Politics and Data Science BSc (Hons)

London School of Economics and Political Science, University of London

The new joint honours BSc programme in Politics and Data Science combines rigorous training in political science with a good understanding of applied data science methods, and an acquisition of the statistical and programming skills necessary to apply these methods to political data. The programme also allows students to study the politics of big data, social media and data science. How does the use of data transform politics? How do campaigns and governments use data? Should digital media companies be regulated, and if so, how? Which institutions are best placed to do so? Which are the ethical and privacy concerns associated with big data collection and analysis? How have different countries addressed these challenges?

Part of the curriculum is a unique third year capstone project in data science and civic engagement, where students work with civic partner organisations to apply data science methodologies to a question of practical importance in the political or social world. Capstone partner organisations include advocacy groups, NGOs, thinktanks, public sector bodies, local governments, international organisations, or private companies where projects involve the social good.

BSc Politics and Data Science graduates will embark on a variety of careers. These include careers in the civil service, government and international organisations, with digital media firms, both on the data science and the political side of the operation, with regulators such as Ofcom, and organisations in the growing field of data journalism (e.g. FiveThirtyEight, Vox, Upshot, Guardian Data). Students oriented toward careers in political data analytics (political parties, campaigns, and NGOs) and in the private sector (e.g. political risk analysis and forecasting) will also find this programme appealing. Due to LSE’s location in the heart of London, BSc students will be surrounded by government, digital media companies, journalism, and the business sector.