Master of Data Science

On successful completion of the program students will have:

• Specialised knowledge of statistical and computational models and concepts and proficiency in their application.
• Specialist knowledge in statistical and computational techniques for analysing and interpreting data sets.
• Critical thinking and analytical problem solving to support data management and data-oriented decisions.
• Specialised knowledge and skills required to use contemporary Big Data technologies to store, manipulate and analyse large unstructured data sets.
• Effective independent and collaborative work skills to apply specialised knowledge and expert judgement to data science.

A Master of Data Science from the University of Newcastle will equip you with the essential specialised skills and knowledge required to understand and engage with a variety of data generated from diverse industries and settings. This professional and industry oriented program will enable you to apply your theoretical statistical and computational knowledge to better understand and explore data using applied problem solving and computer practice.

Recommended study pattern

The program requires the successful completion of 120 units of Core courses.

Core Courses:

• Big Data
• Data Wrangling and Visualisation
• Predictive Analytics
• The Science of Data Interrogation

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Indicative total fee $40,640

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.

The University of Newcastle is dedicated to outstanding education and research. Their degrees are shaped around global learning, work placements and entrepreneurial opportunities. The university is known as a champion of innovative approaches, striving for a dynamic teaching culture that delivers world-class outcomes. Welcoming students from diverse backgrounds, they focus on equity and developing the next generation of socially-oriented leaders.

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QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

17

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

18

AQF7 and AQF8 plus cognate or not/experience - See below:

• Students with a three year, Bachelor degree (AQF level 7) or higher in a different discipline area (also called non-cognate discipline) to data science and their chosen specialisation are eligible to undertake the 120 unit program which can be completed in 2 years full time (commencing Semester 1), 1.5 years full time (commencing Semester 2) or up to 5 years part time. 
• Students with a three year Bachelor degree (AQF level 7) or higher in a non-cognate discipline who also hold a minimum of five years demonstrable Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) in an area related to data science and/or their chosen specialisation (also called cognate discipline) may be eligible to study between 80 and 120 units, inclusive.
• Students with a three year Bachelor degree (AQF level 7) or Bachelor (Honours) (AQF 8) in a cognate discipline to data science and/or their specialisation may be eligible to study between 80 and 120 units, inclusive.
• Students with a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma (AQF level 8) in a cognate discipline to data science and/or data analytics may be eligible to undertake an 80 unit program which can be completed in 1 year full time or part time equivalent.

To be considered for admission based wholly or partly on professional experience, applicants must be able to demonstrate that their professional experience involves accessing/analysing/interpreting data.

All Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University’s English proficiency requirement. Further information regarding English language proficiency requirements can be found at the English Language Proficiency for Admission Policy here.

If you wish to apply for credit for studies completed at another institution, or if you are changing programs within the University and wish to transfer your credit to the new program, visit the University's credit website for more information on applying for credit.