Data Analytics (Online)

Overview

Data is no longer a by-product of business. It's the raw material decisions are made from. Organisations across every sector are generating more of it than they can make sense of - and the demand for people who can is outpacing supply.



This programme is for graduates and professionals who want to work at the technical and strategic heart of that challenge. Whether you're coming from a computing, engineering, science, or analytics background, the MSc in Data Analytics at Dublin Business School builds the advanced skills to move you into roles where data-driven decisions drive the strategy of your organisation.



It's fully online and designed for people who need to keep working while they study.*



Who it's for

This programme suits you if you have a technical or analytical background and want to develop specialist expertise in data science, machine learning, and applied analytics. It's particularly well suited to graduates in computer science, engineering, mathematics, statistics, or information systems, as well as professionals already working with data who want the postgraduate qualification and advanced capability to move into more senior roles.



The online format means you won't need to step back from your career to complete it.



What you'll develop

The programme builds capability across four areas that define high-level data analytics practice.



● Technical proficiency - from the foundations of programming for analytics through to applied machine learning and AI, you'll develop the hands-on skills to gather, process, analyse, and visualise complex data sets.



● Statistical and analytical depth - dedicated modules in statistics and machine learning and pattern recognition give you the rigorous methodological grounding that separates data analysts from data scientists.



● Applied expertise - modules in Applied Machine Learning and AI, Data Storage Solutions, and Data Visualisation take your skills into the real-world contexts where they'll be used.



● Research capability - two research methods modules develop the independent inquiry and evidence-based problem-solving skills required for senior roles and further study.



How it's delivered

Teaching combines live, scheduled online sessions with self-paced content you work through in your own time. The split varies by module credit weight - 5 ECTS modules typically involve four live sessions of 1.5 hours supported by eight asynchronous sessions of equivalent length; 10 ECTS modules scale proportionally. The programme is structured so you can maintain your professional commitments alongside your studies.



You'll need a laptop or desktop computer with a supported Windows operating system, 8GB RAM, and a reliable internet connection.

The programme is 90 ECTS, delivered across four taught semesters followed by a final capstone project.

Number /Module Name /Semester

1 Programming for Analytics 1

2 Statistics for Data Analytics 1

3 Machine Learning & Pattern Recognition 2

4 Research Methods 2

5 Applied Machine Learning and AI 3

6 Data Storage Solutions for Data Analytics 4

7 Data Visualisation 3

8 Applied Research Methods 4

9 Applied Research Project / Dissertation (elective) 5

The minimum entry requirement is a Level 8 honours bachelor's degree with a Second Class Honours Grade 2 (2.2) award or above in a cognate discipline. Cognate subjects include:



● Computer Science

● Data Science or Data Analytics

● Mathematics or Statistics

● Engineering

● Information Systems or Networking

● General Science or Technology



A Level 8 Higher Diploma with a minimum 2.2 in a cognate area is also accepted. Applicants with a 2.2 Level 8 degree in a non-cognate discipline may also be considered with three to five years of relevant professional experience - these applications are assessed individually.



Due to the mathematical nature of the programme, all applicants must demonstrate sufficient competency in mathematics, equivalent to a minimum of 10 ECTS in mathematics or statistics within their primary degree, acquired within the last ten years.



If English is not your first language and your undergraduate degree was not taught in English, you'll also need to provide:



● Evidence of B2+ proficiency on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

● A recognised test certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) dated within the last two years



Non-EU applicants living outside Ireland should apply directly to the DBS International Admissions Office.



*Subject to validation.

Online, Part-time: 2 Years

Next Intakes:

September 2026

January 2027

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc in Data Analytics are positioned for roles in one of the fastest-growing professional fields in Ireland and internationally. Common destinations include:



● Data Analytics Specialist

● Data Scientist

● Data Engineer

● Machine Learning Engineer

● Business Intelligence Analyst



These roles are in demand across financial services, technology, healthcare, retail, and the public sector - anywhere organisations are using data to inform strategy and operations.



Beyond these entry points, the programme's emphasis on strategic decision-making, leadership, and applied research positions graduates well for senior roles involving complex problem-solving, organisational change, and data strategy at executive level.