Urban Data Science and Analytics MSc

The following modules are available in 2023/24 for Urban Data Science and Analytics MSc and are examples of the modules you are likely to study. All modules are subject to change. You will study 180 credits in total.

Compulsory modules

Programming for Data Science – 15 credits

This module is designed to give those with little or no programming experience a firm foundation in programming for data analysis and AI systems, recognising a diversity of backgrounds. 

Analysing Cities – 15 credits

This module will provide training and a foundation in understanding and analysing cities from a complex system perspective using an interdisciplinary approach. 

Data Science for Urban Systems – 15 credits

This module will provide a foundation in data science training, introducing concepts in data handling, exploratory data analysis, machine learning, and visualisation.

Creative Coding for Urban Problems – 15 credits

This module will provide students with an opportunity to enhance their creativity and develop their technical skills in relation to urban data science problems.

Analytics for Urban Policy – 30 credits

This module will provide students with a foundation in the application of data science in urban policymaking. It will expose students to the latest uses of data science for understanding cities and setting urban policy, it will explore some of the technical, procedural and ethical challenges in using data science in urban policymaking, and address how urban policy results in tangible change in real-world cities.

Urban Data Science Project – 60 credits

The Project will take the place of the traditional dissertation. The Project submission will incorporate a data science output, in the form of a ‘notebook’-style analysis, and an associated written report, which outlines prior work and context, the analysis process, the results, and associated policy or practical implications.

Optional modules

Geographic Data Visualisation & Analysis – 15 credits

This module develops core visualisation and spatial analysis and statistical skills required for the analysis of geographically referenced data.

Geodemographics and Neighbourhood Analysis – 15 credits

This module equips students to analyse and use area (neighbourhood) characteristics to underpin decision making (local planning, policy evaluation, marketing etc).

Transport Data Collection and Analysis – 15 credits

This module provides fundamentals of data collection and analysis in the context of transport. It addresses the loop covering research questions, data requirements, data collection/generation, data analysis, and interpretation.

Transport Data Science – 15 credits

The quantity, diversity and availability of transport data is increasing rapidly, requiring skills in the management and interrogation of data and databases.

The full list of module information can be read in the course catalogue.