Postgraduate taught programme Planned new course

MSc

Data Science

MSc Data Science equips you with skills in machine learning, computer vision, and data ethics. Using real datasets and industry tools, youll build a strong portfolio and graduate ready for careers in AI, data analysis, and innovation across sectors.

About

Data Science is the discipline of extracting knowledge and insights from data using mathematics, statistics, computing, and artificial intelligence. It underpins innovations across industries - from healthcare and robotics to finance and media - by turning raw information into meaningful solutions.
Our MSc in Data Science course is a future-focused programme designed for students eager to explore this powerful field. Whether your ambitions lie in industry, research or policy, the course equips you with the skills to thrive in a data-driven world.

Future-focused curriculum

Study a curriculum designed to prepare you for a thriving career in industry, research or policy, shaping the future of data-driven innovation. 

Cutting-edge facilities

Explore hands-on projects using real datasets and industry tools, with access to cutting-edge labs and specialist AI resources.

Graduate career-ready

This course blends academic depth with real-world datasets and industry tools, building a strong portfolio through applied projects and a dissertation.

Details

Two-year part-time options (September or January start)

  • September start
    Stage 1: 21 Sept 2026 17 Sept 2027
    Stage 2: 20 Sept 2027 15 Sept 2028
  • January start
    Stage 1: 18 Jan 2027 14 Jan 2028
    Stage 2: 17 Jan 2028 12 Jan 2029

Careers, industry and research

This programme provides a strong foundation for those eager to enter the dynamic and rapidly growing field of data science. With a curriculum that integrates cutting-edge research and hands-on practical training, our programme ensures that you are well-equipped to pursue a wide range of career options.
Graduates are prepared for roles such as data scientist, data architect, strategic manager, systems analyst, and more - all within a sector currently facing a significant skills shortage. Whether you aim to work in industry, government, or academia, our approach to teaching and career development provides you with the tools and support needed to succeed in this fast-evolving field.
A financial group of business people is meeting to analyze data for a marketing plan on a table with graphs and a laptop with a calculator.
Our specialist labs aid our research-driven, hands-on teaching
Our dedicated Computer Science hub provides a dedicated space for our community of students, staff and technicians.
We also have dedicated artificial intelligence, games development, cyber security and software engineering labs to support our suite of specialist degrees.
Computer Science students
 
 
 

Research-informed teaching

Learn from researchers and lecturers who are developing applications
Benefit from our industry expertise and study a course that is influenced by our innovative research.
We have active research projects that are key to some of the industry's most pressing issues. Active core members of these research groups make up a large proportion of your lecturers and tutors, and you will be taught be some of the best academics in the field.
Dr Lauren Ansell Lecturer in Data Science


Lecturer in Data Science

Dr Nancy Girdhar Lecturer in Computer Science


Lecturer in Computer Science

Dr Craig McNeile Lecturer in Theoretical Physics


Lecturer in Theoretical Physics

Show all

Postgraduate student life

Postgraduate study at the 做厙賤躇 is about more than just getting a qualification its a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options including part-time and January start dates you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means youll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, 做厙賤躇 offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
 
 
 
 
Joyita - student blogs web page

The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing caf矇 and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.

Joyita
MSc Advanced Psychology

 
 
 

Your 做厙賤躇 community

At the 做厙賤躇, you get the same access to support, sports, and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether its joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
Youre a full member of the 做厙賤躇 community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of whats on offer get involved, stay connected, and make the most of your time here.
 

Your societies

The is the perfect place for postgraduate students to explore, innovate, and connect. Join collaborative coding sessions to enhance your skills, learn from industry guest speakers, and build valuable connections with peers, alumni, and tech professionals all opening doors to career opportunities and collaborations.
Two students having a drink together on 做厙賤躇's Barbican

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
瞿11,700 per year
Part-time study
瞿650 per 10 credits
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about Fees and costs of studying
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
瞿21,000 per year
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international students tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Governments final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As a postgraduate at 做厙賤躇, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)

You may be eligible to apply for a to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
 

Tuition fee discount for 做厙賤躇 graduates

If you studied your undergraduate degree at 做厙賤躇, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
  • 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students 
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

A 2:2 degree or equivalent any discipline. Relevant workplace experience will also be considered.
If English is not your first language you need to achieve a 6.5 IELTS with a minimum of 5.5 in any element in a secure English language test.

Extended entry requirements

  • a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element). English language requirements  
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or r矇sum矇, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.

Ready to apply?


Applications will be open soon.
Please contact admissions@plymouth.ac.uk or telephone +44 (0)1752 585858 to register your interest in applying for this programme.
Please include your name, contact details, email and telephone number, the programme that you are interested in and the year you wish to start your studies.
You will be sent further details on how to apply as soon as possible.

After you apply

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
8262
Duration

1 year

Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available

Study location
做厙賤躇
 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
 
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

Extended entry requirements

  • a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element). English language requirements  
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or r矇sum矇, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the 做厙賤躇 or through an agent in your country.
 

Applications will be open soon.
Please contact admissions@plymouth.ac.uk or telephone +44 (0)1752 585858 to register your interest in applying for this programme.
Please include your name, contact details, email and telephone number, the programme that you are interested in and the year you wish to start your studies.
You will be sent further details on how to apply as soon as possible.

Need support with your application?

  • Personal statement guidance
  • Student visa support
  • Travel and arrival information
  • and more
 

After you apply

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
8262
Duration

1 year

Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available

Study location
做厙賤躇
 
 
 

Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening

Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
 
Book your place
Student in art classroom in Roland Levinsky Building