Master’s (MSc) in Data Analytics for Government
The Master’s (MSc) in Data Analytics for Government (MDataGov) is a joint initiative between the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and academic partners across the UK. Launched in October 2017, the programme equips public sector employees with the skills required from a modern public sector data analyst, helping to increase the data science capacity of public sector organisations.
The MDataGov is a unique and flexible full-time or part-time master’s (MSc) programme that combines modules in statistics and data science. Its structure includes a range of core and non-core modules in statistics and data science. There are four core modules that are standard across all the universities offering the MDataGov. These are:
- Data Science Foundations
- Statistics in Government
- Survey Fundamentals
- Statistical Programming
In addition to the core modules, each partner university delivers their own distinct set of additional core and non-core modules, making each university’s offering unique.
In 2020, we welcomed Cardiff University and University of Glasgow (Online Distance Learning) as new partners, joining existing providers University of Southampton and Oxford Brookes University in the MDataGov Framework. The following universities will be offering the MDataGov in the 2021 to 2022 academic year:
- University of Southampton
- Oxford Brookes University
- Cardiff University
- University of Glasgow (online delivery only)
The programme duration can be from one to five years. The modules can be taken as part of the full master’s (MSc) programme or as individual (assessed or unassessed) courses for continuing professional development (CPD). Our university partners also offer PgCert and PgDip programmes in Data Analytics for Government.
Each university offers different delivery options, with some requiring in-person attendance, and others offering delivery as an online option. Please check with your chosen university for further details.
How to apply for the MDataGov programme
Applications for the MDataGov should be made directly to your chosen university. Before applying we recommend that you discuss with your line manager the time commitments required to read for the MDataGov as the programme will form part of your work-based learning and development time.
Sponsorship
Employees of UK public sector bodies may obtain full or part sponsorship for the MDataGov from their respective organisation. Please speak to your organisation about funding for the full MDataGov, PGCert, PGDip or the individual CPD modules and ensure that you have confirmation of funding before you apply.
The Data Science Campus will be sponsoring individual CPD modules for the 2021 to 2022 academic year.
Some of the universities also offer their own scholarships and bursaries. Please refer to individual university websites for further information.
If organisational funding is not possible for the full programme, you have the option to self-fund the course, resubmit your request for the next academic year or start by taking individual CPD modules, a PGCert or PGDip. Some universities may offer the public sector rate to students who are self-funding.
If you have any questions or require any further information please contact: acp@ons.gov.uk