Data Analytics

ProfDip Data Analytics
Graduate Taught (level 9 nfq, credits 20)

The MSc and Professional Diploma in Data Analytics from the UCD School of Mathematics and Statistics will help you to analyse and understand the large data sets that are being created via the huge growth in online information. The value of these data sets is being increasingly recognised in business circles, with many companies seeking to recruit individuals with skills in data analytics to extract the valuable insights contained therein. Data Analytics is at the crossroads between statistics and computer science, and our courses contain elements of both. We will give you the tools to apply advanced skills from these fields to maximum effect in any work-related, "big data", environment. There are no lectures to attend as the courses are delivered completely online. Students will attend UCD at the end of each semester for exams.

For detailed information about the programme see: programme website or email dataanalyticsonline@ucd.ie with any queries.

There is a huge ongoing growth in demand for graduates with these valuable skills in a wide range of industries, and currently a shortage of qualified graduates.

Students will be given videos, online demonstrations, and interactive games to enhance their learning, with regular feedback and interaction via course tutors through the UCD website.

Who should apply?
Part Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants currently residing outside of the EEA Region. Yes

Vision & Values Statement
This programme is aimed at students who wish to develop a career or further studies in data analytics and related disciplines. We encourage our students to have a passion for analysing large data sets, and to be autonomous learners who have a creative and critical approach to data analytics. We aim to provide a learning environment that will encourage students to constructively solve data problems in real-world situations, using a variety of software, and to tailor such solutions to individual data sets as they arise.

Online learning is a key feature of the programme, and we provide online videos and discussion boards, always backed-up by individual feedback form lecturers and tutors. At the most advanced levels of the programme, students are encouraged and expected to use and apply cutting-edge techniques from the latest research in their work. As a result of this approach to learning, the modules are assessed using a variety of tools including online assessment, individual project work to examine software-based skills, and written examinations to test mathematical ability.

Programme Outcomes
-Ability to present technical material at a level appropriate for the audience
-Approach problems in an analytical, precise and rigorous way
-Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the key skills required by a practicing data analyst, including data collection methods, statistical method development, knowledge and application of machine learning techniques.
-Demonstrate strong proficiency in computational methods, including computer programming and scientific visualization
-Model real-world problems in a statistical framework
-Use the language of logic to reason correctly and make deductions

Subjects taught

The Online Professional Diploma in Data Analytics covers 4 5-credit modules. These modules are designed to introduce you to statistical and mathematical concepts in Data Analytics and Statistical Machine Learning, and to get you started on programming with data.

Core
Inference for Data Analytics (online)STAT30280
Introduction to Data Analytics (Online)STAT40720
Data Programming with R (Online)STAT40730
Statistical Machine Learning (online)STAT40750

Entry requirements

For entry to the Professional Diploma in Data Analytics (LEVEL 9), students must have obtained an undergraduate (NFQ Level 8 ) or masters degree to standard 2:1 in a subject with some quantitative elements. Those with a lesser qualification award and/or no numerate subject degree, but with substantial industry experience related to the area, or relevant professional qualifications, will also be considered on a case by case basis.

A rough guide to the mathematics we expect you to know on entry is available online : Self Assessment Quiz

Application dates

The following entry routes are available:

Professional Diploma Data Analytics PT (F057)
Duration 1 Years
Attend Part Time
Deadline Rolling*

* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised

Duration

1 year part-time

Post Course Info

Careers & Employability
Data Analysts are in strong demand from industry; those who are successful in completing the course are highly employable in fields as diverse as pharmaceuticals, finance and insurance, as well as cloud computing. Prospective employers include any company that requires detailed, robust analysis of data sets. Some examples include:

• ICT companies (e.g., Google, eBay, Facebook, Amazon, Paddy Power)

• The pharmaceutical industry (e.g., Janssen, Merck, GSK)

• The financial services industry (e.g., Bank of Ireland, AXA, EY, Accenture, Deloitte)