Applied Social Data Science

Course Overview

The MSc in Applied Social Data Science is a one-year, full-time programme which introduces students to fundamentals in quantitative social science research methods and state-of-the-art analytic approaches from the fields of statistics and machine learning. Graduates of the course will acquire a rich repertoire of social scientific research design skills grounded in the scientific method and data analytic methods that are widely sought after in the private, public, and non-profit sectors.



Is this course for me?

The programme is based in Ireland’s highest ranked Department of Political Science. Our department enjoys a strong reputation internationally for its staff who rely on quantitative research methods, and who are well published in leading peer-reviewed academic journals. Staff research agendas include core skills offered in the Applied Social Data Science programme, including computer programming, statistical modelling, machine learning, quantitative text analysis and forecasting.



- You will acquire fluency in widely used programming languages and gain the skills to collect and manage big data-sets.



- You will learn how to apply and critically assess computational and statistical models to solve real-world social problems.



- Seminars and class discussions will provide you the opportunities to enhance your critical thinking skills and acquire an in-depth understanding of quantitative social scientific research.

First Semester: To start the course, you will take modules in computer programming, applied statistical analysis and research design.



Second Semester: Next, you will dig deeper by taking modules in machine learning, forecasting methods, and quantitative text analysis.



Dissertation: Finally, you will complete a key piece of research related to your field of study over the summer months.

Admission Requirements

- Admission to the course is competitive. Applicants will be expected to hold an upper second class honours (2:1) degree or higher from an established university. A background in a social science discipline or computer science, statistics, or other related discipline will be an advantage but is not required. Applications are expected from candidates who wish to acquire practical knowledge in using cutting-edge statistical methods to answer social scientific questions.



- GPA scores of at least 3.3 out of 4, or equivalent, will be expected from international applicants.



English Language Requirements

All applicants to Trinity are required to provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language. Applicants to this course are required to meet Band B (Standard Entry) English language requirements. For more details of qualifications that meet Band B, see the English Language Requirements page

Closing Date: 31st July 2025

1 year full-time.

Next Intake: September 2025

Career Opportunities

This course will enable students to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for further clinical training, or a career in clinical research or further academic research. Our programmes also deliver training that will enhance your opportunities to gain employment as a counsellor, developmental psychologist and educational psychologist, among many other psychology-related careers.