Postgraduate taught programme
Planned new course
MSc
Data Science
MSc Data Science equips you with skills in machine learning, computer vision, and data ethics. Using real datasets and industry tools, you’ll build a strong portfolio and graduate ready for careers in AI, data analysis, and innovation across sectors.Future-focused curriculum
Study a curriculum designed to prepare you for a thriving career in industry, research or policy, shaping the future of data-driven innovation.
Cutting-edge facilities
Explore hands-on projects using real datasets and industry tools, with access to cutting-edge labs and specialist AI resources.
Graduate career-ready
This course blends academic depth with real-world datasets and industry tools, building a strong portfolio through applied projects and a dissertation.
Details
Two-year part-time options (September or January start)
- September start
Stage 1: 21 Sept 2026 – 17 Sept 2027
Stage 2: 20 Sept 2027 – 15 Sept 2028 - January start
Stage 1: 18 Jan 2027 – 14 Jan 2028
Stage 2: 17 Jan 2028 – 12 Jan 2029
Athena Swan Silver awarded to the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics
Careers, industry and research
This programme provides a strong foundation for those eager to enter the dynamic and rapidly growing field of data science. With a curriculum that integrates cutting-edge research and hands-on practical training, our programme ensures that you are well-equipped to pursue a wide range of career options.
Graduates are prepared for roles such as data scientist, data architect, strategic manager, systems analyst, and more - all within a sector currently facing a significant skills shortage. Whether you aim to work in industry, government, or academia, our approach to teaching and career development provides you with the tools and support needed to succeed in this fast-evolving field.
Our specialist labs aid our research-driven, hands-on teaching
Our dedicated Computer Science hub provides a dedicated space for our community of students, staff and technicians.
We also have dedicated artificial intelligence, games development, cyber security and software engineering labs to support our suite of specialist degrees.
Research-informed teaching
Learn from researchers and lecturers who are developing applications
Benefit from our industry expertise and study a course that is influenced by our innovative research.
We have active research projects that are key to some of the industry's most pressing issues. Active core members of these research groups make up a large proportion of your lecturers and tutors, and you will be taught be some of the best academics in the field.
Dr Lauren Ansell
Lecturer in Data Science
Dr Nancy Girdhar
Lecturer in Computer Science
Dr Craig McNeile
Lecturer in Theoretical Physics
Postgraduate student life
Postgraduate study at the University of Plymouth is about more than just getting a qualification — it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options — including part-time and January start dates — you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.
Joyita
MSc Advanced Psychology
MSc Advanced Psychology
Your Plymouth community
At the University of Plymouth, you get the same access to support, sports, and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Plymouth community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer — get involved, stay connected, and make the most of your time here.
Your societies
The University of Plymouth Computing Society is the perfect place for postgraduate students to explore, innovate, and connect. Join collaborative coding sessions to enhance your skills, learn from industry guest speakers, and build valuable connections with peers, alumni, and tech professionals — all opening doors to career opportunities and collaborations.
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Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£11,700 per year
£11,700 per year
Part-time study
£650 per 10 credits
£650 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
Fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£21,000 per year
£21,000 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Masters Loan to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
A 2:2 degree or equivalent any discipline. Relevant workplace experience will also be considered.
If English is not your first language you need to achieve a 6.5 IELTS with a minimum of 5.5 in any element in a secure English language test.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
8262
8262
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
BSearch entry requirements for your country
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Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the University of Plymouth or
through an agent
in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- Student visa support
- Travel and arrival information
- and more
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
8262
8262
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening
Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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