Master of Data Science

A competitive edge in data science. Data is “the new oil” of the 21st century. Big data and data science are revolutionising many fields—from science and engineering to economics, the tech sector, and digital humanities. Our master of data science places you at the forefront of this new field. 

We give you the knowledge and skills to discover patterns and generate insights from complex datasets. Our flexible program structure lets you customise your study to the areas you care about. You’ll be taught by international research leaders in data science and machine learning. Finally, you’ll apply your skills in a research project and data science industry internship, to launch you into your next career.

What will you do during a Master of Data Science?

• Undertake a specialised introductory data science class (MATHS 7107 Data Taming) in your first study period.
• Build core skills in programming (Python, R, and Julia), mathematics and statistical data science.
• Learn how data science techniques can drive changes in organisations, industries and communities.
• Use data to answer questions in your chosen areas of interest.
• Apply your learning in a significant research project or internship.

How will you study?

• This program is able to be studied in either part-time, standard full-time or accelerated mode—enabling you to undertake your studies at a pace and level of commitment that suits you. For further information, see the Degree Structure section.

Where could a Master of Data Science take you?

• You might help large or small businesses use data to make more informed decisions in the face of uncertainty. You could analyse data to forecast trends and predict risk in industry, government, or science. Perhaps you’ll come up with innovative big data management systems as a data architect. Whatever you do, you’ll be at the cutting edge of one of the most rapidly-growing fields in the workforce right now.

Advance your career in Data Science

• Data is everywhere, in every industry. Make your next career move and study with the experts in Adelaide's world-class innovation district.

Potential careers
Graduates of this program have gone on to roles such as:

• Database Coordinator;  Systems Analyst;  Business Analyst;  Business Consultant;  Business Data Analyst;  Computer Scientist;  Data Analyst;  Data scientist ;  Scientific Data Analyst;  Financial Systems / Computer Analyst 

Degree Structure

• The Master of Data Science is ideal for those students who have a background/qualifications in any professional field and are looking to upskill in this exciting, high-demand area. The curriculum has been designed to include all of the necessary computer science foundations for students to succeed. Students with relevant qualifications or experience can apply for advanced standing^.

To qualify for the Master of Data Science, students must satisfactorily complete a program of study consisting of the following requirements with a combined total of not less than 48 units comprising:

• Core courses to the value of 15 units
• A research project to the value of 12 units
• Elective courses to the value of 21 units
• Unless exempted international students are required to take ENG 7057 Communication & Critical Thinking in lieu of an elective.

Study mode

This program is able to be studied in either part-time, standard full-time or accelerated mode—enabling you to undertake your studies at a pace and level of commitment that suits you.

• Accelerated mode – 12 units (4 courses) per trimester
• Standard full-time mode – 24 units (8 courses) per year
• Part-time mode – 3 or 6 units (1 or 2 courses) per trimester

Example Study Plan

Core courses
All of the following courses must be completed:

• COMP SCI 7210  Foundations of Computer Science A
• COMP SCI 7211  Foundations of Computer Science B
• MATHS 7027  Mathematical Foundations of Data Science
• MATHS 7107  Data Taming
• STATS 7022  Data Science PG

Research Project
All of the following courses must be completed:

• MATHS 7097A  Data Science Research Project Part A
• MATHS 7097B  Data Science Research Project Part B

Assessment

• Students are required to undertake a research project, give a presentation, and write a report on their research. The project is normally completed over two consecutive trimesters.

Scholarships

• Scholarships are not only for high achievers—they are also available to provide students with an equal opportunity to study at university, no matter where they live or what their financial situation might be.
• Scholarships are available to both new and continuing students. We encourage students to apply for any scholarships for which they may be eligible.