Health Data Science and Statistics

The interdisciplinary MSc Health Data Science and Statistics programme is a masters-level course that provides students up-to-date knowledge and skills in data analytics and health studies that much sought after by employers in the healthcare sector and beyond. Students will develop conceptual, technical and practical understanding on topics including big data, medical statistics, machine learning, as well as design and analysis of health studies. Modules will comprise a range of activities, including lectures and seminars, with an emphasis on practical work. Students will graduate with experience of both using existing data analytics tools as well as designing and analysis of health studies. A dissertation over the summer will provide students the opportunity to carry out a research project of their choice, working alongside the internationally recognised research being conducted in health data science and statistics at Plymouth. The programme is designed to target graduates from Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Psychology as well as Medicine and Health who wish to specialise in health data analytics. It may also be suitable for non-STEMM students with a background in quantitative methods or equivalent experience. The healthcare sector has experienced rapid changes over the last decade, especially within the UK, but also internationally. There is an increasing amount of data available in healthcare. The UK government has invested in Health Data Research UK as a national institute to deliver data revolution in secure data sharing, analytics, research and capacity building. The potential of utilizing health data is growing, and as is for health data analysts/scientists. The UK has the ambition to be the world leader for artificial intelligence, as outlined in the National AI Strategy, where healthcare is one of the core businesses. Locally we are well connected to NHS in the region, where there is increasing demand in consultancy in using data for healthcare service evaluation, management and insights. The MSc HDSS programme is designed to train analysts that the healthcare sector needs to reach its full potential. The programme is designed to provide graduates with the skills needed to fulfil the promise of the healthcare sector in the UK and globally, including healthcare industries, government agency, research institutions or consultancy units. The skills developed during this course would also provide the opportunity for employment elsewhere within either the finance or business sector which invested in healthcare products. The programme also provides solid foundation for graduates who would like to continue on to PhD study.