MSc Data Science
Build the statistical, machine-learning and engineering skills to turn data into decisions. A flagship, industry-aligned master's with a paid placement option at one of the UK's most targeted universities by graduate employers.
- ✓ Study at a university ranked 35th in the world and 7th in the UK (QS 2026)
- ✓ Join one of the UK's most targeted universities by top graduate employers (High Fliers 2026)
- ✓ Qualify for the UK's 2-year Graduate Route post-study work visa
This MSc gives you a rigorous foundation in the principles and practice of data science, from probability and statistical modelling to modern machine learning and large-scale data engineering. You'll work with real datasets and industry partners throughout.
Graduates leave job-ready for roles in analytics, machine learning and research — and qualify for the UK's 2-year Graduate Route post-study work visa.
Same field, different universities
See how this programme compares with data science and analytics at other universities we work with.
| University | Country | Level | Duration | Tuition/year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester ★ This programme | 🇬🇧 UK | Master's | 1 year | £29,500 |
| Edinburgh QS #27 | 🇬🇧 UK | Master's | 1 year | £31,200 |
| King's College London QS #31 | 🇬🇧 UK | Master's | 1 year | £33,000 |
| TU Munich QS #28 | 🇩🇪 Germany | Master's | 2 years | €0 |
| ELTE Budapest QS ~584 | 🇭🇺 Hungary | Bachelor's | 3 years | €3,200 |
Your counsellor helps you compare and apply to multiple programmes simultaneously — at no cost.
What you'll need
| Academic | Bachelor's (2:1 or equivalent) in a quantitative subject (GPA 3.0+) | |
| English | IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL 90 | |
| Documents | Transcripts, SOP, two references, passport | |
Not sure you meet these? We offer foundation and pre-master's pathways — your counsellor will find the right route.
Core modules
Career outcomes
£42,000
Median starting salary for graduates in data roles
2-year visa
UK Graduate Route post-study work visa
94%
Employed or in further study within 6 months
Top employers
BBC, AstraZeneca, Booking.com, Barclays
Application timeline
Tuition fees & deposit
| Tuition (international) | Per annum | £29,500 |
| Deposit | Required before CAS / visa | £2,500 |
| IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge) | Per year | £776 |
Funding you may be eligible for
Manchester and the UK government offer strong scholarship options for international students. Your counsellor matches you with every award you qualify for.
Not sure which scholarships you qualify for? Your counsellor reviews every option and handles the applications — at no cost.
Alternative funding options
Covers tuition and living expenses for postgraduate students at top-ranked universities. No cosigner required; rates based on future earning potential.
Student Route visa holders may work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays. Manchester has a thriving tech scene — MediaCityUK, the BBC, and numerous startups offer strong student employment.
Monthly budget in Manchester
Manchester is significantly more affordable than London while offering a vibrant student lifestyle and excellent transport links.
UKVI maintenance requirement: £1,023/month (outside London) for 9 months — you must show this in your bank statements for the visa.
Visa requirements for the UK
| Visa type | Student Route visa (formerly Tier 4) | |
| CAS required | Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies from Manchester | |
| Financial proof | £1,023/month × 9 months = £9,207 (outside London) | |
| Health surcharge (IHS) | £776/year — covers NHS access | |
| Visa fee | £490 (standard processing) | |
| Post-graduation | 2-year Graduate Route visa — work in any role | |
Your counsellor guides you through the full visa process — from CAS letter to biometrics appointment.
Hear from our students
"Manchester's Data Science course is incredibly industry-focused — the dissertation was with a real company, and I got a job offer before graduation. My counsellor secured me an £8,000 bursary that I didn't even know existed."
"Living in Manchester is so much more affordable than London — I saved thousands on rent. The campus is amazing and the tech scene here is booming. My counsellor handled everything from application to visa."
Frequently asked questions
Ready to apply to Manchester?
Start your free application with a counsellor who knows this programme inside out.