Course Summary
This online-delivered course is designed to provide you with the essential skills of the modern data scientist, including data handling and programming, statistical analysis, and machine learning methods. There is an increasing demand for graduates with these valuable skills in a wide range of industries, and currently a shortage of qualified graduates.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
For entry to the Professional Diploma in Data Science (LEVEL 9), students must have obtained an undergraduate (NFQ Level 8 ) or masters degree to standard 2:1 in a subject with some quantitative elements. Those with a lesser qualification award and/or no numerate subject degree, but with substantial industry experience related to the area, or relevant professional qualifications, will also be considered on a case by case basis. A rough guide to the mathematics we expect you to know on entry is available at https://www.ucd.ie/t4cms/OnlineProfDipMScSelfAssessmentQuiz.pdf
Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element of the Academic version), or equivalent.
You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage. https://tinyurl.com/2ae2ffax
Application Details
Next Intake: September 2025.
Fees
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.