Data is fast becoming the biggest asset in the hands of policymakers. Data analysis, insights, and problem-solving are the engines that will fuel tomorrow’s world and your career within it.
If you’re eager to use cutting-edge computational and technical skills to tackle complex societal, political, and policy issues, then this degree is for you. You'll gain a comprehensive understanding of key political issues and the latest research in political science. You’ll marry this with highly sought-after data analytics, programming, and problem-solving abilities. You'll prepare to excel in competitive roles within government, non-governmental, and private organisations that require innovative, data-driven approaches to political, societal, and economic challenges.
Imagine learning and harnessing newly acquired technical skills such as data mining, computer coding, big data modeling, natural language processing, and network analysis while embedded in a world-renowned research community specialising in computer science, politics, digital media, public policy, and international relations. You'll learn from faculty with expertise in political parties, political economy, data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, election management, and digital politics.
The MSc in Data Science for Public Policy and Politics is a one-year course. In each semester, you'll take specialised modules in computing as well as public policy and politics. You'll also work on an independent project, with the supervision and support of experts in the field.
In the first semester, you'll gain essential programming and data analysis skills by taking modules that teach you the fundamentals of Python and R. You'll also gain insights into statistical modeling of data while developing crucial professional skills.
In the second semester, you'll continue to build on your knowledge by exploring core policy and political challenges while learning how to apply computational methods to tackle these problems and expand your technical skills.
Your project will provide an opportunity to understand how independent research is conducted and to apply your new skills in developing your project under the guidance of one of our experts.
By the end of the course, you'll have mastered a host of skills. You’ll be proficient in programming languages commonly used in data science (Python, R, and Power BI) and confident in the ethical and regulatory questions around the handling of data. You’ll understand how to use machine learning and algorithms to forecast future trends. You’ll understand how decisions are made at a political and policy level. And you’ll know how to influence those decisions by presenting your ideas in the most compelling way, including through advanced data visualisation techniques.
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
Applications for Postgraduate Taught programmes at the University of East Anglia should be made directly to the University.
To apply please use our online application form (opens in a new window) .