Data science is an area of study that has been recently developed and focuses on providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to analyze data in all its forms. Basically, organisations collect a huge amount of data, which when examined properly can bring in new insights, identify trends and find fresher ways to streamline business practices. A data science graduate knows how to achieve sustainable business growth by cleaning, preparing and validating structured and unstructured data to build machine learning pipelines and customised data products. This leads to better trade decisions through an enhanced understanding of the business and customers.
The study of data science equips you with technological, strategic and business skills and prepares you for data science jobs which are getting more and more relevant day by day. In fact, a US-based study indicates a predicted shortage next year of 1.5 million managers and analysts with data skills. Being considered as one of the fastest-growing areas of work, data science is famously called the sexiest job of the 21st century. Hence, the most upcoming and practical option for higher studies for the current generation is Data Sciences. 
In this article, we overview some details about data science courses, what they cover, and what skills they develop in students. We also look into some jobs that are viable after completing this degree and some of the top data science courses you can pursue in the UK.
Data Science in the UK – Why is Data Science one of the Hottest Career Options?
- Data Science exposes you to the latest innovations and technologies in the digital world.
- It enables you to put theory into practice and use data-oriented information to bring positive changes and solutions to real-life data-centric problems.
- Data is being universally used across all industries and across the globe. Its relevance is becoming universal and is not limited to any place or area of expertise. Data Science, therefore, also enables you to develop a professional network across industries and across the globe.
- Most of the institutes invite experts to share their insights on this ever-changing field and opens a chance for real-life learning and application.
- It equips you with the skills and expertise necessary to conquer digital marketing jobs.
Data Science in the UK – Who Can Pursue Data Science Courses?
Students who have a numerate first degree or/and can demonstrate numeracy skills can make data science their choice of career. Students from study areas like economics, statistics and computer science are most suitable for such courses. Because of the applied nature of the course, many students with a mathematics or statistics background who enjoy working with algorithms and have a curiosity for data and technology are also a good fit for data science courses.
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Data Science in the UK – What do Data Scientists do?
Data Scientists analyze raw data and turn it into meaningful information which can be used for improving the business. Here are some responsibilities data scientists are equipped to deal with:
- Data scientists identify problems in the business and use data, machine learning tools and statistical techniques to bring adequate information to find effective solutions to the problem.
- Data scientists create algorithms and designs to extract, manage and analyse data to supply reports for colleges or customers.
- Data scientists are also equipped with techniques to evaluate the efficiency of data sources, data-gathering systems and improve the data collection methods.
Data Science in the UK – Key steps to opt a Data Science Degree
- Think across multiple study areas: Data has exploded big time and has become one of the primary sources for planning, marketing, strategizing and much more. Its universal presence makes it relevant in multiple industries. It not only involves mathematics and computer science but also business planning and management skills.
- Look for practicality and day-to-day application: Goal of any study is to enable you to solve everyday problems and data science is no different. Your degree should be able to introduce and train you in dealing with everyday issues of the industry, both on the technical side as well as the business side.
- Focus on quality of education and faculty: For a rapidly evolving and highly technical study area like data science, it is important to opt for an institute with world-class faculty, updated education system and top-notch research facilities. The presence of research centres is also a good indicator of a universitys academic dynamism.
- Choose high-ranked institutes: In an international market, a degree from a reputed and well-connected institute will help you in achieving better results and return of investments. The size of the alumni network is also an important aspect one should consider. Look for the international rankings of the universities you have short-listed, and look for information like positions obtained by students after graduation, salaries, location and return on investment.
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Data Science in the UK – Top Universities to Pursue Data Science in the UK
1. Newcastle University
One of UKs leading universities in Newcastle upon Tyne, the Newcastle University is known for its excellent computer science programmes.
TOP DATA SCIENCE COURSES AT NEWCASTLE UNIVERSITY
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Data Science MSc, PGDip, PGCert
Created in collaboration with high profile industry leaders, this programme will give valuable training and insights in-
Course Duration:
Entry Requirements: Bachelors degree, or international equivalent, in:
English language requirements – Standard Fee: (International Students)
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Data Science (with Specialization in Statistics) MSc, PGDip, PGCert
A multi-disciplinary course grounded in theory and application of data science. The course is a combination of skills in statistics and computer science and covers topic including:
Course duration:
Entry Requirements: Bachelors degree, or international equivalent, in:
Fee: (International Students)
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2. University College of London
One of the global leaders in Computer Science, UCL received the highest percentage for quality of research in Computer Sciences and Informatics in the UKs Research Excellence Framework.
TOP DATA SCIENCE COURSES AT UNIVERSITY OF LONDON
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Data Science MSc
Bringing together computational and statistical skills for data-driven problem solving, this course provides proficiency for the fields such as marketing, pharmaceutics, finance and management. The course also provides training in analytical tools, modern computational methods and rigorous statistical thinking. Course Duration:
Entry Requirements:
Tuition Fee: GBP 31,040 (Full-time) |
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Data Science and Machine Learning MSc
Rapidly growing area of study, this course includes deep learning, large-scale data analysis and has applications in e-commerce, search/information retrieval, natural language modelling, finance, bioinformatics and related areas in artificial intelligence. Course Duration: 12 months Entry Requirements:
Tuition fee: GBP 30,400 |
3. University of Oxford
One of the top universities of the world, Oxford is also a leader in computing and Statistical studies.
TOP DATA SCIENCE COURSES AT UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD
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MSc in Statistical Science
The MSc offers broad high-level training in applied and computational statistics, statistical machine learning, and the fundamental principles of statistical inference. Course duration: 12 months Entry Requirements:
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4. University of Warwick
One of the leading universities, aligned with national and international priorities, the University of Warwick provides an interdisciplinary perspective on data analytics that makes the graduates uniquely valuable in areas such as cybersecurity, finance, government and technology. The university is located in Coventry, London.
TOP DATA SCIENCE COURSES AT UNIVERSITY OF WARWICK
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Data Science (BSc)
This degree provides a vital blend of highly developed mathematical, statistical and computing skills Course duration: 3 years (full-time) Application deadline: September 2020 Entry RequirementS:
Tuition Fee GBP 20,210 per year |
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Data Analytics (MSc) (2020 Entry)
This masters degree is for graduates from the fields of computer science, mathematics or physical sciences and provides technical skills and expertise to pursue opportunities at the forefront of this emerging discipline. Course duration: 12 months Entry RequirementS:
Tuition fee: GBP 27,160 |
5. Imperial College London
The Department of Computing, along with Imperials Data Science Institute creates a one-of-a-kind environment for data science. It includes the worlds best-of-the-best computer-scientists and researchers in medicine, biology and social sciences. Located in South Kensington (London), Imperials Data Science Institute aims to bring a revolution in the applications in medicine, cyber-security, development economics, bioinformatics, behaviour analytics and more.
TOP DATA SCIENCE COURSE AT IMPERIAL COLLEGE OF LONDON
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MSc Statistics (Data Science)
This course provides outstanding training both in theoretical and applied statistics with a focus on Data Science. Course duration: 12 months Application deadline: September 2020 Entry Requirements:
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REGISTER TODAY TO MAKE A GREAT CAREER IN UK!
Data Science in the UK – Jobs for Data Scientists in the UK
Some of the popular choice options for data scientists in the UK are:
The average salary of an individual with an MS in Computer Science from the UK is GBP 42,000 per year (IT Job Watch,2019). Here are some job/career options in data science with the average salaries per annum.
| Career | Average Salary P.A. (fresher) | Average Salary P.A. (experienced) |
| Cybersecurity expert | GBP 25,000 GBP 35,000 | GBP 57,000- GBP 84,000 |
| IT Manager | GBP 30,000 GBP 45,000 | GBP 45,000 GBP 70,000 |
| Software engineer | GBP 25,000 GBP 50,000 | |
| Test Analyst | GBP 37,000 GBP 57,000+ | |
| Software Analyst | GBP 32,000 GBP 80,000+ | |
*Source: IT JOB WATCH
Below is the graph showing recent job trends in Data Science-related fields:
Data Science in UK – FAQs
Q. What are some other popular top UK universities for Masters in Data Science?
A. Some other popular university choices to pursue Masters in Data Science from the UK are -Kings College London
University of Glasgow
Goldsmiths University of London
University of Stirling
Cardiff University
Aston University
University of Strathclyde
University of Sheffield
Nottingham Trent University
Manchester Metropolitan University
Goldsmiths University of London
Brunel University London
Leeds Beckett University
University of South Wales
Lancaster University
Q. Is the GRE score needed for Data Analysis studies in the UK?
A. Most universities do not require a score in GRE for Masters in STEM courses; hence, GRE score is not necessary for data analysis studies. Still, it is advisable to check the details of the course you are planning to apply for GRE requirement.
Q. Is there any age limit for MS in Data Science in the UK?
A. No, there is no age limit for pursuing data science courses in the UK. However, for international students, it is advisable to apply when one is within the age-group of 30-34 as visas for masters become difficult after that age.
Q. Who are top employers for the Data science professionals?
A. Some top employers for data science professionals are -Amazon.com Inc
Facebook Inc
Royal Bank of Scotland
Bloomberg LP
Microsoft
Samsung
Apple
IBM
Ubisoft
Q. Are language proficiency tests required for Data Science in the UK?
A. Yes. Language proficiency tests are required for pursuing data science courses in the UK. There are many tests that measure your language proficiency. Some of these tests are -TOEFL Test Of English as a Foreign Language
IELTS International English Language Testing System
UCLES University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate
PTE Pearson Test English
