Graduate Certificate in Data Science

Launch your career in big data

Data science is a driving force throughout society the world over—from business and industry to health science and social justice. It is currently one of the fastest-growing professions in Australia, with matching demand for data scientists in the workforce.

Data scientists are uncovering trends and preferences, informing policies, and enabling evidence-based solutions to complex problems. Career opportunities abound—and our Graduate Certificate in Data Science will equip you to play a valuable role.

What will you do?

You will:

  • gain an understanding of data science content, technologies and practices, and how the discipline can inform organisational change
  • build skills in evaluating, developing and applying best-practice analytics tools and techniques, in real-world settings
  • expand your awareness of data science’s social and ethical aspects
  • develop presentation and visualisation skills to effectively communicate data patterns and relationships
  • learn to use data science to solve industry and social problems—including in your intended or existing domain.

Supporting the certificate’s alignment with real-world workplace practice, all assessment will be project and assignment-based.

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 it take you?

You’ll graduate well prepared to take on data science roles in your chosen industry, anywhere around the globe. For students without relevant work experience or prior studies, the Graduate Certificate provides the perfect introduction to data science principles while also laying a strong foundation for further advanced study in the area.

Successful completion of the graduate certificate enables you to gain credit towards our Graduate Diploma and Master in Data Science.



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.



  • Ranked #50 in the world for computer science and engineering^
  • Ranked #7 in the world for Artificial Intelligence*
  • Home of the world-leading Australian Institute of Machine Learning

* US Global Rankings, 2023
^ ARWU, 2022

Entry Requirements

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant admissions information for this program.
I am a:

Before applying make sure you understand the eligibility and entry requirements for your chosen degree.

Look out for any prerequisites or assumed knowledge subjects. Some degrees also have additional entry requirements like interviews and auditions.

Domestic applicants

SATAC Code 3GC112, 3GC119
Deferment Yes - 2 year
Intake January, May and September
Prerequisites SACE Stage 2: Mathematical Methods . IB: Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations (HL) or Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (SL) MathTrackX is an online bridging program available as a recognised alternative to Mathematical Methods.
Selection Criteria
Graduate entry

Higher Education Study A completed Bachelor's degree OR relevant work experience of at least 3 years in Data Science or cognate roles OR a Diploma or above in cognate discipline plus 2 years relevant work experience in Data Science or cognate roles.

  • Admissions Transparency Data
    Student Profile
    Applicant background Semester one/Full year intake 2023
    Number of students Percentage of all students
    International students 2 100.0%
    All students 2 100.0%

Ready to Apply?

Find out more about the application process and start your studies at the University of Adelaide.

Be sure to check the critical dates to avoid missing application deadlines.

Apply

Fees and Scholarships

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant fees and scholarships information for this program.
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Domestic applicants

Indicative annual tuition fees
Commonwealth-supported place: $8,945

Where the standard duration of the program is less than one year the full cost of the program is displayed.

Successful domestic applicants to the Graduate Certificate in Data Science will have access to a limited number of Commonwealth Supported Places, meaning a reduction of up to 80% off the course fees due to government subsidies. Offer subject to change.

Scholarships

These scholarships, as well as many others funded by industry and non-profit organisations, are available to potential and currently enrolled students.

Find a Scholarship.

Careers

Potential careers

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

Business Data Analyst;  Computer Scientist;  Data Analyst;  Data scientist ;  Database Coordinator;  Scientific Data Analyst;  Financial Systems / Computer Analyst;  Information Technologist;  Information and Communications Technologist

Degree Structure

The Graduate Certificate in 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 degree of Graduate Certificate in Data Science, students must satisfactorily complete a program of study consisting of the following requirements with a combined total of no less than 12 units comprising:

  • Three core courses to the value of 9 units

  • One elective course** to the value of 3 units

*For further information, please contact one of our friendly program advisors.

**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

You can even choose the study load that works best for you at different times of the year.

Whatever mode you choose, our interactive blend of online and face-to-face learning supports you in fitting your study around other commitments—without compromising on authentic and immersive learning experiences.

*International students please note: accelerated study modes are subject to visa conditions. Please contact one of our friendly program advisors for more information.

Example Study Plan

Core course (9 units total)
Students must complete all of the following
Electives (3 units total)
Students must choose one* of the following courses
*Unless exempted international students are required to take ENG 7057 Communication & Critical Thinking in lieu of an elective.

Related Degrees

Further Study

Testimonial

The School of Computer Science at the University of Adelaide produces world class research each year and is led by not just academic leaders but also industry experts.
Abhishek Das - Master of Data Science, The University of Adelaide, Australia

Abhishek Das

Master of Data Science

Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.

Last updated: Tuesday, 31 Oct 2023