Master of Data Science

At the end of the program, students of the Master of Data Science can:

1. Reflect critically on a complex body of data science knowledge, research principles and methods to demonstrate mastery of professional practice.
2. Apply advanced cognitive and technical skills to analyse complex concepts in authentic data science scenarios.
3. Apply communication and collaboration skills in designing solutions to data sciences problems.
4. Use high level self-management skills to initiate, plan and execute a substantial data science focused project.

Data Science is an inter-disciplinary field, drawing on mathematics, statistics, and computer science, that uses scientific methods, processes, algorithms and systems to extract knowledge and insights from structured and unstructured data.

This course provides the necessary foundations in the disciplines of mathematics, statistics and computer science, and develops student knowledge and skills in some of the key tools and techniques relevant to data science. It also pays specific attention to ethical issues surrounding the manner in which data is gathered, stored and analysed/utilised.

Data Science is a significant area of growth and potential employment in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.

Recommended study pattern

As a guide, core subjects in this degree can include: 

• Programming Principles
• Biostatistics
• Mathematical Fundamentals
• Applied Multivariate Statistics.

As part of your application, you’ll be guided through how to get the right degree structure in place for you.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $56,900

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

ECU is ranked one of the world’s best young universities and Australia’s best public university for teaching quality. That quality extends to more than 30,000 students, many studying online through Open Universities Australia. ECU offers the same quality of teaching to you, regardless of where you’re studying in the world. Their flexible study solutions include a huge range of online courses, recognising your need to juggle work, family or other commitments.

Learn more about ECU.

Explore ECU courses.

QS Ranking 2024:

28

Times Higher Education Ranking 2024:

25

Academic admission requirements (Band 6) may be satisfied through completion of one of the following:

• Bachelor degree; or
• Equivalent prior learning including at least five years relevant professional experience.

Students can satisfy English competency requirements by showing any of the following:

• An IELTS Academic Overall band minimum score of 6.5 (no individual band less than 6.0).
• Completion of a Bachelor degree from a country specified by ECU.
• Completion of 0.375 EFTSL of study at postgraduate level or higher at an Australian higher education provider (or equivalent).
• Equivalent prior learning courses including at least five years relevant professional experience – as accepted by ECU.
• Completion of other tests, courses or programs as accepted by ECU.

If you have completed units of study at University or have relevant professional experience, you may be eligible for Credit and Recognition of Prior Learning (CRPL).

To assess your eligibility for credit, we first need you to apply for and accept an offer in your course of interest with us. You can then submit an Application for Credit and Recognition of Prior Learning via your Student Portal.

Work Experience requirement

In the final semester of the course, students will complete a project involving integrated learning with a company, agency, or university academic in their discipline area.

Attendance requirements

Students will be expected to participate in a minimum of 456 hours working with an organisation on a project and produce a report on activities.

Clearances and/or Risk Management Protocols Required

Each project will have an agreement for student placement. Each workplace will be inspected, and the appropriate forms completed indicating it is a safe work environment for students. Every student will be required to complete a risk assessment and management plan as part of this placement.