| Code | CK411 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 Years |
| Teaching Mode | Full-time |
| Qualifications | BSc (Hons) |
| NFQ Level | Level 8 |
| CAO Points | 2024: 427 |
| CAO Points Range | 2024: 427-601 |
Course Outline
Data Science & Analytics focuses on new ways to capture and understand data from the world around us. It helps us make better decisions for people, communities and industry.
Our BSc in Data Science & Analytics degree at UCC provides education in data storage, manipulation and interpretation using mathematical sciences and computational methods which assists us in solving complex real-world problems. In the first and second year, you will study the mathematical and computational foundations of data science and analytics. During the third year, you begin applying the fundamentals of data science and analytics to real-life problems and data.
In the Spring of third year, you undertake a six-month work placement (which is paid in most cases), providing an opportunity to apply the knowledge you have learned in a workplace environment.
In the fourth year, you choose specialised modules and undertake an independent project, which enables you to investigate more applied elements of the discipline.
Year 1 Modules
- CS1106 Introduction to Relational Databases (5 credits)
- CS1112 Foundations of Computer Science I (5 credits)
- CS1113 Foundations of Computer Science II (5 credits)
- CS1117 Introduction to Programming (15 credits)
- AM1054 Mathematical Software (5 credits)
- MA1058 Introduction to Linear Algebra (5 credits)
- MA1059 Calculus (5 credits)
- ST1050 Statistical Programming in R (5 credits)
- ST1051 Introduction to Probability and Statistics (5 credits)
Plus 5 credits from the following:
- AM1053 Introduction to Mathematical Modelling (5 credits)
- ST1401 Introduction to Operations Research (5 credits)
Academic Programme Catalogue
See the Academic Programme Catalogue for the complete and up-to-date content for this course. Note that the modules for all courses are subject to change from year-to-year. For complete descriptions of individual modules, see the Book of Modules.
Course Practicalities
- This is a full-time course expecting a full-time commitment. The annual 60-credits workload typically equates to 12 hours of lectures per week and a comparable amount for laboratory work and tutorials.
Why Choose This Course
The BSc in Data Science and Analytics at UCC is one of few such programmes being offered in Ireland today. Our course will provide you with an education in data storage, manipulation and interpretation, using
mathematical sciences and computational methods which will assist you to solve complex real-world problems.
This programme will suit you if have an aptitude for mathematics, logic and computational thinking, an enquiring mind and a willingness to adapt.
Graduates of the UCC BSc in Data Science and Analytics have vast opportunities in a wide variety of industries as there is a high global demand for graduates with data science expertise. Since data science is an emerging field, with only a limited number of degree programmes available, on graduation you will be able to fulfil the increasing demand for these specialist skills. Almost all sectors of the economy and community need to understand the enormous data sets available.
Placement or Study Abroad Information
Work Placement
The BSc Data Science & Analytics aims to ensure that you are work-ready. Work placement is a core module undertaken from Spring until August in Year 3.
To find a placement organisation, you will work with the Careers Service. They will help you with interviews and keep in contact with you during placement. Usually you will complete your third-year examinations in December, return to campus for an 8 week semester in January, and then go on work placement from March to August (inclusive).
The placement helps you put academic theories into practice, improves your confidence, allowing you to travel and gain experience, and certainly increases your employability. Working in a company setting provides you with additional skills that cannot be taught through lectures or in the laboratory. During placement, you will work as part of a team to solve real problems. Your placement is jointly monitored by a UCC academic staff member and an employee of the company.
Skills and Careers Information
Graduate Study Options
As a data science graduate, you will have studied computer science, statistics, mathematics and applied mathematics, which qualifies you to progress to numerous taught and research-led Masters or PhD programmes in Mathematical Sciences or Computer Science. Programmes to consider in UCC include:
- MSc Computing Science
- MSc Actuarial Science
- MSc Financial & Computational Mathematics
- MSc Bioinformatics & Computational Biology
- MSc Mathematical Modelling & Machine Learning
- MSc Statistics (by research)
Career Opportunities
Firms specialising in analytics, financial services and consulting, and governmental agencies, to name but a few, are currently seeking graduates with data analytics skills to fill a range of positions.
The World Economic Forum predicts that by 2022, data scientists and analysts will become the number one emerging role in the world. Data science experts are needed in virtually every job sector, not just technology. In the US, the average data scientist salary is US$113,000, according to Glassdoor. (World Economic Forum 2020)
Practically all sectors of the economy employ Data Scientists. The following list provides some insight into sectors and companies that use such skills:
- Banking e.g. AIB, BoI, Central Bank, Citi
- Energy e.g. Bord Gas, Electric Ireland
- Financial Services e.g. Elavon, Pramerica
- Food & Agriculture e.g. Kerry, Glanbia
- Gaming e.g. Paddy Power, Xanadu, Betbright
- Government e.g. CSO, Revenue, HSE
- Health e.g. HSE, HIQA, Optum
- Insurance e.g. Allianz, Aviva, Aon
- Management Consultancy e.g. EY, PWC, FTI Consulting, Deloitte, Accenture, Clarion, KPMG
- Marketing, Media & Communication e.g. Core Media, Vodafone, Eir, 3
- Pharmaceutical e.g. Abbott, Novartis, Regeneron, Johnson and Johnson, Pfizer
- Research e.g. ESRI, Universities, Insight
- Retail e.g. Dunnes Stores, Tesco, Super Valu, Amazon, Wayfair
- Software e.g. SAS, SPSS
- Sport e.g. Munster Rugby, GAA, RTE, Sky Sports
- Technology e.g. IBM, EMC, HP, Apple, Microsoft, Google, Dell, Facebook, Intel, Version 1
Requirements
Leaving Certificate Entry Requirements
At least six subjects must be presented. Minimum grade H3 in one subject, minimum grade H5 in one subject and minimum grade O6/H7 in four other subjects. English and Irish are requirements for all programmes unless the applicant is exempt from Irish.
Applicants will need to meet the following minimum entry requirements:
| English | Irish | Maths |
|---|---|---|
| O6/H7 | O6/H7 | H3 |
EU/EFTA/UK Qualifications
EU/EFTA/UK applicants presenting an equivalent school-leaving qualification should review the EU/EFTA/UK Applicants page for information on equivalent grades and how to prove their level of English.
Mature Students
To compete through the mature entry route, applicants must be 23 years of age on or before 1 January of the application year and apply online via the CAO by 1 February. The application should include a statement of interest. Applicants may also be called for interview.
Applicants must have studied Maths at second level or QQI FET or demonstrate involvement with Maths related areas.
Further information on applying as a mature student is available on the Mature Applicants and Mature Student Entry support pages.
Non-EU Applicants
Non-EU applicants are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate. In addition, where such applicants are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language.
To verify if you meet the minimum academic and language requirements visit our qualification comparison page and refer to our International Office page for more information.
Fees and Costs
- Whether you are an EU or Non-EU student will affect the course fees applicable to you. See more information on EU Fees, Non-EU Fees, or Free Fees Status.
- The State will pay the tuition fees for EU students who are eligible under the Free Fees Scheme. The annual student contribution and capitation fees are payable by the student.
- See the Fee Schedule to find out the course fee.
- Check out scholarships that may be available to you.
- Explore our Nurturing Bright Futures free online course (Module 5) to learn about managing your money as a student and budgeting for university life.
How To Apply
Irish and European (EU/EFTA/UK) Applicants
Apply via the CAO. See the CAO Handbook for useful information on applying through the CAO.
Mature Applicants
Apply via the CAO by 1 February. To apply for a place as a mature student, you must be 23 years of age on or before 1 January of the year of entry.
QQI/FET Applicants
Apply via the CAO. See our QQI/FET Applicants page for information on the Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) Further Education and Training (FET) application process.
Non-EU Applicants
If you are from outside the EU/EFTA/UK, apply online via the UCC Apply portal. See our International Office page for more information.