The course

Machine learning has already revolutionised the user experience of millions of web users the world over, and yet the discipline is still comparatively young. In time, this form of artificial intelligence will have an even more profound impact on the way we use software and interact with computer technology. Study Machine Learning at Royal Holloway, University of London and you’ll equip yourself with a set of crucial skills to assist in the development of the next generation of search and analysis technologies.

Skills that you will acquire include the ability to:

• develop, validate, and use effectively machine learning and statistical models
• work with structured, unstructured, and time-series data
• extract value and insight from data
• work with methods and techniques such as clustering, regression, support vector machines, boosting, decision trees, and neural networks
• develop and use universal prediction algorithms, including universal strategies for dynamic investment
• complement predictions with provably valid measures of accuracy and reliability.
• work with software packages such as MATLAB and R

Teaching & assessment

Teaching is organized in terms of 11 weeks each. Examinations are taken in April/May of each academic year, except for Data Analysis for which the exam is in January. Your placement (internship) starts typically at the end of June or beginning of July and lasts for a maximum of one year. The individual project is taken over 12 weeks during the Summer after the placement.

Assessment is carried out by a variety of methods including coursework, small group projects, and examinations, the proportions of which vary according to the nature of the modules. The placement is assessed as part of your degree (10% of the individual project).

Your future career

Demand for data scientists is buoyant, in the UK and worldwide, with salaries much higher than other IT professions and at least double the UK average full time wage. A Master's in Machine Learning at Royal Holloway, University of London offers students excellent graduate employability prospects. You’ll develop practical skills in machine learning techniques, making you an attractive candidate to employers. You’ll also be well-placed to pursue PhD study, should you choose to progress your studies further.

You’ll develop a range of highly sought-after transferable skills, while our proximity to the M4 corridor technology hub also known as ‘England’s Silicon Valley’ - will provide you with excellent placement and networking opportunities to pave the way for a rewarding future career. We bring several companies to our campus throughout the year, both for fairs and for delivering advanced topics seminars, which are an excellent opportunity to learn about what they do and discuss possible placements or jobs. Our recent graduates have gone on to enjoy roles at organisations such as British Aerospace, Microsoft, Amazon, and American Express.

• Strong industry ties help to provide placement and networking opportunities with some of the country’s leading institutions.
• Together with our on-site Careers and Employability Service, we run one-to-one coaching sessions and workshops, helping you to find a placement or job and lead a successful career.