What are the Top Data Science Programs for Canadian Students Wanting to Study in the UK?
Topics covered
- 5 min
- Published: 11 July 2025
- Updated: 11 July 2025
Data science is in high demand in the UK. This is due to a mismatch between the need for data science specialists and the current supply. Prioritizing and nurturing data science skills has been identified as a key opportunity by the UK Parliament because of its social benefits and its potential to raise the UK GDP by 22% through AI.
Coupled with its booming tech sector and top-ranked schools, the UK is an ideal place to study data science if you are a domestic or international student in Canada. With a wide range of applications across industries, it’s no surprise that data science has also been identified by the World Economic Forum as one of the top 5 in-demand skills companies will seek in the future.
Here are the top universities in the UK for a master’s in data science, including prospects, scholarships, and information on which city in Great Britain is the best place for a data scientist.
Are data scientists in demand in the UK?
Yes, according to a research briefing released by the UK Parliament, the UK has a high demand for AI and data science specialists due to a growing gap in digital capabilities faced by several companies.
The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report has also noted that between 2023 and 2027, ‘AI and Machine Learning Specialists’ and ‘Data Analysts and Scientists’ are projected to see the fastest growth globally.
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How to become a data scientist: UK post-graduation career path
During or after graduation, you may pursue an internship or placement, which can be helpful for building your career. In the UK, majority of these opportunities start to be listed in the fall. Once you’ve worked for a minimum of 2 years, you can seek accreditation from the Alliance for Data Science Professionals, which can boost your competitiveness in the field.
In the UK, most data scientists specialize in:
Artificial Intelligence
Machine learning
Database management
The top data scientist jobs in the UK are:
Data Engineer
Machine Learning Engineer
Research Scientist
Program Overview: What is an MSc in Data Science in the UK like?
You can typically expect your master’s in data science to take between 1 and 2 years as a full-time student. There are some data science courses in the UK with placement during your final year, which can give you a significant advantage when it is time to find a job. You will likely complete a research project and dissertation as well during your program.
Generally, students can expect the following core subjects to be covered during their degree:
Machine Learning
Data Mining
Data Visualization
Programming (Python, R, etc.)
Databases and Data Warehousing
Statistical Analysis
Optional data science courses in the UK include:
Natural Language Processing
Distributed Systems
Predictive Analytics
Big Data Technologies
Artificial intelligence (AI)
With its rise in the UK as identified by the World Economic Forum, it’s recommended that you take big data and AI optional courses to increase your job prospects post-graduation.
Which city is best for a data scientist in the UK?
London is undeniably the best city for data science in the UK. It is noted as the country’s tech hub as well as the top place for AI jobs, with 73% of UK AI companies located in London.
What are the top universities in the UK for an MSc in Data Science?
Here are the top universities in the UK for a master’s in data science based on the 2025 QS University Rankings, including their graduates’ employer reputation and what they’re best known for.
School | Location | 2025 QS World University Ranking | Best Known For | Employer Reputation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Oxford | 3 | Interdisciplinary emphasis on social impact and ethics of data science, married with social science theories Combines machine learning and statistical modeling in a strong research environment | 95.2 | |
London | 12 | Strong focus on practical applications on a global scale within medicine, engineering, and business Home to Data Observatory, one of Europe’s largest | 85.5 | |
London | 21 | Research strengths in computational statistics and the cross-section between statistics and computer science Ranked 5th in the UK for Statistics and Operational Research | 74.9 | |
Edinburgh | 24 | Reputation in research and hands-on learning Ranked 1st in the UK for Computer Science and Informatics by the Research Excellence Framework (2021) | 73 | |
London | 46 | Ranked 6th in the UK for Computer Science (2024, QS Rankings) Innovative course modules covering theory and practice | 73.5 | |
Lancaster | 51-100 | Cutting-edge labs and data suite | 57.6 | |
London | 51-100 | Expertise in statistical data modeling, machine learning, and domain-specific applications Leading research in electronic engineering and computer science, with 99% research ranked of international excellence by Research Excellence Framework (2021) | 67.2 | |
London | 51-100 | Emphasis on social impact and real-world applications Capstone Project gives students the opportunity to use skills to address real world problems | 77 | |
Manchester | 51-100 | Among top 10 universities for math, statistics, and computer science (Times Higher Education 2024) Strong industry links and development of employable skills | 73.4 | |
Coventry | 51-100 | Focus on statistical modeling, machine learning, and interdisciplinary expertise in computer science, mathematics, and statistics Strong links with finance and consulting industry | 69.1 |
What are admission requirements for an MSc in Data Science in the UK?
Admission requirements will vary depending on the school, but generally as a Canadian student, you will need to meet the following entry criteria:
Minimum 85% average
Undergraduate or relevant degree in math, statistics, data science, computer science, operational research
Complementary courses include physics, engineering, and psychology
International Baccalaureate Score: Minimum 34 points
Canadian high school diploma
Overall IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in any component
Requirements may also change based on individual university rules. If you have questions about them, it helps to speak to a trained education counsellor. Book a free session with one of IDP Canada’s British Council-certified counsellors for more information.
What are the living expenses in the UK for international students?
As a domestic or international student from Canada studying in the UK, you will need to secure a budget for your monthly expenses. There are tools available to help you get the most accurate answer, such as IDP Education’s Cost of Living Calculator.
On average, each year students pay about CAD $28,800 - $31,200 CAD in London, according to The British Council. Other parts of the UK are cheaper, with yearly expenses landing at between CAD $19,200 and $31,200.
Are there scholarships for an MSc in Data Science available for Canadian students?
There are several ways to find scholarships to support your studies in data science. The British Council recommends exploring these resources for scholarships for international students.
Here are some additional recommendations based on IDP Education’s Find a Scholarship tool. Please note that these scholarships may be subject to change due to their annual availability:
For the latest information on opportunities related to scholarships, speak to one of IDP Canada’s counsellors.
Want to explore a career in data science in the UK?
As companies in the UK continue to shift towards a reliance on data to inform their decisions and business operations, a surge in demand for data scientists will continue to grow. For domestic and international students in Canada interested in studying overseas for their master’s in data science, the UK is a great place to start your career, with a booming tech and AI industry.
Need more guidance on studying data science in the UK? Reach out to IDP Canada’s British Council-certified counsellors. If you have more questions about what it’s like to study in the UK, explore our resources.
An IDP counsellor can help you create a personalized study abroad plan that covers everything including:
Applying and getting accepted
Securing your Visa
Arranging accommodations, banking, and health insurance
Lining up any other service you may need to succeed.
Best of all, because of our partnerships in the UK, these services are offered by IDP at no cost to you!
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