Data Science (with an industrial placement year) MSc : University of Sussex

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Key information

Duration:: 2 years full time, 3 years part time
Start date:: September 2025
Apply by:: 1 August 2025 (international), 1 September 2025 (UK)

95% of our research overall in Mathematical Sciences was assessed to be world leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021)

Data forms the basis of knowledge, and underpins our understanding of the world. We can find data everywhere – in how we exercise, what we eat, and even in how galaxies evolve.

From agriculture to astronomy, the rate at which we collect and process information is accelerating. Data Science helps us interrogate this information to solve problems. You'll learn to create more effective systems and make the world a better place.

Get the tools and techniques you need to build, analyse and interpret large datasets common to academic science and industrial practice. By studying at Sussex, you will:

gain hands-on experience with large-scale, real-world datasets, learning how to develop robust and effective solutions
become experienced in Python and other cutting-edge computing and mathematical tools essential for data manipulation and analysis
learn advanced techniques in machine learning to build predictive models and solve complex problems
build key skills to engage with data in areas ranging from mathematics, computer science, physics and biology to medicine, geography, development studies and economics.

You'll be supported by expert faculty. Through your MSc dissertation you can focus on an area that interests you most. You could consider Data Science applications in climate change, banking, smart devices, gaming, pandemics, degenerative diseases and more.

You'll graduate with the skills and knowledge for a successful career in data-driven industries such as technology, finance and engineering. You could forge a career as a data scientist, machine learning engineer or data analyst, or decide to pursue further study.

To help you gain experience and increase your employability, you can apply for an optional placement as part of your course. This can be a fantastic opportunity to gain real-life insight into industry as well as skills valued by employers. You’ll be responsible for applying for and securing your placement. Our dedicated careers team can help you:

find an employer
draft an application
prepare for interviews.

Don’t worry if you’re not successful, you’ll simply transfer to a non-placement version of your course.

We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.

Apply now

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Degree requirements	You should normally have an upper second-class (2.1) undergraduate honours degree or above.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please select your country from the list.

Argentina

Degree requirements	Licenciado/Titulo with a final mark of at least 7.5-8.5 depending on your university.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Australia

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with second-class upper division.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Azerbaijan

Degree requirements	Magistr or Specialist Diploma with an average mark of at least 4 or 81%
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Bahrain

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with CGPA 3.0/4.0 (Grade B).
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Bangladesh

Degree requirements	A 4-year Bachelor degree with GPA of at least 3.3/4.0
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Brazil

Degree requirements	Bacharel, Licenciado or professional title with a final mark of at least 7.5 or 8 depending on your university.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Brunei

Degree requirements	Bachelors (Honours) degree with second class upper division or CGPA 3.1/4.0.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Canada

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with CGPA 3.3/4.0 (grade B+).
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Chile

Degree requirements	Licenciado with a final mark of at least 5-5.5/7 depending on your university.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

China

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 70%-75% depending on your university. Sussex uses Project 211/985 to inform offer levels. As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both a Degree Certificate and Graduation Certificate.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 70%-75% depending on your university. Sussex uses Project 211/985 to inform offer levels.

As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both a Degree Certificate and Graduation Certificate.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Colombia

Degree requirements	Licenciado with ‘Acreditacion de alta calidad' and a CGPA of 3.5.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Cyprus

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree or Ptychion with a final mark of at least 7.5.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Denmark

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 7 (Good Performance).
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Ecuador

Degree requirements	Licenciado with a final mark of at least 17/20.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Egypt

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree from a university with an overall grade of at least 70-75% depending on your university.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

France

Degree requirements	Licence with mention bien or Maîtrise with a final mark of at least 13.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Germany

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree or Magister Artium with a final mark of 2.4 or better.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Ghana

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree from a public university with second-class upper division.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Greece

Degree requirements	Ptychion from an AEI with a final mark of at least 7.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Hong Kong

Degree requirements	Bachelors (Honours) degree with second-class upper division.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

India

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 55-70% depending on your university.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Indonesia

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree from an 'A' accredited university with CGPA 3.0/4.0. Bachelors degree from a 'B' accredited university with CGPA 3.2/4.0.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Iran

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree (Licence or Karshenasi) with a final mark of at least 15.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Italy

Degree requirements	Diploma di Laurea with an overall mark of at least 105.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Japan

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with a minimum C/GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or equivalent.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Jordan

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with a CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 80%.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Kazakhstan

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of 4.0/5 or CGPA 3.33/4
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Kenya

Degree requirements	Bachelors (Honours) degree with a second-class upper division.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Kuwait

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with a CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or B+.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Lebanon

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with a CGPA 3.5/4.0 or 14/20.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Malawi

Degree requirements	Masters degree, depending on your university.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Malaysia

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with a CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Mexico

Degree requirements	Licenciado with a final mark of at least 8/10.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Nepal

Degree requirements	A 4-year Bachelor degree with GPA of at least 3.3/4.0
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Nigeria

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with a second-class upper division or CGPA of at least 3.0-3.49/4.0, 3.5-4.49/5.0 or 4.6-5.9/7.0
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Norway

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with an overall grade of B.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Oman

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with a CGPA of at least 3.3/4.0.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Pakistan

Degree requirements	Four-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 65%-70% or CGPA 2.6 - 2.8 depending on your university. Masters degree following a 3-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 65%-70% or CGPA 2.6 - 2.8 depending on your university.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Degree requirements

Four-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 65%-70% or CGPA 2.6 - 2.8 depending on your university.

Masters degree following a 3-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 65%-70% or CGPA 2.6 - 2.8 depending on your university.

Subject-specific requirements

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Palestine

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with at least 80% or CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Paraguay

Degree requirements	Bachelors with a final mark of at least 7.5/10.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Peru

Degree requirements	Licenciado with a final mark of at least 13/20 from a public university or 15/20 from a private university.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Philippines

Degree requirements	Masters degree with 1.5/5.0 (where 1 is the highest) or 3.7/4.0
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Qatar

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with an overall CPGA of at least 3 (on a scale of 4).
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Russia

Degree requirements	Bakalavr or Specialist Diploma with an average mark of at least 4.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Saudi Arabia

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with a CGPA of 3.5/5.0 or 3/4.0.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Singapore

Degree requirements	Bachelors (Honours) degree with a second-class upper division or CAP 4.0.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

South Africa

Degree requirements	Bachelors (honours) degree with a second-class division 1.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

South Korea

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with a CGPA of at least 3.3/4.5 or 3.1/4.3 or B+
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Spain

Degree requirements	Licenciado with a final mark of at least 2/4 or 7/10.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Sri Lanka

Degree requirements	Bachelors Special degree with an upper second honours.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Switzerland

Degree requirements	Licence or Diplôme with 5/6 or 8/10.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Taiwan

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 67%-80% depending on your university.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Thailand

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with CGPA of at least 2.8 - 3.0/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Turkey

Degree requirements	Lisans Diplomasi with CGPA of at least 2.8 - 3.0/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

United Arab Emirates

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or equivalent.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

USA

Degree requirements	Bachelors degree with CGPA of at least 3.3/4.0.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Uzbekistan

Degree requirements	Specialist Diploma with an average mark of at least 80%.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Vietnam

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree (with a Graduate Thesis/research component) with CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 7.0/10.

As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both proof of graduation in addition to your transcript.

Subject-specific requirements

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Zambia

Degree requirements	Masters degree with GPA of 2.0/2.5 or equivalent.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Zimbabwe

Degree requirements	Bachelors (Honours) degree with second-class upper division.
Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

My country is not listed

If your country is not listed, you need to contact us and find out the qualification level you should have for this course. Contact us

Subject-specific requirements	Your qualification should be in physics, engineering, science, computing, mathematics or life sciences. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

English language requirements

IELTS (Academic)

Standard level (6.0 overall, including at least 5.5 in each component).

IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about IELTS

We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.

We accept IELTS Online.

Check full details of our English Language requirements and find out more about some of the alternative English language qualifications listed below

Alternative English language qualifications

Proficiency tests

Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)

169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.

We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.

We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency

Duolingo English test

110 overall, with no component score below 105.

Duolingo English test scores are valid for two years from the test date. Find out more about the Duolingo English test

You will need to share your results with the University of Sussex.

LanguageCert Academic SELT

Standard level (65 overall, including at least 60 in each component).

LanguageCert Academic SELT scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert Academic SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres.

We do not accept the online version. We also do not accept the non-SELT version.

LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

International ESOL SELT B2 with a minimum of 36 in each component.

LanguageCert International ESOL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres. We do not accept the online version.

Pearson (PTE Academic)

Standard level (59 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills).

PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic)

We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.

TOEFL (iBT)

Standard level (80 overall, including at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, 17 in Writing).

TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about TOEFL (iBT)

We accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.

The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.

English language qualifications

AS/A-level (GCE)

Grade C or above in English Language.

Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English.

GCE O-level

Grade C or above in English.

Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.

Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.

GCSE or IGCSE

Grade C or above in English as a First Language (Grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).

Grade B or above in English as a Second Language.

Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate

If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.

If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language.

Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)

Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.

Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)

The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%

Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70%

International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)

English A or English B at grade 5 or above.

Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education

Grades A - C in English language

Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 1119/GCE O-level

If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-6 in English Language.

If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.

The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).

West African Senior School Certificate

Grades A1-C6 (1-6) in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).

Country exceptions

If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.

You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this, we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.

Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.

List of exempt countries:

Antigua and Barbuda
Australia
Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Canada**
Dominica
Grenada
Guyana
Ireland
Jamaica
New Zealand
St Kitts and Nevis
St Lucia
St Vincent and the Grenadines
The British Overseas Territories
Trinidad and Tobago
United Kingdom
USA

** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.

English language support

If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course

Visas and immigration

Find out how to apply for a student visa

Admissions information for applicants

How to apply	You apply to Sussex using our application portal
Personal statement	Yes. You must submit a personal statement as part of your application. Find out how to write a personal statement

If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us

For details on any additional costs, check out the Fees and scholarships section.

Application deadlines

1 August 2025 (international), 1 September 2025 (UK)

We strongly recommend an earlier application where possible, as some courses are in high demand and may close before the above dates. Find out more at How to apply for a Masters course

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Modules

Full-time and part-time study

Choose to study this course full time or part time, to fit around your work and personal life. Modules for the full-time course are listed below. For details about the part-time course, contact us.

Year 1

Core modules

Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.

Autumn teaching

Spring teaching

Options

Alongside your core modules, you can choose options to broaden your horizons and tailor your course to your interests. This list gives you a flavour of our options, which are kept under review and may change, for example in response to student feedback or the latest research.

While it’s our aim for students to take their preferred combinations of options, this can’t be guaranteed and will be subject to timetabling. Options may be grouped and if so, students will be able to choose a set number of options from the selection available in any particular group.

Autumn teaching

Spring teaching

Year 2

Core modules

Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.

All year

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2025/26. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.

Apply now

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Our experts

Rapid advances in artificial intelligence, computing, mathematics and statistics are empowering scientists and engineers, and changing the way they operate. Join us and be part of this revolution!”Dr Omar Lakkis
Reader in Mathematics and Convener of the Data Science MSc

Dr Martin Berger

Associate Professor in Foundations of Computation

View profile of Martin Berger

Prof Luc Berthouze

Professor of Complex Systems

View profile of Luc Berthouze

Prof John Carroll

Emeritus Professor

View profile of John Carroll

Dr Omar Lakkis

Reader in Mathematics

View profile of Omar Lakkis

Prof Jonathan Loveday

Professor of Astrophysics

View profile of Jonathan Loveday

Prof George Parisis

Head of Department

View profile of George Parisis

Dr Frances Pearl

Associate Professor in Bioinformatics

View profile of Frances Pearl

Prof Novi Quadrianto

Professor of Machine Learning

View profile of Novi Quadrianto

Dr Warrick Roseboom

Associate Professor in Psychology and Informatics

View profile of Warrick Roseboom

Prof Fabrizio Salvatore

Professor of Physics

View profile of Fabrizio Salvatore

Prof Ian Wakeman

Head of School Engineering and Informatics

View profile of Ian Wakeman

Dr Minmin Wang

Associate Professor

View profile of Minmin Wang

Prof Julie Weeds

Professor in Artificial Intelligence

View profile of Julie Weeds

Prof David Weir

Professor Of Computer Science

View profile of David Weir

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Fees and scholarships

How much does it cost?

Fees

Home students:: £13,225 for full-time students, including placement
Channel Islands and Isle of Man students:: £13,225 for full-time students, including placement
International students:: £27,100 for full-time students, including placement

If you study part time over three years, you’ll be charged 50% of the equivalent full-time fee in your first two years of study. Your second-year fee – if you continue your studies without a break – will be subject to a 3% increase (subject to rounding). In your third year, you’ll be charged the placement fee.

If you’re a self-funded international student, you’re required to pay a tuition fee deposit. Find out more about Masters tuition fee deposits

Additional costs

Note about additional costs

Please note that all costs are best estimates based on current market values. Activities may be subject to unavoidable change in response to Government advice. We’ll let you know at the earliest opportunity. We review estimates every year and they may vary with inflation. Find out how to budget for student life.

Placement

This course includes an option for you to apply for a placement. If you are successful in obtaining a placement, your placement is included in the tuition fee for the course. You’ll need to pay for the costs of undertaking your placement, including travel costs to and from your placement and living costs for the duration of your placement (including accommodation)

Living costs

Find out typical living costs for studying at Sussex

Find out about our terms and conditions

How can I fund my course?

Scholarships

Our goal is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to regardless of financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique people.

Aziz Foundation Scholarship

A full fee waiver for British Muslim Masters applicants

Find out more
Chancellor's International Scholarships

Scholarships worth £5,000 available to international applicants

Find out more
Chancellor's Masters Scholarship

100 scholarships worth up to £5,000 are available for First Class graduates from UK or Irish universities

Find out more
Climate Leaders Scholarship

£3,000 scholarships available to active environmentalists (in any subject) bringing about real-world behaviour change

Find out more
Friends of the University of Sussex Scholarship

$10,000 USD scholarship for a national or citizen of the USA

Find out more
HESPAL (Higher Education Scholarships Scheme for the Palestinian Territories)

One full tuition fee waiver in conjunction with maintenance support from the British Council is available to a resident of Palestinian Territories

Find out more
Jenny and Peter Kingsland Scholarship

£5,000 scholarship for women in STEM

Find out more
Mandela Scholarship

Full fee waiver and maintenance award for an applicant from South Africa

Find out more
Saïd Foundation Scholarships

5 full scholarships available for Masters students from Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine and Syria

Find out more
Sanctuary Scholarship (Masters)

Fully funded scholarships available to support a forced migrant seeking to study a Masters at Sussex

Find out more
Scholarships for Palestine

Fully funded scholarships to support students from Palestine

Find out more
Sports Scholarships Scheme

Cash scholarships available for students who have demonstrated sporting excellence

Find out more
Sussex Alumni Scholarship

£3,000 for previous Sussex graduates returning to study a Masters degree

Find out more
Sussex Bangladesh Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Bangladesh

Find out more
Sussex Egypt Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Egypt

Find out more
Sussex GREAT Scholarship China

£10,000 scholarship for an applicant from China

Find out more
Sussex GREAT Scholarship Kenya

£10,000 scholarship for an applicant from Kenya

Find out more
Sussex GREAT Scholarship Thailand

£10,000 scholarship for an applicant from Thailand

Find out more
Sussex India Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of India

Find out more
Sussex Nigeria Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Nigeria

Find out more
Sussex Pakistan Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Pakistan

Find out more
Sussex Turkey Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Turkey

Find out more
Sussex Vietnam Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Vietnam

Find out more
Technopolis UK Masters Scholarship

A £14,000 scholarship for a Black British student in the University of Sussex Business School or the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences

Find out more

Working while you study

Our Careers and Employability Centre can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work

Apply now

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Careers

91%

of Sussex postgraduates have completed work experience by the end of their course (University of Sussex Career Readiness data at point of graduation 2023/24)

When you graduate, you’ll be equipped with skills highly sought after by employers across a range of industries, from technology and finance to engineering and beyond.

In the past, our graduates have progressed to roles including:

data analyst
data scientist
data engineer
software developer
technical consultant

Some of the organisations our graduates have gone on to work for include:

Brand Watch
Capita
ITV
Legal & General
Siemens Mobility
Shanghai Craiditx

The depth of knowledge provided by my Masters has proven invaluable, equipping me with the skills I need to succeed. It enhanced both my coding and mathematical skills while preparing me for my next stage of academic and professional development.”Aamir Raja
Data Science MSc graduate
Read Aamir’s story

Design your future at Sussex

Taking the next step in your career can feel daunting, but we’ll help you to explore, connect and flourish throughout your studies and beyond.

As a Sussex student, you’ll learn how to tackle real-world challenges and have access to tailored programmes of careers support:

our Career Lab helps you to explore your options, build key skills and connect with employers. Take part in internships, community consultancy projects and insight visits, where you can learn about life at organisations including Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club, Gatwick Airport and the Knepp Rewilding Project
one-to-one coaching with your Faculty Careers Consultant can enable you to identify your career goals, write an effective CV and prepare for future interviews
entrepreneurship initiatives like StartUp Sussex and Ideas Lab can empower you to turn your concepts into reality.

Explore how our Careers and Entrepreneurship team can support you

Winner
Supporting Student and Graduate Employability Award
AGCAS Awards for Excellence 2024

Winner
Entrepreneurship Catalyst Award
National Enterprise Educator Awards 2024

Apply now

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Data Science (with an industrial placement year) MSc

Key information

Shape your world with a Masters

Entry requirements

Argentina

Australia

Azerbaijan

Bahrain

Bangladesh

Brazil

Brunei

Canada

Chile

China

Colombia

Cyprus

Denmark

Ecuador

Egypt

France

Germany

Ghana

Greece

Hong Kong

India

Indonesia

Iran

Italy

Japan

Jordan

Kazakhstan

Kenya

Kuwait

Lebanon

Malawi

Malaysia

Mexico

Nepal

Nigeria

Norway

Oman

Pakistan

Palestine

Paraguay

Peru

Philippines

Qatar

Russia

Saudi Arabia

Singapore

South Africa

South Korea

Spain

Sri Lanka

Switzerland

Taiwan

Thailand

Turkey

United Arab Emirates

USA

Uzbekistan

Vietnam

Zambia

Zimbabwe

My country is not listed

English language requirements

IELTS (Academic)

Alternative English language qualifications

Proficiency tests

Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

Duolingo English test

LanguageCert Academic SELT

LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

Pearson (PTE Academic)

TOEFL (iBT)

English language qualifications

AS/A-level (GCE)

GCE O-level

GCSE or IGCSE