Ahmedabad University is starting a new Master of Science (MSc) programme in Health Data Science on July 1, 2027. This two-year postgraduate course trains students to use data, artificial intelligence (AI), and computational methods to solve complex health problems. It is offered by the Bagchi School of Public Health and aims to prepare graduates for careers in healthcare, biomedical research, and public health policy.
- The MSc combines statistics, computer science, AI, biomedical engineering, ethics, and public health.
- The programme includes one year of coursework and one year of mentored industry internship.
- Students learn to analyse complex health data like medical imaging and genomics.
- Training covers machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and integrative data analysis.
- The course emphasizes ethical use of AI and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Graduates can work in hospitals, biotech, digital health, government, and research organisations.
What does the MSc Health Data Science programme include?
The curriculum covers digital health, applied machine learning, AI, and health analytics. Foundational topics in individual and population health are also taught. Students study various health data types such as medical imaging from pathology and radiology, multi-omics data including genomics and metabolomics, and environmental exposure data.
Advanced statistical and computational techniques are part of the course. These include multivariate and discriminant analysis, machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and integrative data analysis. The programme uses collaborative assignments, applied projects, and real-world health data to support learning.
How does the programme prepare students for healthcare careers?
The MSc responds to the rise of digital health data and data-driven decision-making in healthcare and public health. It aligns with national initiatives like the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. Students gain skills to work in hospitals, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, digital health organisations, public health institutions, government agencies, and research centres.
Ethics and responsible AI use are key parts of the training. Students learn to develop analytical solutions that are technically sound and relevant to diverse populations and stakeholders.
What skills do students gain from the programme?
Kaumudi Joshipura, dean of the Bagchi School of Public Health, highlights the need for professionals combining computational expertise with public health knowledge. Students learn to handle data from wearable devices, electronic health records, biomedical sensors, and environmental monitors. They develop skills in disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and population health using AI and data science.
What career opportunities are available after graduation?
Graduates can pursue roles in healthcare, biomedical research, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, digital health companies, hospitals, public health organisations, government agencies, and academia. The programme equips students to apply statistical and computational methods to real-world health problems and support evidence-based clinical care, research, and policy decisions.
For more information, prospective students can refer to Ahmedabad University's official MSc Health Data Science programme page.
