Top 150 worldwide for computer science
Accredited by Australian Computer Society (ACS)
#1 Melbourne university for computing median salary
Why choose data science (professional) at Deakin
The volume and complexity of data available to organisations continues to grow, creating demand for professionals who can analyse, interpret and apply data effectively. Deakin’s Master of Data Science (Professional) equips you with specialised skills in data science, artificial intelligence and machine learning, helping you transform raw data into meaningful insights for prediction and decision-making.
You will develop technical expertise in data modelling, programming, and software development while working with complex datasets from a range of sources to address challenges across industry and government. You will also build an understanding of the ethical, regulatory and security frameworks that guide professional data practice.
In your final year, you can tailor your studies through a professional pathway, with the option to complete a team-based project, industry placement, or research project aligned to your interests and career goals.
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Professional accreditation and global recognition
Graduate with a degree accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) and recognised worldwide through the Seoul Accord.
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Career-ready data science capability
Graduate with strong skills in data science, machine learning and analytics, ready to interpret data and support decision-making across industries.
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Flexible professional pathways
Choose a team-based project, industry placement or research project to apply your skills in a way that suits your career goals.
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Strong global demand for data skills
Big data specialists are among the fastest-growing roles globally, with data analysts and scientists also ranking in the top 12.
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 specialist data skills and practical experience to help you stand out in competitive industries. You could pursue careers spanning data science and analytics, business consulting, management, strategy and marketing.
Data scientist
Analyse large and complex datasets to uncover insights, build predictive models and solve business problems. Apply statistical analysis, machine learning and programming skills to support data-driven decision-making.
- $125K
Typical annual salary in Australia
- 4.2/5
Job satisfaction
Data analyst
Collect, prepare and interpret data to identify trends and provide actionable insights. Work with stakeholders to help organisations make informed decisions using evidence-based analysis and reporting.
- $105K
Typical annual salary in Australia
- #11
Fastest-growing job globally
Other jobs
- Analytics programmer
- Analytics consultant
- Analytics manager
- Business analyst
- Market research analyst
- Marketing specialist
FAQs
The cost of studying at Deakin depends on your degree, units and study load – tuition fees are listed on degree pages under the fees and scholarships tab. Beyond tuition, you will need to budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), accommodation, transport, groceries and textbooks. Find out more about the cost of living in Australia, use the Study Australia calculator to estimate living expenses and explore international scholarships which may help to reduce your tuition costs.
Deakin offers a range of merit-based scholarships that can reduce your postgraduate tuition fees by 20%, 25%, 50% or 100% for the duration of your degree. Eligibility varies by scholarship and the degree you choose, but you will automatically be considered for most scholarships when you apply to Deakin. Use the Find a scholarship tool and filter by 'citizenship' to see what is available to you, or explore Australia Awards scholarships if you are from an eligible country.
It depends on the degree and how you study. Graduate certificates typically take six months full time or one year part time. Graduate diplomas usually take one year full time and masters degrees typically take one to two years full time. Recognition of prior learning can reduce your study time. Check the degree page for full details.
Australia is widely regarded as one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world for students, with strong legal protections, reliable public services and a multicultural community. In fact, Melbourne is ranked the #4 student city in the world! At Deakin, you will be part of a supportive community, with 24/7 help, dedicated campus security and practical tools to help you feel safe, confident and connected. Deakin’s SafeZone app also connects you directly to campus security and support services if you ever need help. Find out more about studying in Australia.
We value your experience and qualifications. That is why every new degree application at Deakin is assessed for recognition of prior learning (RPL). Through RPL, Deakin can assess your previous study and life experience and may award course credit that could reduce your study duration, as well as the cost of your study. Qualifications from universities and private tertiary institutions worldwide are considered, as is informal learning related to your degree. Use the RPL calculator to see how much credit you may be eligible for.
Deakin offers a wide range of support to help you settle in and succeed throughout your studies – we are ranked the #1 university in Melbourne for student support. You can access 1:1 study support, English language support, career planning help, disability services and free counselling, as well as financial assistance if you need it. On campus, the SafeZone app and 24/7 security services mean help is always within reach. You can explore the full range of support services for international students or start an online chat with a student ambassador before you arrive.
To enrol in a postgraduate degree at Deakin, many degrees require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 (or equivalent). Some degrees require higher scores, so check the entry requirements tab on the degree page for details. You may also meet the requirement through recent secondary or university study completed in English, or by demonstrating five or more years of living and working in an English-speaking country. Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis. If you do not yet meet the requirement, the Deakin University English Language Institute (DUELI) offers pathway programs to help develop your English reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. Completion of DUELI’s English for Academic Purposes can give you the minimum English language requirements for most Deakin degrees.
Deakin’s postgraduate degrees are designed to advance your career, whether you want to deepen expertise in your field, move into a specialist role or shift direction entirely. All our degrees are shaped by industry partners, so what you learn reflects what employers need now and into the future. We’re proud to be the #1 university in Melbourne for international student graduate employment. With flexible study options and financial support available, Deakin helps you gain the skills, recognition and confidence to reach your next professional goal.
*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 Master of Data Science (Professional)?
This degree takes you from foundational technical skills to advanced, applied practice, building your ability to analyse, model and turn data into insights that inform decisions and solve problems.
Data science foundations
Establish core data capabilities
Learn programming, data wrangling and statistics while working with datasets to clean, transform and explore data for analysis.
Learn modelling and decision methods
Explore optimisation and machine learning approaches and apply models to tasks like classification, pattern discovery and resource allocation.
Work with modern data environments
Build skills in statistical modelling and data systems while analysing large datasets using advanced tools and considering ethics and privacy.
Advanced application, specialisation and professional study
Tailor your technical focus
Complete a specialisation or advanced electives to deepen expertise in a focus area or broaden your capability across data science fields.
Choose your professional pathway
Complete professional studies through a team project, industry placement or research project, each offering a distinct way to apply your learning.
Apply advanced skills in context
Work on complex challenges using contemporary tools and methods while building industry, project or research experience aligned to your pathway.
Course structure
To complete the Master of Data Science (Professional), you must pass 16 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 four core units within Part A (these are essential units for this degree).
In your first trimester you must also complete a 0-credit point unit which are compulsory for all Deakin University degrees.
You must choose from one of these Professional Studies options.
Team Project
1 level 7 SIT or MIS-coded elective (1 credit point)~
OR
Professional Practice
OR
Research Project^
*Students undertaking this unit must have successfully completed STP710 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point unit)
~ excluding SIT771, SIT772, SIT773 and SIT774
+ Entry is subject to specific unit entry requirements.
^Students interested in pursuing a Higher Degree by Research (HDR), including a Masters by Research or PhD are encouraged to undertake the Professional Studies – Research Project pathway. High achieving students with a particular interest in research should also consider undertaking either the Research Training in Information Technology specialisation or additional research units as electives (e.g. SIT724 and/or SIT747). Students are encouraged to contact Student Central and speak to a course adviser if they are interested in pursuing this option.
You have the option to complete a specialisation (four credit points) from the list or four credit points of course elective units (level 7 SIT or MIS-coded units excluding SIT771, SIT772, SIT773 and SIT774).
Refer to the details of each specialisation for availability.
Professional recognition
The Master of Data Science (Professional) 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.
In order to meet ACS requirements for professional membership, students must satisfy the completion requirements for the whole degree. In addition, ACS guidelines require that the following specific units are completed at Deakin or equivalent units undertaken within another ACS-accredited program: SIT731, SIT743, SIT744, SIT753, SIT764, SIT782, SIT723, SIT792, SIT791, SIT709.
What to expect while studying
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.
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 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.
Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
You may have an opportunity to undertake a placement as part of your course. For more information, please visit deakin.edu.au/sebe/wil.
Students interested in pursuing a Higher Degree by Research (HDR), including a Masters by Research or PhD are encouraged to undertake the Professional Studies – Research Project pathway. High achieving students with a particular interest in research should also consider undertaking either the Research Training in Information Technology specialisation or additional research units as electives (e.g. SIT724 and/or SIT747). Students are encouraged to contact Student Central and speak to a course adviser if they are interested in pursuing this option.
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, coherent knowledge of the analytics discipline, including: the origin and characteristics of data; the methods and approaches to dealing with data appropriately and securely; and how the use of analytics outcomes can be used to improve business, organisations or society. Apply advanced knowledge and skills to decompose complex processes (from real world situations) to develop data analytics solutions for use in modern organisations across multiple industry sectors. Assess the role data analytics plays in the context of modern organisations and society in order to add value. Have a broad appreciation of advanced topics within the IT domain through engagement with research or specialist studies. |
| Communicate in professional and other context to inform, explain and drive sustainable innovation through data science and to motivate and effect change by drawing upon advances in technology, future trends and industry standards, and by utilising a range of verbal, graphical and written methods, recognising the needs of diverse audiences including specialist and non-specialist clients, industry personnel and other stakeholders. |
| Identify, evaluate, select and use advanced digital technologies, platforms, frameworks, and tools from the field of data science to generate, manage, process and share digital resources and justify digital tools selection to influence others. |
| Questions assumptions and seeks to uncover inconsistencies and ambiguities in information and judgements, critically evaluates their sources and rationales, to inform and justify decision making in the field of data science. |
| Demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of data science and apply expert, specialised cognitive, technical, and creative skills from data science to understand requirements and design, implement, operate, and evaluate solutions to complex real-world and ill-defined computing problems. |
| Apply reflective practice and work independently to apply knowledge and skills in a professional manner to complex situations and ongoing learning in the field of data science with adaptability, autonomy, responsibility, and personal and professional accountability for actions as a practitioner and a learner. |
| Work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary environments to achieve team goals, contributing specialist knowledge and skills from data science to advance the teams objectives, employing effective teamwork practices and principles to cultivate creative thinking, interpersonal adeptness, leadership skills, and handle challenging discussions, while excelling in diverse professional, social, and cultural scenarios. |
| Engage in professional and ethical behaviour in the field of data science, with appreciation for the global context, and openly and respectfully collaborate with diverse communities and cultures. |
- Award granted
- Master of Data Science (Professional)
- Year
2027 course information
- Deakin code
- S770
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 107030E Burwood (Melbourne)
- Level
- Higher Degree Coursework (Masters and Doctorates)
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 9
Fees
Estimated tuition fee
$45,800
for 1 yr full-time AUD
The estimated tuition fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your tuition fees are determined by your course and unit enrolment. Your tuition fees will vary depending on your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning.
Save 10% as a Deakin alumni
We love welcoming Deakin alumni back to continue their journey with us. If you're starting a postgraduate award course, you may be eligible for a 10% discount on your enrolment fees, applied per unit. It's our way of supporting your next step.
Scholarships
Deakin scholarships recognise your hard work and achievements. Our support can ease the financial pressure of studying in Australia so you stay focused on your success. Numbers are limited, so apply early for the best chance.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
Applications can be made directly to the University through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's International Student Application Service.
We recommend engaging with a Deakin Authorised Agent who can assist you with the process and submit the 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.
Students intending to gain professional membership of the Australian Computer Society (ACS) on the basis of their study of this program must complete the following units at Deakin University, or equivalent units undertaken within another ACS-accredited program: SIT731, SIT743, SIT744, SIT753, SIT764, SIT782, SIT723, SIT792, SIT791, SIT709.
Pathways
Pathways for students to enter the Master of Data Science (Professional) are as follows:
- Graduate Certificate of Information Technology (S578) followed by a 16-credit-point Master of Data Science (Professional)
- Graduate Certificate of Information Technology (S578) and Graduate Certificate of Data Analytics (S576) followed by a 12-credit-point Master of Data Science (Professional)
Pathway options will depend on your professional experience and previous qualifications.
Alternate exits
- Graduate Certificate of Data Analytics (S576)
- Graduate Diploma of Data Science (S677)
- Master of Data Science (S777)