Data Science with Foundation Year BSc

Program Overview

This four-year integrated BSc Data Science program at the University of Exeter provides a solid mathematical foundation through a one-year Foundation Year. Upon successful completion, students progress to the three-year BSc Data Science program, which equips them with advanced data science knowledge and skills. The program emphasizes research and practice, preparing graduates for successful careers in various data science and related fields. Additionally, students can enhance their employability through proficiency options and industrial experience opportunities.

Program Outline

It also aims to prepare students for the challenges of an undergraduate degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Natural Sciences, or Engineering.

• Description: This is a 4-year integrated degree program, consisting of a 1-year Foundation year followed by a 3-year undergraduate degree program.
It is designed for UK domiciled students who may not have met the entry requirements for first-year entry or have not been able to take A-level Mathematics alongside a BTEC L3 Extended Diploma. The program covers core mathematics required for a Data Science degree, providing a structured and supportive environment for students to prepare for their undergraduate studies. Upon successful completion of the Foundation year, students progress to Year 1 of the BSc Data Science program. Depending on their prior qualifications, students may also be able to transfer to other undergraduate programs with a foundation year, such as Computer Science, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Engineering, or Physics.

Outline:

• Structure: The program is divided into two parts:
• Foundation Year:
This year focuses on core mathematics, aiming to elevate students' knowledge to A-level grade A standard, including aspects of further mathematics. It also includes a project that develops key skills for university study.
• BSc Data Science: This three-year program builds upon the foundation year, covering advanced topics in Data Science.
• Course Schedule:
• Foundation Year:
• Compulsory Modules:
• MTH0001 Principles of Pure Mathematics (30 credits)
• MTH0003 Exploring Mathematics (15 credits)
• MTH0004 Foundation Statistics (15 credits)
• MTH0005 Science: Skills and Culture (30 credits)
• MTH0006 Applied Mathematics (15 credits)
• MTH0007 Programming Skills (15 credits)
• Module Descriptions:
• Foundation Year:
• MTH0001 Principles of Pure Mathematics:
This module covers fundamental concepts in pure mathematics, including algebra, calculus, and number theory.
• MTH0003 Exploring Mathematics: This module explores various mathematical topics, providing students with a broader understanding of the subject.
• MTH0004 Foundation Statistics: This module introduces basic statistical concepts and methods, including data analysis and probability.
• MTH0005 Science: Skills and Culture: This module focuses on developing essential skills for university study, including research, communication, and critical thinking.
• MTH0006 Applied Mathematics: This module applies mathematical concepts to real-world problems, emphasizing practical applications.
• MTH0007 Programming Skills: This module introduces programming fundamentals, equipping students with the necessary skills for data analysis and manipulation.

Assessment:

• Foundation Year: Modules are assessed through a combination of summative assessments.
Students must pass the foundation year and meet the progression criteria to progress to Year 1 of the BSc Data Science program. However, the results do not count towards their degree classification.

Teaching:

• Foundation Year: Students experience a range of teaching and learning activities, including lectures, workshops, tutorials, group projects/presentations, and seminars.
• Faculty: The program is taught by internationally-recognized experts active in various topics related to Data Science.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes a research and practice-led culture, providing students with opportunities to engage in research projects and learn about the latest advancements in the field.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: The program prepares students for a wide range of careers in Data Science and related fields, including:
• Analytics Manager
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Business Statistician
• Data Analyst
• Data Architect
• Data Scientist
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Quantitative Researcher
• Research Analyst
• Research Scientist
Students have opportunities to conduct individual and group projects using real-world data sets.
• Outcomes: Graduates are equipped with strong technical skills and soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, making them highly sought-after by employers.

Other:

• Proficiency Options: Students can choose to specialize in a second subject by completing 60 credits of modules in that subject.
This can enhance their employability and broaden their intellectual horizons. Some proficiency options include:
• A Foreign Language
• Data Science
• Entrepreneurship
• Innovation
• Law
• Leadership
• Social Data Science
• Industrial Experience: Students can choose to take an optional Commercial and Industrial Experience module during the vacation before the third year.
This allows them to gain paid work experience while earning credits towards their degree program.
• Partnerships: The University of Exeter has partnerships with various institutions, including:
• The Alan Turing Institute
• The Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

UK students: £9,250 per year