Course Structure

The course comprises six taught modules (120 CATS) plus a Summer Industry Based Placement project module (60 CATS).

Data Analytics Fundamentals
Database & Programming Fundamentals
Data Mining
Machine Learning
Frontiers in Analytics
Analytics in Action
PLUS
Individual Industry Based Project (Summer)

Full-Time/Part-Time Study Options:

The MSc in Data Analytics is available in a full-time or a part-time option.

Full-time (1 year): Consists of the six core taught modules (120 CATS points) and an Industry Based Project module (60 CATS).

Part-time (2+ years): Part-time students are normally enrolled for two years. The first year will normally comprise three taught modules (60 CATS) - Data Analytics Fundamentals, Data Mining and Frontiers in Analytics.

The second year normally comprises the remaining three taught modules (60 CATS) -
Database & Programming Fundamentals, Machine Learning, Analytics in Action PLUS the Industry Based Project module (60 units) which will take place during the Summer session (June-September).

Each module will consist of lectures/labs, helpdesk sessions and assessments and will include some background reading and preparation work.

Course Details

The aim of the programme is to offer a multi-disciplinary education in data analytics that prepares graduates with key knowledge, skills and competencies necessary for employment in analytics and data science positions. In particular, the programme aims to provide students with:

Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of statistics and computer science that underpin analytics.

Advanced knowledge and practical skills in the theory and practice of analytics.

The necessary skills, tools and techniques needed to embark on careers in data analytics and data science.

Skills in a range of practices, processes, tools and methods applicable to analytics in commercial and research contexts.

Timely exposure to, and practical experience in, a range of current software packages and emerging new applications of analytics.

Opportunities for the development of practical skills in a commercial context.

Modules

Data Analytics Fundamentals
Databases and Programming Fundamentals
Data Mining
Machine Learning
Frontiers in Data Analytics
Analytics in Action
Individual Industry Based Project

Indicative number of modules per semester: 3

Learning and Teaching

Learning opportunities available with this course are outlined below

VLE

Canvas is the university’s VLE (Virtual Learning Environment). You will be introduced to Canvas at the start of the course . You will have a unique username and password. You will have a Canvas site for each module which will work a little like a website where you can click on information to download or view it. For each module, the Canvas site will include: recorded audio/ visual lectures; readings (some of which are downloadable); video links; useful web links; discussion forums; activities. This is also where you will submit your coursework and receive feedback.

Assessment

Assessments associated with the course are outlined below:

• Coursework
• Written/Practical examinations
• Project dissertation
• Presentations

Modules

Career Prospects

Introduction

Industry forecasts indicate that Data Analytics is a growing field internationally, with job opportunities set to increase exponentially predicting growths of 160% between 2013 and 2020 (eSkills report, Big Data Analytics 2013-2020). There is a current shortage in qualified staff for these roles, which is also the case in Northern Ireland where there have been a number of recent investments and expansions in the Data Analytics sector.

The course is designed to meet the needs of Industry where graduates have the right combination of the skills and expertise in both computer science, mathematics and statistics along with the experience they gain in their individual industry based project to be highly sought after for employment.

Queen's postgraduates reap exceptional benefits. Unique initiatives, such as the leadership and executive programmes alongside sterling integration with business experts helps our students gain key leadership positions both nationally and internationally.
http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/

Prizes and Awards

Energia Data Analytics Prize - The prize consisting of a monetary award and certificate, will be awarded to the MSc Data Analytics student with the best overall performance.

Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills

In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.

Tuition Fees

Northern Ireland (NI) 1	£7,700
Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2	£7,700
England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1	£10,400
EU Other 3	£27,600
International	£27,600

¹EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.

² EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.

³ EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.

All tuition fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless stated otherwise. Tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

More information on postgraduate tuition fees.

Additional course costs

Terms and Conditions for Postgraduate applications:

1.1  Due to high demand, there is a deadline for applications. 
1.2  You will be required to pay a deposit to secure your place on the course.
1.3  This condition of offer is in addition to any academic or English language requirements.

All Students

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.

Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.

Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.

If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.

Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.

There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

How to Apply

Apply using our online Queen's Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

Apply now

Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study.
Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.

Download a prospectus