Master of Science in Data Analytics
MSc (Online)
Study a flexible, affordable postgraduate data analytics degree with a globally ranked university and experts in online learning.
With Aston Online, online learners benefit from an immersive learning experience, dedicated support services, and a world-class digital campus. Unlock the stories behind the numbers with a curriculum to empower graduates to transform data into opportunities and drive meaningful impact in their careers.
Programme Overview
This MSc programme focuses on developing a systematic understanding of data analytics, providing you with the knowledge and skill set to plan, design and implement appropriate data analytics solutions in practical scenarios. With a broad knowledge of data analytics techniques and the intellectual skills to create well-justified solutions, you will be prepared for future challenges in the field of data analytics.
College of Engineering and Physical Sciences: The College of Engineering and Physical Sciences (EPS) at Aston University is a hub of teaching and research excellence, engaging in collaborative and impactful research throughout our institutes and schools.
Top 25 UK University: Aston University is ranked 21st in the UK in the Guardian University Guide 2025.
Runner Up for Graduate Employment: Aston University is the University of the Year Runner Up for Graduate Employment in The Times and Sunday Times University Guide 2024. Aston University is ranked at 18 for graduate prospects and at 22 for continuation rate.
Outstanding graduate employability: Our employed graduates achieved the 16th largest median salary in the UK out of all Higher Education Institutions five years after graduation (Longitudinal Education Outcomes, 2022), and we are ranked in the UK top 10 for graduate career satisfaction 15 months after graduation (‘Graduate Prospects-On-Track’, Complete University Guide, 2024.)
Excellence in teaching and research: Rated 79% in the REF (2021) for research that is world leading or internationally excellent, Aston University has an excellent reputation for research which shapes and improves lives.
A global university: Aston University is in the top 10% of global institutions (top 10% of evaluated universities, QS World Rankings 2025) and is known for world-class teaching and strong links to industry.
Experts in online education: Aston Online programmes are carefully designed to offer flexibility without compromising on academic rigour. With a wealth of expertise in online pedagogy, we ensure that students receive a rich, engaging, and supportive learning experience.
Top 15 for Computer Science: Aston University is ranked 12th in the UK for Computer Science, with its strong value-added score recognised (Guardian University Guide, 2025).
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What You Will Learn
- Design solutions to real-world problems: Create solutions based on a knowledge of theories, principles and underlying concepts of data analytics.
- Create and implement algorithms: You will learn to plan, design and implement advanced computational skills and be able to assess the applicability of these algorithms.
- Analyse and critique methodologies and techniques: Fully understand and analyse methodologies and techniques related to data analytics and employ this knowledge to solve problems.
- Communicate complex data analytics concepts: No matter the audience (academic, technical or non-technical), you will be able to communicate complex data analytics concepts.
- Evaluate data analytics systems: Having an awareness of ethical and legal implications, you will learn to evaluate data analytics systems.
Meet The Head of Informatics and Digital Engineering
Why Study Online With Aston University?
Studying online through Aston University offers various advantages, making it an appealing choice for prospective students globally. You'll receive the same qualifications and degree certificates as on-campus students. The degree certificate does not mention online delivery.
Flexibility and convenience – fit your studies into your work-life balance.
Built for online – interactive, engaging, and purpose-designed curriculum available 24/7.
Affordable – spread the cost, pay monthly or in instalments, and earn as you learn.
Supported – dedicated student support and online tutors.
Expert tutors – staff with industry experience and experts in their fields.
Empowering creativity – complimentary full access to Adobe Creative Cloud tools for developing dynamic multimedia content and presentations through video, graphics and audio.
Transparent pricing – apply for free, with no hidden costs.
Ready for work and life – rigorous academic standards and curriculum focusing on the skills sought by employers (for now and the future).
University of the Year
Aston University was awarded University of the Year 2020 by the Guardian
I have to say, I had a great experience doing my programme online.
Career Prospects
Our Master of Science in Data Analytics (MSc) Online programme will prepare you for a range of careers across the public, private and third sectors. Graduates are in high demand and are employed in a variety of settings, including banks, consultancies, government departments, charitable and not-for-profit organisations.
Roles our graduates have gone on to secure include:
Business Analyst: Use data to inform strategic decisions, improve business, and optimise operations.
Data Analyst: Collect, analyse, and interpret complex data sets to help companies make informed decisions.
Financial Analyst: Use financial data from revenue, expenses and income to help companies make better financial decisions.
Data Quality Analyst: Ensure that data sets are accurate, reliable, and usable by detecting and correcting corrupt or inaccurate records from a record set, table or database.
How will I be assessed?
Online students will engage in various regular formative and timetabled summative assessment activities, where assessment modes and formats closely mirror relevant professional and industry contexts.
Formative assessment set by the module content will include short tasks and quizzes to check knowledge and competence. A combination of tutor-graded practical coursework assignments, projects, and automated assessment formats will provide a structured summative assessment for each module. In all assessments, online students will benefit from detailed assessment rubrics provided from the beginning of the module to guide their effort and achievement.
Programme Structure
Our Master of Science in Data Analytics (MSc) Online curriculum equips you with a comprehensive understanding of the field. You will delve into a wide range of topics, gaining the skills and knowledge to design and implement skilful solutions using collected data.
Each credit of study is equivalent to 10 learning hours (e.g. 30 credits reflects 300 hours of learning).
Modules
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30 credits
An introduction to the fundamental skills required to succeed in the programme. You will be introduced to programming in Python and database concepts. Alongside this, you will enhance your skills in areas such as calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics.
Machine Learning in Practice: Applications, Responsible Use and Ethics
30 credits
Gain the practical skills and understanding of all stages of the machine learning pipeline to prepare you for your future career and further study. Twinned with this, you will also consider the theoretical and ethical underpinnings of AI. Real-world problems will be chosen as case studies, offering a realistic view of the current progress of AI, while also focusing on challenges such as sustainable AI practices and more.
Natural Language Processing and Deep Learning
30 credits
This module introduces Natural Language Processing (NLP), a field of AI developing methods for understanding human languages. Following a deep dive into NLP, we look at Neural networks (NN) consisting of interconnected nodes organised in layers useful for tasks such as classification, regression, or data synthesis. Deep Learning uses multiple layered NN and is successful in NLP and other areas.
Prescriptive Analytics
30 credits
This module will focus on turning real-world problems into mathematical and spreadsheet models and examine how you can use models to help rational decision-making in organisations. You will develop a deep knowledge and understanding of the main modelling concepts and you will be able to quickly identify problems and situations in business where the use of those models can be beneficial. The module also aims to provide you with hands-on experience on implementing an efficiency and productivity assessment using methods such as Data Envelopment Analysis or Stochastic Frontier Analysis.
Programme Outcomes
- Design solutions to real-world problems based on a knowledge of theories, principles and underlying concepts of data analytics.
- Create and implement algorithms using advanced computational skills and be able to assess the applicability of these algorithms.
- Analyse and critique methodologies and techniques related to data analytics and employ this knowledge to solve problems.
- Communicate complex data analytics concepts for academic, technical and non-technical audiences.
- Evaluate data analytics systems in light of their ethical and legal implications.
- Critically review academic and professional literature and conduct independent research using appropriate tools.
Modules
Major Project
30 credits
You will have the opportunity to undertake a major individual project. They can be undertaken in various settings, fields and disciplines subject to meeting the intended learning outcomes, and must be consistent with the discipline studied. Through this module, you will have the opportunity to showcase your knowledge and skills from past experiences. You will produce a substantial piece of individual work that forms the capstone project of the MSc.
Aston Global Advantage and Research Methods
30 credits
Access a transformational opportunity to work within inclusive teams to investigate, develop, and propose a novel, digital, data-driven, entrepreneurial AI-enabled, software-based solution to a real-world business challenge and prepare you for your major project.
The Programme Aims to:
- Enable students to develop a systematic understanding of the Data Analytics domain and the professional skills necessary in practice.
- Support students to develop the expertise to plan, design and implement appropriate Data Analytics solutions in practical scenarios.
- Provide broad knowledge of Data Analytics techniques and develop the intellectual skills to create well-justified solutions.
- Provide experience of a substantial Data Analytics research or development project from the initial analysis of a problem, through design and planning, implementation, testing, evaluation, and documentation.
- Prepare graduates for the future challenges of Data Analytics.
We may update our programmes to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our programme webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.
Entry Requirements
One of the following:
- A UK 2:2 (lower second-class honours) degree in a numerate, technical or scientific subject. (Students will be given instruction and practice opportunities in coding, statistical and mathematical fundamentals, but prior experience in both is desirable).
- Equivalent international degree recognised by Aston University. Click here for more information or contact our Admissions Team to check your eligibility: enquiries@astononline.ac.uk
*Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.
Alternative entry requirements:
We take a holistic approach to evaluating applications and accept applications from candidates with relevant work experience who still need to complete a graduate qualification. Contact our Admissions Team for a consultation before applying: enquiries@astononline.ac.uk
Additional requirements:
- If you are a current student or recent graduate (within the last 2–3 years), we will ask for an academic reference.
- If you are currently employed and not a recent graduate, we will ask for a professional reference.
English language requirements:
To be accepted onto our programmes, you must be able to satisfy the University's English language requirements. We aim to make your application process as easy as possible, however in all cases we reserve the right to request an English language qualification and / or conduct an interview.
We accept a wide range of English language qualifications including:
IELTS Academic and IELTS Academic Online
IELTS One Skill Retake
TOEFL and TOEFL iBT
Oxford ELLT (Global and Digital)
Pearson Academic (PTE)
Password Test
Language Cert International ESOL SELT
Kaplan Test of English (KTE)
Cambridge Advanced Test (CAE)
Cambridge Proficiency Test (CPE)
Tests must be taken within the last two years from the start date of the programme you are applying to study at Aston University.
Find Out If You Qualify
If you have any questions about your eligibility or the application process, please get in touch with the Aston Online Admissions Team:
Email: enquiries@astononline.ac.uk
Call: +44 (0) 121 824 6374
Our office is open Monday to Friday, 09:00-17:00 GMT
FAQs
What prior knowledge or experience is recommended before starting our Master of Science in Data Analytics (MSc) Online programme?
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Before starting our Master of Science in Data Analytics (MSc) Online programme, it is beneficial to have a foundational understanding of data analysis, statistics, and programming, particularly in Python. Familiarity with database concepts, calculus, linear algebra, probability, and statistics will help navigate the curriculum.
What specific software and tools will I need for the Master of Science in Data Analytics (MSc) Online programme, and will Aston Online provide access to these?
We provide access to essential resources and will provide specific details about additional software required for data analytics tasks.
In what ways will our Master of Science in Data Analytics (MSc) Online programme enable you to analyse and critique various data analytics methodologies and techniques?
You will engage in coursework evaluating different methodologies, implementing algorithms, and assessing your applicability to real-world problems. This will allow you to develop a deep understanding of the strengths and limitations of various data analytics techniques.
What are the expected deliverables or milestones for the Major Project?
The Major Project requires substantial individual work that showcases the knowledge and skills you've gained. Key milestones include selecting a topic, conducting research, applying data analytics techniques, and submitting a final report or presentation demonstrating your ability to design and implement a data-driven solution.
How will the Major Project contribute to my learning experience and future career prospects?
The Major Project module will enhance your learning by letting you apply your knowledge to a real-world problem, reinforcing your understanding of data analytics. This experience will deepen your expertise and strengthen your portfolio, making you stand out to employers and boosting your career prospects.
How will I be assessed?
Online students will engage in a variety of regular formative and timetabled summative assessment activities, where assessment modes and formats closely mirror relevant professional and industry contexts.
- Formative assessment set by the module content will include short tasks, quiz-format tests, and production of outcomes to check knowledge and competence.
- A combination of tutor-graded practical coursework assignments, projects, and automated assessment formats will be used to provide a structured summative assessment for each module.
- In all assessments, online students will benefit from detailed assessment rubrics provided from the beginning of the module to guide their effort and achievement.
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