Big data courses
Choose from a range of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and data science Masters courses that give you the skills and know-how to be at the forefront of technology
What is big data?
Big data is a term that relates to how organisations manage the large volume of data they face on a daily basis.
The findings can provide greater insights into a business by analysing the data for possible patterns and correlations. This can lead to better decision-making and the development of more informed company strategies.
According to the government's Data science skills in the UK workforce report (2023) there's the potential for at least 178,000 additional data specialists in the UK, including data scientists and data engineers. However, the supply of data scientists graduating from university will unlikely exceed 10,000 per year.
This high demand for data science skills highlights that job opportunities are available for those with the right skills and qualifications in areas such as big data.
What do big data Masters courses involve?
Many UK universities offer postgraduate courses in big data after responding to the increased demand for the subject. Most Masters are designed to lead directly to a career in data science.
You'll learn about:
- key concepts, practices and methodologies
- essential coding skills
- web analytics
- machine learning
- advanced database skills
- how to analyse, visualise and interpret data.
You'll also be trained to use tools such as Apache Hadoop, a software framework for storing and processing big data.
In addition to taking a series of required and optional modules, you'll usually be required to produce a major project integrating all the theory and practice you've learned throughout the year.
Masters courses last one year if studied full time. Entry requirements typically include at least a 2:1 degree in a computing-related or other quantitative subject. However, this varies, so you should always check with your chosen institution.
Which institutions offer Masters courses in big data?
The University of Stirling runs a number of big data and data science courses at postgraduate level, including the one-year full-time MSc Big Data, which is accredited by BSC, The Chartered Institute for IT, and can lead to various data scientist jobs.
Other options include the University of Bradford's MSc Big Data Science and Technology and Birmingham City University's MSc Big Data Analytics (both are also accredited by BCS).
Some institutions have partnered with leading analytics software provider SAS, allowing you to gain industry-standard certifications during your study. These include:
- University of Derby - MSc Big Data Analytics
- Salford University - MSc Data Science
- Sheffield Hallam University - MSc Big Data Analytics
Similarly, Queen Mary, University of London's MSc Machine Learning for Visual Data Analytics is run in partnership with BCS and has links with major technology companies such as Google, IBM, and Microsoft. Heriot-Watt University's MSc Data Science has been accredited by the British Computer Society.
Other courses with a slightly different focus are available, such as:
- the cyber security implications of big data
- the role of cloud computing
- how big data impacts business leadership.
For instance, King's College London runs an MA Big Data in Culture & Society, which examines the subject from an arts and humanities perspective.
Search for postgraduate courses in big data.
What about AI qualifications?
Today, AI comprises multiple fields, each focusing on a different area. These include:
- automation
- cognitive computing
- computer vision
- deep learning
- machine learning
- natural language processing
- robotics
- strong AI.
Before you consider studying the subject at postgraduate level, you can boost your AI skills with a free introductory course available through Google Cloud. Learning paths are available at the following levels:
- Beginner: Introduction to Generative AI
- Intermediate: Gemini for Google Cloud
- Advanced: Generative AI for Developers.
Microsoft offers a 12-week course on Artificial Intelligence for Beginners - A Curriculum.
A range of free and paid AI courses are available at various levels from Codecademy.
If you're a college or A-level student considering going to university, some institutions now offer undergraduate degrees in AI, including:
In terms of AI Masters degrees, the MSc Artificial Intelligence is available from:
- Aston University
- Cardiff University
- City, University of London
- King's College London
- Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU)
- University of Sterling
- University of Sussex
Search for Masters courses in AI and robotics.
Where can I study an online data science course?
In addition to the university options, a number of training providers offer online courses in data science and data analysis, with many leading to certification from industry leaders such as IBM or Microsoft:
For instance, you could complete IBM's Introduction to Data Science Specialisation course or Harvard University's Professional Certificate in Data Science.
Many of these courses are free, although you may still have to pay for a verified certificate.
Other specialist e-learning providers such as DataCamp also run accredited data analysis courses focusing on SQL, Python and R, enabling you to develop technical skills and advance your career.
What roles are available in data science?
Jobs are available in all sectors because big data is used by every type of employer, from retail and banking businesses to those involved with healthcare and manufacturing. Government agencies also harness it to implement effective education systems. This is a growing industry that's only set to get bigger.
There are many jobs in big data, including:
Employers also require cyber security professionals to keep all this data secure. Read about the role of a cyber security analyst and explore cyber security training.
Since there are currently not enough people with relevant qualifications to fill all data science roles, taking a postgraduate course in this field will ensure you're well-placed when starting your career.
Find out more
- Consider other IT courses.
- Explore IT apprenticeships.
- Get an overview of the UK's IT sector.