Computer Science - Data Analytics

This programme is aimed at graduates with a primary qualification in Computer Science or related subject area. It is not a conversion course, and students are expected to be already at a very high technical standard with regard to the technical elements of their computing background.



What will I study?



The MSc is a 90-ECTS course with three main elements: core modules (40 ECTS), optional modules (20 ECTS), and a substantial capstone thesis project (30 ECTS).



From Semester 2 wards, students work on individual projects and submit them in August. Projects may have a research or applied focus.



In addition to completing a range of advanced modules, students will then reinforce their newly gained skills through a 30-credit project that is completed during the summer and evaluated through a thesis (minor dissertation) format. For these projects, students work directly with an academic supervisor in their chosen area of specialisation, while they also can pursue the opportunity to collaborate with research groups across University of Galway or with an industry partner.

Year 1 (90 Credits)



Optional MP305: Modelling I - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional CT5105: Tools and Techniques for Large Scale Data Analytics - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional ST311: Applied Statistics I - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional MA284: Discrete Mathematics - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional CT561: Systems Modelling and Simulation - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional ST2001: Statistics for Data Science 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Required CT4100: Information Retrieval - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Required CT5102: Programming for Data Analytics - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Required CT5120: Introduction to Natural Language Processing - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Required CT5108: Data Analytics Project - 30 Credits - Semester 1

Required CT5165: Principles of Machine Learning - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional ST312: Applied Statistics II - 5 Credits -



Semester 2

Optional EE551: Embedded Image Processing - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional CT5121: Advanced Topics in Natural Language Processing - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional CT5166: Knowledge Graphs - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional ST2002: Statistics for Data Science 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Required CT5100: Data Visualisation - 5 Credits -



Semester 2

Required CT5113: Web and Network Science - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Required CT5133: Deep Learning - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Required CT5103: Case Studies in Data Analytics - 5 Credits - Semester 2

This MSc is targeted at high-performing graduates of Level 8 computer science programmes, or Level 8 science/engineering programmes that offer sufficient training in computing. The minimum academic requirement for entry to the programme is a First Class Honours (or equivalent) from a recognised university or third-level college. However, a good Second Class Honours (or equivalent) can be deemed sufficient on the recommendation of the Programme Director.

Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.



An application requires a registration fee of €35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).

1 year, full-time.

Next start date: September 2026

This is a distinctive programme that is closely aligned to the research and teaching expertise of the School of Computer Science and the Digital Science Institute in University of Galway.

Graduates of this programme are waived a year from their studies on the University of Galway Structured PhD Programme in Computer Science to reflect their completion of advanced computing modules through the MSc Data Analytics.

Demand for graduates from this programme in industry is very strong both locally, nationally and internationally.

Due to the nature of this programme, it is seen as the almost perfect preparation and route into a PhD in Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence or Data Analytics/Science. Graduates from this programme have been hugely successful in pursuing highly prestigious and competitive PhD Scholarships as a result of their MSc Data Analytics qualifications. Many of these graduates can then pursue careers in research and development, academia and a host of consulting and leading industry roles.