University of New South Wales

Graduate Certificate in Data Science

  • Delivery: Online
  • Study Level: Postgraduate
  • Duration: 8 months
  • Course Type: Graduate Certificate

Explore the foundations of data science and learn how to collect, analyse and communicate data insights that support real-world problem solving.

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Download your course guide and connect with a university advisor to explore:

  • Course structure
  • Learning outcomes
  • Fees
  • Entry requirements

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Course overview

As organisations rely more heavily on data to identify opportunities and solve problems, professionals across many fields need the capability to interpret and communicate evidence effectively. The Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW provides a structured introduction for those seeking to build foundational knowledge and capability in data science.

You’ll explore programming, statistics and data systems while developing an understanding of the data lifecycle, from collection and preparation to analysis, visualisation and communication. This foundation supports the ability to investigate problems systematically, interpret results and translate data into insights for professional decision-making.

Alongside core study in data science and programming, elective options allow students to explore areas such as big data, machine learning, statistical modelling, data visualisation, Bayesian inference and data ethics. The qualification also provides an articulated pathway into UNSW’s Graduate Diploma and Master of Data Science, with completed courses contributing towards the next qualification.

Delivered 100% online, the program can be completed in approximately eight months of part-time study. It may support professionals seeking foundational capability for data analysis, business intelligence and other data-focused responsibilities, or those preparing for more advanced data science study.

Key facts

Delivery
Online
Course Type
Graduate Certificate
Duration
8 months (Part time)
Price Per Unit
From $5,130
More Information
The estimated fee is determined by individual units of study and the year the course was commenced.
Intake
19th October, 2026
11th January, 2027
8th March, 2027
3rd May, 2027
28th June, 2027
23rd August, 2027
18th October, 2027
Units
More Information
You may be required to complete 0 credit point units throughout your course. The university will confirm this as part of your enrolment.

The unit total reflects the number of units required for course completion, not the total credit point weight. Some units may be double- or triple-weighted, so the number of units you complete may be lower.
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Fees
More Information
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.
FEE-HELP

What you will study

To earn the Graduate Certificate in Data Science, you must successfully complete four courses from the following:

Core units
  • Foundations of Data Science
  • Principles of Programming
Elective units
Prerequisites

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

To be eligible for the Graduate Certificate in Data Science, applicants must have one of the following:

  • Completed at a minimum an undergraduate degree in Data Science or a cognate discipline (e.g., Computer Science, Economics, Mathematics, Statistics).
  • 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.
  • 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.

English language requirements

You may need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency to study at UNSW, depending on your educational background and citizenship. UNSW requires a minimum level of English language competency for enrolment. English language skills are essential for webinar comprehension and the completion of coursework, assignments and examinations.

If English is not your first language, you will need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you will be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • English language tests and university English courses.
  • Prior study in the medium of English.
  • Other qualifications.
  • English waivers.

Contact the university or visit their website for more information.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning may be granted for up to 12 credit points (two courses) based on equivalent UNSW courses previously completed. Eligible prior study must meet the Faculty of Science's seven-year time limit. Contact the university for more information.

Outcomes

Career outcomes

  • Data Science Analyst
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Data Engineer
  • Business Intelligence Analyst
  • Data Visualisation Specialist
  • Big Data Analyst
  • Statistical Programmer
  • Data Systems Administrator

Fees and FEE-HELP

Indicative annual fee in 2026: $20,500  (Full-fee paying place)

Indicative annual fees are based on your first year of study.

A student’s annual fee may vary by:

  • The number of units studied.
  • 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.