MSc Data Science and Statistics (Health)

Develop a strong mathematical foundation in data science and statistics and apply your skills to help tackle global challenges in healthcare.

Please note, this course is available for 2023 entry subject to final approval. If you'd like to find out more about the course and when applications will be open, please register for updates.

Data science and statistics are revolutionising healthcare. From improving our understanding of disease cause and progression, to influencing clinical and governmental decision-making, they are an increasingly important component of the modern healthcare system.

This course will equip you with the skills sought after by employers from pharmaceutical companies to hospitals and health analytics companies. You’ll study the fundamentals of data science and statistics, including key analytical methodologies such as machine learning and statistical modelling, alongside programming and data analysis skills in both Python and R. You’ll also gain extensive, hands-on practical experience in health applications through a bespoke year-long unit in Applied Health Data Science. This will equip you with the skills to interpret, analyse and evaluate real-life healthcare problems.

Course highlights

• Benefit from multi-departmental expertise and ensure you’re up to date with the latest advances in each field.
• Stand out when applying for jobs by gaining a strong foundation in both data science and statistics, opening up a wide range of careers in healthcare and other sectors.
• Undertake an intensive research project in collaboration with academics engaged in health-related research.
• Undertake an optional 12-month placement with a company or public sector body, to improve your employability.

Research project

The cross-departmental nature of the degree means you’ll be able to choose from a wide variety of areas for your research project. Projects will generally be carried out in collaboration with academics engaged in health-related research from the Department for Health, the Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, or the Department of Psychology, and involve statistical analysis of real-world health research data.

Career prospects

You’ll be well equipped for a range of data science and statistics careers in industry and the public sector, particularly in the healthcare, biopharmaceutical and medical technology sectors. Examples of the types of roles you could work in include Health Data Scientists, Biostatisticians and Machine Learning Engineers. You’ll also be well-positioned for further postgraduate study and research within the field.