BSc (Honours) Data Science

• Data plays an important role in almost all private and public sector employment. The need to understand how to use data to inform decision making in many occupations has never been more important. This qualification equips you with the key 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 a foundation for data analysis; together with the essential computing skills needed to use them to solve practical problems, including elements of machine learning and artificial intelligence. You’ll also gain experience of using statistical software packages.

  Key features of the course 

  • Develops familiarity with mathematical, statistical and computational data modelling techniques.
  • Builds expertise in a range of appropriate software, including the widely used Python and R languages.
  • Provides experience communicating and critically commenting on the results of data analysis.
  • Increases employability prospects in a wide range of sectors, including finance, government, health, education, the voluntary sector, business and commerce.

  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.

  Further information on the stages and modules can be found here.

  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.

  For more detailed information, see the Accessibility Statements on individual module descriptions. If you feel you may need additional support, visit Disability support to find more about what we offer.

  Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment

  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 increases 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.

  Credit transfer

  If you’ve already completed some study at another university, you may be able to count it towards your Open University qualification – reducing the number of modules you need to study.

  You should apply for credit transfer before you register, at least 4 weeks before the registration closing date. Just tell us what you studied, where and when, and we’ll compare this against the learning outcomes for your chosen course.

  Classification of your degree

  On successfully completing this undergraduate course, you'll be awarded the BSc (Honours) Data Science degree. The class of degree (first, upper second, lower second or third-class honours) depends on your grades at Stages 2 and 3.

  You'll have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.