University of Stirling United Kingdom

MSc Big Data

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MSc Big Data at the University of Stirling is designed for ambitious graduates seeking to master the technologies and analytical techniques essential for extracting value from large, complex datasets. In today's data-driven world, professionals who can effectively manage, manipulate, and interpret big data are in high demand across science, commerce, and industry. This programme equips you with a robust understanding of data science principles, advanced computational techniques, and practical applications, preparing you to tackle significant challenges in fields like machine learning and cluster computing.

This full-time, on-campus Masters degree is delivered over one year, immersing you in a curriculum that balances theoretical foundations with hands-on experience. You will explore modules covering data representation, manipulation, machine learning, and database systems, alongside essential mathematical and statistical concepts. Your studies culminate in a substantial dissertation project, allowing you to delve deeply into a specific area of big data research or application. You will graduate with sought-after skills in data analytics, R, Hadoop, and NoSQL, ready for a career as a data scientist or analyst.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc Big Data program equips students with the skills to manage and analyze large datasets. The curriculum covers foundational mathematical and statistical concepts, data representation and manipulation techniques, and commercial and scientific applications. Students will explore machine learning, cluster computing, and both relational and non-relational databases, culminating in a dissertation project.

1 Year one: Autumn semester (option one)

Representing and manipulating data Compulsory
Commercial and scientific applications Compulsory
Mathematical and statistical foundations Compulsory

2 Year one: Spring semester (option one)

Machine learning Compulsory
Cluster computing Compulsory
Relational and non-relational databases Compulsory

3 Year one: Summer semester (option one)

Dissertation project
Research dissertation project

4 Year one: Autumn semester (option two)

Representing and manipulating data Compulsory
Commercial and scientific applications Compulsory
Select 20 credits from MSc Big Data Opt (matpmd1/2) list Compulsory

5 Year one: Spring semester (option two)

Machine learning Compulsory
Cluster computing Compulsory
Relational and non-relational databases Compulsory

6 Year one: Summer semester (option two)

Dissertation project
Research dissertation project

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,953.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 30,953.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on Stirling Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Marketing & SalesAgricultural Services & ExtensionCreative Production & Project ManagementDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringInvestment Management & Asset ManagementMarket Research & InsightsQuality Assurance & TestingRegulatory & Government AffairsSatellite CommunicationsTax & Legal Compliance

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Capgemini

Google

Microsoft

National Farmers'​ Union

TSB Bank

Why Study MSc Big Data at University of Stirling

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Very Fast Application response time

University of Stirling typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Stirling in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MSc Big Data at University of Stirling

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time while enrolled in Degree courses. No separate work permit is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll in the MSc Big Data, you need to meet specific English language requirements. Acceptable tests include TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, each with minimum scores for listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer, or Business Intelligence Developer.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MSc Big Data focuses on big data technology and data analytics. Students will learn to collect, manage, and analyze large datasets using tools like R, Hadoop, and Machine Learning.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSc Big Data program has two intake months: January and September. You can apply for the course to start in either of these months.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️