Data Science

The volume of data generated from new advances in technologies and systems is almost incomprehensible. Data generated by mobile phone interactions, social media sites, online searches, sensor technologies and machine-to-machine transactions has given rise to the revolutionary area of ‘Big Data’. In order to leverage the data generated in our interconnected world, the exciting new ‘data scientist’ career has emerged. 
Currently an acute shortage of data scientists exists with a recent McKinsey Global Institute report projecting a 50 per cent gap between projected demand and supply by 2018. Demand for professionals with strong data management and analytic skills is expected to soar. 
The Master of Data Science is designed to provide graduates with a coherent and in-depth knowledge of current techniques and research in data science, with a theme of applying this knowledge and research in the context of professional practice. 
This program is also offered in the form of a nested suite of three programs at postgraduate level (graduate certificate, graduate diploma and master). Each qualification extends to the next, allowing you to easily transition to a master level qualification.
The Division of Information Technology, Engineering and the Environment is a world-leader in information technology teaching and research situated in Technology Park, a world-class location nestled among 80 companies creating the perfect environment for collaboration and innovation.
In 2015, 97 per cent of our University’s research had been assessed at a world-class standard or above by the Excellence in Research for Australia ratings which included the fields of artificial intelligence and image processing, distributed computing and information systems.
Possible career outcomes 
This program will extend your career opportunities by enabling you to analyse and visualise rich data sources from a wide range of business and organisational processes in order to analyse trends, uncover insights or generate new strategies. The program is applicable to those working or seeking employment in various fields within the private sector, government and non-profit organisations 

This program consists of 72 units of study.  The first semester enables students who enter with either a mathematics or information technology background to develop, through providing alternative pathways for each, a set of foundation skills on which the remainder of the program is built. The next two semesters each consist of two core data analytics courses and a 9 unit course where students apply the theory and techniques to realistic problems in a professional development context. The final semester consists of two advanced data analytics courses and a 9 unit capstone project.

Applicants to the Master of Data Science will normally have:

• A Bachelor degree in Information Technology; OR
• A Bachelor degree in Mathematics; OR
• Graduate Certificate in Data Science; OR
• Graduate Diploma in Data Science.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as a foreign language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/ employment was English.

English language test

• IELTS total: - 6.5
• IELTS reading: - 6.0
• IELTS writing: - 6.0

Vice Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship
International students may be eligible for a 50% reduction in their student contributions (tuition fees) for up to four years of full-time study. Up to 20 scholarships are available in 2017 for students who have applied to study a UniSA undergraduate or postgraduate (by coursework) degree. 

International Merit Scholarship
International students may be eligible for a 25% reduction in their student contributions (tuition fees) for their first year of study in this program.