
Introduction to Data science
In our highly digital world, data is everywhere. But not many of us know how to use it.
Data scientists are in-demand professionals who have the skills to manage and understand massive datasets. With the right data science course, you’ll learn how to use data to help organisations solve problems, make better decisions, and do things in new and innovative ways.
You’ll gain highly valued skills that will allow you to lead research projects, clean and sort data, build machine learning models, and, importantly, visualise and communicate your findings.
Explore data science courses
Discover data science courses
Online data science subjects and short courses
Undergraduate
UNE-ICT101- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 20 Oct 2025
Introduction to Spatial Information
Undergraduate
TAS-KGG102- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Undergraduate
USA-INFT2068- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Online data science degrees
Master of Data Science (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning)
Postgraduate
USQ-AIM-MASHarness big data to make big decisions
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 2 years full time or part time equivalent
Postgraduate
GRF-DSC-MASTools and insights for work with complex datasets
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 2 years full time or part time equivalent
Undergraduate
USA-BDA-DEGTransform data into meaningful insight
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 3 years full time or part time equivalent
Bachelor of Information Technology, Bachelor of Business
Undergraduate
SCU-ITB-DEGA double degree in IT and business
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 4 years full time or part time equivalent
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Data science study FAQs
What will I learn in a data science course?
A data science course brings together elements of several disciplines, including mathematics, statistics, artificial intelligence, computer science and engineering.
The exact topics you’ll study will vary depending on your data science course, but may include:
Big data management
Machine learning and AI
Data mining
Programming languages
Statistics
Big data visualisation
Why should I study data science?
Almost all industries need data scientists to guide their decision making, but there is a shortage of qualified candidates in Australia. You will likely find plenty of job opportunities after graduating from your data science course.
Your earning potential will also be high, with data experts attracting an average salary of $93,000 to $120,000 a year.
You’ll enjoy studying data science if you have an analytical mind, a strong attention to detail, and a passion for solving problems.
What’s the difference between data science and data analytics?
Data science is a broad discipline that includes aspects of mathematics, statistics, and software engineering.
Data analytics is a task that sits within this discipline and refers specifically to the act of extracting information from datasets.
If you work as a data scientist, you might do data analysis as part of your job, alongside other tasks such as building statistical models and algorithms. Or you might find work specifically as a data analyst, in which case your role will be narrower in focus.
What are the entry requirements for a data science course?
It varies, so be sure to read the entry requirements on each course page for more information.
If you only want to upskill in a specific area, consider enrolling in a single subject in data science. These are open to everyone and have no entry requirements.
To get advice about your eligibility for an online data science course, book a chat with an Open Universities Australia student advisor.
What career opportunities can I explore after completing a data science course?
With the right qualification, you could pursue work as a:
Machine learning engineer
Software engineer
Data modeler
How do I enrol?
Enrolling online is simple. Here’s how it works:
1. Find your course
Browse the options on this page.
Use our comparison tool to explore the different choices.
Need help? Book a free phone consultation with a student advisor for personalised guidance.
2. Start your enrolment
When you’re ready, click ‘Start studying now’ on the course page.
Follow the prompts to begin your enrolment.
You’ll need to provide supporting documents, such as:
Proof of identity
Your tax file number
3. Wait for confirmation
Your chosen university will email you to confirm if your enrolment has been successful.
Note: Some courses have enquiries and applications handled directly by the university. If this applies, it will be clearly stated on the course listing page.
For more details, check our online self-service enrolment guide. And if you need help at any stage, contact us and we’ll talk you through it.
What if I’m not sure data science is the study area for me?
If you’re generally interested in data or information technology but not quite sure what course to choose, you may like to explore these other, related study areas:
I want to... | We recommend exploring... |
---|---|
build software that improves lives | |
understand data patterns and make predictions | |
protect personal and business data from cyber threats | |
understand mathematical principles and develop new theories and models | |
gain a well-rounded understanding of IT |
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