BSc (Honours) in Data Science
Open University
Key Information
Campus location
Online United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
Distance Learning
Duration
3 - 6 years
Pace
Full time, Part time
Tuition fees
GBP 6,924 / per year *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Request info
* cost per year full-time; £3,462 - cost per year part-time
Introduction
Data plays a vital role in almost all private and public sector employment. The need to understand how to use data to inform decision making has never been more important. This degree equips you with the skills to explore and analyse complex data sets. And to solve practical problems using applied mathematics, statistics and computing. You’ll gain a good grounding in mathematical and statistical methods, which provide the foundation for data analysis. You’ll learn relevant computing skills, including programming, elements of machine learning and artificial intelligence, and gain experience in using statistical software.
Key features of the course
- Develop familiarity with mathematical, statistical and computational data modelling techniques.
- Build your expertise in a range of software, including the widely used Python and R languages.
- Gain experience in communicating and critically commenting on data analysis results.
- Increase your employability – data scientists are highly sought after in a wide range of sectors.
Accessibility
We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The BSc (Honours) Data Science uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:
- studying a mixture of printed and online material – online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
- using mathematical and scientific expressions, notations and associated techniques
- using and/or producing diagrams and/or screenshots
- undertaking practical work
- using specialist software, including tools for programming languages
- finding external/third-party material online
- face-to-face tutorials/day schools and/or online tutorials
- continuous and end-of-module assessment in the form of short and long answer questions, and in many cases an examination
- using feedback: continuous assessment involves receiving detailed feedback on your work from your tutor and using this feedback to improve your performance
- engagement with learning and assessment within a pre-determined schedule or timetable – time management will be needed during your studies and the University will help you to develop these skills throughout your qualification.
Program Outcome
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
The level and depth of your learning gradually increase as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Curriculum
Course details
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
- Stage 1 has one 30-credit mathematics, one 30-credit statistics and two 30-credit computing & IT modules.
- Next, in Stage 2, you’ll study one 30-credit applied mathematics module, two 30-credit statistics modules and one 30-credit computing & IT module.
- Finally, in Stage 3, you’ll study one 30-credit statistics module and one 30-credit computing & IT module, and choose two more 30-credit modules from a selection of computing & IT, statistics and applied mathematics modules.