Discover the transformative potential of data
My journey into data science has been anything but conventional. I pursued my bachelor’s degree in accounting, a field that sharpened my analytical skills and attention to detail. This foundation helped me in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. However, as I progressed in my studies and early career, I discovered a growing interest in the technical aspects of industrial operations and quality assurance. This led me into a new career called Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), a method used to evaluate the properties and integrity of a material, component or system without causing damage. While working in NDT inspection, I became increasingly aware of the transformative potential of data in optimising processes and enhancing decision-making. This sparked my interest in data science, a field that harnesses the power of data to uncover insights and drive innovation.
Data science offers an opportunity to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets, something that is invaluable in fields ranging from finance to engineering. In an era where vast amounts of data are generated every second, organisations need skilled professionals to analyse, interpret, and leverage data for better decision-making. From predicting financial trends and improving healthcare outcomes to enhancing industrial efficiency and detecting system failures in engineering, data science has endless applications. It is a field that not only drives innovation but also has the potential to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Study data science without a STEM background
What set MSc Data Science and its Applications at the University of Greenwich apart for me was its practical approach to teaching. The programme is designed to equip students with real-world skills, focusing on machine learning, artificial intelligence, big data processing, and statistical modelling. The curriculum is structured to provide a strong theoretical foundation while emphasising hands-on application. Some of the standout modules include Machine Learning, Databases and Data Infrastructure, and Ethics and Governance.
Through my Master’s degree at Greenwich, I have been able to integrate my technical expertise with advanced data analytics and machine learning techniques. It has equipped me with cutting-edge skills in data manipulation, statistical modelling, and predictive analytics.
For anyone considering a career in data science without a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) background, my advice is simple: be curious, be adaptable, and be willing to learn. The field is vast, dynamic, and full of opportunities, and with the right mindset and training, the possibilities are limitless.
An enriching and fulfilling experience on the Medway Campus
Studying at the Medway Campus has been an enriching and fulfilling experience. The campus has a well-equipped library with books from almost all disciplines; modern computing labs, and industry-standard software tools, all of which have greatly enhanced my learning journey. Beyond academics, the university offers excellent support services, including career counselling, mentoring programmes, and networking events. During my studies, I was the programme representative and was part of the first cohort for the course taught on the Medway Campus (the course is also available to study on the Greenwich Campus).
The knowledge and skills I have acquired through this MSc programme have been transformative. The course has not only deepened my technical abilities but also strengthened my problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and adaptability – all of which are essential for success in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape.
By combining my background in accounting, non-destructive testing, and data science, I now have a unique interdisciplinary perspective that allows me to approach problems from multiple angles. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to study this course at the University of Greenwich.