MSc in Big Data Analytics

This online master’s programme has been designed to equip you with expertise in an area of computing that has seen recent and rapid growth, and in which there is expected to be a significant skills shortage. You will have the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of both the technology that supports big data analytics and the practical application of this technology in the context of business information and real-world problems. The content has been developed by experts from the University of Liverpool’s Department of Computer Science – an institution that is globally renowned for the strength of its research into computer science, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. You'll explore topics such as cloud computing, machine learning and data visualisation which will equip you with industry relevant knowledge and skills to take your career to the next level. The MSc programme is accredited by the BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, for the purposes of meeting the further learning academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.   The programme is made up of the following modules and, upon completion, is equal to a total of 180 credits.

• Global Trends in Computer Science (15 credits)
• Data Visualisation and Warehousing (15 credits)
• Machine Learning in Practice (15 credits)
• Cloud Computing (15 credits)
• Security Engineering and Compliance (15 credits)
• Deep Learning (15 credits)
• Elective modules (choose one from):
  • Applied Cryptography (15 credits)
  • Cyber Forensics (15 credits)
  • Cybercrime Prevention and Protection (15 credits)
  • Information Technology Leadership (15 credits)
  • Multi-Agent Systems (15 credits)
  • Natural Language Processing and Understanding (15 credits)
  • Reasoning and Intelligent Systems (15 credits)
  • Robotics (15 credits)
  • Security Risk Management (15 credits)
  • Strategic Technology Management (15 credits)
  • Technology, Innovation and Change Management (15 credits)
• Research Methods in Computer Science (15 credits)
• Computer Science Capstone Project (60 credits)

Shorter awards are available for this course; the 16-month postgraduate diploma (PG Dip) at 120 credits and the 8-month postgraduate certificate (PG Cert) at 60 credits.

Teaching methods and style  This programme is designed to be studied wholly online and part-time. Teaching is delivered through our state-of-the-art Virtual Learning Environment  (VLE), which provides students with access to all resources required for interactive study online. On this platform you will be encouraged to work collaboratively with classmates and actively read around your topic through our comprehensive library of eBooks and journals.

Methods of assessment  Assessment is exclusively through online assignments rather than examinations. You will be assessed through a range of activities, including written assignments, discussion forum participation and journal entries.

Introduction

Welcome to the University of Liverpool Online Programmes.

Our postgraduate programmes provide an affordable and convenient route to further your learning and progress in your career. You will receive a highly regarded qualification from a prestigious UK university and a member of the Russell Group, a group of 24 research-led UK universities committed to maintaining the highest possible standards of research and education.

Why study with the University of Liverpool Online Programmes

All our programmes have been specially designed for online learning. Teaching and assessments are flexibly delivered through our state-of-the-art learning platform, providing you with access to all the resources and support required to complete your studies online. Upon successful completion of your programme, you will be invited to graduate at the University of Liverpool’s beautiful campus in the north-west of England.

About us

The University of Liverpool has been offering online programmes since 2000. We are recognised as one of Europe's leading providers of wholly online postgraduate degrees. With a focus on career progression and global collaboration, our programmes are designed for ambitious professionals with several years of on-the-job experience, who wish to gain a prestigious qualification while not compromising on their existing commitments.

All applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. If you want to discuss your previous qualifications and experience before applying, please contact our Admissions Team. Applicants should possess either:

• A minimum of a 2:2 class degree in Computer Science or a closely related subject, equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree, coupled with two years’ experience in employment; or
• Professional work experience and/or other prior qualifications, which will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

All applicants must provide evidence that they have an English language ability equivalent to an IELTS (academic) score of 6.5. If you don’t have an IELTS or equivalent certificate, you can take our free online English test to assess your proficiency. You don’t need to prove your English ability if you are a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of the countries listed on our website.

• Regional Scholarships of up to 20%. To find out the scholarship offered in your region, please make an enquiry now. 
• 10% discount for University of Liverpool alumni.
• 5% discount for up-front full tuition fee payment.
• 10% employer discount available when three or more of your employees study with us.  

Please note that scholarships cannot be combined. However, it is possible for students to combine discounts or use them with scholarships depending on eligibility. For example, the Up-Front Payment Discount can be used with the Alumni Discount or Corporate Discount or an individual scholarship (e.g., Regional Scholarship).

With an expected skills gap shortage in the industry, gaining a specialist qualification in big data analytics will help you to succeed in this constantly evolving field of computer science. Potential job titles include data scientist, big data consultant, machine learning engineer and research scientist. Alongside the subject-specific knowledge you will gain during the programme, you will also develop professional skills such as communication, teamwork, critical thinking and research. These will enhance your CV, allowing you to improve your career prospects and access more senior roles.