Urban Analytics MSc

Around the world, city governments are realising the growing importance of harnessing the power of urban big data. This programme will provide you with the knowledge and skills to design and conduct appropriate analyses, and experience of working with cutting-edge datasets.

WHY THIS PROGRAMME

• The programme will provide you with a critical appreciation of the potential for big data and urban analytics to inform urban planning and policy making, as well as an understanding of practical and ethical limitations.
• It offers hands-on experience of a range of statistical and GIS software, and of the use of programming tools to capture, process and analyse data.
• You will be exposed to a range of cutting-edge datasets typically encountered by urban analysts and the various challenges they present.
• You will benefit from the programme’s strong connection with the Urban Big Data Centre (UBDC), Glasgow’s world-leading urban analytics centre of expertise.
• The programme will develop your ability to convey the results of complex data analyses in ways which have impact on policy makers and public debates.
• A wide range of optional courses will provide you with the opportunity to pursue personal interests, enhancing particular skills or domain-specific knowledge such as transport studies or urban design.
• You will benefit from the programme’s strong connection with the Urban Big Data Centre (UBDC), Glasgow’s world-leading urban analytics centre of expertise.
• We work closely with The Data Lab, an internationally leading research and innovation centre in data science. Our students will benefit from a wide range of learning and networking events that connect leading organisations seeking urban analytical skilled students who are looking for exciting opportunities in this field. This programme qualifies for the prestigious Data Lab Masters Scholarships available for Scottish/EU students.

CAREER PROSPECTS

The practical knowledge and hands-on skills taught as a part of the programme are applicable worldwide. You will have the chance to learn about emerging forms of urban big data and analytical skills, which will equip you with unique advantages in the global job market. Career opportunities include positions in government agencies, urban planning organisations, city governments, public health boards, retail business, real estate companies, transport and other private consulting firms, as well as non-profit organisations.

2.1 Honours degree or non-UK equivalent qualification in geography, urban planning, environmental science, public health, economic, or related social science subject, along with an interest in acquiring skills in data science, statistics, GIS, and spatial analytics. Candidates from other disciplines such as statistics, information science, data science and engineering may also be considered. If you are unsure whether your degree is suitable, you can email the programme convener to discuss.