University of Birmingham - College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
MSc Applications of Data Science
Birmingham, United Kingdom
MSc
DURATION
1 year
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
28 Aug 2026
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2026
TUITION FEES
GBP 30,420 *
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* for international students | for UK students: 11250 GBP
Key Summary
About: Study the University of Birmingham's MSc Applications of Data Science in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences. This applied programme uses immersive projects, authentic datasets, and critical thinking to prepare you for complex, real-world challenges. It emphasizes practical implementation and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), equipping you to apply data science, analytics, modeling and interdisciplinary methods for sustainable, resilient, evidence-driven solutions.
Career Outcomes: Graduates can enter roles such as Data Scientist, Sustainability Analyst, Data Strategist, Policy Advisor in environmental management, public health, international development, or progress to doctoral research in data science and sustainability analytics.
Transform your passion for data into practical solutions. This applied programme offers immersive projects, authentic datasets, and critical thinking skills to prepare you for tackling global challenges and shaping a sustainable future.
This programme will equip you with the applied data science expertise needed to address complex, real-world challenges, with a particular emphasis on advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Unlike theory-heavy courses, our programme prioritises practical implementation, enabling you to use data science as a tool for meaningful societal impact.
This programme is a 1-year full-time taught master's degree (180 credits) consisting of 120 credits of taught modules and a 60-credit project. The project is completed under the direction of a project supervisor.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff.
Core modules
- 6th in the UK for Physics
Birmingham is ranked 76th in the QS World University Rankings 2026, maintaining our position in the top 100 universities globally and placing us 11th amongst UK universities.
Master applications of data science and equip yourself with the practical skills and expertise to excel in diverse career paths.
You will gain hands-on experience in analysing data using the Python programming language, learn how to interpret data, and understand the applications of data analysis and machine learning methodologies used for real-world applications. Taught by one of the UK’s leading Physics departments, this programme will equip students to excel in today’s highly competitive job market.
- Classify different types of data and select appropriate associated methods for capture, storage, and analysis
- Assess the quality and robustness of data sources and the outputs of analysis
- Apply data science techniques to investigate and propose solutions to current real-world problems, through appropriate data science tools and programming languages
- Communicate data insights and findings effectively to technical and non-technical audiences, using visualisation and presentation techniques appropriate to the field
Alumni Scholarship
£2,000 tuition fee discounts for our returning undergraduate alumni commencing their Master's in 2026
- Value: £2,000 tuition fee discount
- Application deadline: 31 August 2026
For UK students: Birmingham Masters Scholarship
Scholarships worth £3,000 each through a tuition fee discount for students commencing their Master's in 2026
- Value: £3,000 tuition fee discount
- Application deadline: 31 July 2026
Other country-specific scholarships are available.
Once you graduate from the MSc Applications of Data Science you will be well-positioned for careers in roles such as Data Scientist, Sustainability Analyst, Data Strategist, and Policy Advisor, where you can influence evidence-based decision-making in sectors including environmental management, public health, and international development. If you are seeking further academic progression, the programme provides a strong foundation for doctoral research in data science, sustainability analytics, or related interdisciplinary fields.
Our world-class research and a vibrant, global student community are at the heart of our School of Physics and Astronomy. You'll take part in tutorials, classes, and project work to consolidate your learning. In the third term, you'll work with your personal supervisor to conduct your project.
- Learn about applications of data science from in-person lectures delivered by dynamic members of the teaching staff.
- Enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities through practical assignments that will challenge you to tackle real-life issues independently.
Assessment
Across the seven modules, there are a variety of assessment methods, including examinations, presentations, project work, written reports, and computing worksheets.


