MSc Social Data Science

The MSc Social Data Science at the University of Exeter offers a practical and industry-focused learning experience by combining social science expertise with advanced data analysis methods. Students develop hands-on skills in collecting, analysing, visualising, and interpreting social data while applying computational approaches to real-world social and policy challenges. Through software training, research projects, consultancy-style activities, and collaborative learning, students gain the technical and professional abilities needed for careers in data analytics, research, government, and industry.

Students gain practical experience through specialist training, applied research, and data-focused projects:

• Hands-on training with statistical and programming tools such as R, Stata, and Python, enabling students to apply data analysis methods to social research and policy-related challenges.

• Practical experience through the Policy Analytics: Dissertation or Research Consultancy Project, where students apply their knowledge to an independent research topic or a consultancy-style project focused on real-world issues.

• Opportunities to complete a work placement, allowing students to gain professional experience with organisations in sectors such as government, NGOs, and industry.

• Development of data communication skills through Data Visualisation, helping students learn how to present complex research findings clearly and effectively.

• Collaborative learning through seminars, presentations, group activities, reading discussions, and written assignments, helping students build teamwork and communication skills.

• Access to the Centre for Computational Social Science (C2S2), where students engage with research and training in computational methods, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and social data analysis.

• Use of the Computational Social Science Lab in the Clayden Building, which provides specialist facilities and computing resources for postgraduate teaching and research activities.

• Opportunities to strengthen quantitative skills through Applied Data Analysis workshops and additional support provided for developing research and analytical abilities.

• Access to academic guidance through specialist support such as statistics assistance, helping students improve their confidence with quantitative research methods.

• Opportunities to engage with researchers, academics, and professionals working in social data science, allowing students to gain insights into current research and industry practices.

The MSc Social Data Science at the University of Exeter prepares graduates for careers that combine data analysis, social research, and evidence-based decision-making across a range of sectors. The programme develops technical, analytical, research, and policy skills, enabling graduates to pursue roles such as Data Analyst, Policy Analyst, Social Data Scientist, and Research Consultant. Graduates can progress into opportunities with government departments, research organisations, NGOs, financial institutions, technology companies, and policy-focused organisations.

The programme supports students in building successful career pathways through professional experience, employability support, and industry engagement:

• Access to the University of Exeter’s Career Zone, which provides career advice, employer connections, CV and application support, interview preparation, skills workshops, and resources to help students achieve their career goals.

• Opportunities to gain professional experience through an optional three to six week work placement, allowing students to apply their data science skills in real workplace environments across public sector organisations, NGOs, and industry.

• The opportunity to complete an industry-based research consultancy project, where students work on practical research questions and apply data analysis methods to real-world challenges.

• Development of highly valued skills including programming, statistical analysis, data visualisation, research methods, policy analysis, communication, and interpreting complex datasets.

• Opportunities to engage with organisations connected to data-driven decision-making, with previous graduate destinations including the Office for National Statistics Data Science Campus, YouGov, the Financial Conduct Authority, and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

• The programme provides long-term career value by combining social science expertise with technical data skills, creating opportunities across government, business, research, technology, and policy sectors.

• The University of Exeter does not publish specific employment rates or salary figures for MSc Social Data Science graduates; however, the programme highlights graduate progression into data science, analytics, research, and policy-related roles.

• Graduates are prepared to work in sectors where professionals who can analyse data, generate insights, and support evidence-based decisions are increasingly valued.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Social Data Science, students can continue their studies through advanced research programmes such as a PhD or other research degrees in areas including social data science, computational social science, data analytics, public policy, sociology, politics, and related disciplines. The dissertation and research consultancy experience provide a strong foundation for students interested in doctoral study, academic research, or specialist research careers.