Data Science BSc Honours

Course overview

Data science is an interdisciplinary and emerging field. It combines mathematics and computing to analyse large and complex data sets.

Our degree will give you the skills to turn data into meaningful outcomes. You'll learn to use your analytical and computational skills to interpret, clean, and visualise data confidently.

We've worked with the National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) to create our Data Science BSc degree. This Centre of Excellence is at the forefront of:

• data science
• AI application
• industry engagement

NICD has shaped our curriculum with their real-world and industry-focused approach. You'll graduate with expertise in the most relevant and innovative data science topics. You'll learn and work alongside leading practitioners in data science.

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Your course and study experience - disclaimers and terms and conditions  
Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.

View our Academic experience page, which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2024-25.

See our terms and conditions and student complaints information, which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.

Quality and ranking

Professional accreditation and recognition

All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body.

Modules and learning

Modules

The information below is intended to provide an example of what you will study.

Most degrees are divided into stages. Each stage lasts for one academic year, and you'll complete modules totalling 120 credits by the end of each stage. 

Our teaching is informed by research. Course content may change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.

To find out more please see our terms and conditions.

Optional module availability
Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.

Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.

Our Foundations of Data Science module will introduce you to the world of data science. You'll study foundational topics in mathematics and computing. In Stages 2 and 3, you'll build on these subjects with more bespoke data science modules.

Mathematics topics include probability, statistics, algebra and calculus. In computing, you'll learn about the software engineering lifecycle and develop your programming skills. 

Modules

Compulsory Modules	Credits
Foundations of Data Science	20
Programming Portfolio 1	30
Introductory Algebra (for Psychology students)	10
Multivariable Calculus	10
Real Analysis	10
Introductory Calculus	10
Introduction to Probability and Statistics	20
Number Systems	10

You'll study specialised modules in mathematics and computer science, including:

• data visualisation
• regression
• security programming
• algorithm design and analysis

You'll also study modules delivered by NICD, and take part in masterclasses and NICD’s Data Innovation Bootcamp. You’ll work as a team on real-world business challenges. You'll learn to solve problems and develop customer-orientated solutions.

Modules

Compulsory modules

• Security Programming (20 credits)
• Algorithm Design and Analysis (10 credits)
• Frontiers in Data Science A (10 credits)
• Linear Algebra (10 credits)
• Introduction to Statistical Inference (10 credits)
• Introduction to Regression and Stochastic Modelling (10 credits)
• Computational Probability and Statistics with R (10 credits)
• Stochastic Processes (10 credits)
• Data Visualization (10 credits)

Optional modules

• Algebra (10 credits)
• Groups and Discrete Mathematics (10 credits)
• Coding Theory (10 credits)
• Scientific Computation with Python (10 credits)
• Mathematical Biology (10 credits)

In Stage 3, you'll continue to take part in masterclasses run by NICD. You'll apply statistical, mathematical, programming and data science skills to a variety of problems. You’ll also be free to explore your own interests with a range of optional mathematics and computer science modules.

Put your learning into practice during your Group Project module. During this project, you'll:

• work with real-world data sets
• identify and unpick problems
• work in a team to solve business challenges

Modules

Compulsory modules

• Computer Vision & AI (20 credits)
• Data Innovation Bootcamp (10 credits)
• Frontiers in Data Science B (10 credits)
• Data Science Group Project (10 credits)
• Linear Models (10 credits)
• Big Data Analytics (10 credits)

Optional modules

• Biomedical Data Analytics and AI (20 credits)
• Human Computer Interaction: Interaction Design (20 credits)
• Data Visualization and Visual Analytics (10 credits)
• Foundations of group theory (10 credits)
• Linear analysis (10 credits)
• Coding Theory (10 credits)
• Matrix analysis (10 credits)
• Metric Spaces and Topology (10 credits)
• Number Theory and Cryptography (20 credits)
• Representation theory (10 credits)
• Curves and Surfaces (10 credits)
• Mathematical Foundations of Machine Learning (10 credits)
• Variational Methods and Lagrangian Dynamics (10 credits)
• Epidemiology (10 credits)
• Stochastic Financial Modelling (10 credits)
• Statistical Inference (10 credits)
• Generalised Linear Models (10 credits)
• Topics in Statistical Modelling A (20 credits)
• Experimental Design (10 credits)
• Discrete Stochastic Modelling & Survival Analysis (10 credits)
• Applied Probability (10 credits)

Information about these graphs

We base these figures and graphs on the most up-to-date information available to us. They are based on the modules chosen by our students in 2023-24.

Teaching time is made up of:

• scheduled learning and teaching activities. These are timetabled activities with a member of staff present.
• structured guided learning. These are activities developed by staff to support engagement with module learning. Students or groups of students undertake these activities without direct staff participation or supervision

Teaching and assessment

Teaching methods

You’ll learn through a combination of different methods including: 

• lectures
• small group seminars
• hands-on labs and practicals

Modules taught by NICD will take an experiential learning approach. This means you'll learn by doing. You'll use ideation and the innovation process to solve real-world problems. Approaches include:

• flipped learning
• bootcamps
• masterclasses

During flipped learning, you’ll research a topic and report back to subject experts.

Throughout the course, you'll develop an open-source portfolio. You'll use it to track and showcase your skills and expertise to future employers.

Assessment methods

You'll be assessed through a combination of:

• 

  Coursework

• 

  Examinations – practical or online

• 

  Group work

• 

  Portfolio submission

• 

  Presentations

• 

  Projects

• 

  Seminar tasks/exercises

Skills and experience

Practical skills

The field of data science presents new and unique problems. We’ll teach you how to use your knowledge and skills to tackle these challenges and find solutions.

This degree will give you the skills employers, across the globe, are looking for.

You'll take part in bootcamps and masterclasses at NICD, developing your research and presentation skills. You'll work alongside technical experts and industry professionals.

You'll also develop experimental, analytical, and research skills through computational and project-based modules.

You’ll have access to our state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• our computing labs in the Urban Sciences Building
• the Catalyst at Newcastle Helix

The Catalyst hosts a dynamic community of businesses and research specialists. It's also the home of NICD.

Business skills

This hands-on degree will give you the skills to start a career in data science after graduation.

NICD will lead part of your teaching in Stages 2 and 3. You’ll work alongside businesses, using their data to solve real problems. This will help you learn the language of business. This is a great opportunity to improve your portfolio and CV with examples of industry collaborations.

In Stage 3, you'll take part in an industry-focused group project. You'll develop your teamwork and practical skills, preparing you for the world of work. You’ll explore the ethics of data and the modern application of data science in the real world. The group project will help you develop communication skills and confidence in explaining technical concepts to non-experts.

Research skills

Your teaching will be research-led, informed by the latest research findings from the:

• School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics
• School of Computing
• National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD)

The course is delivered in collaboration with NICD. You'll have access to a Centre of Excellence at the forefront of data science, AI and industrial engagement. Your learning will be informed by real-world applications of data science.

You'll develop research skills during the Group Project in Stage 3. As part of this module, you'll need to:

• survey the current landscape
• assess problems and find coherent solutions
• explain your research

Opportunities

Study abroad

Experience life in another country by choosing to study abroad as part of your degree. You’ll be encouraged to embrace fun and challenging experiences, make connections with new communities and graduate as a globally aware professional, ready for your future.

You can choose to spend up to a year studying at a partner institution overseas.

If you choose to study abroad, it will extend your degree by a year. 

Find out more about study abroad

Work placement

Get career ready with a work placement and leave as a confident professional in your field. You can apply to spend 9 to 12 months working in any organisation in the world, and receive University support from our dedicated team to secure your dream placement. Work placements take place between stages 2 and 3.

You'll gain first-hand experience of working in the sector, putting your learning into practice and developing your professional expertise.

If you choose to take a work placement, it will extend your degree by a year. Your degree title will show you have achieved the placement year.  Placements are subject to availability.

Find out more about work placements.

Facilities and environment

Facilities

You'll join the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics based in the Herschel Building.

A state-of-the-art learning environment will support your studies and you'll have access to extensive IT facilities for teaching and self-study, including:

• computer-based exercises with instant review of model solutions
• problem-solving video tutorials
• recording system for video capture of lectures, which you can download and watch again to help with your revision

The Herschel Building also has dedicated study and social spaces, and a computing area.

Support

To support you in your studies, all new students entering year 1 or year 2 will receive a tablet. You can download the online learning resources you'll need for your course (helping us to make our campus more sustainable).

You'll have the support of an academic member of staff as a personal tutor throughout your degree to help with academic and personal issues. There is a transition officer specifically to help your transition from school/college to university life.

Peer mentors will help you in your first year. They are fellow students who can help you settle in and answer any questions you have when starting university.

You'll also benefit from our:

• induction programme, including social events, to help you settle in quickly
• activities and events run by our student-run society, MathSoc
• homework classes to help with assignments

Your future

Data science graduates report earning an average salary of £32,000 on graduation.

Possible job roles for data science graduates include:

• Data Scientist
• AI Data Scientist
• Data Analyst
• Statistician
• Data Engineer
• Risk Analyst
• Market Research Analyst
• Analytics Manager
• Machine Learning Engineer

You'll work closely, and network, with researchers and businesses at NICD. NICD is a research centre on Newcastle University’s Helix campus.

Benefit from strong industry links

We've partnered with NICD to deliver this Data Science BSc degree. Through their industry connections, you'll grow your network in business and data science. NICD’s customers include organisations and businesses across a range of expertise. These include:

• Red Hat Inc 
• Proctor and Gamble 
• Newcastle Building Society 
• Engie 
• Kinewell 
• iamproperty 
• PolyBox Solutions 
• NCEA Trust 
• NHS 
• West End Food Bank 

You'll also benefit from industry links from the School of Computing and the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics.

The schools have a dedicated employability facilitator. They'll organise industry talks, visits and opportunities to network throughout the programme.  

Employability at Newcastle

96% of Newcastle University graduates progressed to employment or further study within six months of graduating, with 85.5% in graduate-level employment or further study.

Statistics are based on what graduates were doing on a specific date, approximately six months after graduation (Destinations of (undergraduate and postgraduate UK domiciled) Leavers from Higher Education Survey 2016/17).

Careers support

Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.

Visit our Careers Service website

Recognition of professional qualifications outside of the UK

From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK

Tuition fees and scholarships

Tuition fees for 2024 entry (per year)

Qualification: BSc Honours
Home students full time 3 years	Tuition fees (per year) 9250
International students full time 3 years	Tuition fees (per year) 24700

Home Fee Students

The maximum fee that we are permitted to charge for home fee-paying students is set by the UK government.

As a general principle, you should expect the tuition fee to increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, subject to government regulations on fee increases and in line with inflation.

Read more about fees and funding

International Fee Students

Depending on your residency history, if you’re a student from the EU, other EEA or a Swiss national, with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you’ll normally pay the ‘Home’ tuition fee rate and may be eligible for Student Finance England support.

EU students without settled or pre-settled status will normally be charged fees at the ‘International’ rate and will not be eligible for Student Finance England support.

If you are unsure of your fee status, check out the latest guidance here.

As a general principle, you should expect the tuition fee to increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, subject to government regulations on fee increases and in line with inflation.

Read more about fees and funding

Scholarships

We support our EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships. See our undergraduate scholarship page for more information.

Year abroad and additional costs

For programmes where you can spend a year on a work placement or studying abroad, you will receive a significant fee reduction for that year. 

Some of our degrees involve additional costs which are not covered by your tuition fees.

Scholarships

Find out more about:

• scholarships for UK, EU and international students
• Student Loans and Government financial support for UK and EU students

How to apply

Apply through UCAS

To apply for undergraduate study at Newcastle University, you must use the online application system managed by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). All UK schools and colleges, and a small number of EU and international establishments, are registered with UCAS. You will need:

• the UCAS name and institution codes for Newcastle University (NEWC/N21)
• the UCAS code for the course you want to apply for
• the UCAS 'buzzword' for your school or college

If you are applying independently, or are applying from a school or college which is not registered to manage applications, you will still use the Apply system. You will not need a buzzword.

Apply through UCAS

Apply through an agent

International students often apply to us through an agent. Have a look at our recommended agents and get in touch with them.

Visit our International pages