Data Science and Systems Modelling MSc by Research

Overview

Data Science and Systems Modelling at Abertay covers a wide range of areas at the interface between computer games and complex systems, including in physics, healthcare and the environment.

Our overarching agenda is the construction of interactive, real-time and playable simulations in both entertainment and non-entertainment contexts that bring to life systems models through simulation, i.e., digital twins. This playability allows domain experts to investigate complex systems in an intuitive way and supports discovery of new insights. These simulations are underpinned by data-driven models, including AI, to make sense of large real-world data sets. The opportunities at the games-complexity interface are growing, for example how AI and neural networks can generate content for games, and how data analytics can improve the player experience, and research students working in this area have the potential to generate impact on challenging real-world problems.

Research in this field draws upon supervisory expertise from within the School of Design and Informatics, including academics with track record in mathematics, physics, artificial intelligence, games programming, and games industry experience.

Our research at Abertay is inherently cross-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary, which is of particular importance for research in immersive experiences. We are the lead partner for InGAME: Innovation for Games and Media Enterprise, an AHRC-funded R&D centre for Dundee’s games cluster. Postgraduate students at the University will have access to research and development opportunities, as well as contact with professionals working within the games industry.

Undertaking a research degree in Data Science and Systems Modelling at Abertay will prepare you for a career not only in academia but also within wider society, working in complex problem spaces and using modelling and visualisation to unpack that complexity.

Our research degrees

You have the option of studying an MSc by Research, an MPhil or a PhD.

When deciding which degree is right for you, you should consider the level of commitment required, the duration, cost and your career aspirations.

That being said, our research degrees are flexible. You can begin an MSc or an MPhil and then seek to transfer to a PhD without having to start your project all over again. You can also switch from full-time to part-time study, and vice versa.

MSc by Research

The award of Master of Science by Research (MSc by Research) demonstrates a practical ability to undertake research studies, a systematic understanding of knowledge and a critical awareness of current problems and/or the application of original thought.

How long is an MSc by Research?

If you are studying full-time, you will be expected to complete the award in 12 months. The minimum period to receive this award is 10 months and the maximum is 14 months.

If you are studying part-time, you will be expected to complete the award in 24 months. The minimum period to receive this award on a part-time basis is 20 months and the maximum is 28 months.

The minimum entry requirement for all our research degrees is an Upper Second Class Honours degree (or equivalent) at undergraduate level in an appropriate discipline and/or a Master’s degree. In some cases, appropriate professional or experiential learning may be considered in combination with a lower classification of Honours degree.