Overview

Data science professionals are in high demand in today’s data-driven world. Whether you’re already working in data science, or you’re ready to make a career change, our Master of Data Science prepares you for a successful career in this exciting field. Designed in collaboration with our industry partners, this degree … For more content click the Read more button below. You’ll build fundamental skills in programming, databases, probability, statistics, data exploration and analysis. Got a particular interest in artificial intelligence, bioinformatics or sport analytics? This degree allows you to specialise in these areas and others, such as big data and cloud computing, business applications and data modelling and analytics. As you study, you’ll have opportunities to work with our industry partners on real-world projects and take on an industry work placement. If your sights are set on a research career, you can choose to undertake a thesis in computer science or statistics. Every step of the way, our supportive and highly qualified teaching staff will be there to offer ongoing support and advice. You'll learn:Data scienceGet practical experience with open-source software and platforms, including Python, R and Hadoop.Understand database fundamentals, programming languages such as Java and Python, and cloud-based services offered by Amazon, Google, IBM and Microsoft.Mathematics and statisticsLearn how to create complex models and use powerful tools for advanced analysis and problem-solving.Build your skills using real data sets from our industry partners and learn how to solve data challenges facing businesses and organisations.Project managementLearn how to manage large-scale IT projects and work in a team to develop a small-scale, industry-based system.Complementary skills in other disciplinesBoost your knowledge through electives in business, health sciences, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

Portfolio

Office of the Provost

School

Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences

Course coordinator

Andriy Olenko

Location(s)

On-Line

Course instance contact

Andriy Olenko

Course duration (full time)

2 years

Course duration (part time)

4 years

Study level

Postgraduate

AQF level

Level 9 - Masters Degree

Available only as an exit award

No

Study options

Domestic

International offshore

Completion requirements

To qualify for the award of Master of Data Science, students must complete 240 credit pointsconsisting of: 105 core credit points 15 elective credit points 60 specialisation credit points 60 learning pathway credit points

Course structure
240 credit points

Level one120 credit points
Level two120 credit points
Specialisations60 credit points

Course intended learning outcomes

On successful completion you will be able to:
1.
Evaluate, communicate and interpret information and results of advanced analysis in the field of data science to expert and lay audiences
2.
Critically analyse and solve complex problems in data science by using expert judgement, advanced knowledge and multi-disciplinary approaches
3.
Use and adapt advanced computing techniques and mathematical and statistical approaches to solve complex scientific problems in the field of data science
4.
Apply advanced theoretical concepts that underpin data science to complex problems using highly developed, integrated knowledge and skills
5.
Apply professional knowledge and skills autonomously or in a team, in a range of specific analytics and performance analysis settings
6.
Use and appropriately customise a broad range of established and emerging data collection and analysis technologies and methodologies related to specialisations

Course features

Work based learning (placement) requirements

Elective placement opportunities (Work Based Learning)
During this course, you will have the opportunity to participate in a Work Based Learning (WBL) placement experience, designed to allow you to extend your formal academic learning beyond the classroom. The WBL experience will provide the opportunity to bring your learning from the university into a work environment and test out your knowledge in a professional real-world environment. Some courses include compulsory WBL subjects, however, we also offer a range of elective WBL subjects, both cross-discipline and subject-specific. La Trobe University will source placements for some subjects, while others will require you to source your own placement. If you are required to source your own placement, dedicated staff will guide and support you through the process. Elective WBL subjects generally involve an application process and Subject Coordinator approval. The location and number of hours undertaken can vary considerably depending on the activity and the discipline area.

Work integrated learning opportunities

Career development learning

Career outcomes

After graduation, you could work across a range of industries, including business and finance, science, education, health, and sports.

  • Data scientist
    • Understand complex data and leverage it to the advantage of businesses and organisations.

  • Business analyst
    • Understand how businesses run and use data to solve problems and improve processes.

  • Health analyst
    • Gather, analyse and verify healthcare information.

  • Bioinformatician
    • Develop methods of research and analysis for understanding and leveraging biological and genomic data.

  • Machine learning engineer
    • Use your detailed understanding of machine learning, big data, cloud technology and mathematics to create effective machine learning solutions.

Partner provider

Risepoint

Other course instances

Select a related course instance to view more information.
SMDS
Melbourne (Bundoora)
Master of Data Science - Melbourne (Bundoora)

Internal course relationships

Nested

Graduate Certificate in Data Science Fundamentals

Graduate Diploma in Data Science

Pathways from

Graduate Certificate in Data Science Fundamentals

Graduate Diploma in Data Science

Postgraduate Qualifying Program

Scholarships

Scholarships and bursaries are available for both current and future students to support you to succeed in your studies. At La Trobe our equity and access scholarships and bursaries support coursework students from all backgrounds to reach their potential at university.

Find out what La Trobe scholarship opportunities might be available to you.