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Bachelor of Data Science (Honours)

Undergraduate degree

Study the latest data science trends and insights to inform strategic decisions in the business world and graduate with a sought-after skill-set.

Key facts

Duration

4 years full-time

Current Deakin Students

To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook

Course overview

Explore the entire lifecycle of data to develop a deep understanding of how information is used to generate insights that inform strategic business decisions. During the Bachelor of Data Science (Honours), you will have the opportunity to undertake a professional placement or work in teams with an industry partner to tackle authentic business challenges using real-world data sets.  Hone your skills through focused studies in your area of interest and complete a research project in your final year.

Propel yourself into the thriving field of data science. You will study the latest data science trends, insights and emerging topics to ensure you graduate with a highly relevant skill-set that is sought-after by employers across the globe. Explore different analytical methods, tools and techniques as you learn key concepts and deep dive into advanced topics in machine learning, AI and predictive analytics.

Want to hone your analytical skills for a rewarding career in data science?

The Bachelor of Data Science (Honours) gives you ample opportunity to sharpen your skill set under the guidance and direction of our supportive teaching staff. You’ll explore fundamental concepts across maths, stats and programming at the beginning of the course, before diving into more advanced topics in data wrangling, capture and mining; machine learning; deep learning and AI. You can focus your studies towards your area of interest by undertaking minor studies in a topic of your choosing.  In your final year, culminate your knowledge  through the completion of an honours research project.

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Course information

Award granted
Bachelor of Data Science (Honours)
Year

2025 course information

VTAC code
1400511371 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400611371 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Deakin code
S479
CRICOS code?
109275A Burwood (Melbourne)
Level
Undergraduate
Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition

The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 8

Course structure

To qualify for the award of Bachelor of Data Science (Honours) students must pass 32 credit points comprising:

  • DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit point compulsory unit)
  • SIT010 Safety Induction Program (0-credit point compulsory unit)
  • STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit)
  • 17 credit points of core units
  • 3 credit points of data science capstone units
  • 4 credit points of data science research training capstone units
  • and one of:
    • two minors (8 credit points) OR
    • one minor (4 credit points), and four open elective units (4 credit points)
  • a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
  • levels 2 and 3 - minimum of 14 credit points over both levels
  • a minimum 4 credit points at level 7

Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.

17

Core units

7

Capstone units

8

Minor/Elective units

32

Total

Core

Year 1 - Trimester 1

  • Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0 credit points)
  • Safety Induction Program (0 credit points)
  • Career Tools for Employability (0 credit points)
  • Computer Systems
  • Discrete Mathematics
  • Introduction to Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
  • Introduction to Programming
  • Year 1 - Trimester 2

  • Database Fundamentals
  • Introduction to Statistics and Data Analysis
  • Object-Oriented Development
  • Linear Algebra for Data Analysis

  • Year 2 - Trimester 1

  • Computer Networks and Communication
  • Data Wrangling
  • Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)

    Year 2 - Trimester 2

  • Professional Practice in Information Technology #
  • Feature Generation and Engineering
  • Data Capture Technologies
  • Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)


    Year 3 - Trimester 1

  • Natural Language Processing
  • Machine Learning
  • Team Project (A) - Project Management and Practices ^
  • Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)

    Year 3 - Trimester 2

  • Deep Learning
  • Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)

    Plus 2 credit points from the following capstone options:

  • Team Project (B) - Execution and Delivery ^
  • IT Placements and Industry Experience ^+
  • OR

  • Professional Practice (2 credit points)^+

  • Year 4 - Trimester 1

  • Research Techniques and Applications (2 credit points) (Research Training capstone)^
  • Plus 2 open electives or minor units (2 credit points)

    Year 4 - Trimester 2

    2 open electives or minor units (2 credit points)

    Plus two (2) credit points from the following Research Training capstone options:

  • Research Project (2 credit points)^
  • OR

  • Research Project (Advanced) (2 credit points)^*
  • ^ 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.

    * Entry to SIT746 is subject to specific unit entry requirements.

    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.

    Electives

    Select from a range of elective units offered across many courses. In some cases you may even be able to choose elective units from a completely different discipline area (subject to meeting unit requirements).

    Minor sequences

    Refer to the details of each minor sequence for availability.

    Students wishing to complete two minor sequences in the Bachelor of Data Science (Honours) cannot count more than 2 units in common for both minor sequences. 

    Intakes by location

    The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.

    Trimester 1 - March

    • Start date: March
    • Available at:
      • Burwood (Melbourne)
      • Online

    Trimester 2 - July

    • Start date: July
    • Available at:
      • Burwood (Melbourne)
      • Online

    Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).

    Additional course information

    The learning experiences and assessment activities within this course may require students to have access to a range of technologies beyond a laptop or desktop computer. 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.

    S379 Bachelor of Data Science

    Course duration

    Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.

    Mandatory student checks

    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.

    Workload

    You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, 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.

    Participation requirements

    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.

    Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.

    Work experience

    Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.

    For more information visit SEBE Work Integrated Learning.

    Entry requirements

    Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.

    If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.

    Academic requirements

    Current or recent secondary education

    If you’re currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:

    Year 12 prerequisite subjects

    • Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL

    ATAR

    • Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent

    Higher education

    If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:

    • successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent) with a minimum WAM of 70 or equivalent

    Vocational education

    If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:

    • completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
    • completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
    • at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline

    Work and life experience

    If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and haven't undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.

    Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter - it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.

    English language proficiency requirements

    To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:

    • Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
    • IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
    • other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)

    Selection adjustments

    Access and equity

    Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.

    Admissions information

    Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2024 students (PDF, 793KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.

    Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.

    Recognition of prior learning

    If you have completed previous studies which you believe may reduce the number of units you have to complete at Deakin, indicate in the appropriate section on your application that you wish to be considered for Recognition of prior learning. You will need to provide a certified copy of your previous course details so your credit can be determined. If you are eligible, your offer letter will then contain information about your Recognition of prior learning.
    Your Recognition of prior learning is formally approved prior to your enrolment at Deakin during the Enrolment and Orientation Program. You must bring original documents relating to your previous study so that this approval can occur.

    You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree.

    Fees and scholarships

    Fee information

    Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place

    The tuition fees you pay are determined by the course you are enrolled in. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the length of your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.

    Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together eight credit points of a typical combination of units for this course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year.

    You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook.

    Learn more about international student fees.

    Scholarship options

    A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships

    Apply now

    Apply through VTAC and Deakin

    If you are an international student completing an Australian Year 12 in Australia or overseas, you should submit an application through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC), in addition to applying directly to Deakin through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's international student application service.

    Need more information on how to apply?

    For information on the application process, including required documents and important dates, visit the How to apply webpage.
    If you need assistance, please contact us.

    Pathways

    Further study options

    The Bachelor of Data Science (Honours) may be used as further study pathways into a postgraduate preservice teaching qualification through the Master of Applied Learning and Teaching and the Master of Teaching, which has options for Primary and Secondary teaching.

    A Bachelor of Data Science (Honours) may also provide you with the opportunity to  pursue a research pathway to Higher Degree by Research.

    Careers

    Career outcomes

    Data analysts and scientists are ranked in the top ten fastest growing jobs globally, with a 30% growth predicted over the next 5 years.# This courses provide you with the cutting-edge knowledge and hands-on experience to stand out in this booming industry.

    As a graduate, you will have the skills, knowledge and industry connections to build a varied and sustainable career as a data analyst, data scientist, business strategist, data engineer, data architect, data visualisation specialist, information analyst or reporting analyst in the public and private sectors. Depending on what industry or sector you choose to find employment, you could be optimising digital marketing campaigns, developing new and innovative products and services, predicting customer sales patterns, or increasing productivity in areas such as sales or supply chain management.

    Graduates from the Bachelor of Data Science (Honours) are highly sought after by employers for their investigative, exploratory and lateral thinking approach to complex data challenges. By undertaking a focused research project in your final year of study, you will acquire advanced technical expertise in your chosen specialisation. Plus you will have the skills to become a creative, solutions-driven professional in the dynamic and ever-evolving field of data science.

    #Future of Jobs Report 2023 Image: World Economic Forum

    Course learning outcomes

    Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.

    Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes Course Learning Outcomes
    Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities Develop a coherent and advanced knowledge of data science, with detailed knowledge of the data analytics principles and approaches and knowledge, skills, tools, and methodologies for professional practice and research.

    Communication

    Communicate in a professional context incorporating research-driven perspective 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.

     

    Digital literacy

    Identify, select and use digital technologies, platforms, frameworks, and tools from the field of data science to generate, manage, process and share digital resources for research and practice.

    Critical thinking

    Critically analyse information provided to inform decision making and evaluation of plans and solutions associated with research and practice in data science.  

    Problem solving

    Apply cognitive, technical, and creative skills from data science to understand requirements and design, implement, operate, and evaluate innovative solutions to real-world and ill-defined computing problems.

    Self-management

    Work independently to apply knowledge and skills to new situations in research and 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.

    Teamwork

    Work independently and collaboratively to achieve team goals, contributing knowledge and skills from data science practice and research to advance the teams objectives, employing effective teamwork practices and principles, and comprehending distinct workplace roles and their functions.

    Global citizenship

    Apply professional and ethical standards and accountability in research and practice in the field of data science, and engage openly and respectfully with diverse communities and cultures.