Data Science

The MSc in Data Science at Radboud University offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the rapidly evolving field of data analytics and artificial intelligence. Designed for students who are passionate about transforming data into actionable insights, this programme equips future data scientists with advanced technical skills, methodological knowledge, and practical experience necessary to address complex real-world problems across various industries. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework in statistics, machine learning, programming, and data management with hands-on projects and research opportunities, fostering both theoretical understanding and practical application. Students learn to develop and implement algorithms, analyze large and complex data sets, and communicate findings effectively to diverse audiences. Radboud University's unique multidisciplinary approach encourages collaboration across different fields, including psychology, medicine, business, and environmental sciences, enhancing students' ability to tailor data science solutions to specific domain challenges. Renowned faculty members, state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities for internships and international exchange programs further enrich the learning experience. Graduates of this master's programme are well-prepared for careers in data-driven industries such as healthcare, finance, marketing, and technology, or for further academic research. Emphasizing ethical considerations and responsible data management, the programme also aims to cultivate professionals who can contribute positively to society by fostering trustworthy and sustainable use of data analytics. With its strong emphasis on both theoretical foundations and practical skills, the MSc in Data Science at Radboud University is an excellent choice for individuals seeking to become leaders in the data science domain, driving innovation and informed decision-making in a data-centric world.

Key courses: Machine Learning; Information Retrieval; Bayesian Networks.

Unique characteristics:
• Radboud University is leading in research on legal and privacy aspects of data science and on the impact of data science on society and policy.
• Our approach is pragmatic as well as theoretical. As an academic, we don’t just expect you to understand and make use of the appropriate tools, but also to program and develop your own.
• Because of its relevance to all kinds of different disciplines, we offer our students the chance to take related courses at other departments like at Language Studies (information retrieval and natural language processing), Artificial Intelligence (machine learning for cognitive neuroscience), Chemistry (pattern recognition and chemometrics) and Biophysics (machine learning and optimal control).

A completed Bachelor's degree in Computing Science or related area

To get admission to the Master's in computing Science, you'll need a Bachelor’s degree in Computing Science or in Artifical Intelligence. For the specialisation in Data Science, we also encourage students to apply with a background in natural sciences, such as Chemistry, Biology, and Physics, who also have a keen interest in data analytics and proven mathematical and programming skills.

A proficiency in English

In order to take part in the programme, you need to have fluency in English, both written and spoken. Non-native speakers of English* without a Dutch Bachelor's degree or VWO diploma need one of the following:

• TOEFL score of ≥575 (paper based) or ≥90 (internet based)
• IELTS score of ≥6.5
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE), with a mark of C or higher

* Applicants are considered to be a native speaker of English if they are from Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, USA or South Africa.

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

The Master's programme in Data Science at Radboud University offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to developing expertise in extracting insights and knowledge from complex and large datasets. The programme is designed to equip students with advanced skills in statistics, machine learning, programming, and data management, enabling them to address real-world problems across various domains such as healthcare, business, and social sciences. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including data analysis, predictive modeling, data visualization, and ethical considerations in data science. Students gain practical experience through hands-on projects, collaborations with industry partners, and internships, which prepare them for careers as data scientists, analysts, or researchers. The programme emphasizes both theoretical foundations and applied techniques, fostering analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities. It also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating knowledge from computer science, statistics, and domain-specific fields. Radboud University provides state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and a vibrant academic community to support student development. Graduates of the Data Science master's programme are well-equipped to work in diverse sectors, contributing to innovation and data-driven decision making in organizations worldwide. The programme typically spans one or two years, depending on the student's background and chosen track, and is taught in English to facilitate international participation. Admission requirements include a relevant bachelor's degree, proficiency in English, and occasionally proof of prior programming or mathematical skills. Overall, the Data Science programme at Radboud University aims to produce highly skilled professionals capable of transforming data into valuable insights and solutions.