Master of Data Science

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Canberra

Program Overview

The Master of Data Science at the University of Canberra is a 2-year full-time postgraduate program designed to develop advanced knowledge and practical skills in data science, data analysis, statistical modelling, machine learning, programming, and data management. The program combines technical coursework, research methodology, data analysis, and industry-focused learning to prepare students to work with complex datasets and develop solutions to real-world problems.

Students can develop their expertise through areas such as Business Intelligence or Artificial Intelligence and Computational Modelling, while also having the option to complete the degree without a specialisation.

Curriculum Structure

First Year
Students develop core data science knowledge through areas such as Introduction to Data Science, Introduction to Statistics, Data Capture and Preparations, Programming for Data Science, Pattern Recognition and Machine Learning, Systems Project and Quality Management, ICT and Engineering Research Methodology, and AR/VR for Data Analysis and Communication.

Second Year
Students develop advanced analytical and modelling skills through subjects such as Exploratory Data Analysis and Visualisation and Regression Modelling. Students also complete selected advanced subjects and undertake the Technology Capstone Research Project, bringing together their technical, analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.

Focus Areas: Data Science, Statistical Analysis, Machine Learning, Data Visualisation, Data Management, Programming, Data Mining, Business Intelligence, Artificial Intelligence, Computational Modelling, Big Data.

Learning Outcomes: Analyse and interpret data from diverse sources, apply programming and statistical techniques, develop data models, manage and visualise complex datasets, apply machine learning and data mining techniques, communicate data-driven findings effectively, and conduct substantial research involving complex real-world data.

Professional Alignment: Graduates can pursue roles such as Data Scientist, Data Engineer, Data Analyst, Business Analyst, Statistician, Software Developer, Data Warehouse Operator or Manager, Computer Network Analyst, and Data Science Consultant.

Reputation (Employability): The program has a strong industry orientation and integrates Work Integrated Learning into the learning experience. Students develop practical technical and professional capabilities through data projects, industry-focused activities, research, and exposure to contemporary data science technologies.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Master of Data Science at the University of Canberra places strong emphasis on applying theoretical knowledge to practical data science problems. Students gain experience through research activities, data analysis projects, machine learning applications, collaborative learning, and a substantial capstone research project.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the program:

Work Integrated Learning: Students have opportunities to apply academic knowledge to practical industry-based situations and develop an understanding of professional data science environments.
Technology Capstone Research Project: Students undertake a substantial project involving the investigation of a contemporary problem using data science techniques. The project allows students to collect, process, analyse, interpret, and communicate complex data.
Research Methodology: Research-focused study helps students develop skills in research planning, data collection, analysis, methodology selection, and academic communication.
Real-World Data Problems: Students work with complex datasets and explore how data can be transformed into meaningful information for decision-making and problem solving.
Data Analysis Projects: Subjects involving exploratory data analysis, visualisation, regression modelling, machine learning, and data preparation provide opportunities to apply technical knowledge to practical datasets.
Industry Engagement: Students can benefit from interaction with industry professionals and industry-focused learning activities, helping them understand current expectations and practices within the data science sector.
Industry-Relevant Technologies: Students gain practical exposure to contemporary tools and technologies used for data collection, processing, analysis, modelling, and visualisation.
Collaborative Learning: Group activities and project-based learning allow students to develop teamwork, communication, leadership, and project management skills while working on complex data problems.
Data Visualisation: Students learn to communicate analytical results through visualisation and other presentation methods, helping them translate complex data into information that can be understood by different audiences.

These experiential learning opportunities help students move beyond theoretical knowledge and develop practical capabilities in data analysis, programming, machine learning, research, visualisation, problem solving, teamwork, and professional communication.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Master of Data Science from the University of Canberra can provide graduates with a range of opportunities in the growing data and analytics sector. The program develops technical knowledge alongside research, communication, analytical, management, and problem-solving skills, allowing graduates to work across industries where data plays an important role in decision-making.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Data Engineer, Business Analyst, Statistician, Software Developer, Data Warehouse Manager, Computer Network Analyst, and Data Science Consultant.
Industry Opportunities: Data science skills can be applied across healthcare, government, finance, business, technology, sports, scientific research, telecommunications, consulting, and other data-driven industries.
Business Intelligence Pathway: Students interested in business-focused analytics can develop expertise in Business Intelligence, supporting careers involving business analytics, reporting, data-driven decision-making, and organisational strategy.
Artificial Intelligence Pathway: Students specialising in Artificial Intelligence and Computational Modelling can develop skills relevant to machine learning, artificial intelligence, predictive modelling, and computational analysis.
Industry Experience: Work Integrated Learning and industry-focused projects can help students develop professional networks and gain an understanding of workplace practices.
Professional Development: The program develops technical, analytical, communication, teamwork, research, critical-thinking, and project management skills that can support progression into more specialised and senior positions.
Research Opportunities: The Technology Capstone Research Project provides experience in conducting substantial research and solving complex data-related problems, which can be valuable for students interested in research careers.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates interested in advanced research may progress to doctoral studies in areas such as Data Science, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Statistics, Information Technology, or related fields.

Overall, the Master of Data Science at the University of Canberra provides a combination of advanced technical knowledge, practical project experience, research skills, and industry-focused learning. This prepares graduates for immediate employment in data-related roles while also providing opportunities to specialise, progress into senior positions, or continue into advanced academic research.