Department of Natural Sciences | Master of Data Science in Digital Humanities

Master of Data Science in Digital Humanities (MDS) at Durham University

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Explore how quantitative and computational methods can be used to explore and analyse large-scale social data to make predictions and inform future practice.

From security cameras and satellite transmission to our mobile devices, homes, cars, and in the workplace, we are surrounded by data. At the same time, developments in technology have made the field of data science more accessible than ever, creating new opportunities to gain insight into the interactions between people and their environment. This has led to a significant increase in demand for skilled data scientists, and this demand is predicted to further grow.

Drawing on this, we have created the Master of Data Science (Digital Humanities), a conversion course that equips you with the skills to access, clean, analyse and visualise data, opening a future in Data Science even if your first degree is in a non-quantitative subject such as humanities.

The MDS provides training in contemporary Data Science, learning from practicing researchers who are making a difference across a range of industries. Shared core modules across the suite of MDS courses build wider skills in Statistical and Machine Learning, while additional subject-based modules in Digital Humanities give you the opportunity to explore the application of quantitative and computational methods to Cultural Data: Languages, Literary, Philosophical & Theological Texts, Historical Data, Artefacts & Material Culture, Visual Art, Video and Music.

The course begins with a range of introductory modules before progressing to more advanced contemporary techniques such as Statistical Modelling (in R), Computer Programming (in Python), Machine Learning, AI and Neural Networks. Optional modules allow you to focus on an area of interest.

The MDS culminates in the research project, an in-depth investigation into an area of specific interest in which you apply the skills you’ve learned during the course to a research problem in a humanities domain of your choice.

The skills and knowledge that constitute a Masters qualification in Data Science are widely sought by employers around the globe. In today’s data-driven society, the ability to capture, analyse and communicate information and trends from the data generated by business, governments and their agencies, communities and organisations is highly prized.

It follows that Data Science is a rapidly expanding career sector with opportunities for stimulating and rewarding work in many sectors including the areas of science, humanities, health, environmental and social where understanding and expertise in data is leading to transformations in the way people live and work.

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