Online MSc in Big Data Analytics — Flexible, Part-Time in Liverpool

Start Dates:15 September 2026, 17 November 2026,12 January 2027

Duration: 2 Years

Cost: £17,357

Program Description

Further your computer science career with a specialist postgraduate degree in big data analytics.The programme is accredited by the BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, for the purposes of meeting the further learning academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.

This online master's programme has been designed to equip students with expertise in an area of computing that has seen recent and rapid growth, and in which there is expected to be a significant skills shortage.

You will have the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of both the technology that supports big data analytics and the practical application of this technology in the context of business information and real-world problems.

To achieve a full master's degree, you will be required to complete 180 credits. This programme is also available as a postgraduate diploma (PG Dip) which amounts to 120 credits and a postgraduate certificate (PG Cert) which amounts to 60 credits. Students who complete the PG Cert and PG Dip will have the opportunity to progress to a full master's degree.

Why study this subject?

The Big Data Analytics MSc follows a career-driven curriculum, developed to provide practical skills and knowledge directly applicable to a workplace. Throughout your studies, you will explore a wide range of programme modules.

Entry requirements

All applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. If you want to discuss your previous qualifications and experience before applying, please contact our admissions team.

Applicants should possess either:

• A minimum of a 2:2 class degree in Computer Science or a closely related subject, equivalent to a UK bachelor's degree, coupled with two years' experience in employment; or
• Professional work experience and/or other prior qualifications, which will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

All applicants must provide evidence that they have an English language ability equivalent to an IELTS (academic) score of 6.5.

If you don't have an IELTS or equivalent certificate, you can take our free online English test to assess your proficiency. You don't need to prove your English ability if you are a national of or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of the eligible countries on our website.

Assessment

Assessment is exclusively through online assignments rather than examinations. You will be assessed through a range of activities, including written assignments, presentations, discussion forum participation and journal entries.

Career destinations

The programme follows a career-driven curriculum, developed by industry leaders and experts to ensure the taught skills and knowledge are directly applicable to a workplace. Graduates will be able to successfully apply their newly acquired skills and knowledge in demanding roles within a range of sectors. Potential job titles include Data Scientist, Big Data Consultant, Machine Learning Engineer and Research Scientist.

Delivery

This programme is designed to be studied wholly online and part-time. Teaching is delivered through our state-of-the-art Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), which provides students with access to all resources required for interactive study online. On this platform you will be encouraged to work collaboratively with classmates and actively read around your topic through our comprehensive library of eBooks and journals.

Modules

• Global Trends in Computer Science (15 credits)
• Data Visualisation and Warehousing (15 credits)
• Machine Learning in Practice (15 credits)
• Cloud Computing (15 credits)
• Security Engineering and Compliance (15 credits)
• Deep Learning (15 credits)
• Elective module: choose one:
  • Applied Cryptography (15 credits)
  • Cyber Forensics (15 credits)
  • Cybercrime Prevention and Protection (15 credits)
  • Information Technology Leadership (15 credits)
  • Multi-Agent Systems (15 credits)
  • Natural Language Processing and Understanding (15 credits)
  • Reasoning and Intelligent Systems (15 credits)
  • Robotics (15 credits)
  • Security Risk Management (15 credits)
  • Strategic Technology Management (15 credits)
  • Technology, Innovation and Change Management (15 credits)
• Research Methods in Computer Science (15 credits)
• Computer Science Capstone Project (60 credits)

Payment options

Fees for the academic year2026/27

MSc: £17,947

PGDip: £11,965

PGCert: £5,983

The tuition fee is fully inclusive of all costs: teaching materials, core textbooks, assessments and resits. If you live in England, you may be eligible for a postgraduate loan to cover some of the programme cost. If you are not eligible for a student loan, you will be offered a simple monthly payment plan to spread the cost of your tuition over the duration of your studies.

Scholarships and Discounts

Global scholarships of up to 15% for international students residing in specific regions outside the UK.

• 10% discount for University of Liverpool alumni.
• Corporate discounts of 10% are available for organisations looking to invest in the skills of three or more employees. For more information, please visit our website where you can speak to one of our admissions advisors to learn how you can upskill your team for organisational success.

A separate application form is not required for a scholarship, as it will be applied once you have received your official offer letter. Please note, scholarships cannot be combined.

All tuition fees shown are net of any applicable sales tax payable by you in your country of residence. Where we are required to add sales tax at the local statutory rate, this will be added to the tuition fees shown and confirmed during the payment process.

About University of Liverpool Online

University of Liverpool is a member of the elite Russell Group of research-led UK universities. They have been offering online programmes since 2000 and are one of Europe's leading providers of wholly online postgraduate degrees. Their programmes are designed specifically for online learning; teaching and assessment are delivered through a state-of-the-art learning platform, providing students with access to all resources required for interactive study online.

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