MSc Mathematics and Data Science
University of Stirling
Key Information
Campus location
Stirling, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
12 - 24 months
Pace
Full time, Part time
Tuition fees
Request info
Application deadline
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Earliest start date
Sep 2024
* For up to date fee information, please see website
Introduction
The field of Data Science has seen rapid growth in recent years, with vast amounts of data now being generated by major companies and service providers.
Yet, there is a recognised shortage of qualified analysts, both in the UK and globally, to make the most of this data and to meet the demands of industry. In particular, the demand is for graduates who can both manage the data (the computing skills), and analyse the data to extract patterns, build models and make predictions (the mathematics skills). It is only with these analytical skills can the full value of data be extracted.
Launching in 2018, our MSc is one of the first courses to link these two key areas, making it uniquely positioned to help you meet this demand. The course focusses on the application rather than pure theory of mathematics and is assessed primarily through coursework, specifically developing those skills which are in high demand by the data industry.
The course will provide you with a strong foundation in mathematical modelling and the analysis of data-driven systems and help you develop your computing skills, from programming Python and R, to advanced techniques including Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, to applying the techniques you learn on a large scale. You will learn the techniques used to approach data and build models using computational analysis and understand the mathematics underpinning these techniques.
Our graduates have gone on to work in financial institutions, major energy firms, sport and fitness, start-ups, software providers, NHS, Environmental agencies, the Scottish Government, as well as gone onto undertake PhDs in UK and overseas.
Stirling is associated with The Data Lab, an Innovation Centre that aims to develop the data science talent and skills required by industry in Scotland. It facilitates industry involvement and collaboration, and provides funding and resources for students.
Top reasons to study with us
#1 We're ranked Top 5 in Scotland and Top 20 in the UK for Mathematics (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023)
#2 This modern course was one of the first courses to link the two key areas of mathematics and data science, making it uniquely positioned in the market
#3 Our focus on employability has helped shape the modules and how the course is assessed, providing vital skills looked for by employers and in research/PhD projects
Curriculum
Course objectives
The aim of the course is to teach you the techniques for approaching data sets using computational analysis; to help you understand the mathematics underpinning these techniques; and to be confident in applying these techniques to real-life scenarios.
Work placements
The course features a substantial summer project. Where available, these can be done in partnership with a company or technology provider.
Assessment
Assessment is primarily through coursework and projects. These projects often involve analysing real-life data or applying the methods from the module to a specific application. There are also presentations, group assignments and research projects to further develop your skills.