Data Science BSc (Hons)

What will I study each year on the BSc in Data Science?

In your first year, you will study computer science essentials like computational thinking, programming and computing fundamentals. You will also get introduced to data and AI.

Thanks to some shared modules, you’ll get to know other students on our computer science degrees and make connections between the different topics we teach.

In second and final year, you become a specialist, focusing almost entirely on data science. You will study data mining, algorithms and data structures, and data visualisation, and have the chance to spend up to half your time on a consultancy project in based on real-world contexts, getting real-life experience.

Your final year makes you an expert, ready for the world of work. You study data security and governance, Big Data, and complete a group computing project with fellow students.

You also complete your dissertation. This is your chance to impress employers by designing, building and evaluating your own data science product.

How will I be assessed during my degree?

During your course, the assessments are designed to help you develop the knowledge, understanding and skills required of a computer science graduate. You will be assessed through a variety of different methods including exams, reports, presentations, individual, group and project work.

• See all the Modules for this course

Who teaches the BSc in Data Science?

You will be taught by a range of academic staff who bring a wealth of professional experience from the computer science sector. What you study is shaped by their research, which is classed as both ‘world-leading’ and ‘internationally excellent’ (REF, 2021).

As well as teaching you and conducting research, your tutors work with other organisations and regularly publish work in prestigious publications, contributing solutions to business computing challenges.

Computer Science programmes at Northumbria take place in a dynamic learning environment where you will have access to an expert team of staff - developing in-depth technical expertise as well as career-ready skills like teamwork, communication and critical thinking.

 View all Staff profiles.

Where will I study?

The Computer Science facilities at Northumbria will provide you with a wide range of learning opportunities in a challenging, stimulating and dynamic learning environment.

During your studies, you will have the opportunity to access state of the art facilities and equipment which will encourage your individual intellectual freedom and allow your creative vision to become a reality. Our £7m Computer and Information Sciences building was opened in 2018, especially for our computing students, and it is packed with high quality services to support your learning.

You will have access to dedicated computing areas which you can use during free periods and into the evenings and weekends. These areas are useful spaces for completing your coursework, stocked with the latest PC, Mac and Linux machines. Plus, our award-winning Library has lots of resources and study spaces to support your learning, with professional support services for students at all levels of study.

Eco-friendly building

We are proud to say that the Computer and Information Science building at Northumbria University is a sustainable ‘Smart Building’, which is able to run itself efficiently and sustainably. This ‘Living Lab’ supports student learning and provides useful links between sustainability and technology.

Institute of Coding Partnership

Northumbria also contributes to the Institute of Coding - a £40m collaboration between 25 UK universities – delivering education to people of all ages, helping them gain the skills they need to become the next generation of digital talent.

How does BSc (Hons) Data Science apply its research focus to teaching?

We are living in a digital age where all of our lives are impacted by computer sciences and digital technologies, from cyber security and computational intelligence to games and visual effects, meaning it is essential that research continues to broaden our understanding.

In studying Computer Sciences at Northumbria University, you will be immersed in a research-rich environment with new and exciting insights into the discipline by our rapidly expanding Computer and Information Science research groups, helping to overcome challenges and understand the future of technology.

You will be taught by staff with a strong academic background in research-informed areas.

With access to diverse research work carried out by our expert academic staff, we seek to promote innovative and excellent learning and teaching practice, which will improve your student experience here at Northumbria.

What job can I get with a degree in Data Science?

As a graduate in Data Science, you’re going to be in high demand. As more and more businesses need to adapt to technological advances, the demand for data science skills increases. Your future career options include: Data Analyst, Data Architect, Data Scientist, Information Officer/CIO, Business Intelligence Analyst, Big Data Solutions Architect, Database Manager, Data Modeller, and more.

Plus, since lots of different industries need data science skills, you could choose to work in sectors like: Financial services, Healthcare, Technology, Marketing, Government, Military, Agriculture, Gaming, and Retail.

Studying Data Science at Northumbria doesn’t limit you to only Data Science roles, however. With the skills and knowledge gained through Computer Science modules, you may also be qualified for a wider range of careers. For example: programmer, software developer, web developer, UX professional, researcher, and more.

What skills will I develop for my future career?

You will graduate with specialist skills and knowledge in: Big Data, Data mining, Data structures, Data security, Algorithms, and more. As well as essential professional skills such as effective communication, problem solving, informational literacy, and teamwork.

Will I get work experience on my Data Science degree?

Yes. You will have the chance to take up to a year-long work placement. This will give you a real head-start in your career because you will understand how your learning applies to real-life problems that businesses face, have more confidence about working life and what it involves, and could gain valuable contacts.

Thanks to Northumbria’s excellent professional links, you will have the opportunity to apply for a placement in the public or private sector, in the UK or abroad. Previous students from across the department have been on placement with blue-chip companies such as Hewlett Packard and GlaxoSmithKline and at CERN in Geneva.

An alternative option for your third year could be study abroad. This option allows you to get a global perspective on your subject, which could pave the way for an international career in the future.