Loughborough University

What you'll study

The programme combines core quantitative and computing modules with applied business and decision-making topics. You will study methods for extracting, analysing and visualising data, and learn how to embed analytics into organisational strategy and operations.

• Core analytics methods: statistical modelling, predictive analytics and time-series forecasting for business problems.
• Machine learning and data mining: supervised and unsupervised techniques, model evaluation and feature engineering using tools such as Python or R.
• Optimisation and decision analytics: operations research, optimisation models and simulation for resource allocation and planning.
• Big data and databases: data engineering fundamentals, working with databases, data warehousing and basics of distributed data technologies.
• Business context: modules on analytics strategy, ethics and governance, and translating analytical results into managerial action.
• Practical project: an individual dissertation or industry-focused project where you apply methods to a real problem, often in partnership with an external organisation.

Teaching typically combines lectures, hands-on labs, group work and case studies. Assessment is by a mix of coursework, practical projects, exams and the dissertation or capstone project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (equivalent to a UK upper second class, 2:1) in a quantitative or numerate subject such as mathematics, statistics, economics, engineering, computer science or a business degree with a strong quantitative component. Applicants with a lower second class degree (2:2) may be considered if they have relevant professional experience or additional quantitative qualifications.

Practical programming experience and familiarity with statistics are highly desirable. If your first degree is in a non‑quantitative discipline, you should be able to demonstrate relevant coursework, professional experience or preparatory study in mathematics, statistics or computing.

International applicants must meet Loughborough's English language requirements for postgraduate study (or equivalent), typically with an academic-level qualification such as IELTS at a commonly required level with no low sub-scores.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to roles that bridge data, technology and business. Typical job titles include:

• Data Analyst / Senior Data Analyst
• Business Analyst / Insights Analyst
• Data Scientist or Machine Learning Engineer (entry-level)
• Analytics Consultant
• Operations Research Analyst / Supply Chain Analyst
• Commercial or Marketing Analytics Manager

Alumni work across sectors such as finance, retail, technology, consulting, manufacturing, sports analytics and public services. The programme’s focus on applied projects and industry-relevant tools helps graduates transition into analytics roles or to progress within their existing organisations into data-driven decision-making positions.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough offers a strong combination of taught technical training and applied business education, delivered in an environment with well-equipped computing and laboratory facilities. The university is known for close links with industry, which inform module content and provide opportunities for collaborative projects and guest input from practitioners.

Students benefit from dedicated careers and employability services, regular employer events and an active campus community. The programme draws on academic expertise in statistics, optimisation and data science, providing a supportive setting for applied research projects and professional development in business analytics.