Data Science BSc (Hons)

Students develop practical skills using industry-standard programming languages and engaging in active, in-person learning—classes are held in labs, with many modules including laboratory sessions. They'll learn Python, R, and Java for tasks like data collection, storage, analysis, and visualization—skills essential for tackling real-world data challenges. Birkbeck adopts a flipped-classroom approach in programming modules, where you prepare in advance (by watching videos and reading) and use class time for active problem-solving—so your learning is practical and engaged.

Transitioning into the details:

Here’s what makes the experiential learning powerful and concrete at Birkbeck for this degree:

• Dedicated computer labs: Many computing modules include laboratory-based exercises in networked PC labs—so you’re coding, analyzing, and experimenting in real time.

• Course-support via Moodle: You’ll have a dedicated Moodle space for your course and individual modules, complete with course handbooks, lecture recordings, and tutorial materials. This is your go-to hub for learning and support.

• Personal tutor & learning support: Right from the start, you’re paired with a personal tutor and introduced to library services, IT support, study aids, and wellbeing resources—even before lectures begin.

• Access to Birkbeck Institute for Data Analytics (BIDA): The degree ties closely with BIDA, a research hub focusing on areas like the Threat Intelligence Lab (cyber-security), coastal environmental sensing, AI containment, and more. It’s a real doorway into applied research environments.

• Evening-friendly, flexible schedule: Classes are scheduled in the evenings (and some daytime options), keeping education accessible—and carefully designed for working students or those with daytime commitments.

• Interactive learning formats: Lecture time includes seminars, tutorials, and practical classes—not just one-way lectures—making learning collaborative and hands-on.

• Flipped-classroom engagement: You prepare before class and use lecture time actively—strengthening your practical skills like programming and data analysis.

• Supportive feedback loops: Birkbeck values student feedback; it's gathered regularly via online surveys and used to continuously refine teaching and learning quality

Graduates of Birkbeck’s BSc Data Science emerge with both the practical skills and theoretical depth to become sought-after professionals—with roles such as data scientist, machine learning engineer, quantitative analyst, or graduate software developer being common destinations.

• Which university services will help students to employ:

  • Careers and Enterprise Service acts as your career partner throughout your journey at Birkbeck and beyond, guiding you to connect your experience, education, and ambitions.

  • Micro-placements (optional modules) offer real-world workplace experience during the course.

  • Learning Development Service supports essential study skills like dissertation planning, exam prep, writing, and numerical abilities.

  • Evening timetable flexibility, including recorded lectures, ensures studying alongside work or other commitments is achievable.

• Employment stats and salary figures:

  • While no discipline-specific salary data for Data Science is publicly detailed, Birkbeck is highly regarded for graduate earnings overall: 50% of Birkbeck graduates earn over £30,000 per annum six months after graduation.

• University–industry partnerships (specific):

  • Birkbeck’s strong links with business, public and third-sector organisations are woven into teaching and research, with placements and micro-projects often involving external partners.

  • The Immersive Learning Centre (ILC) creates collaboration opportunities—students can work on real-world projects with external partners across public and private sectors using VR, 3D scanning, MoCap, and more.

• Long-term accreditation value:

  • The program is fully approved and awarded by the University of London, rooted in Birkbeck’s pioneering history in computing and data science (established 1957) and research excellence.

  • Birkbeck is ranked among the top 25 UK universities for Computer Science & Informatics research (REF 2021), underlining the academic rigour and prestige of the program.

• Graduation outcomes:

  • You’ll graduate with strong transferable skills—analytical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and project management—that open doors across roles like analytics associate, data scientist, quantitative analyst, machine learning engineer, and graduate software developer across sectors (tech, finance, healthcare, insurance, public services).

Further Academic Progression:
Once you complete the BSc Data Science, you’re well positioned to advance academically. Many graduates choose to pursue a master’s—for instance:

• MSc Data Science & AI, offering advanced training in Python, R, machine learning, NLP, neural networks, deep learning, and a substantial individual research project.

• MSc Advanced Computing (with a Data Analytics & AI pathway) and MSc Data Analytics & AI, both tailored for deep specialization in current tech trends and data analytics.