Gain hands-on experience of big data analytics, data mining and visualisation techniques using high-performance computer technology. This MSc is accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, and includes an extended industrial placement in a real-world environment.IntroductionBig data is increasingly important in the contemporary business and IT world. For many public and private enterprises, analysis of large-scale data sets is critical to growth. This MSc will prepare you for employment in an IT industry where big data professionals are in high demand.You’ll learn how to interrogate vast amounts of data and make informed insights from datasets that are too large to be readily processed using standard techniques.In year one, we’ll provide an overview of the key algorithms, algorithmic approaches and software environments you’ll use when solving big data problems and explore data mining techniques. We’ll also guide you in how to plan and conduct research.Hands-on programming experience with the latest multi-core and multi-processor platforms will ensure your expertise in big data is underpinned by knowledge of high-performance computing. Further opportunities to specialise and enhance your knowledge of algorithms, optimisation and machine learning are available through a range of optional modules.In year two, you’ll undertake an industrial project in a real-world environment as part of an extended placement opportunity. While on placement, you’ll develop transferable skills and gain insight into the operations, products, practices and culture of the placement provider.What you'll learnTheoretical and practical aspects of programming for the latest multi-core and multi-processor platformsKey algorithms, approaches and software environments for developing solutions to big data problemsData mining techniques and challenges using real-world datasetsApplication of visualisation methods to data miningResearch skills in computer scienceBio-inspired algorithms for optimisation and machine learningHow to model continuous and discrete optimisation problemsThe benefits and weaknesses of selected algorithmic techniquesAlgorithmic aspects of game theoryNeural networks for artificial intelligenceHow to validate systems against safety specifications