Master of Data Science

The sheer volume and complexity of data already at the fingertips of businesses and research organisations gives rise to challenges that must be solved by tomorrow's graduates. With modern organisations placing increasing emphasis on the use of data to inform day-to-day operations and long-term strategic decisions, Deakin's Master of Data Science equips you for a career in this fast-growing sector.

Throughout your studies you will gain the technical skills to harness the power of data through artificial intelligence and machine learning. Use your insights to develop innovative solutions to the important challenges being faced by industry and governments. With a growing demand for data specialists in every sector, you will be able to help organisations manage risk, optimise performance and add a competitive advantage through the increasing volumes of data collection.

Want to become a data science specialist capable of using data to learn insights and support decision making?

The Master of Data Science prepares you to understand the various origins of data to be used for analysis, combined with methods to manage, organise and manipulate data within regulatory, ethical and security constraints. You will develop specialised skills in categorising and transferring raw data into meaningful information for the benefit of prediction and robust decision-making.

As a graduate, your knowledge, skills and competencies in modern data science and statistical analysis will be highly valued by employers seeking greater efficiencies and competitive advantage through data insights.

Through the Master of Data Science you can choose to undertake an industry placement or internship as part of your degree. Industry placements provide you with an opportunity to develop the practical and job-ready skills employers are looking for and enable you to build professional networks before graduating.

To complete the Master of Data Science, students must attain 8, 12 or 16 credit points, depending on your prior experience. Most students choose to study 4 units per trimester, and usually undertake two trimesters each year.

The course is structured in four parts:

• Part A: Foundation Information Technology Studies (4 credit points)
• Part B: Fundamental Data Analytics Studies (4 credit points),
• Part C: Core Data Science Studies (4 credit points), and
• Part D: Mastery Data Science Studies (4 credit points), plus
• Completion of DAI001* Academic Integrity Module (0-credit point compulsory unit)

Depending upon prior qualifications and/or experience, you may receive credit for Foundation Information Technology and/or Fundamental Data Analytics Studies.

Note that if you are eligible for credit for prior studies you may elect not to receive the credit.

The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning.

You can refer to the Recognition of prior learning system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.

Recognition of prior learning may be granted for relevant postgraduate studies, in accordance with standard University procedures.