Data Science & Engineering MSc

15 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Dundee

Program Overview

Course Overview

The MSc in Data Science and Engineering at the University of Dundee is designed for students who want to master both the science and the systems behind data. It blends theory with practical skills, preparing you to work with complex data, build data-driven systems, and use analytical tools to support real-world decision-making.

You’ll learn how to collect, process, and manage data effectively, while also exploring how data can be used to solve challenges in areas such as healthcare, sustainability, business, and technology. The course places equal emphasis on both data science (analysis, modelling, and interpretation) and data engineering (building systems and pipelines to handle large-scale data).

What You’ll Study

Throughout the year, you’ll take modules that help you:

Understand how to build data infrastructure and pipelines.
Analyse complex datasets using machine learning and AI tools.
Work with real-world datasets to solve current industry problems.
Develop your research and project management skills.

The final part of the course is an independent research or industry-focused project, where you’ll tackle a real problem using the knowledge and skills gained during your studies.

Why Choose Dundee?

The University of Dundee is recognised for its strong reputation in computer science. According to recent UK rankings, its research in this field has been rated “world-leading” or “internationally excellent,” and the university is ranked among the top ten in the UK for Computer Science and Informatics.

The course is taught by experienced academics and researchers who bring practical insights from their work in data science and engineering. You’ll benefit from a collaborative learning environment, access to modern computing facilities, and opportunities to apply your knowledge to practical problems.

Entry and Duration

Start Dates: September and January intakes each year
Duration: 12 months full-time
Location: Dundee City Campus, Scotland

The programme is ideal for graduates from computing, engineering, mathematics, or related technical disciplines who want to advance into data-focused roles.

Career Prospects

Graduates from this MSc are well-prepared for roles such as:

Data Engineer
Data Scientist
Machine Learning Specialist
Business Intelligence or Analytics Consultant

The skills you gain will also prepare you for further research or PhD study, as well as data-driven roles across industries such as healthcare, finance, and technology.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Dundee, learning isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — it’s about rolling up your sleeves and working with real data and real problems. You’ll get hands-on experience building data pipelines, analyzing complex datasets, and creating intelligent systems that could be used in industry. The program is designed so you’re constantly applying what you learn, using professional tools and collaborating with peers and researchers in a supportive environment.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience:

Work with industry-standard software: Get familiar with tools like MongoDB, Neo4j, Cassandra, and big data platforms like Hadoop and Spark.
Tackle real-world datasets: Past projects have included things like AI-driven skin cancer detection and analyzing market data for business insights.
Complete a major project: The MSc project lets you take a problem from start to finish — design, implement, and present your solution professionally.
Collaborate and learn in groups: Tutorials, seminars, and talks from industry experts help you connect theory with practical applications.
Use advanced computing facilities: Access the High Performance Computing and Computational Modelling centre and other well-equipped labs to support your work.
Engage with a vibrant community: Learn alongside academic researchers and fellow students in AI, analytics, and software systems — a real opportunity to collaborate and innovate.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduate outcomes: Completing this MSc prepares you for exciting roles like Data Scientist, Data Engineer, Analytics Consultant, or Machine Learning Engineer. You’ll gain the skills to turn complex data into clear insights, build large-scale data systems, and influence decisions in both business and technology—entering a field that’s growing fast and highly in demand.

Future progression & opportunities:

University support: Dundee’s Careers Service will guide you every step of the way, from CV workshops and interview prep to networking events and recruitment fairs, helping you land your first role. Around 91% of Dundee graduates find employment or continue studying within 15 months.
Employment prospects: Data science is booming, with roles projected to grow up to 40% by 2031, offering strong job security and competitive salaries.
Industry experience: You’ll get hands-on experience with real-world projects, including AI applications like skin cancer detection and market-data integration, giving you practical skills valued by employers.
Accreditation and reputation: Dundee’s School of Science & Engineering is ranked 7th in the UK for Computer Science, so your degree carries lasting recognition.
Career outcomes: Graduates typically step into roles as Data Scientists, Data Engineers, Machine Learning Experts, or Analytics Consultants.

Further Academic Progression:
After your MSc, you could pursue a PhD in areas like Machine Learning, AI, or Data Systems, or take a specialised postgraduate certificate/diploma in fields such as Big Data Analytics or Business Intelligence. This would strengthen your expertise even further and open doors to senior technical, research, or leadership positions in industry or academia.