Why Data Science with JCU?
The JCU Online Master of Data Science (Professional) is designed to help data scientists fast track their careers by proving their professional capability through a portfolio of real world experience. The JCU Master of Data Science (Professional) is backed by an Industry Advisory Board, made up of data science and tech leaders from across Australia with extensive experience both domestically and abroad.
100% online & part-time
Fast-track your career with flexible study you can balance around your life. Study one subject at a time wherever and whenever suits you.
Graduate with proof of capability
Build a portfolio to showcase your newfound capabilities through capstone projects and masterclasses.
Gain skills the industry needs
Develop skills in a suite of programming languages and software including Python, R, Tableau and AWS and study the only online Master of Data Science in Australia to be SAS certified.
Program Highlights
- Build a career-ready portfolio through capstone projects and masterclasses.
- Develop fundamental skills in data science.
- Open up your career opportunities.
- Gain skills in SAS, Python, R and more.
- Fast-track your career with 100% online study.
- Be supported by a dedicated Student Success Advisor.
Learn while you work
Programming languages and software used
Expand your career options and become SAS® Certified
With the rapid expansion of the data science field, and the increased reliance on data in business, government and research, there is a very real demand for data professionals who are able to identify and mine relevant data. JCU’s online Master of Data Science (professional) will give you an edge as a data science with proven capability and real world experience.
You’ll also gain industry-recognised skills - JCU has partnered with SAS®, analytic software provider and leader in Data Science. The Master of Data Science (Professional) will prepare you to become a SAS® Certified Big Data Professional Using SAS®9.
What you will study
You will study 12 to 16 online subjects, depending on your entry point and recognition of prior learning. There are six subjects offered each year. Study periods are seven weeks long, with new subjects starting every second month. You are able to sit out study periods if your personal or professional circumstances demand.
Please note, the Master of Data Science (Professional) is a four subject extension of the Masters program, which gives you a professional portfolio, further proving your data science capabilities. This portfolio is designed to give you the provable experience you might normally expect to work years for, helping you fast track your ambitions. You’ll also have the opportunity to gain real experience in data science by working on industry partnered projects.
An interdisciplinary approach means you’ll acquire relevant knowledge from across the mathematics, information technology and business domains, delivered by experts in research, academia, business and of course, data science. This varied approach delivers a flexible knowledge base and skillset, adding weight to employability.
Want more details about these subjects? Find out more from our course guide.
Graduate Certificate subjects
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Foundations for Data ScienceThis subject provides an overview of data science as a discipline, as well as an introduction to fundamental aspects of this area. Read more
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Statistical Methods for Data ScienceThis subject introduces practical applications and concepts involved in descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and linear modelling. Read more
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Data VisualisationThis subject introduces the fundamentals of data visualisation and how it can solve a wide range of practical data interpretation problems. Read more
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Database SystemsThis subject provides an introduction to the principles and concepts of database systems and their importance in data science. Read more
Graduate Diploma subjects
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Programming and Data Analytics using PythonThis subject introduces fundamental principles and practices of computer programming with Python. Read more
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Essential Mathematics for Data ScientistsThis subject provides the essential elements of mathematics required for data scientists. Read more
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Introduction to Data MiningThis subject will provide an understanding of a range of widely used algorithms and techniques to automatically extract patterns and models from data. Read more
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Visual Analytics for Data Scientists using SASThis subject introduces students to practical applications and concepts involved in advanced statistical modelling in SAS. Read more
Master subjects
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Data Science Master Class 1This subject brings in leaders in the field to report recent advances in data science techniques and/or applications of data science. It will also explore natural language processing (NLP), web scraping and APIs to harvest data with Python. Read more
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Advanced Data Management and Analysis using SASThis subject introduces the cutting edge tools and techniques for high-performance and large-scale computing. Read more
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Data Science and Strategic Decision MakingThis subject provides integrated knowledge for understanding and managing information resources, building basic business intelligent systems, interpreting business statistics and developing practical decision models. Read more
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Data Mining and Machine LearningThis subject provides a range of algorithms based on machine learning techniques for advanced data analysis and mining. Read more
Master (Professional) subjects
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Data and Information: Management, Security, Privacy, and EthicsThis subject introduces concepts and techniques related to a variety of topics in this area, ranging from database management to data security, privacy and ethics. Read more
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Data Science Master Class 2This subject develops oral, video and project planning communication skills in conjunction with learning Amazon Web Services (AWS) Sage Maker. Read more
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Data Science Project 1This subject requires students to complete a data science project in conjunction with an industry partner. Read more
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Data Science Project 2This subject requires students to complete a data science project in conjunction with an industry partner. Read more
Course information
The Master of Data Science (Professional) is ideal for data scientists who want further proof of capability, an extra edge or those with an entrepreneurial view who want the credibility and confidence that comes with hands-on experience.
- Entry Requirements
- Recognition of Prior Learning
- Learning Outcomes
- Career Outcomes
Entry Requirements
The Master of Data Science welcomes applications from students who are able to meet the following criteria:
- A Bachelor degree (whilst not a prerequisite for entry, high numeracy skills equivalent to senior level mathematics that includes algebra and elementary differential calculus is assumed); OR
- At least five years of relevant work experience in an IT or data science-related industry. Industry experience will need to include some background in computing, data analysis or programming. Application based on relevant industry experience must be supported by a detailed CV and proof of work experience.
Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 2 – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy.
*JCU offers a specified online mathematics subject, which can be completed prior to application if you do not currently meet the mathematical entry requirement level.
Not sure if you meet these entry criteria? Our Enrolment Advisors can assist you.
SPEAK WITH AN ENROLMENT ADVISORRecognition of Prior Learning
JCU recognises the value of past study and real-world experience. Exemptions or credits for elective subjects will be considered on a case-by-case basis, upon submission of verifiable supporting documentation.
GET IN TOUCH WITH AN ENROLMENT ADVISOR TO FIND OUT MORELearning Outcomes
The Master of Data Science (Professional) from JCU Online is designed to complement the strong theoretical foundations of the Master of Data Science with hands-on, guided experience and more project-based proof of your capability.
Capstone projects and an extra masterclass will help you build a career-ready portfolio, contextualise your knowledge, and help you gain experience in solving real-world problems.
DOWNLOAD COURSE GUIDECareer Outcomes
The field of data science continues to grow, and studying a Master of Data Science (Professional) will give you an edge in this diverse industry. Upon successfully completing a Master of Data Science with JCU, you will have the skills and expertise to succeed in roles like:
- Tech entrepreneur
- Data Scientist
- Business Analyst
- AI Developer
- Machine Learning Specialist
- Data Analyst
- Chief Information Officer
According to Seek, the most common salary for a Data Scientist is $130,000¹. The Talent Data Science & Analytics Market Snapshot & Salary Guide states the most in-demand skills in this field include programming languages like SQL, Python and R, business analytics and machine learning², all of which you will learn in JCU Online’s Master of Data Science.
¹ Seek.com - Data Scientist
² Talent Data Science & Analytics Market Snapshot & Salary Guide.
DOWNLOAD COURSE GUIDEMeet our Data Science Academics
With deep academic knowledge and industry experience from a range of disciplines, our data science academics will offer you a world-class learning experience that ensures you have the skills to remain ahead in our data-driven world.
Nested qualifications: Early entry exit options
You can also build towards your master’s degree through flexible entry and exit points and ‘qualify as you go’ through our nested qualifications. As you study your Master of Data Science (Professional), you will gain your Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma of Data Science. If you need to finish your study early, you may still qualify for a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma. Get in touch with an Enrolment Advisor to find out more.
You might also be interested in:
Ready to get started?
Speak with an Enrolment Advisor
Investing in the right course for you is important to us and we’re here to help. Simply request a call back and will assist you with:
- Entry requirements
- Choosing right course
- How to apply and enrol
- How online study works
- Course duration and fees
Download a course guide
For more detailed and up-to-date information about your degree, including:
- Information about the course
- Course duration
- Fees
- Course descriptions
- What to expect from the course
Frequently asked questions
What is data science?
Data science is anything and everything about data, from collection, storage, cleaning, processing, analyses, visualisation to communicate the finding with end-users. Data scientists not only extract valuable insights from data they also predict the possibility of future events using available data.
What is the difference between data science and data analytics?
Data science is anything and everything about data. Data analytics is part of data science which centres on formulating actionable insights to pre-existing questions.
Why study data science?
As more data are collected each day, the field of data science continues to grow. Studying a Master of Data Science will give you the in-demand skills in programming, visualisation and cloud platforms. Upon successfully completing a Master of Data Science with JCU, you will have the skills and expertise to succeed in roles like: Data Scientist, Business Analyst, AI Developer, Machine Learning Specialist, Data Analyst, Chief Information Officer.
How do I get into data science?
A postgraduate degree in data science will help you navigate into this industry. To enter our Master of Data Science you must have a Bachelor degree or at least five years of relevant work experience in an IT or data science-related industry.
What is the difference between a Master of Data Science and Master of Data Science - Professional?
The Master of Data Science (Professional) is a 4 subject extension of the traditional 12 subject Master program. With the Master of Data Science (Professional), students will learn high level technical skills, such as image recognition and natural language processing. Students will also be involved in industry based projects to build up their portfolio, develop confidence in their abilities and apply their newfound skills to a real-world data science problem.
What software programs are studied in the course?
Gain skills in highly requested data science software such as Python, R, Tableau, SAS, and AWS.
Will I learn about cloud-based computing in this course?
Yes, students get to learn how to choose and apply different techniques and software for cloud computing of big data in the subject: Advanced Data Management and Analysis using SAS.
What level of mathematics is required to complete the degree? How will I catch up if I do not meet the requirement?
Numeracy skills equivalent to senior level mathematics that includes algebra and elementary differential calculus is assumed. JCU offers a specified online mathematics subject, which can be completed prior to application if you do not currently meet the mathematical entry requirement level.
What kind of assessments can be expected in this course?
Assessment includes a combination of, reports, assignments and presentations. Students receive regular feedback on their progress via online forums and individual consultations with academic staff.
What is FEE-HELP?
Some students may be eligible for government assistance to help their study. For more information and to see if you are eligible visit: https://online.jcu.edu.au/fees
