Charles Darwin University
Master of Data Science
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 24 months
- Course Type: Master's
Turn complex data into meaningful insights through flexible online postgraduate study, developing advanced analytical, programming and machine learning capabilities to solve contemporary data-driven challenges.
Course overview
The Master of Data Science from Charles Darwin University is a postgraduate qualification designed for graduates seeking advanced expertise in data science and analytics. Delivered online over two years full-time or four years part-time, the course develops the technical, analytical and research capabilities required to solve complex data-driven challenges across a range of industries.
The curriculum integrates advanced study in programming, statistics, machine learning, artificial intelligence and data visualisation while emphasising practical, project-based learning throughout the course. You will apply contemporary data science techniques to analyse complex datasets, develop predictive models and communicate evidence-based insights, culminating in a research project focused on a real-world problem aligned with your professional interests.
On successful completion, you will graduate with the Master of Data Science. The qualification prepares graduates for advanced data science and analytics roles across a range of industries, including careers as data scientists, data analysts, data engineers, machine learning engineers and business intelligence analysts.
Key facts
November, 2026
March, 2027
What you will study
To earn the Master of Data Science, you must successfully complete units totalling 160 credit points as detailed below. Unless otherwise noted, each course is worth 10 credit points.
- Software Now
- Foundations of Data Science
- Database Concepts
- Professional issues in Technology
- Business Intelligence and Data Mining
- IT Service Management
- Risk and Reliability Management
- Advanced Data Management
- Data Analytics and Visualisation
- Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
- Principles of Operating Systems, Networks and Cyber Security
- Principles of Software Systems
- Data Science Practice (20 credit points)
Special Electives
Select one of the units below:
- Professional Experience (20 credit points)
- IT Thesis (20 credit points)
Entry requirements
Applicants for this course must meet all of the following:
- Successful completion of a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent international qualification.
English language requirements
The minimum English language requirement for this course can be met by evidencing one of the following:
- Successful completion of Year 12 within Australia or an equivalent qualification from an approved country where English is the official language
- Successful completion of at least 0.5FTE of higher education study from Australia or an approved country where English is the official language. If studies were completed from a country on the extended list, they must have been completed within the past five (5) years.
- Successful completion of a Charles Darwin University enabling program of at least 0.5FTE (40 credit points).
- Successful completion of a recognised TAFE qualification at a Certificate III level or higher from Australia.
- Current AHPRA registration as a Division 1 or Division 2 nurse. Registration must be current at the time of course commencement.
- Completion of an approved English test within two years of commencement, meeting the minimum scores.
Contact the university or visit their website for more information.
Recognition of Prior Learning
You may be eligible for recognition of prior learning if you have previously studied or have relevant work experience. This will help to reduce the number of units that you need to study to finish your course. Contact the university for more information.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
Graduating from Master of Data Science may lead to career opportunities as a:
- Business Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Data Engineer
- Data Manager
Fees and FEE-HELP
Estimated total fee in 2026: $59,152 (domestic full-fee paying place)
Estimated fees are determined by individual units of study and the year the course was commenced.
A student’s annual fee may vary in accordance with:
- The number of units studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of units.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.