Study with us

• develop the skills to use big data to solve complex political and social problems
• understand the mechanics behind capturing and organising large amounts of data
• undertake a research or client-based project

Why this course?

The MSc in Data Science for Politics & Policymaking is designed to meet the growing demand for graduates with the ability to use big data to solve complex political and social problems. It's perfectly suited to those looking for careers in political campaigns, think tanks, interest groups associated with shaping public policy and the civil service.

This Masters-level course equips you with the ability to design, commission, and implement projects that capture and analyse large quantities of online data from a diverse set of sources. It combines advanced training in social science research design and policy analysis with classes that enable you to understand the mechanics behind capturing and organising large amounts of data.

The course looks to solve the key challenge of the use of big data in the public sphere, the lack of specified research and policy goals, by providing you with the know-how via core classes in Research Design, Public Policy and Qualitative Methods. Alongside these classes, you'll receive training that allows you to understand the mechanics behind capturing and organising large amounts of data.

University of Strathclyde: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

Welcome to the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

We believe education has the capacity to change lives and providing an enriching student experience is a priority for us. In Humanities & Social Sciences we focus on the building blocks of society – human endeavour.

Studying here, you will better understand how human beings think, act and interact with one another and the world around them. Employers value this knowledge.

Research informs our teaching and helps us make a difference to business, industry and society as a whole. We have a vibrant research culture, and our research is noted for its impact. Our Graduate School is home to over 300 research students from more than 30 countries and we support their development through a tailored training programme.

Our schools touch every aspect of human life: education and learning; government and public policy; humanities and culture; justice and the law; lifelong learning; psychological sciences and health; and social work and social policy.

We have strong links with governments, global organisations, in both the public and private sector, and academic networks. Our graduates are sought-after and intellectually engaged – focused on applying knowledge, they know how the world works, and how to make it a better place.

We offer a range of postgraduate taught programmes across the following subjects:

• Education
• English
• Gender studies
• Government and public policy
• Journalism and media
• Law
• Psychology
• Social policy
• Social work

Spotlight on the School of Government and Public Policy

The School of Government and Public Policy offers world-class postgraduate courses that explore political systems and institutions throughout the world and how they inter-relate. Our programmes give graduates a thorough, Masters-level understanding of political science, policymaking and practical approaches to political problems.

Our postgraduate programmes include:

• MSc Data Science for Politics & Policymaking
• MSc International Relations
• MSc Political Research
• MSc Politics
• MSc Public Policy
• MSc Technology Policy & Management
• MSc Urban Policy & Analysis

Our graduates gain transferable skills in research and analysis and go on to pursue careers in government, civil service, consultancy firms, banks, NGOs, SMEs and start-ups. Others find our courses ideal preparation for doctoral research and careers in academia.

Why Strathclyde?

£1 billion campus investment (2008-2025): we’re creating a first-class working and learning environment for our students and staff.

The Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences has scholarships worth between £3,000 and £5,000 available to international students to support study with us. Learn more.

Strathlife: Strathclyde is a vibrant and cosmopolitan community of around 23,000 students from over 100 countries.

An ideal base for exploration: Scotland was voted the world’s most beautiful country by Rough Guides readers.

We care about your wellbeing: the University values our international student community immensely and we are committed to ensuring the health, safety and wellbeing of those who learn with us. Learn more about support we have available

Want to know more about what it’s like to be a student at the University of Strathclyde? Chat to a student ambassador.