Level 7 Diploma in Data Science

What is the Level 7 Diploma in Data Science?

The principal objective of the OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Data Science qualification is to develop the knowledge and skills and construct the means for extracting business-focused insights from data. This requires an understanding of how value and information flows in a business, and the ability to use that understanding to identify business opportunities.

Learners will become competent and reflective practitioners, related to their current role, and in preparation for more challenging roles in the future.

Who is this qualification for?

This Level 7 diploma suits graduates and experienced managers who want master's-level study in data science with a route to an MBA or MSc top-up.

• Study fully online with tutor support from LSIB, with no fixed timetable.
• Assessment by assignments, so you can evidence learning from your own workplace.
• Each level carries 120 credits, so you can progress one level at a time.

Entry requirements

For entry onto the OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Data Science qualification, learners must possess:

• An honours degree in related subject or UK level 6 diploma or an equivalent overseas qualification
• Mature learners with management experience (learners must check with the delivery centre regarding this experience prior to registering for the programme)
• Learner must be 21 years old or older at the beginning of the course

Alternative professional qualifications with at least three years' relevant work experience in the public service field may also be considered. This could be in roles in local or national government, or in non-governmental and inter-governmental organisations, the voluntary and charitable sector, and private sector roles which support or deliver public services.

Qualification structure and units

The OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Data Science consists of 6 mandatory units for a combined total of 120 credits, 1200 hours Total Qualification Time (TQT) and 480 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for the completed qualification.

Source: OTHM qualification specification (PDF) · Ofqual qualification number 610/2153/2.

Duration and delivery

OTHM do not specify the mode of delivery for its qualifications, therefore OTHM Centres are free to deliver this qualification using any mode of delivery that meets the needs of their Learners. However, OTHM Centres should consider the Learners’ complete learning experience when designing the delivery of programmes.

At LSIB the qualification is delivered online: you receive the unit materials, assignment briefs and tutor support through the learning platform and submit assignments when you are ready. There are no fixed lecture times, so you can start in any month.

How you are assessed

The units in this qualification are internally assessed by the centre and externally verified by OTHM. The qualifications are criterion referenced, based on the achievement of all the specified learning outcomes.

To achieve a ‘pass’ for a unit, learners must provide evidence to demonstrate that they have fulfilled all the learning outcomes and meet the standards specified by all assessment criteria. Judgement that the learners have successfully fulfilled the assessment criteria is made by the Assessor.

The Assessor should provide an audit trail showing how the judgement of the learners’ overall achievement has been arrived at.

Specific assessment guidance and relevant marking criteria for each unit are made available in the Assignment Brief document. These are made available to centres immediately after registration of one or more learners.

Progression and career routes

The OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Data Science enables learners to progress into or within employment and/or continue their further study.

As this qualification is approved and regulated by Ofqual (Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulation), learners maybe eligible to progress to Master’s top-up at many universities in the UK and overseas with advanced standing. For more information visit the University Progressions page on our website www.othm.org.uk.

Fees and how to apply

The enrolment fee is £10 when you submit your application. It is separate from the course fee above.

1. Apply and pay the £10 enrolment fee Use Apply now to open the application form with this programme pre-selected. Complete the form, upload your ID and qualification certificates (or a CV showing relevant experience), and pay the £10 enrolment fee to submit.
2. Application review and course-fee link Admissions review your application within one working day. If you are approved, we email you a secure link to pay the course fee in full or on an instalment plan.
3. Start your course As soon as your course fee (or first instalment, if you chose a plan) is paid, you receive your learning-platform login and can begin the first unit. There is no fixed intake date.

Progression path

1. Level 7 Diploma
2. Level 8 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice
3. University top-up

Related OTHM qualifications

• Level 7 Diploma in Artificial Intelligence
• Level 7 Diploma in Risk Management
• Level 7 Diploma in Environmental and Sustainability Management