MSc Data Science for Public Policy and Politics
Key Details
- Attendance
- Full Time
- Award
- Degree of Master of Science
- Course Length
- 1 year
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Course Overview
Data is fast becoming the biggest asset in the hands of policymakers. Data analysis, insights, and problem-solving are the engines that will fuel tomorrow’s world and your career within it.
If you’re eager to use cutting-edge computational and technical skills to tackle complex societal, political, and policy issues, then this degree is for you. You'll gain a comprehensive understanding of key political issues and the latest research in political science. You’ll marry this with highly sought-after data analytics, programming, and problem-solving abilities. You'll prepare to excel in competitive roles within government, non-governmental, and private organizations that require innovative, data-driven approaches to political, societal, and economic challenges.
Imagine learning and harnessing newly acquired technical skills such as data mining, computer coding, big data modeling, natural language processing, and network analysis while embedded in a world-renowned research community specializing in computer science, politics, digital media, public policy, and international relations. You'll learn from faculty with deep expertise in political parties, political economy, data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, election management, and digital politics.
With a focus on your future employability in diverse careers across the globe, this MSc in Data Science for Public Policy and Politics is uniquely positioned. It'll equip you with the computing and statistical skills you need to tackle the policy and political challenges facing tomorrow’s world. Join us to build the skills you need to lead data-driven change for the next generation.
Study and Modules
Structure
The MSc in Data Science for Public Policy and Politics is a one-year course. In each semester, you'll take specialized modules in computing as well as public policy and politics. You'll also work on an independent dissertation project, with the supervision and support of experts in the field.
In the first semester, you'll gain essential programming and data analysis skills by taking modules that teach you the fundamentals of Python and R software. You'll also gain insights into statistical modeling of data while developing crucial professional skills.
In the second semester, you'll continue to build on your knowledge by exploring core policy and political challenges while learning how to apply computational methods to tackle these problems and expand your technical skills.
Your dissertation will provide an opportunity to understand how independent research is conducted and to apply your new skills in developing your project under the guidance of one of our experts.
By the end of the course, you'll have mastered a host of skills. You’ll be proficient in programming languages commonly used in data science (Python, R, and Power BI) and confident in the ethical and regulatory questions around the handling of data. You’ll understand how to use machine learning and algorithms to forecast future trends. You’ll understand how decisions are made at a political and policy level. And you’ll know how to influence those decisions by presenting your ideas in the most compelling way, including through advanced data visualisation techniques.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
This interdisciplinary course gives you the opportunity to take advantage of two leading Schools of study across the university.
You’ll be based in the School of Politics, Philosophy and Area Studies. Here, you’ll benefit from the teaching of experts in public policy and politics in smaller groups and seminars. Their internationally-renowned research spans the globe, covering places such from Britain and the EU to Japan and the Asia-Pacific, South Asia, and the US. Their interdisciplinary approach links politics and public policy to everything from digital media, economics, and security. They take a distinctively real-world oriented approach to their research, linking theory and practice. That’s also what enables them to leverage their connections with policy, government and non-governmental organizations to create exciting opportunities for students to travel and undertake internships that will enhance your career.
You’ll also benefit from all the resources of our School of Computing Science. This is where you’ll be immersed in lab classes, including in our new 100-seater AI and Data Science lab. There you’ll master key topics such as data mining. You’ll also be trained in the essential programming languages such as Python. In UEA’s School of Computing, you’ll abe part of a cutting-edge environment of research specialists. You’ll be taught by members of our longstanding Data Science and AI Research Group, which brings a wealth of research experience to bear on solving real-world problems through the analysis of big data.
Your dissertation will give you essential experience in defining and pursuing your own independent research project, with the support of a leading UEA researcher.
Assessment
You'll experience a variety of assessment methods, ranging from practical coursework to formal exams and vivas. You'll undertake programming assignments, data analysis tasks, technical essays, and seminar presentations. Group work is integral to several modules, which will hone your collaboration and teamworking skills.
These assessments provide an engaging opportunity to consolidate learning while evaluating essential intellectual skills, such as problem-solving and reasoning. The dissertation is a key feature, allowing you to work closely with academic staff on an independent research project that integrates the course material.
Experiential learning is vital, with the project report assessing your core research skills and practical data science abilities. A significant focus is on applying data science techniques to real-world policy questions, evaluated through a project proposal, dissertation report, and presentation.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
Degree classification
Bachelors degree - 2.2
Degree Subject
Humanities, Social Sciences, or Sciences.
Students without experience of quantitative approaches should take PPLX7023A: Data, Society and Politics in Optional Modules Range A.
- Additional Entry Requirements
This course is aimed at any students who is considering using statistics or data science to address political, public policy, or social issues. If you would like more information on meeting the entry requirements, please contact admissions for advice.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
Degree classification
UK Bachelors degree - 2.2 or equivalent
Degree Subject
Humanities, Social Sciences, or Sciences.
Students without experience of quantitative approaches should take PPLX7023A: Data, Society and Politics in Optional Modules Range A.
- Additional Entry Requirements
This course is aimed at any students who is considering using statistics or data science to address political, public policy, or social issues. If you would like more information on meeting the entry requirements, please contact admissions for advice.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 6.0 in Writing and Speaking, and 5.5 in Reading and Listening)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the required English skills.
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- INTO UEA
[Only Applicable to certain courses - check protocols. If not applicable turn toggles off]
If you do not meet the academic requirements for this course, you may be able to study the International Pre-Masters programme offered by our partner INTO UEA. This programme guarantees progression to selected Master's degrees if students achieve the appropriate grade. For more details, please click here:
International Pre-Masters in Business, Economics and Social Sciences
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2025/26 are:
-
UK Students: £11,775
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International Students: £24,500
We estimate living expenses at £1,136 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here.
Scholarships and Bursaries
The University of East Anglia offers a range of Scholarships; please click the link for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
How to apply
Applications for Postgraduate Taught programmes at the University of East Anglia should be made directly to the University.
To apply please use our online application form.
Further information
If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances prior to applying, please do contact us:
Postgraduate Admissions Office
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk
International candidates are also encouraged to access the International Students section of our website.
Employability
After the Course
Upon completing the MSc in Data Science for Public Policy and Politics, you'll be well-equipped to pursue diverse career paths in government, non-governmental organizations, and private sector roles. You'll have strong analytical skills, advanced data science techniques, and a deep understanding of political and social issues. Graduates will be competitive in seeking a variety of jobs where they can leverage their expertise to drive data-informed decision-making and contribute to meaningful societal benefit. Your ability to apply computational methods to real-world challenges will set you apart in the job market.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Data Analyst
- Policy/Political Advisor
- Research Consultant
- Program evaluator
- Digital Policy Analyst
- Digital Journalist
Discover more on our Careers webpages.