BSc; Hons Data Science

Start dates: 13 January 2026, 17 March 2026, 26 May 2026 and 28 July 2026

Duration: 4 Years

Cost: £20,987 UK / £20,987 International (2025-26)

Unlock the power of data with this 100% online BSc (Hons) Data Science. If you’re seeking a career at the forefront of technology, this course is ideal for you. Throughout your studies you’ll learn essential skills in programming, machine learning, statistics and data analysis. Whether you’re wanting to upskill or are new to the field, you’ll gain the practical experience required for this sector – while exploring real world applications within the professional environment.

Throughout the course you’ll explore a range of topics, including:

• data analytics and visualisation
• statistical analysis
• machine learning techniques
• ethics and governance in data science
• big data and cloud computing

A shorter 16-month CertHE is also available, equal to a total of 120 credits.

The course is delivered via our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), enabling you to study at your own pace with 24/7 access to study materials. Lectures take place in the form of multimedia lecturecasts comprising of video, audio, text, infographics and multiple questions to provide you with an interactive study experience. Even though you’ll be learning remotely, you'll have the opportunity to engage with your classmates and tutors through seminars and live Q&A sessions.

There are no exams as the assessments are conducted in a form of written assignments, discussion forum participation, reflective journal entries and group work accessed via our VLE.

At the University of Essex Online, we believe everyone should be able to access education. That’s why we take both academic and work-based experience into account when deciding if you’re eligible for a course.

All our potential students are assessed individually by a dedicated Admissions team who’ll determine whether you’re right for either the academic, open or work experience entry route onto our courses.

Academic entry route

• three A-levels or equivalent

Work experience entry route

• GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above, or equivalent
• at least three years’ experience within the fields of IT, data science, computer science or business

English language requirements

As our courses are delivered in English, a high proficiency in English is required. If English isn’t your first language, your ability should be equivalent to an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0. Don’t worry if you don’t hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification – we offer a free online English test to assess your proficiency.

You don’t need to prove your English ability if you are a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of the countries listed on our website.

• Designated for undergraduate student loans in England.
• Simple monthly payment plan available, enabling you to spread the cost over the duration of your studies.
• Full payment discount of 5% if you pay upfront.
• Regional scholarship available for international students based overseas in eligible countries.
• 10% corporate discount available when three or more of your employees study with us.

Please note, a maximum of two discounts or scholarships can be applied. The corporate discount can only be used in combination with our upfront payment discount, but not in conjunction with any other discount or scholarship. Make an enquiry now to find out more information about our discounts and scholarships.

The University of Essex Online offers 100% online, part-time degree courses to both UK and international students. We’re one of the top 30 universities in the UK (Complete University Guide 2025) and all degrees are awarded and validated by the University of Essex. This means you’ll get to benefit from world-class research and ground-breaking teaching, and become part of a truly global community.

We are rated Gold in the Times Higher Education (THE) Online Rankings 2024. Our achievement, which is based on four pillars - resources, engagement, outcomes and environment - recognises our commitment to excellent online education.

You’ll benefit from a flexible approach to learning while receiving the same dedicated support as on-campus students. Whether you're a professional looking to enhance your career or a school leaver who wants to boost their CV, online study is a cost-effective, convenient and flexible way to get ahead.

Upon successful completion of your course, you’ll be invited to attend a graduation ceremony at the University of Essex’s stunning Colchester campus.