Unlock the future of sport with the MSc Sport Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. Created and delivered by experts across Sport and Computer Science, you’ll build the skills to thrive in the fast-moving world of applied analytics in sport.
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.
The MSc Sport Data Science and AI empowers graduates to think critically about how data and AI can shape decision-making in performance, health, and the commercial side of sport. What sets us apart at Birmingham is our unique interdisciplinary approach: you will learn from academics and practitioners across sport science, data science, and industry, and gain opportunities to engage with external partners at the forefront of the field.
This course will run over 13 months in a full-time-mode. Study a range of compulsory and optional modules completed with an applied-themed research dissertation. While the exact content may change, here’s what you can expect to study each semester.
In term one, you will establish your foundation in data science and AI, developing programming and analytical skills. Compulsory modules in this term include Programming for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. In addition, you may choose optional modules such as Applied Sports Performance Analytics or Talent Management and Development to begin tailoring the programme to your interests.
In term two, you will build on these foundations by focusing on the management, organisation, and visualisation of complex sport datasets through the compulsory module Sports Data Management and Visualisation. Alongside this, you can select from a range of optional modules, including Applied Match Analytics and Predictive Modelling, Sports Business and Marketing Analytics, Evaluating Performance, Effective Strategies for Preparation and Competition, and Leading Others: From Principles to Practice, enabling you to deepen your expertise in areas most relevant to your career goals.
In your final term, you will apply all your learning from throughout your studies, to focus on completing your applied-themed research dissertation.
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Become part of a world-leading research community at the School of Sport, Exercise, and Rehabilitation Sciences—one of the longest-established institutions in Europe and the largest facility of its kind in the UK—where you’ll be immersed in cutting-edge research and innovation. Our state-of-the-art laboratories support advanced exercise testing and sample analysis, providing the perfect environment for hands-on learning.
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.
In the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF)
In the world
QS World University Rankings 2025
In the UK
QS World University Rankings 2025
Engage in individual and small group learning, through a variety of teaching methods, coupled with independent and peer-to-peer reflections.
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.
Study 120-credit modules completed with a 60-credit dissertation. You'll cover athlete performance, staff development, periodising and planning training, alongside considerations around physical testing and reporting.
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:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Programming for Data Science | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Sports Data Management & Visualisation | 20 | Semester 2 |
Students must take one of the following modules:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Dissertation (Sports) | 60 | Full Term |
| LM Professional Dissertation | 60 | Full Term |
Optional modules:
Students must choose 40 credits from list A, then 20 credits from list B.
List A:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Applied Match Analytics and Predictive Modelling | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Applied Sports Performance Analytics | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Sport Business and Marketing Analytics | 20 | Semester 2 |
List B:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Effective Strategies for Preparation and Competition | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Evaluating Performance | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Talent Management and Development | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Applied Match Analytics and Predictive Modelling | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Applied Sports Performance Analytics | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Leading Others: From Principles to Practice | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Sport Business and Marketing Analytics | 20 | Semester 2 |
Lecturer in Biomechanics / Motor Control
Sang-Hoon has an academic and industrial background in mechanical engineering and computer science.
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.
Here is the standard offer for the course and additional requirements for students applying from India.
Applicants must normally have achieved a UK Upper Second-Class Honours degree (2:1) or international equivalent in one of the following disciplines: - Sport and Exercise Science - (Sport) Business and Marketing - Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
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.
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:
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.
Full-time
Part-time
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.
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.
At Birmingham, we believe in removing all barriers to education, so all of our talented students can achieve their full potential. That's why we've made more than £10.5 million in scholarships available for international students coming to study at Birmingham.
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
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.
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please speak to our team.
With the demand for highly skilled professionals in high performance sport growing, develop the skills to stand out in today’s competitive job market.
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.
Gain skills, confidence and experiences ready for the world of work with your dedicated careers toolkit. With Careers Network, your dedicated careers service, and the variety of opportunities available at Birmingham, you can build your own toolkit of skills and experiences to get you ready for an ever-changing world after graduation.
Your careers toolkit connects you with the opportunities, support and experiences across the university, including:
We are one of the most consistently targeted UK universities by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2026). Read more about the achievements of our alumni and the way their university experience shaped their journey.
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