Big Data and Digital Futures MSc

University of Warwick

Course overview

This degree responds directly to the growing demand across research fields and by employers in society for a new generation of postgraduates who can critically engage with big data theoretically, methodologically and practically. In contrast to many big data-focused degrees (such as Data Science or Data Analytics) where the emphasis is almost exclusively on data practices and computational tools, this degree underpins key practical skills with a range of theoretical approaches to data.

How is our world influenced by big data? How are our lives represented in big data? This course will enable you, whatever your disciplinary background, to understand and act in a society transformed by data, networks and computation and develop a range of interdisciplinary capacities.

Our course offers you:

• Core knowledge in statistical modelling and programming for data-driven careers
• An extensive understanding of the relationship between big data technology and society
• Practical and critical application of these techniques to cutting-edge methods across the data spectrum
• Python and R programming skills (using RStudio)
• Introductory Data Science and Machine Learning / AI techniques, including Generative AI
• Statistics in Social Science (up to multiple linear regression and logistic regression)
• Advanced Statistics (generalised linear models, multilevel modelling and casual inference)
• Basics in Social Network Analysis, Web Scraping, Reproducible Analysis, Data Visualisation, SQL, Deep Learning, Agent-Based Modelling
• Writing and communication skills for analysis/discussing technical content
• Critical academic research skills with an interdisciplinary focus.

Your career

Big Data & Digital Futures graduates have gone on to be employed by UK-based startups like Skyscanner, StatsBomb, Fresha, Lyst and WeFarm as well as games companies like Sumo Digital and automotive firms like Stellantis. Other firms include Accenture, Amazon, AXA, BaiDu, Estee Lauder, GroupM, Inmarsat, Kandua, Multiverse, Schneider Electric, Sherpany, Slack, Tableau Software, TCMPartners, University of Warwick, Viacom18, and YouView TV. Students have also gone on to Ph.D. programmes at University of Warwick, Kings College London, University of Siegen, and GESIS Leibniz Institute for the Social Sciences.

Our department has a dedicated professionally qualified Senior Careers Consultant Link opens in a new window offering impartial advice and guidance together with workshops and events throughout the year. Previous examples of workshops and events include:

• Warwick careers fairs throughout the year
• Careers in AI and Data Science
• Discovering Careers in the Creative Industries
• Discuss Whats Next After Your CIM Masters Degree