Data Science
Data Science is a discipline that combines mathematics, statistics and computational methods to extract knowledge and insights from data, then use those insights to inform decisions, build products and solve problems. It sits at the intersection of three long-established fields, but the combination is genuinely new and its application is transforming virtually every area of human activity, from healthcare and climate science to finance, sport and social media. Data scientists need to understand not only the technical tools for handling and analysing data but also the domain contexts in which they are working and the ethical responsibilities that come with powerful data-driven systems.
At the University of Bristol this degree includes a foundation year, which gives you additional time to build the mathematical and computational foundations you need before entering the main programme. Bristol is one of the UK's leading research universities, and the data science programme draws on expertise across mathematics, statistics and computer science to offer a rigorous and relevant curriculum. You will develop skills in statistical modelling, machine learning, programming, data visualisation and scientific computing, alongside the critical thinking needed to apply those skills responsibly across a range of real-world contexts.
Graduates from Data Science degrees are in exceptional demand across almost every sector of the economy. Many go on to careers as data scientists, machine learning engineers, data analysts, quantitative researchers and business intelligence specialists in industries including pharmaceuticals, finance, retail, healthcare, logistics, sport and technology. The combination of mathematical rigour, programming fluency and analytical insight the degree develops makes graduates highly adaptable and attractive to employers wherever data is being used to drive decisions.
Postgraduate study in data science, machine learning, statistics or related fields is an option for those wishing to develop specialist expertise.