 

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.

  • Digital badge and no exam fees
  • A host of free courses around the foundations of AWS. All the course content is free, you’ll only have to pay for the exams.

 

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:

  • Tableau
  • Anaconda – DataSpell
  • Anaconda Notebooks
  • JupyterLab
  • Jupyter Notebooks
  • Spyder
  • DataLore
  • Oracle Cloud
  • Glueviz, Orange
  • 3PyCharm
  • R
  • TensorFlow

Study options

This course is available to study full time through our blended learning study mode at our campus in Berlin, Germany.

Full time, blended learning in Berlin

How does it work?

This course is available to study full time through our blended learning study mode at our campus in Berlin, Germany. When you choose our blended learning study mode, you’ll have eight hours of timetabled classes spread over two days at our centrally located Berlin campus. This is combined with around 25 hours of independent study, which takes place through ilearn, our university campus in the cloud. ilearn contains all the resources you need to study successfully. As a blended learning student you’ll also have access to our Library Portal, an extensive digital library with thousands of journal titles, eBooks, and a range of academic and industry databases that you can use to research and gain in-depth information on your area of study. At Arden, all of your course materials are provided free of charge, removing the need for you to buy expensive textbooks to study your degree successfully.

Full time study in Berlin is the best option for students who prefer the structure of regular face to face classes with their tutor and fellow classmates, and is particularly suited to students who are attracted by the opportunity to move to Germany to study, where you can take advantage of the employment opportunities available for overseas students.

Introducing your Digital Backpack

Once you’ve enrolled on your degree with Arden you’ll get access to your Digital Backpack, a toolkit of digital resources we’ve put together to help you succeed during your time studying with us.

Here are some of the digital resources you’ll have available throughout your course:

  • Office 365 subscription
  • Integrated zoom video conferencing
  • Careers support in-person and online available through Arden Futures, your careers platform, to help you throughout your career journey whether you are a Career Starter, Changer or Developer
  • Free online access to our Library Portal, which includes thousands of eBooks and journals, as well as industry databases which we’ve carefully hand-picked to support your studies – all yours for free while you study with us.
  • Subscription to Togetherall for an abundance of mental health support

Entry requirements

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.

What you need to study with us

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.

What do you need to study with us?

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: 

  • A 2.2 Honours degree in a numerate subject where many of the modules were mathematics-based. Examples include, but are not limited to maths, finance, computing, science, and engineering.
  • Or an equivalent 2.2 Honours degree with 18 months of relevant computing work experience.

Typical non-standard entry requirements: 

  • A minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience.
  • Your work experience should be in a data-based role, for example, finance, engineering, science, data analysis, etc. You will need to have worked with maths and/or data analysis in your current role to be eligible.

Standard English language requirements:

  • English Language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0, with no less than 5.5 in each component, or TOEFL iBT 60-78 or equivalent if English is not your first language or if you have not completed previous studies in English.

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.

Course fees and funding

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Use the dropdown above to find course fees and funding information for your country. If you can’t find information for your country in the dropdown, visit our International support page.

Meet the faculty

Mohammed Rehman

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. 

Mohammed Rehman
Head of School, Computing

Career prospects

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.

  • Average Annual Salary for Data Scientist in Germany is €56,500*.
  • Average Annual Salary for a Machine Learning Engineer in Germany is €60,000*.
  • Average Annual Salary for a Big Data Specialist in Germany is €60,000*.

*sourced from PayScale.com, 2024.

 

Why study this degree rather than a boot camp course?

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:

  • Although boot camps provide high-level or general overviews that may help improve some skills in a certain role, they tend to struggle to deliver in-depth skills and knowledge in the way that a master’s degree course can.
  • Many industries, especially well-paying ones, require a master’s in data science before you’ll be considered for employment, this is especially true in Europe and the U.S.
  • Bootcamps don’t give you the opportunity to create a portfolio of deliverables that you can use to showcase your skills to employers in the way that our MSc Data Science does.

What can I do after Arden University?

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:

Programming expertise

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.

Data handling, analysis, and visualisation

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.

Neural network development

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.

Get ahead with essential maths

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:

  • Data Analyst: Dive into the world of data analysis, where you'll explore data sets, derive insights, and support data-driven decision-making.
  • Machine Learning Engineer: Take on roles that involve building and deploying machine learning models to solve complex problems.
  • Artificial Intelligence Specialist: Lead projects focused on creating AI-powered solutions, from chatbots to autonomous vehicles.
  • Data Scientist: Utilise your expertise to uncover hidden patterns, trends, and insights, driving business strategies and innovation.

Graduate as a versatile data scientist 

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.

Industry skills

  

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.

LinkedIn Learning

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:

  • Pursue curated learning pathways aligned with our curriculum and your career goals.
  • Add value to your LinkedIn profile by showcasing your newly acquired skills.
  • Personalise content based on skills relevant to your chosen career path, interests and prior learning.