Heriot-Watt University

MSc Data Science

Heriot-Watt UniversityDubai, United Kingdom

Course overview

The MSc Data Science at Heriot-Watt University is a programme that teaches students how to extract valuable knowledge from large amounts of data. It covers both theory and practical skills for handling and analysing big data, using modern methods and tools. Students learn to like managing and analysing large datasets, using contemporary tools and techniques for data exploration, and gaining essential skills for working with big data. This program prepares students to work with data-driven solutions in various industries.

The MSc Data Science course outlines, unites core and elective modules for specialisation, with a focus on practical learning in state-of-the-art labs like the Robotarium and GRID. 

This approach provides real-world experience with data and AI, and it prepares students for industrial and scientific data analysis. The programme gives flexibility with full-time and part-time options, starting in September or January, and is delivered on campus in Edinburgh for over one year.

Key highlights

  • Covers theory and skills for managing very large, complex data sets
  • Focuses on analysing Big Data

Entry requirements

  • Degree: 2nd class — or above

Scholarships

  • Alumni Discount Scheme

    A 20% discount is applicable to postgraduate taught courses across all of our global campuses.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Coaching Scholarships Programme

    Varies – up to a 100% Tuition fee Reduction (dependent on experience and number of coaching hours across the year).

  • Heriot-Watt Actuarial Scholarship For Academic Excellence

    The Heriot-Watt Actuarial Scholarship For Academic Excellence awards the successful recipient(s) with a 20% reduction on their tuition fees.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Remission of Fees (Families of Staff)

    Please contact the provider.

  • Staff Scholarships

    Please contact the provider

  • The Brodie Family Scholarship (PGT)

    The Brodie Family Scholarship provides financial support of £2,500 per year (or £2,000 per year for students enrolled in a five-year programme) to four undergraduate students.

  • The Island Scholarship Programme - Orkney Campus (UK) (International)

  • The New Dawn Energy Scholarship

    The New Dawn Energy Scholarship provides £1900 towards living costs to two students enrolling on our MSc in Petroleum Engineering in September 2026.

    Up to £1,900

Careers this course leads to

  • Data Scientist
  • Data Analyst
  • Big Data Engineer
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Business Intelligence Analyst

Career opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Data Science programme can pursue career paths in:

  • Data Scientist
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Data Analyst
  • Business Intelligence Developer
  • Research Scientist

Cost of study

The tuition fee for International students is £25,480, for those opting for part-time study is £12,740 for the 2025/26 academic year.

Admission

To apply for this course, applicants can do so through the university’s online application portal. For further assistance, please reach out to our trained counsellors.

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