Cookie policy

By clicking on or navigating the site, you agree to allow us to collect information on and off Studee as outlined in our cookie policy.

Home

    Study big data abroad

    An in-depth guide to studying big data as an international student.

    Find big data programs

    Explore big data programs abroad

    See other programs in big data

    Big data degrees abroad

    Big data is a fast-paced and rapidly-expanding field that deals with the management of huge amounts of data. It’s a vast subject area that combines elements of mathematics, statistics, computer science, and software programming.

    As a big data student, you’ll learn how to collect, organize, store, analyze, and interpret enormous data sets. The trends and patterns you identify will be vital for informing business practices. You’ll also develop your technical understanding and practical skills by taking classes in coding, data quality, web analytics, and software development.

    In our technologically-driven world, advances in big data are always being made. Studying abroad is a priceless chance to see how organizations across the globe approach the harnessing and processing of data. You’ll be exposed to new software tools and data-handling techniques that will take your employability to the next level.

    Big data program structure

    BSc programs in big data are normally studied over three years, or four years if you complete an optional sandwich year. Industry placements are a great opportunity to try out different career pathways, gather real-world experience, and build a professional network.

    If you’re dreaming of studying in the US, it’s worth remembering that most undergraduate degrees follow the four-year liberal arts model. Before majoring in big data, you’ll need to take two years of general education classes.

    You’ll find most big data programs offered at the master’s level. To be accepted onto these programs, you must already have a relevant bachelor’s degree. MSc courses can be studied over one or two years, depending on whether you enroll as a part-time or full-time student.

    Some universities offer PhD opportunities for students looking to attain the highest qualification possible. These doctorate programs usually take between four and five years, but sometimes longer.

    A mixture of theoretical and practical teaching methods are used on big data programs. Your timetable is likely to feature lectures, seminars, and tutorials, as well as hands-on workshops and computer laboratory sessions. The list below outlines some core units that are common to most programs:

    • Fundamentals of mathematics
    • Statistical methods for data analysis
    • Introduction to big databases
    • Big data analytics
    • Data mining
    • Representing and manipulating data
    • Commercial and scientific applications
    Big data program structure

    BSc programs in big data are normally studied over three years, or four years if you complete an optional sandwich year. Industry placements are a great opportunity to try out different career pathways, gather real-world experience, and build a professional network.

    If you’re dreaming of studying in the US, it’s worth remembering that most undergraduate degrees follow the four-year liberal arts model. Before majoring in big data, you’ll need to take two years of general education classes.

    You’ll find most big data programs offered at the master’s level. To be accepted onto these programs, you must already have a relevant bachelor’s degree. MSc courses can be studied over one or two years, depending on whether you enroll as a part-time or full-time student.

    Some universities offer PhD opportunities for students looking to attain the highest qualification possible. These doctorate programs usually take between four and five years, but sometimes longer.

    A mixture of theoretical and practical teaching methods are used on big data programs. Your timetable is likely to feature lectures, seminars, and tutorials, as well as hands-on workshops and computer laboratory sessions. The list below outlines some core units that are common to most programs:

    • Fundamentals of mathematics
    • Statistical methods for data analysis
    • Introduction to big databases
    • Big data analytics
    • Data mining
    • Representing and manipulating data
    • Commercial and scientific applications

    Alternative data science degrees

    Best countries to study big data

    Best universities to study big data

    See all universities offering big data programs

    How to study big data abroad

    1. University & program search

      Find the right program for you and your career aspirations

    2. Application guidance

      We'll get you to the right place to start your application

    3. Visa & travel advice

      Get help after application, all the way to your first day at university

    Our team of advisors is ready to support you at every step of your study abroad journey.
    Our services are 100% free for students like you because we're funded by universities.

    Start your search Get free advice

    Big data study abroad programs

    Big data undergraduate programs

    Bachelor's in big data

    • false

      Computer Science: Big Data Science & Analytics - BS New York Institute of Technology, USA

      Program type
      Bachelor's
      Duration
      4 years
      Annual tuition fee
      41,400 USD

      Fees are displayed in the university's local currency

      Start date
      January, September
      Show program overview about Computer Science: Big Data Science & Analytics
    See all bachelor's degrees in big data

    Big data graduate programs

    Master's in big data

    • false

      Big Data - MSc University of Stirling, UK

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      1 year
      Annual tuition fee
      15,950 GBP

      Fees are displayed in the university's local currency

      Start date
      September
      Show program overview about Big Data
    • false

      Big Data and Business Intelligence - MSc University of Greenwich, UK

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      1 year
      Annual tuition fee
      15,000 GBP

      Fees are displayed in the university's local currency

      Start date
      January, September
      Show program overview about Big Data and Business Intelligence
    • false

      Big Data Management - MBA IU International University of Applied Sciences, Germany
      • Online

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      18 months
      Annual tuition fee
      10,127 EUR

      Fees are displayed in the university's local currency

      Start date
      January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
      Show program overview about Big Data Management
    • false

      Computer Science (Big Data Systems) - MSc Arizona State University, USA

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      2 years
      Annual tuition fee
      25,118 USD

      Fees are displayed in the university's local currency

      Start date
      August, January
      Show program overview about Computer Science (Big Data Systems)
    • false

      Computer Science: Big Data and Artificial Intelligence - MSc SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences, Germany

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      2 years
      Annual tuition fee
      8,000 EUR

      Fees are displayed in the university's local currency

      Start date
      March, October
      Show program overview about Computer Science: Big Data and Artificial Intelligence
    See all master's degrees in big data

    Doctorate in big data

    • false

      Big Data Science - PhD University of Stirling, UK

      Program type
      Doctorate
      Duration
      3 years
      Annual tuition fee
      14,300 GBP

      Fees are displayed in the university's local currency

      Start date
      September
      Show program overview about Big Data Science
    See all doctorates in big data

    Diploma in big data

    • false

      Big Data Technologies - PGDip University of California, Riverside Extension, USA

      Program type
      Postgraduate diploma
      Duration
      9 months
      Annual tuition fee
      18,200 USD

      Fees are displayed in the university's local currency

      Start date
      September
      Show program overview about Big Data Technologies
    See all postgraduate diplomas in big data

    Future big data careers

    Due to the recent implementation of international data protection laws, the global demand for big data specialists has rocketed. With the industry only expected to grow further in the coming years, there’s never been a more exciting time to be a big data graduate.

    Almost every type of business and organization collects personal details from consumers and supporters, so you could apply your expertise to any sector you like. Here are some of the career paths you might consider pursuing:

    • Data analytics manager
    • Data scientist
    • Data strategist
    • Data visualization engineer
    • Database administrator
    • Database developer
    • Statistician
    • Cybersecurity expert

    With so many graduate destinations to choose from, it can be difficult to know which direction to head in. Most universities have a careers office where staff can help you figure out your ambitions and land work experience with relevant companies.