Master of Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Cybersecurity

On completion of the course you will be able to:

1. Evaluate user problems and create and effectively develop solutions using artificial intelligence, data science and cybersecurity approaches.
2. Apply high level artificial intelligence, data science and cybersecurity skills in developing solutions using state-of-the-art concepts, theories, tools and techniques to solve complex real-world problems.
3. Adhere to best practices for responsible use of artificial intelligence, data science and cybersecurity, applying skills and knowledge in a professionally responsible manner with a high level of personal autonomy and accountability.
4. Work collaboratively in a team and communicate effectively in a variety of contexts.

Stay ahead of the technology curve with Flinders University’s Master of Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Cybersecurity - a future-focused degree designed to equip you with cutting-edge technical and analytical skills.

Delivered fully online, this program combines advanced study in artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cybersecurity to prepare you for high-demand roles in technology, research, and innovation. You’ll learn to design secure systems, interpret complex data, and develop AI-driven solutions to solve global digital challenges.

With a strong focus on applied learning, industry projects, and ethical innovation, you’ll graduate ready to shape a smarter, safer digital future.

Recommended study pattern

What you will study

You’ll explore the design, security and analysis of intelligent digital systems. Through three interconnected minors, you’ll develop expertise in AI, cybersecurity and data analytics - learning to apply each discipline to real-world enterprise problems.

AI

Complete these topics to earn the Master of Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Cybersecurity:

• Neural Networks and Machine Learning
• Fundamentals of AI
• Innovation and Industry 4.0
• Project Management.

Cybersecurity

Complete these topics to earn the Master of Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Cybersecurity:

• Advanced Enterprise Security
• Cloud and Distributed Computing
• Networks and Cybersecurity
• Networking Fundamentals.

Data Analytics

Complete these topics to earn the Master of Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Cybersecurity:

• Data Engineering
• Database Modelling and Information Management
• Engineering Programming
• Data Science.

Award requirements

To qualify for the Master of Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Cybersecurity a student must complete 54 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, according to the program of study below.

Not all topics are necessarily available each year.

Upon completion of 18 units a student may choose to exit with an eligible Graduate Certificate (listed below), subject to meeting the program of study for that award.

• Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence
• Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
• Graduate Certificate in Data Analytics.

Exit points

Students enrolled in the Master of Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Cybersecurity may choose to exit with one of the following qualifications, depending on the number of units completed:

• Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Cybersecurity - after completing 18 units of approved topics.
• Graduate Diploma in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Cybersecurity - after completing 36 units of approved topics.

These exit awards provide formal recognition of completed study and can serve as standalone qualifications or as pathways back into the master’s degree at a later date.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $13,406

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Flinders University is a globally-focused, locally-engaged institution with a reputation for excellence in teaching, learning and research. They offer world‐class education that develops the critical and creative thinking skills to support a student’s success. Their courses offered through Open Universities Australia span business, education and law. They are designed with flexibility in mind, while delivering the advanced qualifications to take careers to the next step.

Learn more about Flinders University.

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QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

21

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

22

Applicants must normally hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in computer science, information technology, computer engineering, software engineering, or a closely related field from an approved tertiary institution.

Applicants with a degree in another discipline may also be considered if they can demonstrate relevant industry experience or technical proficiency in computing, data analysis, or cybersecurity.

The Dean (Education) may, under certain circumstances and subject to specific conditions, admit others who can show evidence of fitness for candidature. Applicants who do not hold a bachelor's degree but have relevant professional experience in the public sector should provide employment experience information in their application.

Flinders University conducts an English Language proficiency check on applications submitted for consideration to its courses. 

This will be met in a number of ways, including if the applicants: 

• first language is English (i.e. citizenship is held for a country where English is the official language)
• completed secondary schooling in Australia
• completed prior study in English (e.g. a Certificate IV or higher from a recognised Australian training institution)
• completed one semester of full-time equivalent tertiary study at a higher education institution 
• completed a recognised Foundation Studies or bridging program 
• performance in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) meets the University's admissions requirements 
• registered with an Australian professional registration body relevant to the applicant's proposed course (e.g. applicant holds current registration as a Registered Nurse, General Practitioner, Teacher, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Social Worker and such in Australia)
• achieved a score within an international English language proficiency test such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or Cambridge CAE that meets the minimum proficiency for the university
• completed an approved English language course from a registered English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) Provider

In some instances, applicants may be asked to provide evidence they meet the requirements if the information required is not available in their application. 

Students may be eligible for credit transfer or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) if they have previously completed relevant postgraduate study or have substantial professional experience in computing, data science, artificial intelligence, or cybersecurity.

Flinders University assesses RPL on a case-by-case basis in accordance with its Credit Transfer Policy. Approved credit may reduce the overall duration and cost of the degree.

Applicants seeking RPL must provide supporting documentation such as academic transcripts, detailed topic outlines, or professional portfolios demonstrating relevant learning outcomes or workplace experience.

The Master of Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Cybersecurity does not have any formal prerequisites or mandatory professional requirements (e.g., police clearance, vaccinations, etc.).

However, as an online, technically intensive program, students are expected to have:

• Reliable access to a computer capable of running programming, analytics, and cybersecurity software
• A stable internet connection suitable for online collaboration, data processing, and software downloads, and
• A foundational understanding of mathematics and programming concepts, particularly if entering from a non-IT background.

Flinders provides access to required software tools through its online learning systems.