Health Data Science scholarships

We have a number of scholarships available to MSc Health Data Science students who start their studies in October 2025.

Welcome to MSc Health Data Science

The MSc in Health Data Science at Lancaster provides training and research excellence in Medical Statistics, Data Science and Global Health and aims to equip graduates with the necessary skills, knowledge and attributes for direct entry to professional health data science careers. The programme provides core training in computing (R and Python), statistical modelling, epidemiology and research methods, allows for specialism in Health Informatics or Global Health and provides the opportunity to complete a project as part of a placement with our national and international partners, which include the World Health Organization, the National Health Service, the Kenya Medical Research Institute, the Clinton Health Access Initiative, and more.

Data Scientists, data engineers and business analysts are among the most sought-after positions in the UK and internationally, and the health sector demand continues to grow.

Lancaster University’s MSc Health Data Science programme has been developed to address the growing demand for these skills in healthcare.

Potential career destinations for students graduating with an MSc in Health Data Science include, but are not limited to:

Data scientists in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and bioengineering industries
Data scientists in the NHS and allied organisations
Civil-service careers in national-level health agencies
International health organisations such as World Health Organisation, Médecins Sans Frontières, and the Red Cross

Find out about MSc Health Data Science

Find out more about MSc Health Data Science including entry requirements and how to apply

MSc Health Data Science

About the scholarships

AstraZeneca scholarship

These scholarships offer an exciting opportunity to engage with leading scientists from Astra Zeneca while pursuing an MSc in Health Data Science at Lancaster University. This collaboration provides a unique chance to gain insights and knowledge from industry experts, enhancing your educational experience and future career prospects in the field of health data science.

As these scholarships also aim to widen access and participation to AI and Data Science roles for underrepresented groups, the criteria are restricted - please refer to the information below.

Master's scholarships

Lancaster University also offers generous scholarships for both home and international students. You will automatically be considered for these scholarships based on the information in your application.

Scholarships and Bursaries

Student in a white t-shirt and denim jacket

Eligibility Criteria

The following 3 groups will be given priority for the AstraZeneca scholarships:

Female students
Black students (as defined by HESA ethnicity codes)
Registered disabled students

Additional criteria that we will consider:

Students from areas of the UK where young people are less likely to go on to higher education (POLAR Q1 and Q2)
Care experienced students
Estranged students
Gypsy, Roma, Traveller students (resident in the UK)
Refugees (resident in the UK)
Children from military families, veterans and partners of military personnel

PLEASE NOTE: These scholarships are restricted to UK or EU citizens with settled status only, though this may change.

How to apply

Below you will find application forms and guidance documents for the AstraZeneca scholarship. Please read these first.

If you have questions regarding the completion of the form, please email the Director of Studies, Dr Emanuele Giorgi.

Sarjina's scholarship

Sarjina Hossain is studying an MSc in Health Data Science. Her passion and ambition for using data science to advance healthcare was recognised when she was awarded a scholarship by biopharmaceutical company, AstraZeneca.

The scholarship presents eligible students an exciting opportunity to engage with leading scientists and gain deeper insights into the role of data science in healthcare while pursuing their MSc in Health Data Science at Lancaster University.

Below, Sarjina explains how the support has been instrumental in allowing her to immerse herself in her studies and further her ambition of driving innovation in clinical research.

How did you develop an interest in Health Data Science?

"During my undergraduate studies in Biotechnology, I developed a strong interest in how data can be used to improve healthcare, particularly after working in clinical trials. This exposed me to the challenges of trial design, patient recruitment and data management.

"I saw firsthand how inefficiencies in data collection and analysis could slow down medical advancements. This experience sparked my curiosity about how data science could be used to optimise clinical research, leading to better treatments and faster decision-making. To build on this interest, I knew I had to develop skills in data analysis, statistical modelling, and programming, which led me to pursue an MSc in Health Data Science."

What role did the AstraZeneca Scholarship play in your academic journey?

"Discovering the AstraZeneca scholarship and deciding to apply was a pivotal moment in this journey. The application process required me to reflect on my academic and professional goals and express my passion for data science.

"The support from AstraZeneca has made a huge difference in my ability to fully engage with my studies and means that I have been able to dedicate more time to the programme and seek opportunities within the field."

What do you hope to achieve through your studies in Health Data Science?

"Through this program, I hope to develop analytical skills that can be applied to clinical trials and biotechnology research. Engaging with field experts during my dissertation project will provide valuable industry insights, allowing me to understand how data-driven approaches can improve trial efficiency, patient stratification, and real-world evidence generation.

"I am particularly interested in personalised treatments, ensuring that patients receive the most effective care based on their unique characteristics."

What are your future career aspirations?

"Following my MSc, I hope to use my new skills in healthcare and biotechnology and work at the intersection of data science and clinical research. Being a woman in a male-dominated field has presented its challenges. I have witnessed the lack of diversity in tech and data science firsthand, which has only strengthened my commitment to contributing to a more inclusive and equitable industry.

"I hope to contribute to research that makes clinical trials more efficient, cost-effective, and inclusive, ultimately improving patient outcomes. I also want to encourage greater diversity in this field, ensuring that data-driven healthcare solutions benefit all communities. I am excited about the journey ahead and grateful for the support that will help me achieve my goals."