Ranking
5th
Complete University Guide 2026
Talk to our students
Hear more about studying at Birmingham. Chat to one of our friendly postgraduate students to get their thoughts on our courses, stunning campus and life in a vibrant and cultural city.
Course overview
Delve into data science as new technologies reshape our world. You'll learn about contemporary challenges and cutting-edge techniques becoming an in-demand expert.
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. Industries need data scientists to help with important decision-making. Study with us and you’ll have a world of exciting opportunities.
Why Study Data Science MSc at Birmingham?
The course caters to the need of students where we have a plethora of resources to imbibe the knowledge that ultimately gives practical exposure through projects and labs. I have been able to gain the required skillset of a Data Scientist through the imparted knowledge and learning. In addition to this, the collaboration of UoB with The Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s national institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is another major reason as to why I applied to this course.
Course Structure
Teaching is led by our world-leading academics in data science, giving you the opportunity to learn both about the foundations and latest advancements in the field.
Autumn term
Autumn term
You'll focus on fundamental data science principles. You'll complete three core modules that will teach how to program for data science tasks, how to store and manage data and core artificial intelligence techniques to analyse data.
Teaching is delivered predominantly through lectures and labs, with assessment provided through coursework and/or examination, depending on the module. Coursework is typically completed during the term and exams in the main summer exam period.
Spring term
Spring term
This term teaches more advanced data science approaches, and integrates, consolidates and applies the principles learned in the first term through a group project. It also consists of three compulsory modules.
Teaching includes lectures, labs and supervision. Assessment includes coursework and/or exam, depending on the module.
Summer project
Summer project
After the main summer exam period, the summer is dedicated to your individual data science project. You'll work closely with an academic supervisor on a data science project.
This may involve going through the whole data science process to solve a problem, and/or investigating state-of-the-art data science approaches, and/or developing data science tools, among others.
Ask us a question
Ask our subject team a question or sign up to our mailing list to stay up to date with our latest events, scholarships and subject news.
Course highlights
- 5th
in the UK for Computer Science
Complete University Guide 2026
Birmingham is ranked 76th in the QS World University Rankings 2026, maintaining our position in the top 100 universities globally and placing us 11th amongst UK universities.
Discover how to use algorithms to analyse, visualise and extract insights from data. You'll learn essential programming and data management skills to gather and manipulate data legally.
We'll help you master advanced techniques and you’ll learn how to solve problems with collaborative projects.
- Benefit from our partnership with The Alan Turing Institute
- Study our continually updated curriculum and degree programmes that align with industry needs, ensuring you are highly sought after in the global job market
- Take advantage of our state-of-the-arts facilities
- Become an in-demand expert in the industry despite coming from a non-computing background
Course delivery
Taught modules are assessed in a variety of ways: summer written examination, practical assessment during the term, and valuable laboratory experience. Each MSc project is assessed by a supervisor and a moderator.
- 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
- Gain valuable experience by engaging in practical assignments that simulate real-world tasks and cultivate job-ready skills
- Develop critical technical and analytical skills, including experimental design, data collection and analysis, problem-solving, and familiarise yourself with specialised techniques through laboratory work
We offer modern facilities, including two dedicated computing labs for computer science students, collaborative teaching spaces, study areas with large displays and presentation screens, GPU cluster and full wireless network, and research laboratories for Security and Medical Imaging.
We have dedicated Computer Science Student Experience Officers and Student Wellbeing Officers, whose sole job is to ensure our students are supported, both physically, mentally and holistically with their studies and life as a computer science student.
Any modern laptop running MacOS, Windows or Linux, with 8–16GB RAM, a recent x86 or ARM processor and standard storage will be adequate for studying with us. We do not recommend using Chromebooks or tablets as your primary device because of software limitations. You will not be disadvantaged if you cannot bring your own device. We will ensure suitable resources are available for anyone who needs them.
Lecture
Projects
Laboratory
Module information
The course consists of 180 credits. As well as six 20-credit compulsory modules, you'll also undertake a 60 credit project.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
2026/27
Core modules
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Algorithms for Data Science | 20 |
| Current Topics in Artificial Intelligence & Data Science | 20 |
| Data Analytics | 20 |
| Data Science Project | 60 |
| Storing and Managing Data | 20 |
| Visualisation | 20 |
| Programming for Data Science | 20 |
Teaching staff
Dr Leandro L Minku
Programme Director
Staff profile for Leandro L. Minku for Computer Science
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours Degree
in any subject other than computing
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
- TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
- LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill
English presessional programmes
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.
If you are unsure if you meet our entry requirements, you can also contact the admissions department to discuss whether your application would be considered.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, supervision, assessment and includes membership to the Guild of Students.
- £12,150
Full-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2026 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
Tuition fee deposits for international students
International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.
Scholarships
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
Postgraduate Masters loan
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
Birmingham Masters scholarships
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
- 28 August 2026
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
How to apply to our taught courses
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please visit our admissions portal.
Career opportunities
Being able to expertly understand and analyse significant data sets and provide advice and solutions is crucial in the world of big data. You can expect to thrive in diverse environments including academia, research, industry and government.
A dynamic, fast-moving sector that offers exciting careers and excellent rewards
Our graduates find themselves in a variety of environments within academia, research, industry, government and private organisations
You could join a firm like Accenture and PwC, or one of the global IT giants such as Microsoft and Google
Career areas include Data Analyst, Data Scientist, Data Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, Financial Data Analyst, Marketing Analyst, and Healthcare Data Analyst. Our graduates go on to work for employers including IBM, Microsoft, Google DeepMind, NASA, Boeing, Dyson, Capgemini Engineering and Samsung AI Center.
Your career prospects are great and computing graduates with a good degree are in demand. Plus, with the number of computer science graduates from the UK diminishing at the same time as jobs are increasing, students with a postgraduate degree have an excellent chance of securing employment.
Careers Network
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
We're first choice for graduate employers... again!
We are the most targeted UK university by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2025). Our graduate stories highlight the achievements of Birmingham alumni and the way their university experience shaped their journey.
Upcoming events
There are currently no upcoming events
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.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham is a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.
Student stories
Find new perspectives. Hear first-hand about life at Birmingham from our students, past and present.