• Postgraduate taught
  • MSc

Transport with Data Science

Specialise in analysing large volumes of transport data and in developing models for efficient, sustainable, and resilient transport systems.

Course key facts

Minimum entry standard

  • First-Class Honours in Civil Engineering, Natural Sciences, Earth Sciences or other numerate subject.

View full entry requirements

Course overview

Understand the fundamental concepts and techniques for the planning, design, management and delivery of transport infrastructure on this one-year course.

You will develop an understanding of machine learning and statistical optimistation to solve complex engineering design problems, working effectively as a group.

You'll learn how to evaluate transport projects and policies, taking into account the political, social, environmental, commercial and financial issues involved.

Utilising data science and optimisation skills, you will conduct a piece of independent research that demonstrates a contribution to knowledge in a research area of interest.

Further develop your understanding on road and rail transport in industrialised countries. You'll also consider contexts in less industrialised countries where transport problems persist.

This course will equip you for further PhD research in this specialist area, or a future career in transport planning, engineering, operations, management, policy or research.

Choosing your stream

You have the option of choosing between two streams. You should consider which stream is right for you according to your career aims and background. If an offer of admission is made, it will correspond to a specific stream. Switching streams is not possible once you have commenced your studies.

Structure

This page is updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the curriculum. However, this information is subject to change.

Find out more about potential course changes.

Please note: it may not always be possible to take specific combinations of modules due to timetabling conflicts. For confirmation, please check with the relevant department.

This course assumes a suitable grounding in programming principles and mathematical concepts expected from degree holders in numerate subjects. See our entry requirements for further details. 

You’ll take all of these core modules.

Core modules

You'll choose at least one optional module from Group A, and at least one from Group B.

Group A

Group B

You will be required to complete an independent research project under the direct supervision of a member of academic staff and may involve supervision from external parties.

You will also be required to work full-time on your Research Dissertation commencing in the summer term, immediately following completion of the MSc examinations through to the end of August.

Professional accreditation

This MSc degree has accreditation pending from the Engineering Council by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM), comprising:

  • Institution of Civil Engineers
  • Institution of Structural Engineers
  • Institute of Highway Engineers
  • Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation
  • Permanent Way Institution

Registering as a Chartered Engineer will improve your career prospects and provide higher earning potential. It will also help to demonstrate your commitment to professional standards, the engineering profession and sustainable development.

Our accreditation agreement with members of the Joint Board of Moderators is renewed every five years. Accreditation for this programme will be renewed in October 2026.

Testimonials

Teaching and assessment

Teaching and learning methods

  • Person at lectern giving speech
    Lectures
  • Four students sitting in a tutorial
    Tutorials
  • A group of people interacting
    Group work
  • Computer sessions
  • In-class quiz
    Online quizzes
  • Presentations and seminars
  • Workshops
  • Individual research project
  • Team building projects

Balance of assessment

This is an example of how assessments are usually divided, based on a typical pathway through the course. The actual breakdown may be different depending on the modules you choose.

Key

  • Coursework
  • Examinations

  • 60% Title 1 goes here
  • 40% Title 2 goes here

Assessment methods

  • Person completing coursework
    Individual and group coursework
  • A person completing a written exam
    Written exams
  • Research dissertation and poster
  • Group projects and presentations
  • Lab report summaries
  • Design project blueprints
    Design projects

Entry requirements

We consider all applicants on an individual basis, welcoming students from all over the world.

How to apply

Applications open on Wednesday 30 September 2026

Fees and funding

Home fee (CEE 1YFT + 2YPT)

Full-time

Not set total fee
As a guide, the fee for 2026-27 was £19,400.

Part-time

Not setper year
As a guide, the fee for 2026-27 was £9,700 per year.

Fees are charged by year of entry to the university and not year of study.

Overseas fee (CEE 1YFT + 2YPT)

Full-time

Not set total fee
As a guide, the fee for 2026-27 was £45,000.

Part-time

Not setper year
As a guide, the fee for 2026-27 was £22,500.per year.

Fees are charged by year of entry to the university and not year of study.

How will studying at Imperial help my career?

Learn essential communication, management, and problem-solving skills while pursuing this degree.

Develop the skills necessary to research a PhD.

Our graduates often pursue further study in master's programs or doctoral research.

Graduates are highly sought after for employment in areas as diverse as transport planning, engineering, and operations.

Other potential career paths are in management, policy and research.

Terms and conditions

There are some important pieces of information you should be aware of when applying to Imperial. These include key information about your tuition fees, funding, visas, accommodation and more.

Read our terms and conditions

You can find further information about your course, including degree classifications, regulations, progression and awards in the programme specification for your course.

Programme specifications