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QS World Rankings 2027
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Data Science (Dubai) MSc
- CampusDubaiDelivery formatIn person
- Start dateSeptember (full-time or part-time)Duration1 year (full-time); 2 years (part-time)
- AwardMaster of Science
- Entry requirements2:1 Honours degree in any subject other than computing.
- Fees (UK/Ireland)September 2027: AED 180,617 (full-time) per year / AED 90,309 (part-time) per year
Course overview
Dive into data science as new technologies reshape our world. On our MSc, you'll learn about contemporary challenges and become an in-demand expert in data science algorithms, programming, data management, and visualisation.
If you come from a non-computing background, this course is for you. We’ll prepare you in state-of-the-art data science techniques. Global industries need data scientists to help with important decision-making, study with us and you’ll have a world of exciting opportunities waiting for you.
This programme is accredited by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
Course Structure
Our MSc is a 12-month full-time advanced course comprising of lectures, tutorials, labs, presentations and project work. The course can also be taken on a part-time basis over two years.
Semester 1
Semester 1
The first semester will equip you with essential data science skills, including predictive modelling, optimisation, and clustering. The curriculum covers data management, SQL, and Python programming, focusing on machine learning techniques for effective data analysis and predictions.
Semester 2
Semester 2
The second semester focuses on data visualisation, including time series analysis and dimensionality reduction. You'll apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios in a hands-on group data science project.
The programme also covers current trends in data science, preparing graduates to tackle complex data challenges across industries.
Research project
Research project
In the third semester, you'll undertake a data science project and solve a complex real-world problem under their supervisor’s guidance. You'll apply data science techniques, machine learning, and visualisation to derive insights.
The project will enhance your understanding of advanced concepts and strengthens their problem-solving and research skills, culminating in a final report and a presentation.
Hear from our students
Discover first-hand experiences from current students and recent graduates. Learn about studying at Birmingham, life on campus, and living in Dubai.
Course highlights
Discover how to use algorithms to analyse, visualise and extract insights from large data sets. You'll learn essential programming and data management skills.
We’ll help you master advanced techniques and you’ll learn how to solve problems with collaborative projects. Based at our new, technology enhanced 'smart' campus, you'll also have a global experience learning from academics in Birmingham as well as on the Dubai campus.
- Graduate with the same University of Birmingham degree as our UK-based students
- Benefit from research-led teaching in data science, AI and computer science
- Join our global community of data scientists
- 68th
Birmingham is ranked 68th in the world, maintaining our position in the top 100 universities globally and placing us in the top 10 amongst UK universities.
QS World University Rankings 2027
- 2nd
One of the UK’s most targeted universities by top graduate employers.
High Fliers ‘Graduate Market in 2026’ report
- 6th
in the UK for Computer Science.
Complete University Guide 2027
Course delivery
The MSc is delivered through research-focused teaching, combining specialist knowledge in data science, artificial intelligence, and computer science. The programme includes lectures, labs, and a 60-credit research project.
Lecture
Tutorial
Projects
Practical assignments
Laboratory
- Learn through of a series of engaging lectures which demonstrate how experts will approach problems in your field, helping you think critically and apply concepts
- Develop critical and analytical thinking as well as your communication skills as you articulate ideas, defend viewpoints, and collaborate within a supportive tutorial setting
- Enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities through practical assignments that will challenge you to tackle real-life issues independently
- Participate in practical assignments that provide hands-on, real-world experience, allowing you to put theory into practice
- Engage in laboratory work that offers practical, hands-on experience, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings
We offer a combination of evening and weekend classes which are designed to accommodate working professionals and those who choose to study full-time.
Our draft timetable for full-time students is designed to deliver teaching on one or two evenings from 18:00-21:00 and on Saturday from 09:00-17:00 (day varies per module). Each module is block taught over 11 weeks in Semester 1 and 12 weeks in Semester 2. Part-time students will study during these hours as per the number of modules they choose to study.
Module information
This programme is a 1 year full time (2 years part time) taught master's degree (180 credits) consisting of 120 credits of taught modules and a 60 credit project.
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
The optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
2026/27
Core modules
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Algorithms for Data Science | 20 |
| Current Topics in Artificial Intelligence & Data Science | 20 |
| Data Analytics (Dubai) | 20 |
| Data Science Project | 60 |
| Programming for Data Science | 20 |
| Storing and Managing Data | 20 |
| Visualisation | 20 |
Teaching staff
Dr Muhammad Usman Ilyas
Assistant Professor
Profile for Dr Muhammad Usman Ilyas, Computer Science, University of Birmingham Dubai
Entry requirements
To secure your place at the University of Birmingham Dubai, you must meet both our general entry requirements and the specific criteria for your chosen course. Your application will be carefully reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will determine if you will receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours degree
in any subject other than computing.
English language requirements
To study at the University, you must be able to demonstrate a good level of written and spoken English. Many applicants do this by submitting a recent IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE result, or by completing a Presessional English course.
The level of English language proficiency required varies depending on your level of study and subject area.
You can view the full English language requirements, including accepted tests and required scores, on our entry requirements page for the Dubai campus.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination, and graduation.
- AED 180,617
September 2027 (full-time) per year
- AED 90,309
September 2027 (part-time) per year
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees are payable for each year of your programme. To help you manage the cost of study, you can pay fees in full or in three instalments per academic year.
To secure your place, you must pay a non-refundable tuition fee deposit of AED 5,000 by the deadline stated in your Conditional Offer. This deposit will be deducted from your tuition fees.
Scholarships
Birmingham attracts the best and brightest students from across the globe. Eligible applicants are automatically considered for a range of scholarships following a Conditional Offer from the University of Birmingham Dubai.
- Up to 30%
Tuition fee scholarships available for eligible students.
Application process
Applying to the University of Birmingham Dubai is straightforward. Applications are made directly through our online Admissions portal, with no application fee.
To avoid delays, please ensure all required documents are included with your application.
Find guidance on how to apply, key steps in the process and answers to frequently asked questions.
Career opportunities
Unlock a wide range of exciting careers by completing our MSc course. You'll achieve essential technical and transferable skills, allowing you to pursue a career in academia, industry, research or commercial organisations. You'll become highly demanded by employers worldwide.
Your Birmingham degree is evidence of your ability to succeed in a demanding academic environment. Employers target Birmingham students for their drive, diversity, communication and problem-solving skills, their team-working abilities and cultural awareness, and our graduate employment statistics have continued to climb at a rate well above national trends.
Benefit from the prestige of a degree from a leading World Class University, making you attractive to companies in the engineering, finance, consultancy and commerce sectors worldwide.
You can go on to work for global companies such as Google, Apple, IBM, Goldman Sachs, MicrosoftHSBC, Sony or Samsung.
Dubai is an exciting global city with a rapidly developing economy, actively embracing digitisation and artificial intelligence for various sectors.
Careers Network
In a competitive global market, you need to be ready for work before you graduate. At the University of Birmingham Dubai, our careers services will help you plan and achieve your ambitions. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network Dubai information, advice, and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life at our Dubai campus.
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus, with its iconic buildings overlooking stunning parkland and friendly community, will quickly make you feel at home in the UAE's second city. Expect plenty of exciting activities to get involved in outside of your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to the University of Birmingham Dubai to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation partners allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming, and sociable surroundings.
Living in Dubai
Enrich your life with endless attractions, entertainment and lifestyle opportunities. In just over 50 years, Dubai has transformed itself from a tiny settlement to a glistening city and world-class destination. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus is where our diverse community comes together, providing a home for up to 3,000 students to learn, relax, and socialise.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our Dubai campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.