Big Data Analytics MSc | PGDip | PGCert – Online Course

Programme duration: approximately30 months for MSc(part-timeand online)
Programme Starts: 21 May 2024
Other awards: MSc/PGDip/PGCert
Awarding body: University of Liverpool
Delivered by:

If you would like to develop your knowledge and open career opportunities in the expanding field of big data analytics, then this specialist master’s programme can help you to get ahead and be part of the revolution.

What is Big Data Analytics?

Big data analytics is the process of using advanced analytics against large quantities of data to uncover hidden patterns, correlations, market trends and much more, which can help businesses to make business decisions.

Big data is a term applied to data sets that are too large, diverse or complex to be analysed through traditional data-processing software. Big data analytics allows businesses to harness their data and identify new opportunities, which can lead to more efficient operations and higher profits.

About the programme

This online big data analytics programme will provide you with a specialist qualification in an area of computing which has seen rapid growth and had a transformational effect across many different industries and sectors. The programme will provide you with 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 programme is delivered 100% online, making it perfectly suited to its subject matter, within an international virtual classroom that offers a unique global perspective. 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.

BCS Logo - University of Liverpool online

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.

Download a prospectus for more details on this programme. 

Programme structure

What will I study?

This programme consists of the following modules. You are required to complete 180 credits to achieve a full Master of Science (MSc), 120 credits to achieve the postgraduate diploma (PGDip), and 60 credits to achieve the postgraduate certificate (PGCert).

ModulesMScPGDipPGCert
Global Trends in Computer Science (15 credits)
x
x
x
Data Visualisation and Warehousing (15 credits)
x
x
x
Machine Learning in Practice (15 credits)
x
x
x
Cloud Computing (15 credits)
x
x
x
Security Engineering and Compliance (15 credits)
x
x
Deep Learning (15 credits)
x
x
Elective module: choose one:
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)
x
x
Research Methods in Computer Science (15 credits)
x
x
Computer Science Capstone Project (60 credits)
x

For more information on the modules, including syllabus and learning outcomes, please download our programme booklet

Entry requirements

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 us now via LiveChat.

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 from a majority English-speaking country as defined by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of these countries.

Fees and funding

Fees for the academic year 2023/24

MSc: £16,065

PGDip: £10,710

PGCert: £5,355

Fees for the academic year 2024/25

MSc: £16,868
PGDip: £11,246
PGCert: £5,623

These fees* are fully inclusive of all costs, including all teaching materials, core textbooks, assessments and resits.

Scholarships and discounts

You may be able to benefit from the following scholarships and discounts:

  • Regional Scholarships of up to 20%. To find out the scholarship offered in your region, please make an enquiry now.
  • 10% UK Scholarship for students residing in the United Kingdom for the full master’s award for the 2023/24 academic year. 
  • 10% discount for University of Liverpool alumni.
  • 5% discount for up-front full tuition fee payment.

Further support

We aim to make it as easy as possible for you to cover the costs of your studies. You could benefit from:

  • Simple monthly payment plan provided to spread the cost over the duration of study
  • Students living in England may be eligible for a postgraduate loan to cover some of the programme cost.

Please speak to our admissions team for more details of fees, scholarships, discounts and support.

*All tuition fees shown are net of any applicable sales tax payable by you in your country of residence. Where we are required to add sales tax at the local statutory rate, this will be added to the tuition fees shown and confirmed.

Applying

Apply for this course by completing a simple online form.

In order to apply, you will need to provide copies of the following supporting documentation:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Evidence of English language proficiency (EU and international applicants only)
  • Personal statement
  • An up-to-date CV.

Acknowledgement of your application

The admissions team will acknowledge receipt of your application and will pass it to the Department Head and/or appropriate academic department(s) for consideration.

Students with disabilities

We welcome applications from students with disabilities and consider them on the same academic grounds as those of other students. If you have a disability, medical condition and/or support needs it is important that you inform the University so that you receive appropriate support.

Deadlines

We have regular start dates throughout the year with regular application deadlines. Applicants are encouraged to apply in good time, particularly if they have special requirements that will need to be taken into consideration.

Career prospects

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.

About us

Since it was established in 1983, the Department of Computer Science has been at the forefront of key developments in computer science and has built a strong international reputation for research in artificial intelligence and algorithms. The latest Research Excellence Framework 2021 rated us 5th in the UK for world leading (4*) research outputs, and 100% of research environment rated as world-leading (4*) or internationally excellent (3*). 

By studying online with Liverpool, you can gain a highly regarded qualification from a prestigious redbrick 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. You will acquire new skills and knowledge, all while continuing to work in your current role.  

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. All our programmes are designed for online delivery, and our state-of-the-art learning platform encourages collaboration with fellow professionals from around the world.

Study Online with the University of Liverpool

Computer Science Webinar

In this webinar, our team give an introduction to online Computer Science programmes at the University of Liverpool, the admissions and enrolment process, the support available to students and a demonstration of how you will study.