If you have an interest in technology and trends, this degree could be for you. At its core, data science is about extracting insights from data that can transform the way a company operates. For example, understanding data can match millions of businesses with new  customers around the world in the areas of advertising and e-commerce. Mining large-scale data sets based on our health can inform pharmaceutical companies when choosing new medicines to develop and capturing data streams from wearable devices can improve our understanding of our habits and routines. Agri-food, energy, transport, government and education are all examples of industries on the verge of being transformed by the power of data-driven methods. 

This degree follows the same first two years as the BSc in Computer Science, which will give you an excellent foundation in Computer Science and Mathematics. The in-depth focus on Data Science begins in Third Year, when you will study Statistics, Data Management and Data Analytics. The aim is to provide the technical depth and the practical experience that you will need to stand out in an increasingly demanding market place. Modules will include hands-on experience with contemporary data science tools such as Hadoop, NoSQL, Python, SciPy, SciKit.Learn, Matplotlib, Numpy and Pandas.

This is a sample pathway for a degree in Computer Science with Data Science. Sample topics include Machine Learning, Probability Theory, Introduction to AI, Networks & Internet Systems, Data Science in Python, Data Mining, Information Visualisation, and Programming for Big Data.

First Year

Computer Science • Mathematics • Elective module

Second Year

Computer Science • Mathematics • Elective modules

Third Year

Computer Science • Data Science • Five-month internship or software engineering project • Elective modules

Fourth Year

Computer Science • Data Science (includes a research project)

Timetables & Assessment

Each student will have their own timetable based on their individual module selection. This is a full-time course and classes may include lectures, practicals and tutorials, depending on the subjects. Students will also be expected to study independently (autonomous student learning). Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.

Graduates with training in Computer Science with Data Science work in fields such as:

• Banking and Financial Services
• Consultancy (e.g. Accenture, Deloitte, PwC)
• Internet companies such as Google, PayPal and Facebook
• Established ICT companies such as IBM, Microsoft and Intel
• ICT Start-ups

Graduates can also pursue a range of MSc or PhD programmes such as the MSc Computer Science (Negotiated Learning) or the MSc Digital Forensics and Cybercrime Investigation.

Universities that students have visited to date include the University of Auckland, New Zealand, the University of California, Irvine, USA, and Fudan University, Shanghai, China.

"Growing up, I loved taking things apart, understanding how they worked and the challenge of putting them back together. Similarly, I enjoyed maths in school and thought computer science might give me an outlet to apply these problem-solving skills in college. The foundational modules offered in the first two years are invaluable to students who opt for the data science pathway. Today, a degree in data science provides endless career opportunities and studying at UCD makes it all the more enjoyable. UCD’s elective modules provided me with a platform to extend my love for sport to an academic level by completing modules in exercise and performance. As a GAA scholar, UCD gave me the best opportunity to perform and succeed with access to world-class facilities and services."

Chloe Foxe, Graduate