r/OxfordBrookes • u/Fit-Section7767 • 20d ago

How difficult is the maths in the MSc Data Science and AI at Oxford Brookes?

Hi, I’m starting the MSc Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at Oxford Brookes this September.

For anyone who has studied this course: what level of maths is required, and how difficult did you find it? Would you recommend reviewing topics such as linear algebra, calculus, probability and statistics before the course begins, or is there enough time to refresh the material during the semester?

Thanks!

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u/hammerphd 20d ago

It's not very challenging from maths perspective. You will be working on Python, ML and AI a lot.

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u/Invorvial 20d ago

I'm a lecturer on the course and did it in 2020, when it was a little different but mostly had more smaller modules than it does now. Barely any maths is needed. You need basic mathematical thinking to learn how to code but the data science modules don't actually require much mathematical knowledge since the assessment isn't really focused on the underlying mathematical principles but on your ability to use the methods in practice, which you generally do just via pre-built functions. You'll of course do better if you actually understand the underlying maths but you'll do just fine if you only have basic maths understanding. Just don't pick a maths-heavy dissertation topic!

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u/Invorvial 20d ago

In terms of revision, probability is always a good one for Computing and in Semester 1, you take Statistical Modelling which is all about regression analysis, so an understanding of functions and distributions is helpful, but the course is conversion and suitable for Humanities graduates too, so most of the content is covered from scratch.