BSc Data Sciences
About this course
BSc (Hons) Data Sciences, an undergraduate degree centred on analytical and computational methods for processing data. Core topics include Programming, Statistics, and Mathematical Modelling. Students can optionally undertake a year abroad. The first year introduces foundational principles through Software Development 1, Elements of Probability, Calculus A, Calculus B, Topics in Statistical Practice, Web Design and Databases, and Software Development 2, alongside an optional module in Introduction to University Mathematics.
Written by AI from the university's course page and module list. It can get details wrong, so check the official course page before you rely on it.
Entry requirements
A level: ABB (B in Maths required) IB: 26 points. Must include Maths achieved at Higher Level 5. Highers: ABBB (over two sittings). Must include Maths achieved at B. BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM. Must be in a relevant subject and contain sufficient Maths. HNC: B in graded unit. Must be in a relevant subject and contain sufficient Maths at SCQF Level 6. HND: BB in graded units. Must be in a relevant subject and contain sufficient Maths at SCQF Level 6.
What students say
Based on about 33 final-year students who answered, across similar courses at this university
- Teaching on my course: 86%
- Learning opportunities: 91%
- Assessment and feedback: 83%
- Academic support: 90%
- Organisation and management: 88%
- Learning resources: 92%
- Student voice: 86%
Do students stay on the course?
Based on about 50 students who started, across similar courses at this university
- Continued on course: 85%
- Left higher education: 5%
- Moved to a lower qualification: 5%
What graduates do next
Based on about 15 graduates who answered, across similar courses at this university (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Working: 75%
- Working and studying: 5%
- Further study: 10%
- Unemployed: 5%
Most common jobs
- Finance Professionals: 20%
- Business, Research and Administrative Professionals: 20%
- Elementary occupations: 15%
- Teaching Professionals: 15%
- Administrative occupations: 10%
- Find their work meaningful: 80%
- Feel on track for their future plans: 70%
- Use what they learnt on the course: 50%
Where graduates work (5 years on)
Based on about 20 graduates, across similar courses at this university (a small group: a rough guide only)
- London: 15%
- South East: 5%
- Scotland: 60%
- Northern Ireland: 10%
Who gets in
Based on about 50 students who started, across similar courses at this university
- A levels: 70%
- A degree: 10%
- Other HE qualification: 20%
Accreditation & quality ratings
- Accredited by the Royal Statistical Society (RSS) for the purpose of eligibility for Graduate Statistician status.
Modules
- Software Development 1
- Elements of Probability
- Calculus A
- Calculus B
- Topics in Statistical Practice
- Web Design and Databases
- Software Development 2
- Introduction to University Mathematics
Questions about this course
How much do graduates of BSc Data Sciences at Heriot-Watt University earn?
The median salary is £28,000 after 15 months, £31,000 after 3 years, £39,500 after 5 years. After five years the middle half of graduates earn between £30,500 and £58,500. The £39,500 median after five years is the same as the UK median for Mathematics.
What do graduates of BSc Data Sciences at Heriot-Watt University do next?
90% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing (Graduate Outcomes 2023-24).
Are students happy with the teaching on BSc Data Sciences at Heriot-Watt University?
86% of final-year students were positive about the teaching in the National Student Survey 2025-26.
What grades do I need for BSc Data Sciences at Heriot-Watt University?
The typical offer is ABB at A level, or 26 points in the IB. The average entrant had 161 UCAS points.
Is BSc Data Sciences at Heriot-Watt University accredited?
Yes. Accredited by the Royal Statistical Society (RSS) for the purpose of eligibility for Graduate Statistician status.
Does BSc Data Sciences at Heriot-Watt University include a placement year or year abroad?
The course has an optional year abroad.
How many students continue on BSc Data Sciences at Heriot-Watt University?
85% of students continued into their second year, and 5% left higher education.