Digital and Data Innovation (SCQF level 7)

Course overview

Are you currently working with data and looking to upskill or reskill? Are you seeking a flexible study option that fits around your work schedule at no additional cost?

The Digital and Data Innovation programme is designed to support flexible, fully funded learning, helping you develop skills aligned with the fast-growing tech and data sectors. Employers increasingly require data-literate professionals, making this qualification a valuable addition to your career.

This course equips you with practical skills using industry-standard tools such as Excel and Power BI, enabling you to work with data across sectors including Engineering, Health and Social Care, Marketing, Software Development, Cybersecurity, Finance, and Retail.

The course runs over 18 weeks and is delivered through a blend of in-person sessions and online learning. On successful completion, you will achieve a Professional Development Award (PDA) in Data Science at SCQF Level 7.

This course is ideal for individuals looking to develop, update, or transition their skills into data-focused roles.

• Course Fees: £500 for the full award. Fees will be confirmed when an application has been processed.
• Some applicants may be eligible for fee remission

What you will learn

You will develop analytical, technical, and communication skills required for data-related roles, including:

• Data analysis techniques
• Data visualisation and storytelling
• Use of industry-standard tools
• Application of AI in real-world contexts

The course comprises four units:

1. Working with Data

You will:

• Understand the data analysis process
• Extract, transform, and analyse datasets
• Apply basic statistical methods such as correlation
• Use data tools to support decision-making

2. Communicating with Data

You will:

• Design and create effective data visualisations
• Interpret charts, dashboards, and reports
• Select appropriate visualisations for different datasets
• Communicate insights clearly and accurately

3. Human Skills and AI (SCQF Level 6)

This unit develops the human capabilities required to work effectively with AI, as well as critical AI literacy.

You will:

• Recognise AI in everyday contexts (Notice)
• Understand how AI systems work at a conceptual level (Understand)
• Use AI tools critically and purposefully (Use)

You will build skills across four key areas:

• Knowing yourself (self-awareness and presence)
• Thinking clearly (critical and creative thinking)
• Connecting with others (empathy and collaboration)
• Taking action together (communication, co-creation, and problem-solving)

Assessment is through a portfolio of evidence, with no exam. You will demonstrate your learning through practical activities, reflection, and application in real-world contexts.

This unit prepares you to work ethically, critically, and effectively alongside AI technologies, complementing your technical data skills.

4. Data Science Project

You will complete an end-to-end data science project, which brings together all units.

You will:

• Define a real-world problem
• Plan and manage your project
• Collect, analyse, and interpret data
• Present findings and recommendations
• Reflect on your decisions and outcomes

The Human Skills and AI unit will be fully integrated into this project, requiring you to:

• Apply human skills in collaboration and communication
• Use AI tools critically and responsibly
• Evaluate the ethical and practical impact of AI within your project

You will produce a portfolio of work demonstrating both technical competence and human-centred data practice.

• Continuous, project-based assessment
• Weekly tasks (approximately 4 – 6 hours per week)
• Portfolio-based evidence across all units

Delivery options:

• In person or Online at Milton Road Campus (Thursday mornings)
• Fully online flexible learning via Moodle and Microsoft Teams

Number of days per week

In-person at Milton Road Campus

• Thursday, 9.30 AM to 12.30 PM 

Online

• Flexible

Entry requirements

• Comfortable using Microsoft Office, particularly spreadsheet packages.
• One Higher or another SCQF level 6 qualification, or relevant experience.
• The course is accessible to individuals with diverse qualifications and work/life experiences.

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

• Completion of a personal statement at the application stage.

English Proficiency Requirements

Progression and Articulation Routes

• Upon fulfilling the prerequisites and completing a bridging course focused on Python programming, you may progress to the PDA Data Science (SCQF level 8) programme or other related qualifications.
• Articulation routes include HND Data Science,  Graduate Apprenticeship in Data Science and BSc in Data Science.

Career options

This qualification supports entry or progression into roles such as:

• Data Analyst
• Business Analyst
• Junior Data Scientist
• Data-driven professional roles across industries