Explore machine learning and data mining as part of an online MSc degree

For anyone interested in the rapidly expanding field of computer science, machine learning and data mining are among the most exciting and evolving areas. 

From national governments to international corporations, big data and artificial intelligence are increasingly being leveraged for real-world problem solving and decision-making. But both need data mining and machine learning to extract and analyse the data that makes these tools so useful – and both require skilled computer and data scientists.

Online machine learning and data mining studies

At the University of Sunderland, there are two online master’s degrees that explore machine learning and data mining:

• MSc Computer Science
• MSc Computer Science with Data Science

In fact, both of these postgraduate degrees offer a module wholly dedicated to machine learning and data mining. During this module, you’ll explore both interrelated subjects and develop an understanding of the tools, trends, and current developments in the fields, as well as the relevant professional, ethical, social, and legal considerations in their application.

The benefits of an online degree in computer science and data science

Undertaking an online MSc degree in computer science and data science offers a number of benefits, particularly for people who want to advance their careers while also managing existing professional and personal commitments.

Career progression

By developing competencies in areas like data analysis, statistical analysis, and the application of machine learning algorithms, you’ll be building a skillset highly sought after in today’s job market, particularly for roles in data analytics and data engineering. This can help you build a new career in computer science, or further your existing career as you apply your knowledge to your real work experience, and gain a new qualification.

The University of Sunderland emphasises employment in all of its online master’s courses. Close industry partnerships mean that our online course content is developed with a focus on the real world of work. This is reflected in the fact that 95.3% of our postgraduate students are in employment or further study within six months of graduating (DHLE, 2016/17).

Salary

Investing in a postgraduate computer science degree is just that – an investment. It can significantly impact your earning potential, with data scientists among the most in-demand professionals today, thanks to their expertise in transforming complex datasets into actionable insights. This typically translates into high salaries, with experienced data scientists earning an average annual salary of £82,500 in the United Kingdom.

Why study an MSc computer science online?

Choosing to pursue an MSc in computer science or data science online means you’re not just earning a degree – you’re fully embracing a future where technology takes centre-stage. And there are lots of benefits for online University of Sunderland students. For example:

• Flexibility and convenience. Unlike many of the traditional full-time, on-campus courses, Sunderland’s online degrees offer part-time enrolment, making them ideal for learners who need to balance their studies with work, family, or caregiving commitments. This flexibility extends to start dates and fees, too, with multiple start dates every academic year, and a pay-per-module fee option. And because all of your studies take place in our online learning environment, you can study at any time and from anywhere in the world.
• Practical learning. Your coursework may happen off-campus, but it’ll still be hands-on, and you’ll gain practical skills in subjects such as networking, databases, software engineering, and cybersecurity. These studies will be complemented with online tutorials, recordings, readings, case studies, forums, and other asynchronous studies, as well as your final research project.
• Access to online academic support. While online learners do a lot of self-study and independent learning, they also have tutors and student success co-ordinators to contact for support, and all modules are supported by an academic team that includes a module leader and online instructors. Further support is also available for disabled students and for those experiencing IT issues.
• Global perspectives. As an online student, you’ll join a community of international learners, benefiting from diverse perspectives and networks that can enrich your understanding and enhance your career prospects, too.

At the University of Sunderland, we have developed deep expertise in distance learning. We have nearly 6,000 international students – that’s 37% of our student population – and 1,500 students studying online from locations around the world. Similarly, we have developed computer and data science courses that deliver the expertise you need, from programming languages like Python, to data visualisation and optimisation.

For further information about online master’s degrees in computer science and data science at the University of Sunderland, such as tuition fees and entry requirements – including English language requirements and IELTS, or prerequisites such as bachelor’s degrees, honours degrees, and other undergraduate degrees – please visit our website.