Data Science - BSc (Hons)

From day one, you’ll dive straight into hands-on learning, developing practical skills with the same professional software, hardware, and digital tools used in the real world. At Keele University, the focus is on making sure what you learn is directly connected to how it’s applied outside the classroom:

You’ll get comfortable coding in Python and R—two of the most in-demand languages in data science. You’ll also build skills in data visualisation, learning how to turn complex data into clear, engaging stories that people can understand. Plus, you’ll have access to incredible facilities, including powerful supercomputers and even a VR lab, giving you unique environments to explore and interact with data.

That focus on practical, career-ready experience runs throughout the course:

In your second year, you’ll work as part of a group on a real-world style project—researching, analysing, and pulling together reports before presenting your findings to different audiences, just like you would in a professional setting.

You’ll also have the chance to take on an industry placement, either as a full year or as part of your modules, giving you valuable experience in a real workplace. On top of that, guest speakers from industry regularly share their insights, giving you a first-hand look at how your skills connect to the careers ahead of you.

Keele Data Science graduates are in demand across a wide range of fields—from business and government to healthcare and tech—because they leave with strong skills in analytics, programming, and problem-solving. Popular career options include roles like Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Data Engineer, and Machine Learning Engineer.

How Keele supports your professional journey

University services that support employment
From the very start of your degree, employability is built into your experience. You’ll take professional development modules, work on business-style problem-solving projects in your second year, hear directly from industry guest speakers, and have the option to gain valuable industry placement experience. In your final year, you’ll complete a project designed to mirror real working environments—giving you the confidence to step straight into graduate roles.

Employment stats & salary figures
According to student outcomes data, only around 5% of Data Science graduates are unemployed, and the average salary 15 months after graduation is about £27,000—a strong indicator of the value of the degree in the job market.

University–industry partnerships
While specific companies aren’t listed, the programme is shaped with real business needs in mind. You’ll benefit from employer talks, placements, and group projects that are directly informed by industry practice, all of which help you build connections and insights into potential career paths.

Long-term value
Although there isn’t a formal professional accreditation, the course is highly practical and industry-focused. That means you’ll graduate with more than just technical knowledge—you’ll also have the hands-on experience and workplace skills that employers are looking for.

Graduation outcomes
By the time you finish your degree, you’ll have advanced programming skills in Python and R, experience in data visualisation, and the ability to think critically and analytically. You’ll also have had access to cutting-edge resources like supercomputing facilities and VR labs. These strengths open doors to careers in sectors such as banking, healthcare, e-commerce, and academia, as well as the flexibility to adapt as the data industry continues to evolve.