Case Study

Although I was coding and learning about Data Science in my spare time, alongside my regular work, I thought a year of dedicated study would be a far better way of speeding up my transition into a new sector of work. Due to family and work commitments, it can be difficult to study full-time as a mature student, but I came to conclusion that studying MSc Data Science would be a sound investment. Having studied on both a Mathematics Enhancement Course and a PGCE at University of Sunderland, I was familiar with the campus and many of the staff, and knew that it would be a good learning environment for further Masters level study.  

I found the assignments on the course to be particularly enjoyable. They were an opportunity to explore and experiment with new datasets, and to employ and utilise the new skills and tools we learned during the course. 

I think for Masters courses in general, you get out of them what you put in. Your independent study skills will improve as a result of doing an MSc, although you need to approach your studies with the mindset of a self-sufficient and self-motivated learner in the first instance. In the fast-moving and ever-changing landscape of Data Science tools and methods, this is an important point to remember. 

Since graduating from the MSc, I have managed to secure a job as a data scientist at the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA). I get to work with extremely varied and interesting data, so enjoy the day-to-day aspect of my job. It’s very rewarding being able to apply what I learned within the Public Sector and the NHS.  

My time at the University of Sunderland proved to be a solid foundation for a change of direction in my career.” 

Published 7 July 2021