Data Analytics

The MSc in Data Analytics is a postgraduate masters degree course aimed at IT graduates and professionals, and graduates from cognate/numeric disciplines.



The majority of companies today realise the value of data driven business strategy and are in need of talented individuals to provide insight into the constant stream of collected information. Leveraging the value of big data for strategic advantage has become an increasingly standard business practice globally, resulting in an exponential skills shortage of data analysts. This programme aims to produce graduates who will be able to apply for roles pertaining to Data Analytics across all sectors of the economy.



Taught modules on the Masters in Data Analytics are followed by a Data Analytics project allowing students to apply their knowledge to a specialised applied Data Analytics problem which will be industry-initiated and used as the context for planning, designing, building and testing potential analytical solutions. Modules include, programming, statistics, technology enabled data analysis using machine learning and artificial intelligence, data visualisation, research and ethical studies pertaining to the field. Multiple transversal skills are also embedded throughout the programme including time management, communication, critical thinking and analysis, research, presentation as well as management and leadership development, ethics, project management and evaluation, and professional judgement.



Learners on the course will likely be IT graduates or graduates of cognate disciplines, IT professionals and/or graduates of cognate disciplines who require upskilling due to the accelerated pace of economic digital transformation.



The Masters (MSc) in Data Analytics programme will be delivered on a full-time (day) basis for the 2025/2026 academic year. Full time learners are required to attend 15 hours per week.



The programme leads to an award by QQI at Level 9 of the NFQ and consists of 60 credits of taught module work + 30 credits of an applied project.



This programme aims to provide an opportunity for successful applicants to specialise in Data Analytics at MSc level (level 9). The programme provides graduates with the skills and competencies to facilitate the ever-increasing demand for the upgrading of legacy data solutions in line with the emerging necessity for digital transformation of multiple sectors to incorporate the vast amount of data available into a more advanced and insightful model.



The programme aims to incorporate the emerging technologies of machine learning and artificial intelligence to allow graduates to have a marketable skill set for today’s technical employment environment.



Award: Master of Science (MSc) in Data Analytics

Awarding Body: Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI)

Award Level: NFQ Level 9 Major Award (90 ECTS)

Full time learners are typically required to attend three days per week. Students will also be required to undertake independent study to complete some out of class activities and assessment tasks each week.



The first two semesters comprise of the taught modules, and the third is a capstone project.



Stage 1 (Taught Stage)

Programming for Data Analytics

Statistics for Data Analysis

Data Preparation and Visualisation

Machine Learning for Data Analysis

Research and Professional Ethics

Big Data Storage and Processing

Advanced Data Analysis



Stage 2 (Project)

Data Analytics Project

CCT College Dublin has identified entry criteria and processes that will enable it to determine an applicant’s potential to succeed on the proposed programme.



The direct entry route to this programme requires applicants to evidence numerate, technical and analytical ability to a minimum of NFQ level 8 standard.



The following are accepted as appropriate evidence for direct entry:

a. An NFQ Level 8 major award, or higher, in the discipline areas of ICT/Computing, Business, Science or Engineering or cognate discipline

or

b. An NFQ Level 8 major award, along with relevant experience in the area of Data Analytics and/or professional certification, may also be considered



In both scenarios presented above, applicants will also be required to evidence ability in the application of mathematical concepts such as algebra, or spreadsheet analysis and formulas, database knowledge, for example, to a level 8 standard. This is essential to demonstrate applicants numerate, technical and analytical ability required to ensure capacity for the extent of mathematical and technical content related to the programme.



This programme is designed for individuals who have previous knowledge in computing, analytics or similar through professional experience and/or educational qualifications. This programme is not suitable for individuals with only basic computer literacy.



Prior programming experience is not essential for admission. All learners will be required to

complete the CCT Programming Induction Bootcamp. A learner who can present evidence of currency in programming using Python can apply to the Programme Leader for exemption from this element of the induction programme. Such applications should normally be made not less than 2 weeks prior to programme start.



English Language Entry Requirement: Applicants whose first language isn’t English must demonstrate a minimum competency in the English Language of CEFR B2+.



To fully engage in this programme applicants will be required to have access to the internet, a laptop or desktop PC with webcam, microphone and speakers or headset.



This is the minimum specification for laptop:



Windows 10/11 OS with a basic RAM Memory of 16GB DDR4 RAM, processor Intel i5/i7(9th Gen and above or equivalent),

Dedicated graphics card

SSD / HDD : 500GB

M1/M2 Mac Not Suitable for AI or Data Analytics Courses



Applications are also welcome from individuals who do not meet the standard entry requirements but wish to apply for entry based on prior learning (RPL) or prior experiential learning (RPEL). The College will thoroughly assess applications received through RPL and RPEL to ensure that candidates are able to evidence learning to an appropriate standard – normally the framework level equivalent to the direct entry qualifications requirement and demonstrate potential to succeed and benefit from the programme. Applications submitted on this basis will be assessed in line with the College RPL policy.

Application for part-time study via Springboard+ must be made via the Springboard+ website.



Application for full-time study can be made by emailing admissions@cct.ie

Provisional Schedule

3 days per week (contact hours delivered between 9am and 5.30pm)

Autumn (September) and Spring (February)

The programme has been designed to produce graduates with the attributes required of data specialists and analysts today and the ability to continue to develop knowledge, skill and competence to remain competitive and employable in an ever-advancing discipline. On successful completion of the MSc in Data Analytics learners may progress to further study or research opportunities.



Graduates of the MSc in Data Analytics should be able to secure professional roles at intermediate and advanced positions in data analysis across all sectors of the economy and progress to leadership or research roles using skills related to those learned in the programme curriculum. Potential roles include but are not limited to: Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Analyst, Data Scientist, Data Engineer, Quantitative Analyst, Data Analytics Consultant, Operations Analyst, Marketing Analyst, Data Project Manager, IT Systems Analyst, Transportation Logistics Analyst, Financial Data Analyst, Healthcare Data Analyst.



According to Grad Ireland, who issue regular surveys to Industry on employability trends, the graduate recruitment trends for Ireland and Northern Ireland specifically list data analytics as an area where recruiters saw one of the biggest skills shortfalls at 46%.



This programme aims to produce graduates who are technically skilled, problem solvers, professional, good communicators and effective team players as well as leaders. The graduate will also be well-placed to pursue further academic or professional study.