Key information
- Level
- Postgraduate Taught
- Delivery type
- Full Time, Part Time
- Degree qualification
- MSc
- Mode of delivery
- On-Campus
- Duration
- 1 year
- Location
- Edinburgh
- Start date
- September, January
The MSc Data Science programme equips you with the skills needed to extract valuable insights from vast datasets, making you an invaluable asset in any industry.
Our programme imparts both the theory and practical skills necessary for the management and analysis of extensive, complex datasets, often referred to as 'Big Data.' You will acquire the expertise to model, store, and process these substantial datasets, employing the latest algorithms and techniques. The curriculum also encompasses contemporary methods and tools for visually exploring data. Furthermore, our range of optional modules offers you the chance to delve into closely related areas, further enriching your journey towards a successful career as a data scientist.
The skills you gain through the Data Science master’s programme are applicable to industrial applications, as well as scientific data analysis. In some cases, the MSc project can also be done in collaboration with an external industrial or academic organisation.
Enhancements for Your Success
At Heriot-Watt University, our MSc in Data Science programme empowers you with the most cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills required for a thriving career in data science. Here's what sets us apart:
- Excellence in Rankings: We take pride in our ranking as the 6th best in Scotland for Computer Science, according to The Complete University Guide 2022.
- Industry-Driven Employability: To ensure your success, we've actively collaborated with industry experts to understand precisely what employers are seeking in data scientists. We've meticulously integrated these insights into our programme, giving you a competitive edge during job interviews and setting you up for success from day one.
- Mastery of Essential Tools: In today's competitive job market, proficiency in key software tools like Python, R, SQL, and data visualisation is essential for data scientists. Our programme will equip you with mastery of these indispensable tools.
- Streamlined Synergy: Our revamped course structure promotes greater synergy between different subject areas like statistics, machine learning, and big data engineering. This holistic understanding will empower you to tackle complex data challenges with ease, enhancing your problem-solving capabilities.
The National Robotarium
Located on Heriot-Watt University’s Edinburgh campus, in partnership with The University of Edinburgh, the National Robotarium creates innovative solutions to global challenges, working directly with industry to test and develop robotic, AI and automated technologies and rapidly move pioneering research from lab to market.
The National Robotarium fosters the teaching and development of the next generation of roboticists, producing highly skilled graduates who are trained to conduct world-leading research with a market focus, and developing programmes to equip the current and future workforce with robotics, data and programming skills.
Your student experience
- Heriot-Watt University boasts a distinguished history of over five decades dedicated to the research and teaching of Computer Science.
- World-Leading Faculty: Heriot-Watt University is known for its strong academic reputation, and this extends to its data science programmes. In fact, many of our academics are qualified data scientists, with many years of experience working in this field.
- State-of-the-Art Labs: To facilitate hands-on learning, we have created state-of-the-art labs based in the Robotarium as well as at the GRID; including the Games & Design studio and the universities first VR labs. These resources are instrumental in providing students with a practical, real-world experience when working with authentic datasets and AI models.
- Cutting-Edge Research: The university is actively involved in data science research, contributing to the development of new techniques, tools, and strategies to combat emerging threats. This research informs the curriculum and keeps it up to date.
Go Global
With Go Global, Heriot-Watt's global student programme, you can carry your studies to new places and experience new cultures, expanding your horizons on the way. You'll discover what it means to be a true global citizen and emerge prepared for wherever your career journey will take you.
Inter-Campus Transfer: Dubai
Course content
September Intake - Edinburgh
Mandatory September
- Data Mining and Machine Learning
- Statistical Modelling and Analysis
Optional September
- Biologically Inspired Computation
- Computer Network Security
- Industrial Programming
- Software Engineering Foundations
Mandatory January
- Big Data Management
- Data Visualisation and Analytics
- Research Methods and Project Planning
Optional January
- Advanced Software Engineering
- Digital and Knowledge Economy
- Distributed & Parallel Technologies
Mandatory May
- Masters Project and Dissertation
January Intake - Edinburgh
Mandatory January
- Big Data Management
- Data Visualisation and Analytics
Optional January
- Advanced Software Engineering
- Digital and Knowledge Economy
- Distributed & Parallel Technologies
Mandatory September
- Research Methods and Project Planning
- Data Mining and Machine Learning
- Statistical Modelling and Analysis
Optional September
- Biologically Inspired Computation
- Computer Network Security
- Software Engineering Foundations
- Industrial Programming
Mandatory Second January
- Masters Project and Dissertation
Programme Video
Computer Science subject video (PG progs)
Fees and funding
| Status | Full Time | Part Time |
|---|---|---|
| UK | £12,192 | £6,096 |
| International | £25,480 | £12,740 |
- Status: Your residency status is usually defined as the country where you have been ordinarily resident for the three years before the start of your course.
- International: 'International' includes applicants from European Union countries who do not hold Pre-Settled or Settled status in UK. (This does not include students from the Republic of Ireland - see above).
Additional information
Note: the fees indicated above will apply if you begin your studies in September. If you choose to join us in January instead, the fees below will apply.
January 2025 intake tuition fees
| Status | Full Time | Part Time |
|---|---|---|
| UK | £10,600 | £5,300 |
| International | £24,496 | £12,248 |
- Status: Your residency status is usually defined as the country where you have been ordinarily resident for the three years before the start of your course.
- International: 'International' includes applicants from European Union countries who do not hold Pre-Settled or Settled status in UK. (This does not include students from the Republic of Ireland).
Scholarships and bursaries
Postgraduate scholarships and bursaries
We aim to encourage well-qualified, ambitious students to study with us and we offer a wide variety of scholarships and bursaries to achieve this. Over £6 million worth of opportunities are available in fee and stipend scholarships, and more than 400 students benefit from this support.
Entry requirements
We have standard entry requirements for all of our courses that you will have to meet.
Admission requires a second class honours degree or non-UK equivalent that includes substantial components of computer science and programming.
Applicants that do not meet the computer science or programming requirements for the one year programme may be eligible for entry onto the 2 year programme. Please note: entry onto the 2 year programme is only available for the September intake.
Why Heriot-Watt
We're the top university in Scotland for graduate outcomes which means that more of our graduates are employed or in postgraduate education than any other institution in the country and we ranked 5th in the UK.
We're also rated number one in the UK for CEO or MD roles, meaning more of our graduates go on to become CEOs or MDs than any other university in the whole of the UK. On top of that, we have beautiful campuses, across the globe, so you'll get a truly international education. Our Edinburgh Campus is home to Oriam, Scotland's National Sports Performance Centre combined with plenty of wellbeing resources, prioritising fitness and mental health for all students. Our Global Research Institutes look at solving real world issues such as climate change and saving our oceans as well as working on the next medical technological breakthrough and the future of AI and robots.
Student life
Explore facilities, and chat to staff and students
