This MSc programme will train students to become proficient data scientists. You will gain advanced knowledge in areas such as data mining, machine learning, and data visualization, including state of the art techniques, programming toolkit, and industrial and societal application scenarios. This programme prepares you to become a proficient data scientist, developing your specialist knowledge in subjects that are crucial for mastering the vast and ever-so-complex information landscape that is characteristic to modern, digitally empowered organisations. This is typically linked to a number of core areas of expertise, from the ability to operate high-performance computing clusters and cloud-based infrastructures, to the know-how that is required to devise and apply sophisticated Big Data analytics techniques, and the creativity involved in designing powerful visualizations. In the first semester you start with a review of key topics in data science. The course will introduce the core theoretical and technology components required to design and use a data science application, using open-source tools and openly accessible data sets. You will also cover the most important machine learning techniques, which are at the core of any attempt to analyse and reason about data. You will be exposed to more advanced topics in data mining in the second semester, including feature engineering, methods to manipulate text and multimedia data, topic modelling, social network analysis, and spectral analysis. A new module on data visualization will introduce the most common types of visualization techniques and state-of-the-art technology used to build graphic elements into data science applications to present analytics results. Finally, during the summer the MSc project enables you will demonstrate your mastery of specialist techniques, relevant methods of enquiry, and your ability to design and deliver advanced application, systems and solutions to a tight deadline, including the production of a substantial dissertation.

Data scientists help organisations handle large amounts of data being produced thanks to digital technologies. Harvard Business Review described the role as 'The Sexiest Job of the 21st Century' due to the rare combination of skills that a trained data scientist possesses. Data science has seen an unparalleled expansion as the data-driven economy grows. Increasingly organisations require skilled professionals who can handle large datasets and managers who can utilise the resulting analysis to make impactful decisions. There is a range of potential jobs available; demand for big data staff is predicted to rise 92% over 5 years from Jan 2013. The programme provides an excellent opportunity for entry into data sciences or similar fields. Plus, big data positions offer a median salary of £55,000 – 24% higher than for IT staff in general (UK). There are also academic possibilities for doctoral study, as there are for entrepreneurial careers. ECS runs a dedicated careers hub with is affiliated with more than 100 renowned companies such as IBM, ARM, Microsoft, Samsung, and Google.