Data Science and Finance MSc

Important application information

This course is still subject to full university approval and is due to start in September 2026. The information given below is intended for guidance purposes only and may change once the course is fully approved.  

Please fill in our online form. We'll use this to let you know when: 

• the course gets full university approval  
• more in-depth course information becomes available 
• we can start accepting applications  

Overview

The finance sector has always relied on data, but today’s markets generate more information than ever before. Businesses increasingly need efficient ways to collect, analyse and transform data into insights that drive better decisions.

By utilising advanced data science methods and computational power, you'll learn to:

• make smarter predictions
• forecast market trends
• manage risk more effectively

The Data Science and Finance MSc at Newcastle University is a conversion programme. We have designed it to equip you with the skills to turn large, complex datasets into actionable insights. You’ll graduate with the ability to maximise opportunities and navigate the financial world with confidence.

You’ll build a solid foundation in the latest computational and mathematical techniques which are highly valued by industry. You’ll develop programming skills in Python and R, which are vital as a basis in this field. You'll then advance onto cutting-edge machine learning and AI methods to unlock insights from complex data.

You’ll then take a deep dive into banking and finance topics. By combining your data analysis and programming skills with advanced banking and finance knowledge, you’ll be able to:

• analyse bank operations, including individual and systemic risks, and manage financial portfolios
• identify financial risks, including climate-related challenges, and propose quantitative solutions
• understand regulatory frameworks for financial institutions and assets, and suggest compliance measures

Aspects of this course are delivered by expert data scientists from the UK’s National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD). You’ll immerse yourself in their leading-edge techniques and practical applications of data science through data bootcamps and learning by experience.

Important information

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Your course and study experience - disclaimers and terms and conditions

Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.

View our Academic experience page, which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2025-26.

See our terms and conditions and student complaints information, which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.

 

What you'll learn

Phase one: Core foundations in Data Science

In phase one, you’ll learn to understand the data itself before processing it, so you can interpret results accurately and make informed decisions. You’ll build a solid foundation in:

• programming
• statistics
• machine learning
• data handling and visualisation

You'll develop confidence in using programming languages such as R and Python.

You’ll then explore the theory and applications of data science in greater depth. A skills-based module delivered by the UK’s National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) will allow you to work on solutions to real challenges drawn from NICD’s client projects.

You’ll build essential legal knowledge, covering data protection, privacy, security, and equality frameworks.

Phase two: Banking and Finance

In this phase, you’ll build advanced knowledge of banking and finance, whether you’re deepening existing expertise or approaching the subject for the first time. You’ll explore the structure of banking systems and financial markets, the risks they face, and the quantitative methods used to measure and manage those risks. You’ll also learn about green finance, sustainability, and the evolving regulatory environment.

Phase three: Capstone project

In your final phase, you’ll bring your new skills and knowledge together. You’ll complete a research- or industry-focused independent project that applies data science to a real challenge in banking and finance.

This is your opportunity to explore a topic that interests you or supports your career goals.

Modules

You will study modules on this course. A module is a unit of a course with its own approved aims and outcomes and assessment methods.

Course content changes

Module information is intended to provide an example of what you will study.

Our teaching is informed by research. Course content changes periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.

Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.

To find out more please see our terms and conditions.

Optional modules availability

Some courses have optional modules. Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.

 

How you'll learn

Delivery and teaching methods

You'll be taught using a range of methods, including:

• lectures
• small group tutorials
• computer labs
• workshops
• data ‘bootcamps’
• flipped learning
• practical sessions
• drop-in surgeries
• supervisor meetings
• guided independent study

Assessment methods

Depending on your modules, you'll be assessed through a combination of:

• Case study
• Computer assessment
• Dissertation
• Oral presentation
• PC examination
• Practical lab report
• Portfolio
• Problem-solving exercises
• Report
• Research proposal
• Written examination
• Written exercise

Additional assessment information

Some assessments will be completed on our specialist software Numbas, which will test your mathematical knowledge.

Support

Data science resources

Before the course begins, you’ll receive a set of resources designed to support your transition into data science. These materials provide a fast-paced refresher on key mathematical concepts. They will help bridge the gap between what you learned previously and what you'll encounter on the course. You’ll start your course with confidence and be able to refer to the resources as your learning progresses.

Numbas learning software

You'll have access to specialist learning software called Numbas. Developed at Newcastle University, it's now used by mathematicians and statisticians worldwide. This innovative software allows you to work on interactive code worksheets, so throughout your course, you can test and refine the mathematics skills you’ll need for data science.

Maths-Aid

All students on our Data Science conversion degrees can make use of Maths-Aid, a team of experts who can provide support and advice on all aspects of maths and statistics.

Statistics and Data Science clinic

During your capstone project, you’ll be supported by our Statistics and Data Science clinic, where you can book one-to-one sessions with expert data scientists. Whether you need support with a technical issue or refining your analysis, tailored support is available to help your project progress. This is additional support to your project supervisor.

Our staff

This course is delivered by:

• School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics
• School of Computing
• Newcastle University Business School

You’ll be taught by experts at the frontier of data science, finance and banking. You'll work alongside academics from the following research areas:

• Centre for Data Science and AI: Driving the development and application of new methods for extracting the value from data.
• Statistics and Data Science: World-class research in modern statistics and data science.
• Scalable Computing: Internationally renowned for tackling research challenges in high-performance systems, data science, machine learning and data visualisation.
• Finance: Leading research with strong industry links to deepen understanding of markets, institutions and financial decision-making.

We're home to the UK’s National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD). This gives you unique opportunities to collaborate with industry partners across multiple sectors.

Your development

Professional skills

You’ll strengthen your ability to critically analyse finance-related questions and enhance your problem-solving skills. These capabilities are highly valued by employers across the global finance industry. Through a module delivered by the National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD), you’ll gain key professional skills by working through real innovation processes you might see in the workplace. You’ll take a problem from initial formulation through to a practical, client-focused solution.

Research skills

You’ll learn to design, implement, and report on data-driven research projects. This includes:

• formulating hypotheses
• selecting appropriate analytical methods
• evaluating models
• interpreting findings in the context of banking and finance

Practical skills

You’ll build a working knowledge of the banking and financial industry, learning how to apply data science methods to optimise performance while tackling sector-specific risks and challenges. You’ll develop your programming skills, using languages such as Python and R. You’ll also gain hands-on experience with MATLAB, a powerful tool for financial modelling and data analysis. We'll equip you with practical skills needed to succeed in the fast-paced finance sector.

Your future

This programme will equip you with the expertise to excel in specialised roles within the global finance industry, which might include:

• Data Scientist
• Market Analyst
• Risk Analyst
• Credit Analyst
• Portfolio Analyst/Manager
• Quantitative Analyst
• Investment Analyst
• Financial Engineer
• Consultant

Advanced data science knowledge would also give more traditional roles in the banking and finance industry a competitive edge.

Further study

This Master's provides an excellent foundation for further study. You’ll have the opportunity to pursue PhDs or a research career in areas such as banking and finance, data science, machine learning, and related disciplines.

Industry links

You'll benefit from industry links from the School of Computing, the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics and the Business School. We have links with global companies, including:

• Google
• Meta
• IBM
• Oliver Wyman
• Lloyds Bank
• HSBC
• Santander
• BlackRock
• JP Morgan
• PwC
• Sage plc
• National Audit Office
• Accenture
• Deloitte
• KPMG

These connections provide you with numerous benefits, potential employment upon graduation and industry-sponsored projects. We regularly welcome professionals from industry to deliver workshops and guest lectures. Recent speakers have included:

• Alex Carter, Head of UK Capital Markets, Citigroup
• Stuart Price, Managing Director, JP Morgan
• Danielle Hook, Director Technology Sector & Growth Lending, HSBC UK Bank Plc
• Ian Paczek, Senior Portfolio Manager, UBS
• Simon Patterson, Director, Julius Baer

You can take advantage of our status as an Experiential Learning Partner of Bloomberg and, through self-study, complete the Bloomberg Market Concepts certificate. This will give you an interactive introduction to the financial markets.

Students celebrate second consecutive year of success at Bloomberg Global Trading Challenge

You’ll have the chance to take part in a live financial trading simulation delivered in partnership with Amplify Trading. You can also join the CFA Institute’s annual Global Investment Challenge, gaining insights into different roles in the financial industry and boosting your employability.

Careers support

Alongside support from our central Careers Service, you’ll benefit from a dedicated Careers Consultant and Employability Facilitator for this course. You can book one-to-one appointments to plan your next steps and take part in a full programme of employability events and workshops throughout the year.

You’ll also have access to Newcastle University Business School's specialist Careers team and Graduate Outcomes team, who provide support, guidance, and tailored resources.

Our Careers Service

Our Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. 

Visit our Careers Service website

Facilities

You’ll have access to a suite of specialised facilities and industry-standard tools, allowing you to work with real-world financial, economic, and accounting data, mirroring professional working conditions in the sector. You’ll gain hands-on experience with:

• our Bloomberg Financial Lab with over 20 Bloomberg Terminals
• LSEG (formerly Refinitiv) data platform
• a wide range of industry-standard databases, including WRDS, Compustat, CRSP, OptionMetrics, and CSMAR

The Business School also offers a number of study spaces and social areas, as well as an on-site café.

Find out more about the Business School’s facilities

Urban Sciences Building

The School of Computing is based in the £58 million Urban Sciences Building (USB), a flagship development located on the £350 million Newcastle Helix regeneration site in the heart of Newcastle. Newcastle Helix brings together:

• academia
• the public sector
• communities
• business and industry

The USB is a living laboratory and has over 4,000 sensors that record detailed research data, which can be used in student projects.

As a student, you'll have access to facilities including:

• 300+ PCs with a Raspberry Pi3 on every desk
• large, flexible computer clusters
• collaborative spaces for study or group projects
• dedicated practical space for postgraduate students
• Urban Café

Open days and events

Find out about how you can visit Newcastle in person and virtually

Overseas events

We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University.

Visit our events calendar for the latest events