The top universities in UK for Data Science courses are the University of Oxford, University of Edinburgh, Imperial College London, University College London, University of Manchester, University of Leeds, and University of Warwick.
Data Science and data analytics study involves data gathering and analyzing it to extract relevant information for business development. Most international students target the United Kingdom to study postgraduate and graduate courses in data science. This course has a scope in every field, from health care to communication, banking and insurance, politics, IT, and much more.
Data analytics study at UK universities assures industry-recognized degrees, high education standards, a 2-year post-study work visa, placement options, and high employability. Entry-level data scientists earn an average salary of around £30,000- £34,000, with great career prospects worldwide. Explore the best universities to study data science in UK in detail here. If you are planning to start your application process to study in UK, connect with Kanan International for a free counseling session to proceed further.
Top 7 UK Universities to Study Data Science
1. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford offers Master’s degrees in Statistical Science and Social Data Science. The main aim is to equip students with the necessary skills to handle real-world statistical and computational challenges. These programs are designed for students with familiarity with programming, and a strong background in social sciences, mathematics, computer science, or related fields. These courses provide comprehensive training in machine learning, statistical modelling, data mining, and a substantive focus on social, ethical, and legal considerations for AI and data broadly. The curriculum includes lectures, problem solving sessions, practical training in computer lab, report writing, and dissertation supervision. You will have around three months for independent research on your dissertation under your supervisor’s guidance, allowing for substantial self-directed study and exploration.
After completing the course, you will be able to choose a suitable statistical technique to resolve data analysis problems, implement it on a computer, and present your findings clearly and concisely. The course is available only full-time, but doctoral students can opt for part-time DPhil. Here are a few details about the data science programs offered:
- Suggested Course: MSc Statistical Science, Course duration- 12 months, International Fees- £36,000
- Suggested Course: MSc Social Science, Course duration- 10 months, International Fees- £33,970
- Eligibility: To pursue this course students require a professional bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution with a 65% overall grade.
2. University of Edinburgh
A Master’s in Data Science from the University of Edinburgh provides students with a comprehensive understanding of data analytics, including machine learning, data mining, statistical modelling, data management, and more. International students prefer data science courses at Scotland’s top university due to its high graduate employability rate. The university ranks 22nd as per QS World Ranking 2024. Studying data science involves focusing on informatics research, making data predictions, and understanding patterns. You will analyze patterns from large data streams employing machine learning and algorithms, including unstructured data like texts, images, and speech. The course curriculum ensures graduates are technically skilled and responsible data practitioners by addressing data science’s ethical and social implications. The mode of study includes full-time and part-time.
- Course: MSc Data Science
- Course Duration: Full-time 1 year ; Part-time: 2 to 3 years
- International fees: £35,900
- Eligibility: A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in informatics, artificial intelligence, cognitive science, computer science, electrical engineering, linguistics, mathematics, philosophy, physics, psychology, or another quantitative discipline. An English language proficiency IELTS score is required.
3. Imperial College London
Imperial College London is one of the UK’s top ten universities, and ranks 6th as per QS World Ranking 2024. The degree obtained from this globally renowned institution is valued by employers across various industries. The institute offers lucrative data science courses focusing on data science & data analytics, and applied statistics. This one year, full-time program provides outstanding training in theoretical and practical (applied) statistics. Data science course curriculum includes various modules that highlight methodologies for managing and analyzing datasets. It covers machine learning theories, data transformation and representation techniques, data visualization, and analytic software usage. Imperial College London’s data science course is equipped with a world-class faculty and state-of-the-art facilities that prepare graduates for broad careers in academia, industry, and government in the dynamic and fast-growing 21st century.
- Recommended Course: MSc Statistics (Data Science)
- Course Duration: 1 year
- International fees: £34,350
- Eligibility: 2:1 degree in statistics, mathematics, engineering, physics or computer science. Alongside, English test scores IELTS, TOEFL or PTE scores are required.
4. University College London (UCL)
The University College London, established in 1826 is a multidisciplinary institution that offers 430 undergraduate and 720 postgraduate programmes to students. The master’s in data science from this university offers students a comprehensive education in data science theory, tools, and techniques, equipping them with the necessary computational and statistical skills for data-driven problem-solving. The program targets students with a strong quantitative background, including mathematics, computer science, and engineering, and covers topics such as machine learning, data mining, statistical inference, and data visualization. Students studying at this university will have a scope to work on real-world projects through industry collaborations that provide practical experience through coursework and project work. The areas of employment after UCL data science course completion include IT, Technology and Telecoms, Accountancy, and Financial Services.
- Suggested Course: Data Science MSc, Data Science and Machine Learning
- Course duration: 1 year
- International fees: £35,900
- Eligibility: a second-class (2:2) undergraduate degree from a UK institution, or an international equivalent. Also, the university asks for English language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL or PTE).
5. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester ranked top 5 in the United Kingdom for computer science research, and holds one of the UK’s oldest and most prestigious computer science departments. The university is famous for its research and academic excellence. It has made significant contributions, including the creation of the world’s first-ever electronic RAM memory and the UK’s first supercomputer. The University of Manchester offers master’s degree programs in Data Science (Computer Science Data Informatics) and Data Science (Business & Management) for international students. These courses provide training in core data science skills embedded in a disciplinary context to develop data analytic skills, computational skills, project design skills, data stewardship skills and knowledge. Part-time enrollment for this course is not available due to the intensive nature of the taught portion. This MSc Data Science course is available only full-time.
- Recommended course: MSc Data Science (Computer Science Data Informatics), MSc Data Science (Business and Management)
- Course Duration: 1 year
- International fees: £31,000
- Eligibility: a first-class or strong upper second class honours degree, or the overseas equivalent, in Computer Science, or in a joint degree with at least 50% Computer Science content. English language proficiency scores are a must.
6. University of Leeds
The Master’s in Data Science and Analytics offered by the University of Leeds advances your knowledge and skills in the key areas of data science in both theoretical and practical ways. You can tailor the degree that suits your career with a broad selection of optional modules such as machine learning, programming, and GIS. The university offers full-time, part-time and online courses with varied specializations. The Data Science course combines expertise from the schools of computing, geography, and Mathematics with that of Leeds University Business School. Here are the suggested courses for post graduation:
7. University of Warwick
The University of Warwick offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs in data science with varied specializations. The course is designed with a background in computer science, mathematics, business, engineering, or the physical sciences. The technical skills and expertise the course develops help graduates pursue opportunities at the forefront of an emerging discipline that promises to reshape science and industry for years to come. The university is regarded as one of the best affordable universities with good placements. The eligibility includes a first class honours degree or a 2:1 undergraduate degree in computer science, mathematics, statistics, physics, or any relevant subject. Students must also be qualified in IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE to get admission. Here are the suggested courses
Best Universities in UK to study Masters in Data Science
The Data Science Masters course lasts 1 to 2 years. Here are some of the best universities for masters in Data science UK:
| University Name | Masters Program | International fees |
| Middlesex University London | Data Science MSc | £14,500 |
| University of East London | MSc Data Science Computing | £14,340 |
| University of Birmingham | Data Science Masters/ MSc | £26,640 |
| University of Edinburgh | Data Science MSc | £35,900 |
| King’s College London | Data Science MSc | £29,310 |
| University of Manchester | MSc Data Science (Business & Management) | £31000 |
| Cardiff University | MSc Data Science and Analytics | £24,950 |
| The London School of Economics and Political Science | MSc Data Science | £30,960 |
| University of Southampton | MSc Data Science | £28000 |
| University of Strathclyde Glasgow | MSc Data Analytics | £21,300 |
MS in Data Science in UK: Documents Required
- Academic Transcripts
- Valid English test score reports
- Statement of Purpose
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR) if asked
- Experience letter if required
- Passport
- Proof of funds
- Proof of Scholarships (if any)
Study Data Science in UK: Job Prospects
Some of the best-known AI firms that are domiciled in the UK are Deepmind, Benevolent AI, Oxbotica, FiveAI, the Alan Turing Institute, etc. The average salary base of a Data Scientist in the UK as of 2024 is £41,154- £51,028, and the bonus ranged between £973 – £10K, according to Payscale. Here are the job roles that data science graduates can work:
| Job Designation | Annual Salary |
| Data Analyst | £21k to £42k |
| Data Engineer | £27k to £66k |
| Software Engineer | £26k to £63k |
| Senior Data Analyst | £30k to £61k |
| Software Developer | £23k to £50k |
| Web developer | £19k to £39k |
Wrapping Up
In our increasingly globalized and evolving economy, automation is necessary for business survival. As Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence replace human labor, data science grads create a bridge between computers and humans, creating valuable opportunities. We hope that this article has helped you get an overview of possible best universities to study data science in UK. Contact Kanan International for further assistance or information on immigration to the United Kingdom for higher studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which University is best for Data Science in UK?
The 7 best universities in UK to study Data Science courses are the University of Oxford, University of Edinburgh, Imperial College London, University College London, University of Manchester, University of Leeds, and University of Warwick. The Bachelor’s programs in Data Science span from three to four years, while master’s programs will be one to two years. Doctoral programs (PhD) can last up to five years to complete. The coursework and curriculum vary from university to university.
2. What is the eligibility criteria to study Data Science in UK?
To register for MS in Data Science in UK, a bachelor’s degree in computer science or any other relevant subject that is comparable to a UK second class honors degree from a university-accepted institution. Students applying for a Bachelor of Data Science in UK must have scored at least 55% in an intermediate level or high school diploma with primary subjects as maths and English. Along with this students need to submit English language proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL).
3. Is UK good for Data Science?
The United Kingdom offers best education in MS in Data Science making the country a perfect destination to study masters in data science. The UK stands 2nd position with the highest number of universities and provides excellent job opportunities.
4. What is the eligibility criteria to study Phd in Data Science in UK?
- A bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics or related fields.
- Master’s degree with honors in relevant fields like mathematics, statistics, computer science, computer engineering, or related quantitative discipline.
- A well-developed, original, and authentic research proposal is required.
5. Which universities are best in UK to study Bachelor’s in Data Science?
The best UK universities to study bachelor in data science are
- The London School of Economics and Political Science
- University of Bristol
- University of Exeter
- University of Essex
- Coventry University
- University of Portsmouth
- University of Wolverhampton
- University of East London
- University of Strathclyde Glasgow
- University of Westminster
6. Which UK Universities are best to study PhD in Data Science?
The best UK universities to study PhD in Data Science are
- University of East London
- University of Essex
- University of Sterling
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Oxford
- University of Lancaster