Python, Jupyter Notebooks and Tableau are among the tools named for MSc Data Science, a part-time online master’s. The university lists six 20-credit modules, covering programming, mathematics for data science, big data and cloud computing, machine learning, artificial intelligence and neural networks, and data visualisation, followed by a 60-credit Advanced Computing Project supervised in your chosen area. Ethical and legal limits on data use are also covered. Course notes mention data analyst, machine learning engineer and data scientist as possible directions, which AF Education presents as options, not promises. The next intake is November 2026. Standard entry is a UK honours degree at 2:2 or above; without one, at least five years of relevant experience may be considered. AF Education gives eligible UK home students free help applying for a Postgraduate Master’s Loan from Student Finance England.
Key facts
- Award / level
- MSc (Masters)
- Study mode
- Part time
- Schedule options
- Online
- Upcoming intake
- November 2026
- Foundation year
- Not included in this course title
- Awarding university
- Arden University
- Partner pathway
- ARDEN
Who this course is for
This suits graduates and experienced professionals who want a master’s focused on data science.
Entry routes for mature students
Standard entry is a UK honours degree at 2:2 or above, or equivalent. Without an academic qualification, at least five years of work experience, ideally in a relevant field, may be considered. AF Education confirms what applies to you.
Funding with Student Finance England
AF Education is a free service for England-resident UK home students — not international applicants. Eligible students may be able to apply for a Postgraduate Master’s Loan from Student Finance England, paid to you as a contribution towards course fees and living costs. Eligibility depends on residency, the course and any previous postgraduate study; use our free eligibility checker before you apply. For distance learning, GOV.UK says you must be living in England on the first day of the first academic year of your course.
Check your Student Finance eligibility — free, takes about 2 minutes.
How often you study
This course is delivered online, so there are no campus days to plan around. Your study plan is confirmed before you enrol.
Career and progression
AF Education does not guarantee jobs or progression. The course is designed to support specialist roles and further professional development in the subject.
Course overview from Arden University
Are you ready to launch or accelerate your career in data science and AI? The demand for qualified data scientists far exceeds the current supply, and the industry faces a significant global skills gap. Our online MSc Data Science programme is designed to bridge this gap by providing you with the relevant practical skills and expertise needed to excel in data-related roles, giving you a pathway to establishing a fulfilling and potentially lucrative career.
What you'll learn
Our data science degree covers everything from fundamental mathematical concepts to advanced topics like artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, and cloud computing. You'll master essential tools and programming languages such as Python, in addition to gaining proficiency in software tools like Jupyter Notebooks and Tableau.
You’ll also tackle real-world scenarios through our programme's individual modules. Whether you're exploring the ethical and legal constraints of data science or delving into the intricacies of machine learning and deep learning, you'll be immersed in practical applications. Our "Learn by Doing" philosophy ensures you can apply your knowledge to make meaningful business decisions using real data sets.
Course Modules
- Programming for Data Science (20 credits)
- Mathematics for Data Science (20 credits)
- Big Data and Cloud Computing (20 credits)
- Machine Learning (20 credits)
- Artificial Intelligence and Neural Networks (20 credits)
- Data Visualisation (20 credits)
- Advanced Computing Project (60 credits)
Your MSc Data Science journey culminates in the Data Science Research Project, where you’ll solve real-world data science issues through research, design, and implementation. With guidance from a supervisor in your chosen area, you'll emerge not only with a degree but also equipped with practical, industry-ready knowledge to showcase to prospective employers.
Career Pathways: Upon completing your degree, you can enter diverse career paths, including:
- Data Analyst: Dive into the world of data analysis, where you'll explore data sets, derive insights, and support data-driven decision-making.
- Machine Learning Engineer: Take on roles that involve building and deploying machine learning models to solve complex problems.
- Artificial Intelligence Specialist: Lead projects focused on creating AI-powered solutions, from chatbots to autonomous vehicles.
- Data Scientist: Utilise your expertise to uncover hidden patterns, trends, and insights, driving business strategies and innovation.
Standard entry requirements:
- A 2.2 Honours degree in a numerate subject where many of the modules were mathematics-based. Examples include, but are not limited to maths, finance, computing, science, and engineering.
- Or an equivalent 2.2 Honours degree with 18 months of relevant computing work experience.
Typical non-standard entry requirements:
- A minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience with reference and evidence.
- Your work experience should be in a data-based role, for example, finance, engineering, science, data analysis, etc. You will need to have worked with maths and/or data analysis in your current role to be eligible.
MSc Data Science is available at Online. Campus details and map links are below.
Available Campuses for MSc Data Science
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Prefer to study from home?
If an on-campus location doesn't work for you, this course also offers an online study option — so you can still progress with a flexible learning route.
Entry Requirements for Arden University (Postgraduate)
These entry requirements apply to Arden University postgraduate courses (for example MSc, MBA and postgraduate certificates). All applicants must provide supporting evidence to enrol. Standard entry A UK Honours Degree at a…
English Language Requirements for Arden University
Arden University needs evidence that your English is at the right level for the course. You can meet this through recent study in English or an accepted English test. Qualifications studied in…
Interview Process
Arden University interviews are held online on Microsoft Teams. They are a short conversation about your course choice and how you meet the entry route — not a formal exam. Before the…
See the full entry, English language and interview requirements for Arden University →
How AF Education helps
AF Education support is 100% free for students. We help you check eligibility, choose a suitable course and campus, prepare documents, and submit your application — with clear next steps for Student Finance England where relevant.
FAQs about this course
What degree do I need?
A UK honours degree at 2:2 or above, or equivalent. Without one, at least five years of relevant work experience may be considered.
How is the course delivered?
The schedule is Online (part time).
Can mature students apply?
Yes. Mature applicants are often considered through work-experience routes with a CV, references and an interview where required.
Can I get a Postgraduate Master’s Loan for this course?
AF Education gives England-resident UK home students (not international applicants) free help applying for a Postgraduate Master’s Loan from Student Finance England on eligible courses. Check your eligibility free before you apply.
Is there a final project?
Yes. The university lists a 60-credit Advanced Computing Project, supervised in your chosen area.
Register your interest
Register your interest in under 2 minutes. 100% free — we never charge you anything. A dedicated advisor will contact you to check eligibility and guide you through enrolment for MSc Data Science.
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