21Oct
PostgraduateCourse summary
Are you keen to find out more about the field of data science and learn the latest techniques used in the sector? Designed by data scientists for the next generation of data scientists, the Master of Data Science (MDS) develops the specialist skills you will need to manage and analyse different types of data efficiently. This advanced understanding of complex data will give you a head start in this dynamic field for your future career. The Durham MDS provides training in contemporary data science in a supportive environment, learning from practicing researchers who are making a difference across a range of industries. From personalised medicine, to smart cities and sustainable solutions, data science is building a better world. At the same time, developments in technology have made the field of data science more accessible than ever, creating new opportunities to gain insight into the interactions between people and their environment. This has led to a significant increase in demand for skilled data scientists, and this demand is predicted to further grow. The MDS opens up a future in data science even if your first degree is in a non-quantitative subject (including the social sciences, the arts and humanities). The course equips you with the skills to process and analyse data, communicate your findings to a wide audience whilst applying this knowledge to practical situations. You’ll begin by mastering a range of introductory modules before progressing to more advanced contemporary techniques in machine learning to expand your knowledge and understanding. We offer an extensive range of optional modules which allows you to focus on an area of interest such as text analytics and data visualization. The MDS culminates in the research project, an in-depth investigation in which you apply the skills learned during the course to a research problem working alongside an expert in the area of application of your choice. The course is part of a suite of courses which share some common modules, you can choose the general route or take one of the specialist pathways in:
- Bioinformatics and Biological Modelling
- Digital Humanities
- Earth and Environment
- Health
- Social Analytics
- Heritage
Modules
The remainder of the course will be made up of core and option modules which will vary depending on prior qualifications and experience. These have previously included: Introduction to Mathematics for Data Science; Introduction to Computing for Data Science; Data Science Applications in Archaeology and Heritage; Text Mining and Language Analytics; Bioinformatics; Multilevel Modelling; Data Exploration, Visualisation and Unsupervised Learning; Health Informatics and Clinical Intelligence; Qualitative Approaches to Digital Humanities; Computer Music.
Assessment method
The Master of Data Science is assessed via a combination of essays, online assessments, reports and presentations – both individual and in small groups. The course comes together with a major research project, which is conducted and written up as an independent piece of work with support from your appointed supervisor.
How to apply
International applicants
If you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take a pre-Masters pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre.
Entry requirements
A UK first or upper second class honours degree or equivalent in ANY degree that doesn’t include a strong data science component including those in social sciences, the arts and humanities, business, and sciences. Evidence of competence in written and spoken English if the applicant’s first language is not English: Minimum TOEFL requirement is 102 IBT (no element under 23) Minimum IELTS score is 7.0 overall with no element under 6.0 or equivalent
English language requirements
Durham University welcomes applications from all students irrespective of background. We encourage the recruitment of academically well-qualified and highly motivated students, who are non-native speakers of English, whose full potential can be realised with a limited amount of English Language training either prior to entry or through pre-sessional and/or in-sessional courses. It is the normal expectation that candidates for admission should be able to demonstrate satisfactory English proficiency before the start of a programme of study, whether via the submission of an appropriate English language qualification or by attendance on an appropriate pre-sessional course. Acceptable evidence and levels required can be viewed by following the link provided.
English language requirements
https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
The tuition fees for 2025/26 academic year have not yet been finalised, they will be displayed on the www.durham.ac.uk/study website once approved.
Sponsorship information
For further information see the course listing.
Provider information
Durham University
The Palatine Centre
Stockton Road
Durham
DH1 3LE