Application Process

For entry to the Professional Diploma in Data Science, students must have obtained an undergraduate or masters degree to standard 2:1 in a subject with some quantitative elements. Examples of programmes in this regard include degree awards in Business, Commerce, Economics, Education, Software Development etc. where sufficient quantitative modules were undertaken. Those with a lesser qualification award and/or no numerate subject degree, but with substantial industry experience related to the area, or relevant professional qualifications, will also be considered on a case by case basis. Students who achieve a GPA of 3.08 or higher in the Professional Diploma are eligible to transfer to the MSc programme.

For entry to the MSc in Data Science, students must have obtained an undergraduate or masters degree in a numerate subject to standard 2:1. We classify a numerate degree as one where topics in mathematics, statistics, physics etc. form a significant part of the degree programme. Those with a lesser qualification award and/or no numerate subject degree, but with equivalent experience in industry, or relevant professional qualifications, will also be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

All applications are considered individually. The Applications Committee will have to assess all the modules taken during an applicant’s degree and individual results to check suitability. A rough guide to the mathematics we expect you to know on entry is available here: Self Assessment Quiz.

Many applicants do not provide enough detail about the mathematics and statistics modules they have taken at degree level. When applying, please provide information in your application so that the application committee can determine the content of the mathematics and statistics modules you have taken. We are most interested in modules that contain elements of linear algebra (specifically matrix manipulation) and calculus. If possible, please supply a syllabus for relevant modules. If not possible, please include your best recollection of the topics in an accompanying document.

During the summer term we run a (opens in a new window)Professional Certificate in Mathematics for Data Analytics and Statistics. This programme is suitable for students who would otherwise not be accepted to the MSc or Prof Dip Data Science as they have not covered the required mathematics. The Prof Cert in Mathematics for Data Analytics and Statistics covers the linear algebra and calculus skills required to pursue our online Professional Diploma in Data Science. You may also wish to pursue this programme to improve or upgrade your mathematics in advance of pursuing the Professional Diploma or MSc, even if it is not specified to you as a necessary entry requirement.

For entry to the Professional Certificate in Mathematics for Data Analytics and Statistics, students must have obtained an undergraduate or masters degree to standard 2:1 in any subject, and are advised to have obtained Leaving Cert Mathematics to standard HD3/OB3. 

Please also see information on the English language requirements HERE.

Applications can only be made online through www.ucd.ie/apply

An application will not be processed unless the following documents are uploaded through your online application:

a copy of all relevant transcripts from previous degrees/courses taken

and/or

additional supporting documentation such as personal statements or curriculum vitae

If it is not clear from your transcript documents that you have previously studied the required mathematical content (see above) please also provide syllabus documents for relevant modules listed on your transcript.

Non-native English language speakers need to attach a valid proof of English language proficiency.

A transcript is a University certified list of modules taken and results achieved throughout the duration of a person’s degree. We require copies of your university transcripts to assess your application.

If you hold more than one degree you should submit all transcripts with your online application as the Applications Committee will take all supporting documentation into consideration.

All applications are considered individually.

Once your application is received the Applications Committee will look at all the modules taken during your  degree and your individual results and check their suitability. If you think that your work experience should also be considered we  recommended that you to upload a CV as supporting documentation.

In order to process an application we need to receive all the relevant required documentation. If you have filled in the application form but have not uploaded a copy of their academic transcript and/or a copy of a curriculum vitae/supporting documentation as required then your application cannot be fully processed and will remain pending on the system until the application is completed correctly. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we cannot to send reminder emails in relation to this. It is your responsibility to complete the application in full. Please note that in all cases an application will not be fully processed until the mandatory application fee is paid.

Applicants will receive notification of the outcome of their application through the application system.

We normally accept applications from 1st October to mid-August each year.