MSc Applied Data Science and Modelling

Entry requirements

A good degree (normally a 2:2).

Successful applicants will usually have at least an A-level or equivalent in Mathematics and/or have received quantitative skills training as part of their undergraduate programme, or possess relevant professional experience.

Prior experience of coding is not necessary on this course.

Course content

The concurrent crises of health, climate and environment require interdisciplinary solutions underpinned by sophisticated contemporary understanding and modelling in a data-intensive world. This programme immerses students in a fusion of the “Big Data revolution” and modern mathematical modelling within a challenges-led learning environment.

• Term 1: students develop core skills and understanding through the fundamentals modules in data science and in computational modelling and simulation
  
  
• Term 2: students are exposed to state-of-the-art methods in the Trends in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence module, can select from options including Complex Systems and Applied Artificial Intelligence and Control, and put their data science and modelling skills into practice by completing the interdisciplinary, inquiry-led module Tackling Sustainability Challenges using Data and Models
  
  
• Term 3: students undertake an advanced data science and modelling project

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

Fees

2025/26 entry

UK fees per year:

£12,600 full-time

International fees per year:

£28,600 full-time

Scholarships

The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships*.

For more information on scholarships and other financial support, please visit our scholarships and bursaries page.

^{*Terms and conditions apply. See online for details.}

Teaching and research

We believe every student benefits from being taught by experts active in research and practice. You will discuss the very latest ideas, research discoveries and new technologies in seminars and via using state-of-the-art facilities and software and you will become actively involved in a research project yourself. The programme is led by the Centre for Environmental Mathematics. You can find out more about our internationally recognised scientific research and industrial, public and charitable sector collaborations on our dedicated group web pages.

Graduate School of Environment and Sustainability

You will become part of Exeter's Graduate School of Environment & Sustainability - a vibrant and supportive postgraduate community based here on our Penryn campus in Cornwall. The Graduate School brings together experts from across the spectrum of earth and life sciences, engineering, humanities, social sciences and business. You will interact with students from other MScs and have the opportunity to explore issues from a range of perspectives, benefiting from a truly interdisciplinary experience. All our programmes are designed with a focus on developing solutions to global challenges and creating a better future for our planet and its people.

Careers

This programme is designed for students from a variety of backgrounds who want to enhance their understanding of and confidence in using real-world data and mathematical models to address the big environmental, social and economic issues of our time, gaining knowledge of local to global scales and tapping into/skilling-up for the “Big Data revolution” in the field and in general.

The UK has one of the world’s strongest and most developed data analytics sectors, predicted to grow by 177% over the next 5 years and demand for qualified professionals continues to grow. The UK’s commitment to expansion of renewable energy is likely to mean a high level of investment in the sector in the next decade. The adoption of the UK’s microgeneration tariff in 2009, the Green Deal in 2013, the phased adoption of the Renewable Heat Incentive from 2011-2014 and introduction of Contracts for Difference in 2014, suggests continued strong support for rapid expansion of renewable energy in the UK.

National and international job opportunities

Internationally, many other countries are making similar investments with major industrial nations including the US, India and China investing heavily in renewable generation. This investment will create broad opportunities for those seeking to work in the sector, both nationally and internationally.

Employer-valued skills

• Data science, modelling and essential programming skills and how to apply these to The United Nations sustainable development goals
• Ability to extract information from data as a basis for evidence-based decision making
• Working with stakeholders and advanced team-working skills in complex organisations
• Using digital media to convert complex data sets into useful information to engage with the lay public and specialists

Read more

Related courses of interest

The University of Exeter has significant teaching and research interests in the field of Data Science, and is home to the Institute of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. The Institute of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (IDSAI) provides a hub for data-intensive science and artificial intelligence (AI) activity within the University and the wider region.

Their vision is to develop innovative approaches to the use of data and artificial intelligence in modern society, covering the entire spectrum from collection through interrogation and analysis, to interpretation, visualisation and communication. They undertake fundamental research in data science and AI and facilitate interactions between data science researchers and problem owners to develop innovative approaches to the use of data in modern society, considering the social implications of data science and AI as well as the technical aspects.

To achieve this they work closely with other researchers, industry and government, for instance with key partners such as the Alan Turing Institute. Students have access to excellent facilities spanning a wide range of machine types and software ecosystems, as well as have the opportunity to study courses at either our Streatham Campus in Exeter or our Penryn Campus in Cornwall.

For more information see our related courses of interest page.

Related courses

View all Mathematics courses