The MSc Advanced Data Science at Newcastle University is a one-year, full-time program designed to equip students with the skills to analyze complex datasets and extract actionable insights. It is ideal for graduates with a background in computing, mathematics, or related fields who aim to pursue careers in data science, analytics, or artificial intelligence.
Curriculum Structure
The programme is structured in three phases.
Phase 1 – Core Foundations: Students complete core modules such as Graduate Foundations of Statistics and Data Science (MAS8600), Computing Foundations of Data Science (CSC8621), Machine Learning with Project (CSC8635), Foundations of Machine Learning with Advanced Topics (MAS8607), and Image Processing (CSC8628). These modules build essential skills in statistical analysis, machine learning, computational methods, and image/data processing.
Phase 2 – Applied Projects: Students gain hands-on experience with High-Performance Computing (HPC) using Newcastle’s Rocket cluster, cloud platforms like Microsoft Azure, and big data technologies such as Apache Spark and Hadoop, often working on group projects to solve real-world data-intensive problems.
Phase 3 – Individual Project / Dissertation: The programme concludes with a substantial individual research or development project, where students apply all learned techniques using industry-standard tools and software like Python, R, TensorFlow, and PyTorch to tackle complex data challenges.
Focus areas: “Machine Learning; Deep Learning; Natural Language Processing; Computer Vision; Data Visualization; Data Engineering”
Learning outcomes: “Develop expertise in statistical analysis and machine learning; gain proficiency in data visualization and engineering; apply advanced AI techniques to real-world problems; complete an independent research or development project.”
Professional alignment (accreditation): The program is guided by an Industrial Advisory Board, including representatives from Google, Meta, JP Morgan, and PwC, ensuring alignment with industry standards and expectations.
Reputation (employability rankings): Newcastle University is recognized as an Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security and leads the National Edge AI Hub, highlighting its strong reputation in data science and AI education.
This programme focuses on applying advanced data science techniques to complex, large-scale problems using the University's high-performance computing resources. You will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and platforms for managing and analysing big data. This practical approach is delivered through:
High-Performance Computing (HPC): You will use Newcastle University's High-Performance Computing cluster, Rocket, for processing large datasets and running complex computational models.
Cloud and Big Data Platforms: The curriculum includes practical work with major cloud platforms like Microsoft Azure and big data technologies such as Apache Spark and Hadoop.
Substantial Individual Project: A core component is a significant research project where you will tackle a substantial data-intensive problem, applying the full spectrum of skills learned during the programme.
Industry-Standard Software: You will work extensively with data science programming languages and libraries, including Python, R, TensorFlow, and PyTorch.
Graduates of the MSc Advanced Data Science at Newcastle University enjoy diverse career opportunities in roles such as software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, and machine learning engineers. This program equips students with advanced skills in emerging technologies and research, positioning them for leadership and specialist roles in technology-driven industries.
Specifically:
Newcastle’s Careers Service offers tailored support including one-on-one career counseling, CV and interview preparation workshops, and access to employer networking events with leading tech firms like Meta, Airbus, IBM, and JP Morgan.
Graduate employment rates are strong, supported by industry links that ensure teaching content aligns with current technological trends, fostering skills highly sought after by employers.
The School of Computing collaborates with a range of partners through its Industrial Advisory Board, providing students with exposure to real-world projects and internships.
The program holds accreditation from the British Computer Society (BCS), supporting progression to Chartered IT Professional (CITP) and Chartered Engineer (CEng) professional statuses.
Alumni have secured roles worldwide in software development, cyber security, AI research, and data science positions, with some also advancing to PhD research.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may pursue doctoral studies at Newcastle University or other top institutions, specializing further in areas such as AI, cyber security, or software engineering, leveraging their MSc knowledge and research experience for cutting-edge academic or industrial research careers.



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