Data science for public good

Overview

The new MSc in Data Analytics for Government (MDataGov) is a collaborative project between the Data Science Campus, the ONS Learning Academy and academic partners across UK launched in October 2017. The programme aims to build data science capability across government by equipping civil servants with a key set of skills required from a modern government data analyst.

The MDataGov is a unique and flexible part-time MSc programme that combines modules in Statistics and Data Science. Its structure includes four compulsory modules (Data Science Foundations, Statistics in Government, Survey Fundamentals and Statistical Programming) and eight optional modules to be chosen from a range of courses in Statistics and Data Science. The modules can be taken as part of the full MSc programme or as standalone (assessed or unassessed) courses for continuing professional development (CPD). The programme duration is from 2 to 5 years.

Current MDataGov providers are University of Southampton , Oxford Brookes University and University College London (full MSc only). To apply please contact the universities directly. MDataGov modules are also offered in ONS sites (Titchfield and Newport) and advertised on the Government Statistical Service website on a regular basis.

We are in the process of expanding the list of academic partners to provide the MDataGov programme in other UK regions.

Academic providers

For more information on modules offered by each partner university, please access the links below.

Oxford Brookes University

University of Southampton

University College London

Data Science Campus Sponsorship

In line with our commitment to grow data science capability across government, the Data Science Campus has been offering a number of MDataGov sponsorships to civil servants from ONS, other government departments and devolved administrations, including HMRC, DEFRA, BEIS, NISRA, among others.

In 2016, 7 individuals were successful in securing Campus MSc sponsorships, 9 in 2017 and another 9 in 2018. The Data Science Campus sponsorships are subject to the MSc application being accepted by the university.

Information about previous Campus MDataGov sponsorship calls is available on the GSS website. Upcoming sponsorship calls will be announced on the Campus and GSS websites every year around June/July.

Dissertation topics from Campus-funded Master students