Introduction

From business and finance or health and medicine to infrastructure or education, data science plays a vital role in all aspects of the modern world. Our Postgraduate Diploma is for those wishing to complete the taught element of the MSc programme without having to complete a dissertation or period of placement. It can be studied either one year full-time or two years part-time. You will gain an advanced level of skills and knowledge to pursue your career aspirations in Data Science.

From business and finance or health and medicine to infrastructure or education, data science plays a vital role in all aspects of the modern world. Your study will build upon the fundamentals of data science and our specialist pathways will allow you to practice and enhance technical skills while gaining professional knowledge that will support and advance your career aspirations.

You will explore five core data science modules. These will ensure you have a solid advanced grounding in the subject, to support your choice of specialism.

You can then choose from two specialisms according to your background and interests:

• Computing
• Statistical Inference

In taking one of these routes, you will gain access to a range of exciting, advanced pathway-specific modules, of which you will select three. These modules will allow you either to enhance your understanding of data science technologies; or to gain expertise in the application of data science to business intelligence, bioinformatics, population health, the environment, or the study of society. Our specialist modules will provide you with detailed, expert knowledge and will enhance your employability. This format means that you will be equipped to apply for any data science-related career while providing you with an advantage in many industries.

Part-Time Study

Part-time students are expected to complete the course over two consecutive years. You will be expected to attend lectures and practical sessions during term time of approximately 3 days per week and to engage in group projects. You are also expected to be able to attend for any examinations in the summer.

Upon successful completion of the PGDip, you may wish to upgrade to an MSc by completing a dissertation and 12-week placement.

Assessment

We offer an excellent range of learning environments, which include traditional lectures, laboratories, and workshops. We are also committed to providing timely feedback for all submitted work and projects.

Assessment varies across modules, allowing students to demonstrate their capabilities in a range of ways, including laboratory reports, essays, exercises, literature reviews, short tests, poster sessions, oral presentations, and formal examination.

Community

We have a great relationship with our students and alumni, who have praised the School for its ambition, positivity and friendly atmosphere. By providing a number of support methods, accessible at any stage of your degree, we strive to give our students the best opportunity to fulfil their potential and attract the very best opportunities for a successful career. Our academics are welcoming and helpful, you will be assigned an academic advisor who can offer advice and recommended reading, and our open door policy has been a popular feature among our students. We believe in encouraging and inspiring our computing and communications scientists of the future.