Mathematics & Statistics - Data Analytics

MSc Data Analytics
Graduate Taught (level 9 nfq, credits 90)

This online course will help you analyse and understand the large data sets that are regularly being created via the huge growth in freely available online information.

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.

More detailed information about the programme is available on the programme 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 and 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 from 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

The Online MSc in Data Analytics covers 18 5-credit modules, two per semester over 9 semesters or 3 years, of which the Online Professional Diploma in Data Analytics covers the first 4. This first year is 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. The second year is split between understanding the theory behind statistical and mathematical models for data via predictive analytics, and dealing with data sets at scale using Python and multivariate techniques. The final year covers some advanced methods Monte Carlo, Bayesian analysis, time series data, and complex stochastic models.

Stage 1 - Option
Inference for Data Analytics (online)STAT30280
Introduction to Data Analytics (Online)STAT40720
Data Programming with R (Online)STAT40730
Multivariate Analysis (Online)STAT40740
Statistical Machine Learning (online)STAT40750
Adv Pred Analytics (online)STAT40770
Data Prog with C (online)STAT40780
Predictive Analytics I (onlineSTAT40790
Data Prog with Python (online)STAT40800
Stochastic Models (online)STAT40810
Monte Carlo (online)STAT40820
Adv Data Prog with R (online)STAT40830
Data Prog with SAS (online)STAT40840
Bayesian Analysis (online)STAT40850
Time Series (online)STAT40860
Adv Bayesian Analysis (online)STAT40950
Stat Network Analysis (online)STAT40960
Machine Learning & AI (online)STAT40970

This programme is intended for applicants with a degree in a numerate subject. An upper second class honours or international equivalent is required. Those without this requirement, but with equivalent experience in industry, will also be considered on a case by-case basis, or can apply for the Professional Certificate in Mathematics for Data Analytics and Statistics which leads directly into the Data Analytics programme.
Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent
School of Mathematics and Statistics Application Process FAQ

These are the minimum entry requirements – additional criteria may be requested for some programmes

The following entry routes are available:

MSc Data Analytics PT (F084)
Duration 3 Years Attend Part Time
Deadline Rolling*

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

3 Years Part-Time online.

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)