Health Data Science MSc

Learn about the breadth of health data science and AI. Our programme explores everything from medicine, biology, and healthcare systems to ethics, clinical practice, machine learning, mathematical modelling, and computer science.

Throughout our course, you’ll also gain hands-on experience tackling real-world data analytics problems and developing practical solutions.

Course Structure

You'll learn about the breadth of health data science and its applications. We'll teach you how to design, perform and enhance analyses with the appropriate methods and technologies to address practical medical and clinical questions.

In addition, you'll receive comprehensive training in clinical bioinformatics, health informatics, epidemiology, clinical systems, integrated multimodal data analysis, and omics analytics. Our approach ensures you gain the skills needed to innovate and excel in the evolving landscape of health data science.

• Develop Computational Expertise: Acquire essential computational techniques for analysing health data, with no prior computing experience required.
• Explore Healthcare Systems: Gain in-depth knowledge of healthcare systems, including their operational structures, ethical considerations, and governance frameworks.
• Harness Transformative Potential: Discover how health data science can revolutionise healthcare by leveraging patient-specific information, such as electronic health records and genomics, to drive advancements in research, clinical care, and innovation.

The University of Birmingham is also ranked as the first choice for leading graduate employers in the UK.

This course consists of six taught modules and a dissertation.

Taught modules – Each module represents a total of 200 hours of study time, including preparatory reading, self-guided study and assignment preparation.

Assessments - these include essays, exams, oral presentations, and computer-based problem-solving exercises.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

2025/26 Session

The following must be taken:

Students must either take the 60 credit module, or both the 40 and 20 credit modules

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English Presessional Programmes

Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Postgraduate Masters Loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.