MSc Big Data Analytics

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Sheffield Hallam University

Program Overview

The MSc in Big Data Analytics provides advanced training in handling, processing, and analysing large-scale datasets for real-world decision-making. It suits students from computing or quantitative backgrounds who want careers in data science, analytics, or big-data engineering.

Curriculum Structure

Students begin with modules such as Introduction to Programming for Big Data, Data Analytics: Tools and Techniques, and Research Skills for Computing, building core skills in programming, statistics, and data handling. Later, they progress to Advanced Programming for Big Data, Advanced Data Management Project, and a major Research or Computing Project, developing expertise in large-scale data processing, data engineering and analytical modelling.
The course concludes with a project where students design and implement a full big-data solution, applying both technical and analytical competencies.

Focus areas: “Big-data programming; data analytics; data engineering; distributed systems; applied data-science project.”

Learning outcomes: “Process and analyse complex datasets; build scalable data pipelines; apply statistical and analytical models; interpret insights; deliver an end-to-end big-data project.”

Professional alignment: Prepares graduates for roles such as data scientist, data engineer, big-data analyst, or BI specialist.

Reputation: Known for strong applied training and good graduate outcomes across tech, finance, consulting and public-sector analytics.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This programme focuses on applying advanced computing principles through practical project work in the University's modern computing facilities. You will develop professional skills using industry-standard software and development tools, working on real-world computing challenges. This hands-on approach is delivered through:

Specialist Computing Laboratories: Access to Sheffield Hallam's computing labs with high-specification workstations for software development, systems analysis, and project work.
Industry-Standard Software: Practical work with programming languages including Java, Python, and C#, plus database systems and development environments.
Substantial Individual Project: A major final project where you apply your skills to a substantial computing challenge, developing a sophisticated software solution.
Project-Based Learning: Collaborative group work and practical assignments that simulate professional software development environments.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Sheffield Hallam University's MSc Big Data Analytics master tools like SAS, R, Python, and Hadoop, securing roles in high-demand data sectors such as finance, fraud detection, and business intelligence at organizations like HSBC and the Bank of England. Hands-on projects in data mining, machine learning, and real-world analytics prepare them for senior positions worldwide. Optional 12-month placements enhance employability in data-driven industries.

Typical job roles: Data Scientist, Business Intelligence Developer, Data Analyst, Fraud Analyst.

Careers service: placements up to 12 months, career fairs, employer visits, SAP University Alliance networking
Employment stats: strong senior role progression; UK data analytics salaries £40k+ start
Partnerships: industry consultations for curriculum, live projects with real datasets
Accreditation value: SAP Student Academy credentials for big data expertise
Outcomes: roles in customer insight/credit risk at Tata/HSBC, global opportunities

Further Academic Progression: Pursue PhDs in data science/AI at Sheffield Hallam, building on dissertation research in machine learning or big data analytics.

Additional Information & Requirements

Applicants should normally have a minimum of a second class honours degree (2.2), ideally this should include a 'technical' subject such as engineering, computer science, maths or science related (such as physics, sport & exercise science).

USA- A first degree (2.7) or professional qualification recognised as being equivalent to degree standard

India- A three or four year Bachelor's degree with a minimum score of 55% to 60% or higher (from a recognised university).

IELTS- Overall: 6.0 Listening: 5.5 Speaking: 5.5 Reading: 5.5 Writing: 5.5

TOEFL iBT (including TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition): Overall: 79 Listening: 17 Speaking: 20 Reading: 18 Writing: 17

China- Four year Bachelor Degree from a recognised university with minimum 60%

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