What Is the Master of Data Science Course at Cardiff University?
The Master of Data Science at Cardiff University is a modern, career-driven postgraduate program that’s built for students looking to master skills in data analysis, machine learning, and data-driven decision-making. Whether you’re coming from a tech background or something like business or science, this course blends it all together to help you become a data professional.
Let’s see what the program includes:
- Degree: MSc Data Science
- Duration: 1 year- Full Time
- Study Mode: On-campus
- Start Date: September intake
- School: Computer Science and Informatics
This program is a mix of theory and hands-on work, with a strong focus on real-world application—just what you’d expect from a leading UK university.
Who Should Study the MSc Data Science at Cardiff?
This program is ideal for students who:
- Have a degree in Computer Science, Maths, Engineering, or anything closely related
- Are aiming to work in data science, analytics, or artificial intelligence
- Enjoy working with numbers, data, and solving practical problems
You’ll find it most useful if you’re someone who:
- Likes using Python, SQL, or tools like R
- wishes to investigate how data and AI influence contemporary industries.
- hopes to work at prestigious organisations or research facilities in the future.
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What Are the Admission Requirements?
International students need the requirements given below to get admitted into this course:
| Requirement | Details |
| Academic Qualification | A bachelor’s degree with 2:1 honours or its equivalent in a relevant field |
| English Language Proficiency | IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) |
| Other Accepted Exams | TOEFL iBT: 90, PTE: 62, Duolingo: 115 |
| Supporting Documents | SOP, LORs, academic transcripts, and your updated CV |
Applying with a strong personal statement and clear career goals can make a big difference during the selection process.
Where Do Graduates Work After This Course?
Graduates from this program usually go on to land top jobs in tech, finance, healthcare, and even government sectors.
Common career roles include:
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Business Intelligence Expert
- AI Researcher
Employers who’ve hired Cardiff grads:
- Deloitte
- NHS
- IBM
- Capgemini
- Admiral
Stats show that over 90% of grads either get employed or take up further studies within just 6 months after graduation, which is pretty impressive.
What Is the Tuition Fee and Scholarship Support?
| Category | Estimated Cost (2024/25) |
| Tuition (International Students) | £25,450 |
| Living Expenses | £9,000–£11,000 per year (approx.) |
Scholarships You Can Apply For:
- GREAT Scholarship
- Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship
- Commonwealth Scholarship
- Country-specific awards
These scholarships are very competitive. So, apply early and make sure your documents are in shape.
Where Can Students Stay During the Course?
Accommodation in a new country can be overwhelming. But Cardiff makes it a lot easier. International students have plenty of options to choose from:
- University halls by The University of Cardiff
- Shared houses and private student apartments
- Fully furnished studios with all-inclusive bills
If you’re unsure where to begin, platforms like University Living are a great help for finding verified and student-friendly accommodations in Cardiff. You can filter options based on budget, location, and even get support for booking from overseas.
Why Is Cardiff a Great City for International Students?
Cardiff is affordable, fun, and full of opportunities for international students. It’s also one of the safest and most walkable cities in the UK.
Here’s why students love it:
- Lower living costs than many UK cities
- Over 7,000 international students from around the world
- Amazing food, events, and nightlife
- Fast transport connections to large cities like London
It’s a city where you’ll feel at home, and there’s always something going on—whether it’s rugby, festivals, or student events.
How Can You Apply for the Master of Data Science?
Applying direct is possible via Cardiff University’s official website. The steps are pretty straightforward:
- Create an account on the portal
- Fill in personal and academic info
- Upload documents like SOP, transcripts, LORs
- Pay the application fee and submit
Make sure you apply before the deadline and check if the course still has open spots—it fills up quick.
What Support Services Are Available for International Students?
The University offers a range of support services that help you adjust to life abroad:
- Welcome week and airport pickup
- Workshops for writing, presentation, and job applications
- Visa help and mental health support
- Career counselling with one-on-one sessions
It’s a supportive environment, especially for those coming from outside the UK for the first time.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to step into the exciting world of data and AI, Cardiff’s MSc Data Science program has everything you’ll need. You get hands-on experience, top-class teaching, and a city that’s affordable and friendly. Plus, the strong career outcomes and international support make it one of the best picks for students going abroad.
Make Cardiff your next academic home—and let your journey into data science truly begin.
