Course contact details
Directorate of External Relations
Email:study@abdn.ac.uk
Phone:+44 (0) 1224 272090
University of Aberdeen
Directorate of Global Engagement, Marketing and Recruitment
King's College
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX
Data Science
- BSc (Hons)
- 4 Years
- Full-time
- 14 September 2026
- Undergraduate
- Main Site
Course summary
Are you excited by the rapid advancements in big data, predictive analytics, and AI technologies such as ChatGPT? Are you looking to study a subject that can unlock tremendous social and economic benefits and is highly sought after by employers?
The BSc Data Science programme equips you with the skills for an exciting career in data analytics, data engineering, machine learning or AI.
Data scientists use technical analysis, design, and programming skills to tackle a wide variety of challenges, ranging from mitigating climate change and detecting diseases to optimising production processes and enhancing customer experiences.
In recent years, data science has experienced a revolution with advancements in big data, predictive analytics and AI technologies such as ChatGPT and Bard AI. While these developments have improved how organisations automate processes, forecast trends, and engage with customers, the growing volume and complexity of data available presents new challenges to how we can leverage its true power.
To overcome this challenge, organisations look to data scientists who have the advanced data analysis and modelling skills to extract meaningful insights from data. The Data Science degree programme is designed to address this challenge. You will learn essential data analysis and modelling skills, including programming, statistics, software engineering, data curation, and more. The topics you study will also provide you with advanced knowledge and techniques applicable to artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, distributed systems and cybersecurity.
Throughout the programme, you will have opportunities to further enhance your employability by engaging with the legal and ethical standards relating to data while also learning how to effectively communicate data-driven ideas and solutions.
Modules
View all modules on the programme page to find out more about what you will be studying and when. University of Aberdeen modules are designed to give you breadth and depth to your degree. The range of modules you study will allow you to become proficient in all subjects which are directly relevant to your degree giving you greater career options.
Assessment method
The use of various forms of assessment and learning environments facilitates the development of generic transferable skills enhancing student employability.
Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods: coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course; practical assessments of the skills and competencies they learn on the course; and written examinations at the end of each course. The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, years of study and individual courses.
Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.
How to apply
Apply by
14 January
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- G403
- Institution code:
- A20
- Campus name:
- Main Site
- Campus Code:
- -
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
International applicants
In addition to tuition fees, students will require money to cover their living costs including accommodation, food, books, entertainment, clothing, phone bills, local travel, and laundry. These expenses will vary depending on your lifestyle and spending habits. In keeping with UKVI rules, we recommend that student’s budget at least the minimum maintenance amount as stated by the UKVI per month, to cover their living costs and you have to evidence 9 months’ worth of maintenance when applying for your visa. You also have to pay the NHS health surcharge per each year of study, when applying for a visa.
When you apply for your Student Visa, you will be required to evidence these funds in your personal bank account (or a parent’s personal bank account (NOT a Business Account). Therefore, you will have to evidence your 1st years tuition fees (minus the International Scholarship for self-paying students) and the maintenance amount. These funds have to have been in your account for a minimum of 28-consecutive days immediately prior to applying for your visa. If the amount in your account drops below the required amount, the 28-day period starts over.
International students who will be studying for more than 6 months are permitted to work for 20 hours per week during term-time, though this may be increased during the holiday periods. Please note this must not be relied upon as a means to fund your studies, as you have to evidence your funding when applying for your Student Visa.
Chat to student ambassadors
Discover what it's like to study Data Science at University of Aberdeen: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.
POWERED BY 
Entry requirements
UCAS TariffNot accepted
A levelBBC
A minimum of 3 A Levels at BBC - at least 2 from Science or Maths subjects.
To be considered for entry into Second Year, a minimum of 3 A Levels at ABB, with AB from 2 science or maths subjects (including the subject(s) nominated for Honours - an A in the subject for Single Honours or AB in the subjects for Joint Honours).
Also required: GCSE at C or above in English or English Language, Mathematics and in either Chemistry, or Physics or Dual Award Science.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)DMM
A minimum of DMM with the main subjects being Science or Maths.
Also required: GCSE at C or above in English or English Language, Mathematics and in either Chemistry, or Physics or Dual Award Science.
Scottish HigherBBBB
A minimum of 4 H at BBBB (C at AH may substitute for B at H) obtained at a single sitting or a minimum of 5H at AAABB obtained over 2 sittings. Must achieve at least BB from two science or mathematics subjects.
Standard Grades 1, 2 or 3 or Int 2, or National 5 at grades A, B or C in English, Mathematics and in either Chemistry or Physics.
Scottish Advanced HigherABB
For Second Year entry a minimum of 3 AH at ABB, a minimum of two must be Science or Maths subjects (including the subject(s) nominated for Honours).
Standard Grades 1, 2 or 3 or Int 2, or National 5 at grades A, B or C in English, Mathematics and in either Chemistry or Physics.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme32 points
A minimum of 32 points, with a minimum of 5 points at HL required from 2 Science or Maths subjects.
For Second Year entry: a minimum of 34 points with a minimum of 6 at HL in the subject(s) nominated for Honours.
A minimum of Standard Level English and Maths also required.
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017)H3, H3, H3, H3, H3
Five subjects at Higher at H3, to include 2 Science or Mathematics subjects. O in English or in English Language also required for entry.
Foundation Apprenticeship (SCQF Level 6)Pass
One FA is equivalent to a Higher at A. It cannot replace any required subjects.
Find out more about qualification requirements for this course.
English language requirements
| Test | Grade | Additional details |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 6 | Overall - 6.0 with: Listening - 5.5 or above; Reading - 5.5 or above; Speaking - 5.5 or above; Writing - 6.0 or above. IELTS Indicator or IELTS General Training are not accepted. |
| TOEFL (iBT) | 78 | TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Home Edition (online) - DI code is 0818: Overall 78 with: Listening - 17 or above; Reading - 18 or above; Speaking - 20 or above; Writing - 21 or above. |
| PTE Academic | 59 | Overall - 59 with: Listening - 59 or above; Reading - 59 or above; Speaking - 59 or above; Writing - 59 or above. Online Test is not accepted. |
| Trinity ISE | Pass | Pass overall at ISE II with a distinction in writing and merit in the other three skills. |
| Institution's Own Test | Academic English Pre-sessional Programmes - Pass (valid for one year) OR Academic English Preparation Programme - Pass at Level Four (valid for one year) | |
| Cambridge English Advanced | C | Overall - 169 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing -169. |
| Cambridge English Proficiency | C | Overall - 169 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing -169. |
To study for an undergraduate degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write academic English fluently. These skills will allow you to understand lectures, produce high standards of written work, and perform well in examinations.
We can assess your English language proficiency through a variety of means: through your nationality, through the qualifications you gained in high school, or through a recognised English language test. Please note certification must be within the two years prior to commencement of your degree programme, unless otherwise stated.
Please use the checklist at the following webpage to determine how you can meet our English language requirements:https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/undergraduate-degrees-english-requirements-268.php
Contextual admissions
Universities and colleges consider more than grades when assessing applications and may make offers based on a range of criteria. Learn more about contextual offers.
We are keen to encourage students from the widest possible range of backgrounds to participate in University studies, and we appreciate that not all students have the same opportunity to meet our advertised entry requirements.
For this reason we take contextualised information into account when making decisions on the applications we have received. Decisions are made in line with the University's Contexualised Admissions Policy.
Historical entry grades data
This section shows the range of grades that students who received offers were previously accepted on to this course with (learn more).
It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place.
Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.
Not available
Historical entry grades data is not currently available for University of Aberdeen - we are working with them to try and make it available soon - learn more.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Per year tuition fees
| Location | Fee | Year |
|---|
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.
Additional fee information
EU/International Applicants: When you are thinking about studying overseas, it is important that you understand all the costs involved and budget accordingly. It is essential to budget for your studies prior to leaving your home country, and arrange all your funding for BOTH your tuition fees and your living costs.
Sponsorship information
Students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland, who pay tuition fees may be eligible for specific scholarships allowing them to receive additional funding. These are designed to provide assistance to help students support themselves during their time at Aberdeen.
International Students: The University of Aberdeen is delighted to offer self-funded international on-campus undergraduate students a £6,000 scholarship for every year of their programme. This scholarship is in the form of a tuition fee waiver. To be eligible students must be registering for a full-time, on-campus programme and cannot be in receipt of external scholarships or other University of Aberdeen scholarships, except for awards granted by the University of Aberdeen Development Trust. Please note that the scholarship does not apply to the DPLP or Medicine.
View the University of Aberdeen Online Prospectus programme page to find out about any scholarships and funding you may be eligible to apply for.
Related courses
At University of Aberdeen
Like this page