Apply for MSc in Open Data Practice at National College of Ireland (NCI)

In today’s hyper-connected world, open data is shaping everything—from how cities plan their infrastructure to how healthcare systems are optimised for better patient outcomes. Governments, corporations, and non-profits are unlocking the potential of open datasets to drive innovation, improve services, and enhance transparency.

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Offered in collaboration with leading European institutions, this programme prepares students to lead the future of open data.

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Why Choose the MSc in Open Data Practice at NCI

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1. Built Through European Collaboration

This isn’t just a local course with a narrow lens. It’s a programme built by an alliance between NCI (Ireland), Universitatea Politehnica din București (Romania), and Technischen Universität Wien (Austria), through the EU-funded ERASMUS+ TrainRDM project. You don’t just learn from Ireland’s academic ecosystem—you get exposed to pan-European practices and standards in research data management and open science.

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2. Recognised by Industry

In 2023, the programme was shortlisted by IBEC for the Technology Ireland Industry Awards under the category “Outstanding Academic Achievement of the Year.” That recognition signals the course’s relevance to the real world and its alignment with industry needs.

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3. Forward-Facing Curriculum

The curriculum is engineered for real-world applications. Beyond technical modules like Data Analytics and Programming, students explore ethical frameworks, FAIR data principles, and data governance strategies. This makes graduates not only technically competent but also responsible data citizens.

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Programme Structure

This is a one-year full-time postgraduate course delivered across three semesters:

Semester 1:

• Data Modelling

• Programming and Algorithms

• Ethics and Fairness

• Open Science and FAIR Principles

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Semester 2:

• Statistics

• Data Analytics

• Open Data Workflows and Lifecycle

• Elective:

• Database and File Systems

• Open Innovation

• Data Assurance and Security Principles

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Semester 3:

• Data Governance

• Research Practicum (with a practical real-world open data project)

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The practicum isn’t just theoretical—it connects you with organisations that handle open data. You’ll explore real issues, apply what you’ve learned, and contribute meaningfully.

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Entry Requirements

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Academic:

• Honours bachelor’s degree (Level 8) with at least a 2.2 grade in a STEM or related field.

• Applicants from non-STEM fields like psychology, bioscience, or library science will be considered based on relevance and aptitude.

• Non-degree holders may apply through NCI’s Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) route.

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English Language:

• IELTS 6.0 (minimum) or equivalent proof of English proficiency is required for non-native speakers. ‍

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‍Tuition Fees and Scholarships

• EU/EEA students: €7,000 per annum

• Non-EU/International students: €17,000 per annum

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NCI also offers several scholarships:

• NCI is offering €3000 and €5000 guaranteed scholarships for this course based on your profile.

• International students can apply for merit-based or country-specific scholarships.

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Intake:  

• January and September

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‍Application Fee:

• €0

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Real-World Applications of Open Data

Open data touches nearly every industry:

• Urban Planning: Cities like Dublin use open traffic and census data to optimise public transportation.

• Health: During the pandemic, open data dashboards helped track cases and allocate resources.

• Finance: Open financial data is critical for transparency in government and corporate budgeting.

• Environment: Climate researchers rely on open weather and pollution data for sustainability projects.

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This programme teaches students how to work with these kinds of datasets, assess their reliability, and draw actionable insights.

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Student Experience at NCI

Studying in the heart of Dublin’s IFSC (International Financial Services Centre) gives students proximity to top tech, fintech, and public sector employers. The campus is small but modern, with access to:

• State-of-the-art data labs

• Career services and professional networking

• International student support

• Events and guest lectures from industry leaders

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As a student, you’re not just learning from textbooks—you’re part of a vibrant community driven by innovation.

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Graduate Outcomes

While this is a relatively new programme, early graduate feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Past students have found roles such as:

• Open Data Analysts at local councils and government agencies

• Research Data Officers in academic institutions

• Data Policy Advisors for NGOs

• Data Consultants at European tech firms

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With Ireland’s growing status as a European tech hub, graduates can also explore roles in multinational companies headquartered in Dublin.

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How This Programme Compares Globally

Open data is gaining traction worldwide, and several universities offer niche specialisations. What sets NCI’s programme apart is:

• A Europe-wide perspective through its ERASMUS+ roots

• A practical practicum replacing a traditional dissertation

• A focus on data ethics and governance, not just technology

• A diverse peer group, including students from business, tech, social science, and policy backgrounds

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While US or UK courses may offer similar tech modules, NCI blends ethical, legal, and research lenses into every subject.

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Why Ireland for Open Data Studies

Ireland is one of the leading adopters of open data in the EU. The country has an Open Data Strategy 2023–2027 which mandates public access to datasets across sectors. This makes Ireland a live case study in itself.

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Moreover, Ireland is home to Google, Facebook, TikTok, and Amazon’s European HQs. That creates opportunities for internships, research, and jobs in data governance, analytics, and compliance roles.

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Application Process

Applications are submitted via the official NCI website. Here’s a quick overview:

1. Create an applicant account

2. Upload academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a personal statement

3. Pay the application fee (if applicable)

4. Wait for admission decision or be called for an interview

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Deadlines vary, but early applications (especially for international students) are encouraged due to visa processing times.

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Next intakes: January and September

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Summarising

If you’re passionate about using data for good—whether it’s improving public services, designing inclusive policies, or simply making smarter business decisions—the MSc in Open Data Practice at NCI is your launchpad.

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It’s more than just a degree in data. It’s a commitment to transparency, fairness, and impact.