PGDip Data Science

Course Overview

From business and finance or health and medicine, to infrastructure or education, data science plays a vital role in all aspects of the modern world. Our Postgraduate Diploma is for those wishing to complete the taught element of the MSc programme without having to complete a dissertation or period of placement. It can be studied either one year full-time or two years part-time. You will gain an advanced level of skills and knowledge to pursue your career aspirations in Data Science.

You can then choose from two specialisms according to your background and interests:

• Computing
• Statistical Inference

In taking one of these routes, you will gain access to a range of exciting, advanced pathway-specific modules, of which you will select three. These modules will allow you either to enhance your understanding of data science technologies; or to gain expertise in the application of data science to business intelligence, bioinformatics, population health, the environment, or the study of society. Our specialist modules will provide you with detailed, expert knowledge and will enhance your employability. This format means that you will be equipped to apply for any data science related career, while providing you with an advantage in many industries.

Part-time study

Part-time students are expected to complete the course over two consecutive years. You will be expected to attend lectures and practical sessions during term time of approximately 3 days per week and to engage in group projects. You are also expected to be able to attend for any examinations in the summer.

Upon successful completion of the PGDip, you may wish to upgrade to an MSc by completing a dissertation and 12-week placement.

Assessment

We offer an excellent range of learning environments, which include traditional lectures, laboratories, and workshops. We are also committed to providing timely feedback for all submitted work and projects.

Assessment varies across modules, allowing students to demonstrate their capabilities in a range of ways, including laboratory reports, essays, exercises, literature reviews, short tests, poster sessions, oral presentations, and formal examination.

Career

The gathering, interpretation and evaluation of data is fundamental to all aspects of modern life. As a result, data science can lead to a career in a wide range of industries. The core modules of this programme will ensure you are properly equipped to apply yourself to any data role, while your specialist pathway will enhance your opportunities in specific industries, should that be the route you wish to pursue.

Studying at postgraduate level will further enhance your career prospects, opening up opportunities to progress further in your career.

In addition, many of our Data Scientists also elect to study a PhD qualification.

We provide careers advice and host a range of events throughout the year, including our annual careers fair, attended by exhibitors who are interested in providing placements and vacancies to computer science students and graduates. You can speak face-to-face with employers such as Network Rail, Oracle, and Johnson and Johnson, in addition to a large range of SMEs.