Deakin sets the standard for employability
#1 Victorian university for course satisfaction
#1 in Australia for data science undergraduate courses
Why choose data science at Deakin
With every click, swipe, search, share, and stream data is generated at a phenomenal rate. Its volume and complexity create considerable opportunities as businesses seek to harness the power of big data to remain competitive. In the Bachelor of Data Science, you will explore the full lifecycle of data. Through 120+ hours of hands-on placement with clients such as Singapore Airlines, ANZ, and Barwon Water learn how this information can be used to generate insights and inform strategic decisions.
Build expertise in a growing field through innovative course content that reflects current trends in data science. Use state of the art industry relevant software and tools in high-tech facilities, such as Deakin’s Data Science Lab. Explore analytical methods, tools and techniques while building knowledge in areas including machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), and predictive analytics. Graduate with specialised technical skills that are highly valued across industries.
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Unbeatable employability
Build skills in data analysis, machine learning, and computing that organisations rely on to turn complex data into insights.
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Work-integrated learning
Apply your knowledge and tackle business challenges with clients such as Singapore Airlines, ANZ and Barwon Water through internships and industry projects.
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Degrees shaped by employers
Study a curriculum informed by industry and aligned with current data science practices.
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Strong technical data capability
Develop expertise in data modelling, statistical analysis, machine learning techniques and deep learning concepts.
Connected to industry
Deakin’s strong industry connections help shape your learning. Build practical experience in real workplace contexts through work-integrated learning, mentoring and networking opportunities. Industry advisory boards also help shape our degrees, which means what you study is current, relevant and aligned to what your future employers need.
Deakin puts employability first
Career outcomes
Build the technical and analytical skills to help organisations solve problems, uncover opportunities and make evidence-based decisions across a wide range of industries.
Data scientist
Transform complex data into meaningful insights using statistical analysis, machine learning and predictive modelling. Help organisations solve problems, identify opportunities and support evidence-based decision-making.
- $125k
Typical annual salary in Australia
- #11
Fastest-growing job globally
- 4.2/5
Job satisfaction
Big data specialist
Design and manage the systems that capture, organise and process large volumes of complex data. Build scalable data solutions that enable organisations to analyse information and uncover valuable insights.
- #1
Fastest-growing job globally
- #1
Fastest-growing skills globally
Other jobs
- Data analyst
- Business strategist
- Data engineer
- Data architect
- Data visualisation specialist
- Information analyst
Key dates
Direct applications
Trimester 1 2027 applications close 7 February 2027
VTAC
FAQs
Yes – every Deakin student can access work-integrated learning (WIL) in their degree. Each year, more than 30,000+ students complete a placement or internship with partners including Microsoft, KPMG, EY and the National Australia Bank. You can access WIL through placements, industry projects, field-based experiences, simulations and global programs, helping you apply your skills and graduate with the experience and confidence employers value.
DeakinTALENT is Deakin's award-winning career service, and you can access it for life – not just while you're studying. From personalised career coaching sessions and AI-enhanced resume support to a jobs and internships board with employment opportunities, it’s designed to give you the career management skills and connections you need to stand out. Every Deakin degree is built with input from employers, so your course is designed around real workplace needs, now and into the future.
Entry requirements and the minimum ATAR vary by degree and are detailed on the degree page, but if your ATAR is below the cut-off, you still have options. Use the pathway finder tool to find the opportunities available to you, including associate degrees and Deakin Guaranteed ATAR, which offers eligible students a guaranteed entry score that's on average 10 points below the lowest selection rank. If you don't have an ATAR, Deakin Uni Ready is a free, supported program designed to build your skills and confidence and open doors to degrees in arts, health, science and business. Access programs and equity schemes are also available.
At Deakin, employability isn't an add-on – it's built in. Our degrees are designed with industry input, so your skills are aligned to what employers actually need. Every Deakin student can access work-integrated learning through opportunities such as placements, internships and industry projects, helping you build your professional network and practical experience before you even graduate. It's an approach that works: nine out of 10 Deakin graduates get a job within four to six months of finishing their degree.
Yes. Most eligible undergraduate students are offered a Commonwealth Supported Place meaning the government subsidises part of your tuition fees. If eligible, you can pay your student contribution using a HECS-HELP loan that you only start repaying once your income is above the repayment threshold. Deakin has scholarships that cater to our diverse student community, ranging from $5,000 per year for high ATAR achievers to $10,000 per year for students facing financial or personal hardship. The University also offers support services including financial counselling, budgeting help and access to short-term, interest-free loans to help you stay on track.
Deakin is the #1 Victorian university for student support and that starts the moment you accept your offer. Orientation is designed to help you feel welcome and get to know your community of classmates and teachers from day one. Across all campuses, there's a vibrant student community with clubs, events and opportunities to build real friendships. Deakin offers a range of services to help students stay healthy and safe, including sport and fitness facilities, free counselling, on-campus medical services and around-the-clock security.
Yes, and it's straightforward. You can transfer to Deakin in a few steps and apply for credit through recognition of prior learning (RPL), so you won't necessarily repeat subjects you've already completed. If you're coming from a TAFE partner, you may get guaranteed entry into second year with guaranteed RPL. Deakin's three-trimester system also means you may be able to start mid-year rather than waiting until March.
Most Deakin courses run across three trimesters per year instead of the traditional two semesters. Trimester 1 begins around March, Trimester 2 around July and Trimester 3 around November, each with roughly 12 weeks of teaching followed by an exam period. This means you can usually start your degree at three different points in the year and have more flexibility to manage your study load. Check the intakes by location section on the course page for details.
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.
What will I study in the Bachelor of Data Science?
The Bachelor of Data Science is a three-year degree. You will develop strong foundations in computing, statistics, and data analysis before progressing to advanced techniques that turn complex data into meaningful insights.
Build the foundations of data science
Develop programming and data skills
Learn how to write code, manage datasets and build simple data-driven applications to analyse information.
Strengthen mathematical foundations
Apply statistics and quantitative reasoning to understand patterns and relationships within data.
Build analytical problem-solving
Learn how to frame questions, interpret results, and communicate insights from data clearly.
Develop your data science expertise
Advance data analysis capability
Explore techniques used to organise, analyse, and visualise complex data sets.
Work with modern data systems
Use data platforms, databases and computational tools for large-scale analytics.
Apply learning in practical contexts
Complete projects that simulate data science challenges faced by organisations.
Advanced data science in practice
Develop advanced data science techniques
Engage with machine learning and predictive analytics used to uncover patterns and inform decisions.
Apply data skills in authentic settings
Participate in capstone or professional practice experiences based on real analytical problems.
Strengthen career-ready capabilities
Refine communication, teamwork, and ethical awareness required for responsible data practice.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Data Science, you must pass 24 credit points.
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
Are you a current student? For course information that applies to the year you started your degree, visit the handbook.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements
Units
You are required to complete 17 core units plus three credit points of capstone units (these are essential units for this degree).
In your first trimester you must also complete two 0-credit point units which are compulsory for this degree.
Year 1 - Trimester 1
Year 1 - Trimester 2
Year 2 - Trimester 1
Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)
Year 2 - Trimester 2
Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)
Year 3 - Trimester 1
Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)
Year 3 - Trimester 2
Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)
Plus 2 credit points from the following capstone options:
OR
^ Offered in Trimester 1, Trimester 2 and Trimester 3
# Corequisite of STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit)
+ Students must have completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit) and SIT223 Professional Practice in Information Technology.
It is important to ensure your course plan meets the course rules detailed above. Students should contact Student Central for assistance with course planning, choosing the right units and understanding course rules.
Refer to the details of each minor sequence for availability.
Choose four open elective units from across the University, including from a completely different study area (subject to meeting unit prerequisites). Alternatively, these electives may be used to complete a minor sequence.
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Data Science is professionally accredited with the Australian Computer Society (ACS). This course is recognised internationally for entry to professional practice by other accrediting bodies through the Seoul Accord.
What to expect while studying
The learning experiences and assessment activities within this course require that students have access to a range of technologies beyond a desktop computer or laptop. Students will be required to purchase minor equipment, such as small single board computers, microcontrollers and sensors, which will be used within a range of units in this course. This equipment is also usable by the student beyond their studies. Equipment requirements and details of suppliers will be provided on a per-unit basis. The indicative cost of this equipment for this course is AUD$500.
For information regarding hardware and software requirements, please refer to the Bring your own device (BYOD) guidelines via the School of Information Technology website in addition to the individual unit outlines in the Handbook.
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.
Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
This course includes a compulsory work placement with an approved host organisation to take your learning beyond the classroom and prepare you to be work and career ready. Work Integrated Learning units offered in this course provide you with the opportunity to develop your professional networks and work practices while completing your degree.
Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.
For more information visit SEBE Work Integrated Learning.
At Deakin, we're committed to ensuring an inclusive environment that supports all students to belong, thrive and succeed. We work closely with students, where needed, to identify potential barriers to participation and where possible, provide tailored support so students can engage with learning and assessment activities.
If you are neurodivergent, have a disability, health condition or mental health condition that may impact your study or participation in university life, and want to know how Deakin could support you, contact our Domestic students (opens in a new window) or International students (opens in a new window) or Disability Resource Centre (opens email client) teams for a collaborative and confidential discussion. This discussion is to support you to make plans for your studies and future career and will not have any bearing on your application to the course.
When can I start?
When you study depends on your course, location and available intakes. Check the table to see when you can start and how study is offered throughout the year.
Your course learning outcomes describe the knowledge, skills and capabilities you’ll develop and be able to demonstrate by the time you graduate. Built into your course through your units and assessments, they provide a clear picture of what you’ll be equipped to know, understand and do – preparing you to apply your learning with confidence beyond university.
| Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|
| Develop a broad and coherent knowledge of data science, with detailed knowledge of the data analytics principles and approaches and knowledge, skills, tools, and methodologies for professional practice. |
| Communicate in a professional context to inform, explain and drive sustainable innovation through data science, utilising a range of verbal, graphical and written methods, recognising the needs of diverse audiences. |
| Use digital technologies, platforms, frameworks and tools from the field of data science to generate, manage, process and share digital resources and solutions. |
| Critically analyse information provided to inform decision making and evaluation of plans and solutions associated with the field of data science. |
| Apply cognitive, technical, and creative skills from data science to understand requirements and design, implement, and operate solutions to real-world and ill-defined computing problems. |
| Work independently to apply knowledge and skills to new situations in professional practice and/or further learning in the field of data science with adaptability, autonomy, responsibility, and personal accountability for actions as a practitioner and a learner. |
| Work independently and collaboratively to achieve team goals, contributing knowledge and skills from data science to advance the teams objectives, employing effective teamwork practices and principles, and comprehending distinct workplace roles and their functions. |
| Apply professional and ethical standards and accountability in the field of data science, and engage openly and respectfully with diverse communities and cultures. |
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Data Science
- Year
2027 course information
- VTAC code
1400511361 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400611361 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)- Deakin code
- S379
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
Fees
Estimated tuition fee
$8,161
for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
The estimated tuition (student contribution) fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your student contribution is determined by the units you enrol in and will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning. You may also be eligible for a HECS-HELP loan to defer payment of all or part of your student contribution.
Check your eligibility or learn more about CSP or HECS-HELP.
Scholarships
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you'll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Applications for 2027 are open
Ready to take the next step? Apply now to start your journey at Deakin and get ready for what’s next.
Key dates
Direct applications
Trimester 1 2027 applications close 7 February 2027
VTAC
Apply now
Apply direct
Simply create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal and educational details, upload your supporting documents and submit your application.
Apply through VTAC
Applications are open. Apply through VTAC if you're:
- currently in Year 12 and applying for Trimester 1 or Semester 1
- applying for multiple undergraduate courses
Need help? Follow our step-by-step undergraduate guide to prepare and submit your application.
Recognition of prior learning
We value your previous study and experience. Recognition of prior learning enables you to get credit for what you've already achieved. When you apply, we'll consider your previous study and experience for recognition of prior learning.
Not sure if you'll meet entry requirements?
Deakin offers a range of pathways into the Bachelor of Data Science to suit your background and goals. Explore the pathways finder to see how previous study, diplomas or alternative qualifications can lead you into the course.