MSc Big Data at University of Stirling

Programme overview

MSc Big Data is an on-campus Masters covering big data technology and the science of data analytics, intended for students without a computing background.

Duration: September full-time 12 months; September part-time 24 months; January full-time 21 months | Intake: January 2027, September 2027, January 2028 | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Collecting, managing and analysing large, fast-moving data with SQL and NoSQL databases, Hadoop, Python, machine learning and R, with a project using a big data technology of the student's choice and invited speakers.

Career pathways

Careers in banking and finance, data-driven marketing, sport, health, engineering, data journalism and GIS; graduates hold roles such as lead data scientist, senior data engineer and big data engineer.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A minimum of a second class honours degree or equivalent; applicants without these but with significant relevant work experience are encouraged to apply. Intended for students without a computing background. English language for international applicants: IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each sub-skill; PTE Academic 60 overall with a minimum of 59 in each sub-skill; TOEFL iBT (exams before 21 January 2026) 80 overall with 18 reading, 17 writing, 17 listening, 20 speaking.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,750 a year (2026/27). Students from the UK and Republic of Ireland; part time rate Source

International applicants: GBP 12,150 a year (2026/27). International (including EU) students; part time rate Source

Intake: January 2027, September 2027, January 2028

Duration: September full-time 12 months; September part-time 24 months; January full-time 21 months

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