Sport Data Science and AI MSc

Stay at the forefront of sport analytics as you work with modern hardware, software, and authentic datasets linking directly to athlete monitoring, match analysis, and sports business decision-making. Become part of our unique learning environment as you learn predictive modelling, decision support, and best-practice visualisation for professional and commercial settings. 

Course Structure

You’ll be taught by specialists from Sport and Exercise Sciences and Computer Science, and gain insights from external experts in analytics, performance, and business, including football clubs, governing bodies, and commercial organisations.

Whether you’re already working with data in sport or aiming to enter this growing industry, our Sport Data Science and AI MSc is designed to advance your career and fuel your passion for applying analytics and artificial intelligence in sport.

• Study at the UK's largest custom built Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences facility
• Access dedicated state-of-the-art research laboratories
• Be part of a world-leading research community

• Lectures - delivered by a mixture of academic experts and professional individuals who are active within sports related organisations.
• Seminars and tutorials - led by both tutors and students to facilitate peer-to-peer learning.
• Assessments - a combination of coursework assessments, research papers, reports, reflective commentaries and oral examinations.

Our state-of-the-art research labs are dedicated to exercise testing and sample analysis across the spectrum of sport and exercise sciences. We are also home to a wide range of practical spaces for professional and vocational related research.

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.

Year: 1
2026/27 Session

The following must be taken:

Students must take one of the following modules:

Optional modules:
Students must choose 40 credits from list A, then 20 credits from list B.

List A:

List B:

If the above requirements are not met, significant experience in sport analytics, data science, or high-performance environments may be considered on a case-by-case basis, provided that you can demonstrate proficiency in research methods, quantitative reasoning, or programming.

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.

Students applying for a Postgraduate Taught (PGT) Loan must select the fixed programme option at enrolment. The flexible (flex) study route is not eligible for PGT Loan funding under current government regulations.

Students should check the full eligibility criteria on the official government website.

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.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we have 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.

This MSc develops key skills that are highly attractive to employers within the sporting industry, namely project management, critical analysis and problem-solving skills. Open doors to exciting career paths within sports organizations, professional teams, and national governing bodies. Potential positions include strength and conditioning coaches, fitness coaches and sports scientists in high-level sports organisations.

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.

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.