Graduate Certificate in Data Science (Online)

Duration

As little as 8 months

Courses

4 courses

Study intakes

January, March, May, July, September and October

Study mode

100% Online

Program code

7446

Completion time dependent on individual study path, RPL, leave and course availability. Please speak to a Student Advisor for more information.

What you will study

UNSW’s Graduate Certificate in Data Science program is comprised of two core courses, plus the choice of two electives.

 

 

Career pathways 

Stand out in the job market with specialist skills in data science. Gain the skills to investigate and deliver powerful data that can influence business decisions with the online Graduate Certificate in Data Science from UNSW.  

Download your program guide to find out more about how the Graduate Certificate in Data Science can help you enhance your career.  

Download guide

 

 

After successful completion of the online Graduate Certificate in Data Science from UNSW, you’ll be qualified to pursue roles such as:

 

Core courses
  • Foundations of Data Science
  • Principles of Programming

The UNSW Online experience

We are here to support you, every step of the way, to graduate from one of the world’s leading universities. Our online learning environment has been designed to seamlessly fit into your already busy schedule and you’ll be able to access course resources on any device, at any time.

We offer six study blocks, or hexamesters per year. Each hexamester runs for seven weeks with some orientation time beforehand. You study one course per block, offering balance and flexibility with life's other commitments.

Our academics are some of the best in the world and even though you’re studying online, you can expect your learning experience to be the same high standard as that of our on-campus students.

Throughout your study journey, you will be able to turn to your Student Success Advisor, who is committed to assisting you from enrolment through to graduation. They are on-hand for all non-academic queries by phone or email.

You will also have access to Career Success – a curated, self-paced module that provides a framework for thinking about and taking action to implement an effective career plan. Through Career Success, you will have access to tools like Career AI (powered by VMock) and CaseCoach, and guides on crafting the perfect LinkedIn profile, resume and cover letter.

Elective courses

Plus, choose two available elective courses, ensuring pre-requisites are met and courses are available:

  • Big Data Management  
  • Data Visualisation and Communication  
  • Multivariate Analysis for Data Scientists  
  • Neural Networks, Deep Learning  
  • Decision Making in Analytics  
  • Data and Ethics
  • Bayesian Inference and Computation
  • Database Systems
  • Strategic Decision Making
Prerequisite courses
  • Principles of Programming is a prerequisite for Data Mining & Machine Learning, Neural Networks, Deep Learning & Big Data Management.
  • Foundations of Data Science is a prerequisite for Regression Analysis for Data Scientists, Data Visualisation and Communication & Multivariate Analysis for Data Scientists and Decision Making in Analytics. 
  • Statistical Inference for Data Scientists is a prerequisite for Regression Analysis for Data Scientists & Multivariate Analysis for Data Scientists.

 

 

 

 

Entry requirements

General admission requirements

To be eligible for the Graduate Certificate in Data Science, you must have either:

  1. Completed at a minimum an undergraduate degree in data science or cognate discipline (e.g., computer science, economics, mathematics, statistics), OR
  2. Completed an undergraduate degree in a non-cognate discipline AND have sufficient data science background as indicated by an average of 65 or above across a minimum of three Level III courses in mathematics and/or statistics and/or computer science and/or econometrics, OR
  3. Completed a degree in a non-cognate discipline AND have sufficient data science background as indicated by at least two years of experience in a data science or data analytics role.

Enquire now Apply now

 

Related program

Prefer less statistics, machine learning and programming? Perhaps the Graduate Certificate in Analytics is for you.

If you're more interested in the financial applications of technology and programming - learn more about our Graduate Certificate in Financial Technology.

Analytics Financial Technology

 

Frequently asked questions

What will I learn in the Graduate Certificate in Data Science online at UNSW?

The Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW equips you with foundational skills in programming, statistics and data systems, while exploring their applications in computer science, mathematics and economics. Delivered in seven-week study blocks, this 100% online program offers a fast-tracked pathway to advanced study and data-driven careers.

How long does it take to complete the Graduate Certificate in Data Science online?

The Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW is designed for flexibility and speed. Courses are delivered in seven-week study blocks, allowing you to focus on one course at a time while balancing other commitments. This fully online program consists of four courses and can be completed part-time in as little as eight months, with a study commitment of approximately 20 hours per week.

What are the entry requirements for the Graduate Certificate in Data Science online?

To apply for the Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW, you must meet one of the following criteria:

  1. Hold a bachelor's or master's degree in data science (or a related field such as computer science, mathematics, economics or statistics), OR
  2. Hold a bachelor's or master's degree in a non-related field with strong academic performance (an average of 65 or above) and at least three Level III courses in mathematics, statistics, computer science or econometrics, OR
  3. hold a non-related bachelor's or master's degree with at least two years of professional experience in a data science or analytics role.
How many courses are included in the Graduate Certificate in Data Science online?

The Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW consists of four courses: two core courses (Foundations of Data Science and Principles of Programming) and two electives chosen from a diverse range of options, including Big Data Management, Data Visualisation, Neural Networks and more, depending on availability and prerequisites.

What electives can I study in the Graduate Certificate in Data Science online?

The Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW allows students to choose from 12 electives, including Big Data Management, Data Visualisation and Communication, Neural Networks and Deep Learning, Strategic Decision Making, Bayesian Inference and Computation. This enables you to tailor your studies to align with your career goals. Elective availability is subject to prerequisites, ensuring you build on foundational knowledge for advanced learning.

Is the Graduate Certificate in Data Science online a pathway to further study?

Yes, the Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW serves as a direct pathway to further study. After completing the certificate, you can progress to the Graduate Diploma in Data Science and ultimately to the Master of Data Science online, offering a flexible, step-by-step approach to advancing your qualifications and expertise. Students require a weighted average mark (WAM) of 65 or higher in order to articulate.

What kind of support will I receive during the program?

As a UNSW Online student, you’ll have access to dedicated student support, including personalised guidance from one of our Student Success Advisors. You’ll also gain access to the UNSW Career Success platform with exclusive tools including resume builders, LinkedIn optimisation, Career AI and CaseCoach. You will also have access to academic staff and wellness services, and be provided with online opportunities to network with peers and UNSW faculty, ensuring a successful and enriching learning experience.

When can I start the Graduate Certificate in Data Science online?

The Graduate Certificate in Data Science online at UNSW offers six study periods each year - January, March, May, July, September, and October - providing you the flexibility to start your studies at a time that best fits your schedule.

Is data science related to computer science?

Yes, data science is closely related to computer science. While computer science focuses on areas such as software development, algorithms and system architecture, data science uses many of these foundations to analyse and interpret data. The Graduate Certificate in Data Science provides a strong introduction to essential data science skills such as programming, statistical modelling and data systems, which overlap significantly with key areas of computer science. This makes it an excellent starting point for those with a background or interest in computing or technology.

Are there jobs in data science​?

Yes, data science is one of the fastest-growing career fields, with high demand across industries such as finance, healthcare, technology and marketing. Organisations are actively seeking professionals who can transform data into actionable insights to drive decision-making. The Graduate Certificate in Data Science equips you with these essential, in-demand skills, preparing you for roles like data analyst, business intelligence analyst or junior data scientist. It also serves as a strong foundation for further study or career advancement in this dynamic field.

Does data science involve coding?

Yes, coding is an essential skill for those working in data science roles. Data scientists and data analysts utilise programming languages like Python, R and SQL to collect, clean, analyse and visualise data. You will develop these practical coding skills and learn how to apply them in real-world scenarios. This foundation is essential for anyone looking to build a career in data science or expand their capabilities in a data-driven role.