Data and Systems Analysis (online)

The Data and Systems Analysis (Online) master's degree at the University of Oxford offers an exceptional opportunity for students to develop advanced skills in data management, analysis, and systems understanding within a flexible online format. This program is designed for professionals and graduates seeking to deepen their expertise in handling complex data systems, improving decision-making processes, and applying analytical techniques across various sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, and government. Delivered by Oxford's world-renowned faculty, the course emphasizes rigorous methodological training combined with practical applications, enabling students to address real-world challenges effectively.

Throughout the duration of this online program, students will engage with a comprehensive curriculum that covers core topics including data modeling, statistical analysis, machine learning, artificial intelligence, system design, and data governance. The program fosters a strong foundation in both theoretical principles and applied skills, preparing graduates to lead data-driven projects, develop innovative solutions, and contribute meaningfully to their organizations. The flexible study format allows students to balance their academic pursuits with professional commitments, making it ideal for those seeking to advance their careers without interrupting their current employment.

Students will benefit from interactive online lectures, case studies, collaborative projects, and access to Oxford’s extensive academic resources. The program encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical considerations in data analysis, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to handle the ethical and practical challenges associated with data systems today. Upon completion, graduates will receive a prestigious University of Oxford degree, recognized globally for its academic excellence and rigorous standards. This program is suitable for individuals passionate about data science, information technology, and systems analysis who aspire to become leaders in their field, equipped with cutting-edge knowledge and skills to drive innovation in their organizations and contribute to society’s data-driven evolution.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline August Tuition fee

• GBP 2235 Year (EEA)
• GBP 3820 Year (Non-EEA)

Start date October 2015 Credits 60 credits
Duration full-time 10 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode Online Educational variant Part-time Intensity Flexible Part-time variant Flexible Structure Fully structured Student interaction Online group works/assignments Attendance No Attendance Teacher support Continuous support with feedback on request More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

Programme details

The following provides indicative content of the course units. This is regularly up-dated to reflect recent developments and feedback from students.

Unit 0: System Set-up and Introduction

• System and software checks
• How to use the course facilities
• Details of the study programme
• Study skills advice
• Group working

Unit 1: The System Development Life-cycle and Management

• The need for a managed process
• Process models and how to select the most appropriate model for a specific project
• The general concepts of project management
• Practical aspects of organising a software project in a real-life context
• Software Testing

Unit 2: Systems Analysis and Design: Data Driven & Procedural Techniques

• Overview of Systems Analysis
• Overview of Systems Analysis contexts and methodologies including SSADM and Yourdon
• Requirements Elicitation
• Requirements Definition
• Requirements Validation
• Data Driven and Procedural Models
• Testing methodologies
• A case study

Unit 3: Systems Analysis and Design: Data Organisation

• The Relational model
• Object models
• Implementing databases

Unit 4: Systems Analysis and Design: Objects & Architectures

• Introduction to the ideas of O-O
• O-O analysis and design
• UML diagrams
• Modern enterprise computing
• XML
• A case study

Unit 5: Team Project

The team project involves students in working together in teams of 3-5 on the analysis and design of a small computer system. Teams are required to make a number of detailed submissions and work to tight deadlines. 50% of the assessment for this unit comes from the team, and the other 50% is individual. Prospective applicants should note that it is a course requirement that students participate fully in the team working unit.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 7 CAE score : 80(Grade A) TOEFL paper-based test score : 600 TOEFL iBT® test : 100

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Oxford.

Funding

Sources of funding

Student Loans for students on Undergraduate Award Bearing Courses, including the Certificate of Higher Education

Students on Undergraduate Award Bearing courses who do not have an undergraduate degree are eligible to apply for a non means-tested student loan for all or part of their fees. If you apply for a student loan for all or part of your fees you may still apply for a Departmental bursary if you are on a low income (see below).

Departmental bursaries for those on Award Bearing Courses

If you are on a low income or certain income-related benefits you may be eligible to apply for a Departmental bursary, whether you have an undergraduate degree or not, and whether or not you also apply for a student loan.

Access to Learning Fund for those on Award Bearing Courses

The government provides the University with funds to help students on very low incomes with childcare and course costs. Access to Learning Fund grants cannot be used for paying tuition fees.

International Students

We advise international students to contact their local British Council, who can advise on studying in the UK. If you are on a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma course you may find funding opportunities on the Oxford Fees, Funding, and Scholarship Search.

US Loans

Students applying for US loans should contact the US Loans team via their website.

Disabled Students' Allowance for students on Award Bearing, Masters and DPhil programmes

This is a non means-tested allowance aimed at helping people with a disability or learning difficulty (e.g. dyslexia) to study on the same basis as other students.

Professional and Career Development Loans

If you are taking a course in order to develop your career, it may be worth considering a Professional and Career Development Loan. You may qualify if you are taking a postgraduate course or a second Bachelors' degree.

The MSc in Data and Systems Analysis (online) at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive programme designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to analyze and interpret complex data and systems within various professional contexts. This online course is tailored for individuals seeking flexible learning options, allowing them to study remotely while gaining a prestigious Oxford qualification. The programme covers a broad spectrum of topics, including data management, statistical analysis, computational methods, and systems thinking. Students will learn to develop advanced analytical skills, apply quantitative techniques to real-world problems, and evaluate system performance effectively.

Throughout the course, students engage with cutting-edge methodologies in data science and systems analysis, supported by a curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical applications. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication of analytical results. It integrates modern computational tools and programming languages relevant to the industry, empowering students to handle large datasets and derive actionable insights. The online format offers flexibility for working professionals or those balancing other commitments, with a structured schedule that includes lectures, tutorials, and project work conducted remotely.

Participation in this MSc programme also provides access to Oxford’s renowned academic community, enabling students to benefit from expert instruction, peer networking, and ongoing support. Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for careers in data consultancy, information systems management, IT, research, and analysis roles across public and private sectors. They gain credentials that are highly regarded worldwide, opening doors to international opportunities and leadership positions. The programme continually updates its curriculum to reflect the latest developments in data science and systems analysis, ensuring that students acquire relevant and current skills aligned with industry demands. Upon completion, students receive a master’s degree from the University of Oxford, symbolizing excellence in knowledge, skills, and professional competence in data and systems analysis.