Ella Murphy

I am currently studying for an MSc in Geographic Data Science within the University of Liverpool's Environmental Sciences department. I chose this programme because of its strong focus on spatial data analysis, GIS, and the intersection of data science with real-world societal challenges, which aligns with my passion for understanding social inequalities through geospatial methods.

What course are you currently studying? 

I am studying the MSc in Geographic Data Science. 

Why did you choose to study a master’s at University of Liverpool Environmental Sciences? 

Having completed my undergraduate degree in BA Geography at the University of Liverpool, I already had a strong appreciation for the supportive learning environment and the expertise within the Environmental Sciences department. During my undergraduate studies, I was introduced to GIS and programming, which sparked a passion for spatial data analysis. I knew I wanted to develop these skills further, and the MSc in Geographic Data Science at Liverpool was the perfect opportunity. 

What’s the best thing about studying your programme? 

The best part of studying this programme is its strong focus on practical coding skills alongside advanced spatial and statistical analysis techniques. The opportunity to learn from the expert teaching staff within the GDSL lab was particularly inspiring, as their work showcases how geospatial data science can be applied to real-world challenges.

What makes this MSc stand out is the hands-on learning approach, the introduction to new programming languages and analytical techniques, and the chance to develop technical skills that are highly relevant to my career aspirations. This combination of practical experience and academic expertise has made the programme an ideal fit for me. 

How do the facilities in the University and the School help you with your studies? 

Access to the Geographic Data Science Lab (GDSL) has been a major highlight of this master’s programme. The weekly brown bag seminars, where researchers share their exciting and dynamic work, are incredibly inspiring. It’s amazing to see people in the same department working on such cutting-edge projects, which motivates me to push my own research further.

The facilities at the university also play a huge role in supporting my studies. The 24-hour libraries are especially helpful when assignments start piling up, providing a well-equipped space to focus.. 

What kind of support do you get from academic staff and tutors? 

I've really enjoyed the close-knit learning environment this year, thanks to the small class size, which has allowed me to build strong, personal relationships with my lecturers. This has made it easy to reach out for support whenever needed, whether for assignments, dissertation work, or general academic advice.

Additionally, the weekly GDSL meetings help break down formal barriers, creating an open and collaborative space where I can engage with academic staff and fellow students. Having this level of support and accessibility has been invaluable in building my confidence and deepening my understanding of geographic data science. 

Have you accessed any of the support services available to you, such as the School’s postgraduate careers team? If so, how did you find the service? 

Yes, I have accessed several support services at the university. I’ve used the University’s Careers Team to assist with my graduate job applications, including reviewing my cover letters, which has been incredibly helpful in refining my applications and making them more impactful.

Additionally, I reached out to the School’s Learning and Teaching Support Officers (LTSO), who helped me organise my workload and manage my time more effectively. This support has been invaluable, especially during busy periods, and it’s made a significant difference in helping me stay on top of my studies. 

What do you enjoy most about the whole experience (thinking about any trips, social and extracurricular activities or guest speakers) and what value has that added? 

I’ve greatly enjoyed hearing from the academics within our department about their specialties, as the GDSL covers such a broad range of topics. It’s been inspiring to learn about the diverse research and projects happening within the field. One of the highlights was our away day afternoon in October at BlueCoat, where everyone in the GDSL prepared a lightning pitch. It was a wonderful opportunity to get to know my peers and academics in a more informal setting, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

How do you believe undertaking master’s study will help your career prospects? 

Yes, I believe undertaking a master’s will greatly enhance my career prospects. The MSc in Geographic Data Science has equipped me with advanced technical skills in spatial analysis, programming, and data visualisation, which are highly valued in fields like urban planning and data science – which I want to go into. The exposure to leading academics and real-world projects has also expanded my network and provided valuable industry insights, positioning me well for future job opportunities in geospatial data science and related sectors. 

What advice would you give to anybody considering master’s study?

I would definitely recommend making the most of everything the Department of Environmental Sciences and the university have to offer! As a postgraduate, getting a job is just around the corner, so be sure to attend any career-related events and welcome activities hosted by the School of Environmental Sciences. These events are not only fun but also provide a great opportunity to network with fellow master’s students. Additionally, take the time to connect with your lecturers - building those relationships can be incredibly valuable for both your studies and future career.