Course summary

The MSc Big Data and High Performance Computing provides students with an in-depth understanding of big data analysis and processing using high performance computing technology. This MSc programme enables students to gain a sought after qualification in areas of computing in great demand worldwide. The programme was developed between the STFC Hartree Centre and the University, and has had recent industrial input. Big data is commonly described as data that is so large that it cannot be readily processed using standard techniques. Our current global ability to collect data is such that “big data” sets are becoming common-place. The most obvious example of this is the exponential growth of the World Wide Web; however there are many public and private enterprises where the analysis of large-scale data sets is critical to growth. Although significant computer power exists, the necessary skills-base is lagging behind the technology. There is an employment gap looming in the field of big data, especially in the context of the skills required with respect to the application of High Performance Computing (HPC) capabilities to address big data problems. The MSc Big Data and High Performance Computing programme is designed to address this skills gap and provide those completing the programme with the ability to efficiently address big data and HPC challenges. Together with our growing industrial contact and engagements, this places our graduates in a prime position for future employment. This programme is also available as Big Data and High Performance Computing with a Year in Industry MSc. The programme is organised as two taught semesters followed by an individual project undertaken over either the summer or, if desired, during the following year of study. Within each semester students study a number of modules adding up to 60 credits per semester (120 in total). This will be followed by a project dissertation, also 60 credits, making an overall total of 180 credits.