UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH · UNITED KINGDOM
MSc Operational Research with Data Science
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The MSc Operational Research with Data Science program at the University of Edinburgh is designed to equip students with the skills to tackle the increasing demand for advanced data analysis techniques. It combines the fundamental principles of operational research and optimization with a broad selection of courses in statistics and data science. This program is ideal for students interested in applying computational optimization and operational research methods to large datasets. Students will benefit from the School's strong Optimization and OR group, which has a long history of working on data science applications and is actively involved with the Alan Turing Institute. The curriculum is structured to provide a solid theoretical foundation in Semester 1, followed by flexible optional courses in Semester 2, culminating in a significant dissertation project over the summer. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in an increasingly data-driven world, enabling them to analyze complex problems and develop innovative solutions using advanced analytical tools.
Curriculum
The program requires students to complete 120 credits of coursework during Semesters 1 and 2, followed by a 60-credit dissertation over the summer. Course availability may vary year to year as the curriculum evolves.
- Year 1 (Semesters 1 & 2 + Summer)
- Fundamentals of Operational Research
- Fundamentals of Optimization
- Methodology, Modelling and Consulting Skills
- Applied Machine Learning
- Generalised Regression Models
- Introductory Probability and Statistics
- Numerical Linear Algebra
- Probabilistic Modelling and Reasoning
- Python Programming
- Statistical Methodology
- Statistical Programming
- Stochastic Modelling
- Advanced Topics in Machine Learning
- Algorithmic Game Theory and its Applications
- Biostatistics
- Computational Cognitive Neuroscience
- Credit Scoring
- Incomplete Data Analysis
- Integer and Combinatorial Optimization
- Large Scale Optimization for Data Science
- Machine Learning in Python
- Nonlinear Optimization
- Operational Research in the Energy Industry
- Optimization Methods in Finance
- Optimization Under Uncertainty
- Risk and Logistics
- Robot and Reinforcement Learning
- Simulation
- Time Series
- Topics in Applied Operational Research
- Dissertation
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students for the MSc Operational Research with Data Science programme?
- Please check the University's official fees page for the most up-to-date international tuition fees for the MSc Operational Research with Data Science program.
- What is the estimated cost of living for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh?
- For 2026-2027, the estimated average living cost for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh is £18,504 per year, including accommodation, food, mobile phone, socialising, and local travel.
- What is the duration of the MSc Operational Research with Data Science programme?
- The programme requires 120 credits of coursework in Semesters 1 and 2, followed by a 60-credit dissertation over the summer, making it a one-year full-time programme.
- What are the academic entry requirements for this programme?
- You must meet the University's academic requirements for postgraduate study, and specific program requirements are detailed on the degree finder.
- How do I apply for the MSc Operational Research with Data Science programme?
- You should gather supporting documents including a personal statement and academic transcripts, check the application deadlines, and submit your application through the University's online application system.
- Are there any scholarships available for this programme?
- The Tercentenary Award for Excellence offers a £5,000 tuition fee reduction and is open to all applicants accepted for admission to taught MSc programmes starting in the 2026-27 academic year.
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Fees
Tuition (international)Please check the University's official fees page for the most up-to-date international tuition fees for the MSc Operational Research with Data Science program.
Tuition (home)Please check the University's official fees page for the most up-to-date home tuition fees for the MSc Operational Research with Data Science program.
LivingFor 2026-2027, the estimated average living cost for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh is £18,504 per year (£1,542 per month). This includes accommodation, food, mobile phone, socialising, and local travel. Accommodation and utilities are estimated at £978 per month, food and other shopping at £248 per month, mobile phone at £12 per month, socialising/leisure at £246 per month, and local bus travel at £58 per month (for age 22+). These are estimates and your actual costs may vary.
Living costs are estimates and do not include tuition fees. They are subject to change due to inflation, energy costs, and personal spending habits. University accommodation costs average £931 per month, private accommodation £752 per month, and private student accommodation £1,249 per month, including utilities where applicable.
How to apply
1. Gather Supporting DocumentsPrepare all necessary documents, which typically include a personal statement, information about your skills and experience, and academic transcripts.
2. Check Application DeadlinesVerify the application deadline for the MSc Operational Research with Data Science program on the University's degree finder. If you require a visa or financial support, it is advisable to apply as early as possible.
3. Submit Your ApplicationApply through the University's online application system. Ensure all information provided is complete and accurate before submission.
4. After You ApplyAfter submitting, you can track your application status. You will receive a decision from the University, which you can then accept.
Scholarships
Tercentenary Award for Excellence£5,000
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students for the MSc Operational Research with Data Science programme?
+
Please check the University's official fees page for the most up-to-date international tuition fees for the MSc Operational Research with Data Science program.
What is the estimated cost of living for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh?
+
For 2026-2027, the estimated average living cost for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh is £18,504 per year, including accommodation, food, mobile phone, socialising, and local travel.
What is the duration of the MSc Operational Research with Data Science programme?
+
The programme requires 120 credits of coursework in Semesters 1 and 2, followed by a 60-credit dissertation over the summer, making it a one-year full-time programme.
What are the academic entry requirements for this programme?
+
You must meet the University's academic requirements for postgraduate study, and specific program requirements are detailed on the degree finder.
How do I apply for the MSc Operational Research with Data Science programme?
+
You should gather supporting documents including a personal statement and academic transcripts, check the application deadlines, and submit your application through the University's online application system.
Are there any scholarships available for this programme?
+
The Tercentenary Award for Excellence offers a £5,000 tuition fee reduction and is open to all applicants accepted for admission to taught MSc programmes starting in the 2026-27 academic year.