MSc Big Data

Overview

Big data is increasingly important in today’s commercial landscape. As a data scientist specialising in big data, you’ll help companies make sense of large amounts of structured and unstructured data, providing rapid insights that enable them to make better, quicker decisions.

The MSc Big Data is a taught advanced Masters degree covering the technology of Big Data and the science of data analytics. You’ll gain practical skills in big data technology, advanced analytics and industrial and scientific applications.

The course will teach you how to collect, manage and analyse big, fast moving data for science or commerce. You’ll learn skills in cutting-edge technology such as Python, R, Hadoop, NoSQL and Machine Learning. At the same time, you’ll delve into important maths and computing theory, and learn the advanced computational techniques you need to develop your career in data science.

Our MSc has been developed in partnership with global and local companies who employ data scientists. Since the course was launched in 2012 we have developed a great relationship with employers who are looking for the skills that we teach. Students can also exit with PGCert and PGDip awards.

Course objectives

The syllabus for the MSc Big Data includes:

• Mathematics and Statistics for Big Data
• Python scripting
• Business and scientific applications of Big Data
• Big databases and NoSQL including MongoDB, Cassandra and Neo4J
• Analytics, machine learning and data visualisation using Weka, R and ScikitLearn
• Cluster computing with Hadoop, Spark, Hive and MapReduce
• Student projects including the possibility of paid internships

A minimum of a second class honours degree or equivalent in a numerate subject such as maths, computing, engineering or an analytic science. Applicants without these formal qualifications but with significant appropriate work experience are encouraged to apply.