Data Science

What is the programme about?
The MSc in Data Science NFQ Level 9 programme is designed to meet current industry needs and provides students with a thorough theoretical and practical grounding in the analysis and utilisation of large data sets, together with experience in conducting data science development projects, thereby preparing graduates for positions of responsibility in the Big Data and IT industries.

As well as studying a range of core taught modules, learners will undertake a significant research and/ or programming project to further enhance their skillset from the creation of a project proposal to the delivery and deployment of a significant data science project.

This innovative programme will build on participants' professional and personal skills in areas such as presentation, communication and soft skills as well as data science development, integration and critical thinking around the design, implementation and deployment of data science solutions and systems in industry.

Assessing the Demand for Big Data and Analytics Skills, 2013-2020, Report by Forfas & Expert Group on Future Skills Needs, 2014.

'Currently, North America and Europe have the largest share of new data stored globally. However, one of the crucial constraints with the exponential growth of big data is the challenge in finding and attracting the talent needed. Previously cited analysis suggests that there will be a global shortage of the big data and analytical skills needed to take advantage of potential growth. With a forecasted shortfall of 140,000 to 190,000 people with deep-analytical skills and a further 1.5 million datasavvy managers and analysts by 2018 in the US alone, it is seen that the 'race' for data analytics talent is on.'

What subjects will I study?
Programming for Data Scientists
Data and Data Storage Technology
Statistics for Data Science
Research Methods
Infrastructure for Big Data
Data Analytics and Algorithms
Data Visualisation and Insight
Project/Dissertation

Applicants must have obtained a second class honours
level 8 primary degree (or equivalent) in computer science
or mathematical sciences or hold a degree with a strong
numerate content (e.g. engineering, finance, physics,
biosciences or economics). Applicants who do not meet the
above standard entry requirements will also be considered
if they have an undergraduate degree (at Level 7 or Level
8) and a minimum of 5 years verifiable relevant industrial
experience. Applicants who do not have a primary degree
will only be considered with a minimum of 10 years verifiable
relevant industrial experience.

1 year full-time.

What will I be able to do when I finish this programme?
The aim of this programme is to provide learners with an understanding and ability to critically evaluate and utilise data analytics and the associated processes, systems, algorithms, technologies and insights garnered, ethically, in appropriate contexts. The programme also focuses on current research in the field and enables participants to review and critically assess this research.

What follow-on study opportunities are available?
Successful graduates from this programme may progress to undertake specific data science research programmes at level 9 or level 10 within the GameCORE research centre at Institute of Technology Carlow. A number of the development team for this programme are also attached to GameCORE and are engaged in data focused research and research supervision.

Graduates will have progression opportunities to other NFQ level 9 and Level 10 programmes. Students who successfully complete the necessary 60 credits of the programme will be eligible for the Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Level 9) should they opt to leave the programme (Embedded Exit Award).

Potential employment opportunities
Data scientists who have successfully completed this programme are equipped to work in ICT, finance, business, insurance, marketing and retail, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, telecommunication, media, sports and other sectors. The programme delivers rounded graduates for technical development and/or data science management positions in the previously mentioned sectors.