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The Master of Data Science and Innovation is a ground-breaking program of study and the first transdisciplinary data science degree offered in Australia where creativity and innovation are integral components.

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Graduate Certificate in Data Science and Innovation

Take a fast-track pathway into the data science industry. Graduate in six months.

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Master of Data Science and Innovation

Masters: Deep dive into Data Science in our comprehensive postgraduate data science program

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Microcredentials in Data Science in Innovation

Master the essentials of machine learning with our six-week online short courses.

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OUR STUDENTS, THEIR STORIES Find out more about the MDSI student experience.

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Dr Simon Knight, Senior Lecturer: The Master of Data Science and Innovation and the Grad Cert as well, you're actually building up a professional portfolio as you go.

So the idea is that you're doing things that actually match what professionals would be doing and because of the way that we designed it, you'll be working in a range of different subjects to develop different kinds of skills around working with data and communicating that data.

Priyanka Srinivasa, Master of Data Science & Innovation graduate: I started looking out for universities and UTS Master of Data Science and Innovation really attracted me because of the way it’s taught. It’s more industry-based experience. Everything you learn you put into practise from day one.

Joseph Tristram, Master of Data Science & Innovation current student: We get the opportunity to work with a lot of established and well known corporates, governments and a lot of the projects cross over a lot of different industries as well, so it was a great opportunity for me to learn a lot of transferable skills.

Dr Simon Knight: The Master of Data Science and Innovation is a transdisciplinary course. We see data science as a team sport. We actually need to be applying skills from different contexts, different disciplines, different professions in order to understand the problem spaces that we’re applying data science in.

Joseph Tristram: So the benefits of having a good cohort is that we have that diversity of thought. This is important because everyone brings their own experiences, their own challenges and perspectives.

I've made some amazing friendships throughout the course and, you know, the relationships I’ve built with the lecturers themselves, I think that's some of the memories I’m always going to retain.

Dr Shibani Antonette, lecturer: So as we know data science is a rapidly growing field which means there are methods, techniques coming out every single day and we want students to be prepared to learn the most advanced technique there is and keep them updated so which is why the course is constantly reviewed by industry professionals, experts and leading research that happens in the field.

Dr Simon Knight: We’re not just about the technical side of data science, we’re also about the human centred approach. Understanding where our data has come from, how we’re modelling it and how it’s then going to be used in a practical context where it might be informing decisions that have impact on people.

Priyanka Srinivasa: Being a part of something that is going to help create a better future is what interested me. When you’re trying to build something, the thing that makes you irreplaceable is actually the ethics you bring into the data, your perspective and your creativity and innovation. That's my favourite part of the course.

Learn more at uts.edu.au/mdsi

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7 Australian Universities That Offers PhD in Data Science

phd data science australia

Obtaining a PhD in Data Science helps deepen your knowledge in the field that is undoubtedly producing the greatest number of lucrative jobs in the world presently. Some of the best universities in the world are located in Australia, making it an ideal place to get your PhD in data science.

Now, let’s look at seven best universities in Australia that offer a PhD degree in Data Science.

Australian Universities Offering PhD in Data Science

University of melbourne.

University of Melbourne (UniMelb), was founded in 1853 and has its primary campus at the Melbourne suburb of Parkville, with its other campuses situated across the state of Victoria. The 2019 Times Higher Education World University Rankings rated University of Melbourne as the best university in the country and 32 nd  in the world.

READ ALSO:  Top 8 Institutions in Delhi to Study Data Science

The school has a student population of over 50,000, with 36 percent from outside Australia. Multiple Nobel laureates and Australian PMs have graduated from UniMelb.

Students can obtain a PhD in Data Science from this university. The program, which takes place at the Parkville campus, is a 4-year duration for a full-time student and eight years for a part-time student. It doesn’t involve any necessary coursework, only requested by the students.

University of Queensland

The University of Queensland (UQ) was established in 1909 with its main campus, a 281 acres of land at St Lucia, Queensland lying on the bank of Brisbane River. The student population at University of Queensland is over 53,000, with about 18,000 being international students.

Queensland University also offers a PhD degree in Data Science with School of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering (ITEE) of the university. The program is only available in full-time format and takes a duration of 3-4 years. All through the program, the work of student is managed by two or more supervisors.

3. Monash University

Monash University, a public research institution, always rank among the top 100 universities in the world. Monash University was established in the year 1958, and presently has a student population north of 78,000.

READ ALSO:  Top 10 Courses to Study in Australia for Getting Jobs

The university has two large campuses in Melbourne, at the suburbs of Clayton and Caulfield, while others lie across the state of Victoria.

Students can study to obtain a PhD in Data Science in Australia by coming up with a research problem that lies within the field that gets approved by the Faculty of Information Technology. A supervisory team that consists of at least two supervisors will support a student all through the program. Students will carry out a set of necessary coursework that covers advanced training in IT research methods. The course takes a duration of four years in full-time format and eight years for part-time students.

4. University of Sydney

The University of Sydney was founded in 1850, making it the oldest university in Australia. QS World Rankings ranks the University of Sydney first in the Land Down Under and fifth globally for graduate employability. The school’s main campus occupies around 178 acres of land in the inner-west Sydney suburbs of Camperdown and Darlington.

University of Sydney has a student population of over 61,000. This prestigious university is the alma mater of two Nobel laureates and seven Aussie prime ministers.

Students can obtain a PhD degree in Data Science in the University’s Faculty of Engineering by presenting a thesis that is an original contribution to the field of Data Science. Data Science students will have access to two research centers:

  • Centre for Distributed and High-Performance Computing and
  • UBTECH Sydney Artificial Intelligence Centre.

The PhD program in Australia is available in only full-time study and takes a duration of three years.

5. RMIT University

RMIT University started as a night school in 1887 and attained the status of a University in 1992. Presently, this public research university has a student population of about 87,000. According to QS World Rankings, RMIT University is the second in Australia and 15 th  in the whole world for graduate employability.

RMIT University also offers PhD in Data Science and Analytics. PhD students with a subject in the particular research area use the RMIT Data Analytics Lab as their research incubator. The program takes about three to four years to complete full-time format and six to eight years for part-time format.

University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia (UWA), a public research university, was established in 1911 as the sixth university in the land of kangaroos. Its main campus is situated at the suburb of Crawley in Perth, the capital of Western Australia. The university has two other campuses sited at the Perth suburb of Claremont and at the port city of Albany. The school has a student population north of 24,000.

UWA also provides students with the opportunity to earn a Ph.D. degree in Data Science through an independent, managed research program. The program is commenced after a research topic has been mutually agreed upon by a student, their supervisor, head of the Faculty of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, and the Board of the Graduate Research School. It is available in both full-time that covers a duration of four years.

University of Technology Sydney

The University of Technology Sydney (UTS), was established in 1988. The university has been recognized as one of the top ten young universities in the world by QS World Rankings. Its main campus is located at the Sydney suburb of Ultimo with a student population of about 46,000, with 15,000 of this total being international students.

Students can pursue a PhD degree in Analytics and Data Science at UTS, under the Faculty of Transdisciplinary Innovation. The degree is carry out fully by thesis, a work in the scope of 80,000 to 100,000 words. The program, which takes four years in full-time study mode and eight in part-time, is arranged in three phases:

  • In the first phase, students and their supervisor discuss a study plan that includes details on kinds of support that will be required.
  • In the second phase, the students develops their individual program of research.
  • In the third phase, the students prepares and submits the thesis.

Bottom line

These are the top seven (7) universities in Australia that offers PhD in Data Science. Most of the schools offers part-time programs, that would allow certain students who are engaged in other tasks not to be left out. Though the tuition fees at these universities weren’t stated, but they are quite affordable for international students who wish to obtain a PhD in Data Science and Analytics.

Article source: uscolleginternational.com,        Image source: meetup.com

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A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at UNSW Science will lead you to make a new and original contribution to your chosen scientific specialisation. The PhD is a program of specialist expert knowledge which will open doors to academic, research and professional roles nationally and internationally. 

Entry requirements 

The minimum entry requirement for admission to a PhD includes: 

  • an appropriate UNSW bachelor degree with upper second-class honours; or 
  • a completed Masters by Research from UNSW with a substantial research component and demonstrated capacity for timely completion of a high-quality research thesis; or 
  • an equivalent qualification from a tertiary institution as determined by the Faculty Higher Degree Committee (HDC). 

The minimum requirement for a UNSW scholarship with admission to a PhD include: 

  • a four-year bachelor degree with honours class from an Australian institution or equivalent research qualification experience -this qualification must be awarded in a field relevant to the proposed area of research. 

English requirements  

All applicants must provide evidence that their English language ability meets the minimum requirements for admission: UNSW English Language Requirements.

Domestic students: The Australian Government's Research Training Scheme (RTS) provides Commonwealth-funded higher degree by research (HDR) candidates with an exemption from tuition fees for the duration of their PhD by research for a maximum period of four years' full-time equivalent study. Domestic students are liable for the UNSW Student Services Amenities Fee. 

International students: Full details can be found on the GRS Fees and Costs page for International Postgraduate Research Candidates. Note that international students are exempt from the UNSW Student Services Amenities Fee. 

Scholarship opportunities

We assist postgraduate researchers with a range of prestigious scholarships with annual stipends, living allowances, tuition fee costs, travel scholarships and supplements. Our scholarships support both current and new postgraduate research candidates.  

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Use your advanced research skills to contribute to the growth of computer science. 

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  • a person seeking asylum who holds either a: Temporary Protection Visa (TPV), or Safe Haven Enterprise Visa (SHEV) or Bridging Visa E or Humanitarian Stay (Temporary) visa or Temporary Humanitarian Concern Visa.

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RMIT considers you an international student if you are:

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  • not a a person seeking asylum who holds either a: Temporary Protection Visa (TPV), or Safe Haven Enterprise Visa (SHEV) or Bridging Visa E or Humanitarian Stay (Temporary) visa or Temporary Humanitarian Concern Visa.

If you are unsure or  hold a different visa type, please contact  Study@RMIT for more information.

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Research Training Scheme

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AU$36,480 (2024 annual)

As a computer science research candidate, you have the flexibility to pursue an individual topic, or contribute to one of our existing research areas.

You will join an active research community, working with academics, peers and partner organisations who have demonstrated research success in a range of specialities, including:

  • artificial intelligence
  • machine learning
  • data science and analysis 
  • distributed systems and networking
  • heuristic optimisation
  • information retrieval and web search 
  • software engineering.

RMIT's success is demonstrated in international university rankings, with computer science and information systems at RMIT ranked #10 in Australia and in the top 200 globally per QS Rankings by Subject 2024, in the top 150 globally for ShanghaiRankings by Subject 2022 and 124th globally (top 150) for 2022 NTU World University Rankings.

The Australian Research Council identified our research in Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing and Information Systems as above world standard in the Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) reports.

Research collaborations

There are many research collaborations with national and international institutes, centres, groups and partners, including strategic partnerships with:

  • RMIT Data Analytics Lab
  • Australian-India Research Centre for Automation Software Engineering (AICAUSE).

Research support

Throughout your candidature, you will be supported through:

  • expert supervision
  • participation in high-quality professional development programs delivered by RMIT's School of Graduate Research
  • access to RMIT's extensive facilities, laboratories and equipment and those of our partners.

Computer science candidates may be eligible for a range of scholarships including:

  • Australian Postgraduate Awards – funded by the Australian Government
  • PhD and Research Masters Scholarships – funded by RMIT University
  • PhD scholarships in computer science and IT – funded by the School of Science
  • other postgraduate research scholarships.

How you will learn

Research at rmit, time spent on research.

Full-time candidates are expected to commit at least four days per week (or at least two days per week for part-time candidates) to their research. The academic year is 48 weeks.

Regular contact with your supervisor

A schedule of meetings with your supervisor/s must be established to assess progress against milestones and timely completion.

Resources, facilities and support

You will have access to the Learning Hub and other online and digital resources through the myRMIT student portal.

You will be part of an active research community and have access to resources and workshops to help you succeed.

School of Graduate Research

The School of Graduate Research works with Schools to further support candidates during their postgraduate research degree.

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional or vocational practice.

Computer science and information technology projects are heavily based on industry needs and we are currently working with:

  • Australia Council for the Arts
  • Deloitte Digital
  • RealThing Entertainment Pty Ltd

Learning outcomes

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the  learning outcomes .

Electives and course plan

You will complete this program under academic supervision.

The PhD program is structured to enable you to:

  • complete a compulsory research methods course
  • receive training in research integrity and ethics
  • select studies in qualitative and quantitative research techniques
  • complete a thesis/project which demonstrates your original contribution to the field and your ability to communicate complex or original research for peers and the community to an international standard

You are required to complete:

Research Integrity modules

You are required to complete the online modules:

  • Research integrity
  • Copyright and intellectual property

Research methods for sciences

Research methods courses step you through the literature review and preparing your research proposal for confirmation of candidature. They are taught in large discipline groups.

You may need to complete an ethics module to ensure your research is ethical and responsible.

Research Techniques

You may elect to take (where relevant) electives in qualitative or quantitative research techniques once data collection has begun. You can use your own data to explore different research analysis techniques. Your supervisor will help you decide when you should take these electives.

Co-curricular activities

You are encouraged to participate in activities offered with the university, college and school according to your needs and interests.

This PhD may be undertaken in a project, thesis by publication or thesis mode. Prospective candidates should discuss these modes of submission with their potential supervisor/s.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time and 8 years part-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent and 6-8 years part-time equivalent.

*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent.

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

You will be able to pursue an academic career in a university, be employed in senior leadership, management and research positions in government, scientific and industrial research laboratories, or work in or start high tech companies.

On completion, our candidates have gone on to senior positions with industry leaders including SENSIS, Seek, CSIRO and Tinder.

Minimum requirements for admission

Prerequisites, selection tasks.

The minimum requirements for admission to a PhD program are:

  • a bachelor degree requiring at least four years of full-time study in a relevant discipline awarded with honours. The degree should include a research component comprised of a thesis, other research projects or research methodology courses that constitute at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent). The applicant must have achieved at least a distinction average in the final year;  or
  • a master degree that includes a research component comprised of at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent) with an overall distinction average or a master degree without a research component with at least a high distinction average;  or
  • evidence of appropriate academic qualifications and/or experience that satisfies the Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Training and Development or nominee that the applicant has developed knowledge of the field of study or cognate field and the potential for research sufficient to undertake the proposed program.

At RMIT a grade of distinction represents academic achievement of 70% or higher and a high distinction is 80% or higher.

If you are a current master by research candidate, you are able to apply for a transfer to a doctor of philosophy program through the process prescribed in the  RMIT Higher Degree by Research policy .

These entrance requirements are the minimum academic standard you must meet in order to be eligible to apply for the program. You will need to complete a selection task as part of your application.

A selection process will be conducted in conjunction with the School and supervisors you nominate.

For further information on the steps you need to take to apply for a research program see  How to apply – Research programs .

English language requirements

Research proposal and supervisor.

You must attach a substantive research proposal that is 2 to 5 pages in length which articulates the intent, significance and originality of the proposed topic using the following headings:

a) title / topic b) research questions to be investigated in the context of existing research/literature in the area c) significance and impact of the research d) methodology / research tasks required to undertake the research e) particular needs (e.g. resources, facilities, fieldwork or equipment that are necessary for your proposed research program, if applicable).

Your application will not be considered if you have not discussed your research topic with a proposed senior and associate supervisor or joint senior supervisors. You must provide the names of the academic staff in the school you have applied to and with whom you have discussed your proposed research.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit  English language requirements and equivalency information .

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at  RMIT English Worldwide .

You can gain entry to this program from a range of RMIT four year  Bachelor and Honours degrees  or  Postgraduate  or Masters by Research programs.

Fee summary

Fee information for masters by research and doctorate (PhD) programs.

If you are an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand citizen you may be eligible for a Research Training Scheme (RTS) place where your tuition costs are funded by the Commonwealth Government under the RTS and you have full exemption from tuition fees.

Acceptance in an RTS place is very competitive and places are granted on the condition that you meet annual progress requirements and complete within the allotted time for your program and your status as a part-time or full-time candidate.

This means a maximum of 2 years for a full-time Masters by Research or 4 years for a PhD (or the equivalent part-time).

Contact the School of Graduate Research for more information.

The  student services and amenities fee (SSAF)  is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

In addition to the SSAF there may be  other expenses  associated with your program.

Income tax deductions

Candidates may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to their employment. See the  Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website  for more information.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

The annual tuition fee for 2024 is AU$36,480.

The total indicative tuition fee for 2024 commencement is AU$151,680.

International applicants

  • Fees information  for international candidates looking to study at RMIT's Melbourne campuses.
  • PhD  and  masters by research  fees for international candidates studying offshore. 

Other costs

Important fee information.

Find out more details about  how fees are calculated  and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a  refund  as a continuing international student.

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

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  • PhD Scholarship

Applications are now Closed for QUT Centre for Data Science 2024 PhD Scholarship

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  • Complex data analysis
  • Data for discovery
  • Human centred AI
  • Models and algorithms
  • Responsible data science
  • Business and engineering systems
  • Environment and Natural Systems
  • Government Systems
  • Health and Biological Systems
  • Social Systems
  • Sports Systems

You will receive a tax free scholarship of $33,637 per annum for three years.

This stipend will be paid fortnightly and indexed annually. This scholarship is for full-time study and can be used to support living costs. A six-month extension to the scholarship may be possible, subject to approval.

A successful international student will be considered for a research degree tuition fee sponsorship, if successful in receiving the scholarship.

Eligibility

To be eligible for this scholarship, you must meet the entry requirements for a Doctor of Philosophy  (PhD) at QUT, and not be in receipt of another living allowance scholarship to undertake the research degree.

In addition, this scholarship has specific eligibility conditions including:

  • applicants must nominate a proposed supervisor, and must make contact with the supervisor prior to submitting an Expression of Interest
  • have excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • demonstrate the knowledge and skills for the PhD project
  • applicants must be able to commence, on shore, by 31 July 2024.

How to apply

Fill out this application form where you will be asked to:

  • Provide an up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV) and a copy of your latest academic transcript, or relevant research skills if applicable.
  • Indicate a research area in CDS that you will be interested to work in
  • Provide names of your proposed supervisor(s)
  • Advise your student and PhD application status.

What happens next?

If successful in your scholarship application, you will be invited to submit an expression of interest (EOI) to study a PhD at QUT if you have not yet done so. See more information about this process here: How to apply for a research degree

If your EOI is successful, you will be invited to submit a full application including a research proposal to finalise your application.

Application Closing Date

Scholarship applications close 5pm Sunday 26 November 2023 .

The scholarship will be governed by QUTPRA rules (QUT Postgraduate Research Award (Domestic) or QUT Postgraduate Research Award (International) but will only include provisions for up to an additional 12 weeks of paid sick leave, paid maternity leave and paid extensions.

There are additional milestones that will need to be achieved as a part of this scholarship that will be discussed with you at time of application.

If you have further questions on the scholarship please contact [email protected] , if you have questions about completing a PhD at QUT please contact [email protected] .

Postgraduate research degrees

Our research is driven by the big picture. The University of Sydney is home to leading researchers who are finding solutions to the world's most pressing issues by changing the way they look at them. 

We are home to 90 world‑renowned multidisciplinary research and teaching centres that tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges, such as health, climate change and food security. These centres include the Charles Perkins Centre, the Brain and Mind Centre ,  The University of Sydney Nano Institute , the Sydney Policy Lab , the Sydney Environment Institute , and the Sydney Southeast Asia Centre .

Our interdisciplinary approach means that students are part of a community of scholars that unites experts in fields as diverse as medicine, arts, social sciences, engineering, information technologies and science. 

As a researcher at Sydney, you'll work alongside some of the world's brightest and most accomplished academics. You can access high-calibre facilities and unique international partnerships with top-ranked institutions, including Stanford, UCLA, the University of Edinburgh, Utrecht University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and the University of Hong Kong.

Types of research degrees

Master's degree by research.

A master's degree by research at Sydney:

  • is the second-highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework
  • can be a gateway to study at a PhD level
  • is usually one to two years full-time or two to four years part-time*
  • is awarded based on a supervised thesis, which makes a substantial contribution to the knowledge of the subject concerned.

*Part-time is not available to international student visa holders.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A PhD at Sydney:

  • is our premier research award and the highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework
  • comprises of independent research and writing on an approved topic toward a thesis for examination
  • may be undertaken in all faculties and divisions, or across disciplines
  • is usually 3.5 years of full-time or seven years of part-time* study.

If you’re interested in a Joint PhD program, you need to follow the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) application steps 1-3. In addition, your proposed supervisor will need to complete a proposal to negotiate a student agreement form. If accepted, you will also be required to sign an individual student agreement. After your student agreement is finalised, you will then be sent an application form for the Joint PhD program.

Please refer to the University's Dual and Joint Degree Policy for full policy details.

Download our  Joint PhD programs factsheet (pdf, 116KB)  to learn more.

Professional doctorate

A professional doctorate at Sydney:

  • allows candidates to pursue rigorous scholarship alongside advancing their practice in many fields
  • is usually three to four years of full-time or six to eight years of part-time* study.

Internship opportunities

Grow professionally and academically through a paid 3-6 month internship with an industry partner as you complete your degree.

The University of Sydney has partnered with  Australian Postgraduate Research Intern (APR.Intern)  to provide domestic and international HDR students with internship opportunities  in a range of sectors and disciplines.

A paid internship will allow you to:

  • Develop competencies that will contribute to your research
  • Gain industry experience, develop skills and build networks
  • Enhance your employability
  • Earn additional income

HDR coursework 

HDR coursework is mandatory for some of our research degrees. HDR coursework adds to your researcher toolkit so you can graduate with a robust set of skills, for a career in academia or industry.

Your faculty may elect to define certain units of study as mandatory for a given degree, or define any other studies as required by the progress evaluation panel of the research project. Refer to the relevant course in the  handbook .  

Frequently asked questions

Getting started, do i need prior research experience.

Yes, all HDR courses require prior research experience. This is because HDR courses are largely self-driven, requiring pre-requisite research, time and project management skills.

If I have no prior research experience how can I get started?

If you do not have any previous research experience, there are ways to gain what you need. Both the one-year honours and masters by coursework degrees containing substantial research components are great pathways into research. These courses will allow you to gain the research skills necessary to apply for the PhD.

What is the difference between a Master of Philosophy/Research and a PhD?

The PhD is our premier research award and the highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework. The PhD is usually three years full-time or six years part-time.

The Master of Philosophy/Research is usually one to two years full-time or four years part-time (part-time is available to domestic students only). A PhD thesis is generally around 80,000 words while a master’s thesis is 50,000 words.

How do I find a supervisor?

To browse through the profiles of our researchers and learn about their current and past research, please refer to Find a Researcher . Here, you will also be able to access the publications lists and contact details of our researchers. 

My research idea crosses two disciplines – is this a problem?

No. Interdisciplinary research is highly regarded in the world of academia and working across disciplines can be very beneficial in developing and demonstrating different analytical skills. Working on research from two perspectives can also offer insight that you would not be able to achieve from one discipline perspective.

What are the English language requirements for a PhD?

Please check your  course page  for the requirements of each course. Generally, the English requirements are between 6.0 to 7.0 IELTS overall or equivalent in other accepted English proficiency tests.

How much do HDR courses cost?

There are no course fees for domestic students – fees are covered by the government Research Training Program (RTP) fee offset. However, fees apply to international students. Please refer to the  course page  for fee details.

What scholarships are available?

We have one of the largest research schemes in Australia. Opportunities include the Australian government-funded Research Training Program (RTP) stipend scholarships, and the University of Sydney and faculty-specific awards. Explore your options .

Degree progression

Do i have to undertake hdr coursework.

It depends on your degree. Your faculty may define certain units of study as mandatory for a given degree. Where this is not the case, you may still have the opportunity to complete units of study that you find useful to support your learning and research. 

Can I transfer from the Master of Philosophy into a PhD?

It is possible for students to move to the PhD after the first year of study, if you have made satisfactory progress and if the transfer is approved by your Faculty. It is important to inform your supervisor of your plans early so that you can work on a timeline together to achieve this goal.

Support during your studies

Am i able to work while studying my hdr course full-time.

Yes, you can work during your PhD. How many hours you take on is at your own discretion, and you must ensure that you still allow time for the completion of your research. International HDR students can generally work more hours than coursework students. Please check your individual visa for specific restrictions.

Will the university employ me during my PhD?

There are sometimes opportunities for PhD candidates to engage in paid employment at the University, but this is not guaranteed and is dependent on the Faculty/Department. If opportunities do arise, they may be in the form of teaching, marking, acting as a research assistant, or other roles.

What support services are available to research students?

There is extensive support for research students at Sydney, including 100+ multidisciplinary research and teaching centres.

Other services:

  • Library workshops for research skills
  • Academic Liasion Librarians
  • Research Support Officers
  • Careers Centre
  • Sydney University Postgraduate Representative Association (SUPRA)
  • Learning Hub

How to apply

Find a supervisor.

Search by keyword, location, topic or supervisor name

  • 1800 SYD UNI ( 1800 793 864 )
  • or +61 2 8627 1444

Student Centre, Level 3 Jane Foss Russell Building, Darlington Campus

Opening hours: 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday

Prospective students

Facts & figures

Research at Sydney

  • Top 20 Ranked one of the world's top universities*
  • 100% of our research is ranked at world standard and above by the Australian Research Council
  • 100+ multidisciplinary research and teaching centres
  • * QS World University Rankings 2024

Research scholarships

Find the right scholarship for you

How to write a research proposal

A guide to preparing a strong research proposal

6 ways to finance your postgraduate study

Find out how to reduce the cost of your tuition fees

Personalise your experience

Graduate Coursework

Graduate Diploma in Data Science

  • Arrow-right #1 in Australia for Computer Science and Statistics
  • Course code:   GD-DATASC

Course overview

The Harvard Business Review has labelled data science the " sexiest job of the 21st century ".

We're creating more than 2.5 exabytes of data every day. Someone needs to make sense of it all.

The Graduate Diploma in Data Science is an ideal starting point if you’re interested in joining this booming industry and don't have a background in computer science or statistics.

Your first step towards a new career

Through this course you’ll develop fundamental skills in both computer science and statistics, so you can keep pace with the rapidly changing demands of a data-driven job market – and world.

You’ll be shown how to use statistical tools, techniques and methods along with in-depth analysis and evaluation, learning to solve real-world problems in the data realm.

Option to transition into the Master of Data Science

When you successfully complete the Graduate Diploma, you can supercharge your qualification by enrolling in the Master of Data Science (subject to meeting the requirements).

You’ll receive course credit, meaning that you can complete both the Graduate Diploma and the Master of Data Science in just 2.5 years.

Related study areas

  • Computer science
  • Data and analytics
  • Information technology and computer science
  • Mathematics and statistics
  • Search all content
  • Search courses
  • Browse study areas

Study Data Science

Take on some of the most sought-after jobs in industry when you study Data Science, with the Bachelor of Science at JCU. Develop knowledge and skills that place you at the forefront of the field, including data visualisation, big data analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence.

  • Bachelor of Science

What is Data Science?

Data science is a union of statistics, computer science and domain application. Its goal is to extract information from data to advance knowledge across industry, business, and societies and support key decision making.

As technology evolves, so, too, does data science. This burgeoning field presents almost limitless opportunities for professional development and lifelong discovery.

Increasingly, industries are collecting and using data to gain insight into their domain. For example, many retail companies use a rewards program to collect information on their customers and use the data to obtain insights into their behaviours and habits, in order to design products and experiences to more completely meet their needs.

Storing, wrangling and analysing large and complex data sets (also known as  data mining ) is a key skill increasingly demanded by employers across the contemporary workplace. Those with this skillset, and the analytical abilities to interpret the results, are becoming more and more valuable. Numerous businesses are beginning to incorporate data into their key decision-making process.

Data science and  statistical modelling may be used to analyse human behaviours and patterns to optimise a range of scenarios including transport routes, urban planning, health services, crime prevention and more.

Big data, algorithms, data visualisation, analytics and more are all terms you hear regularly in the corporate world, but currently, few people have the expertise to really understand data science and apply it to help businesses discover new potential. The sector is ripe for career growth as potential applications continue to develop.

Discover JCU's Bachelor of Science

Delve deeply into data and explore new opportunities as a data scientist with a JCU Bachelor of Science

What does a data scientist do?

Data scientists work first and foremost with computers; however, they are very much dealing with real-world challenges and providing insights that enable the design of highly practical solutions.

As a data scientist, you will have a natural affinity for statistics and mathematics . Don’t worry if it wasn’t your best subject in high school, it’s more about having a genuine interest in the different and widespread applicability of numbers.

Your daily working life as a data scientist may see you calling upon your skills in data analytics.

You may also find yourself working in the field of data visualisation , one whose popularity and applicability to industry is rapidly expanding.  Data scientists who work in data visualisation have the ability to take large swathes of data, understand it, process it, extract value from it and use it for storytelling. They may employ software such as Tableau to analyse and visualise data and create interactive and accessible data models. The stories data tells could be related to consumer patterns, business evolution or employee efficiency. This can be a highly creative part of data science, focused on interpretation and communication, as you analyse data and actively communicate it to stakeholders.

The opportunities within data science are broad, meaning there is a role to suit every personality type. Whether you excel working with statistics or communicating with people, there’s a place within data science for you.

Explore your study options in Data Science

Search Results

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Gain a solid foundation for university study as you build academic skills, confidence and knowledge. Take classes relevant to your study goals and get a taste of university life in this qualification designed to help you meet the entry requirements of your desired degree. Enter university prepared for success after this one-year course.

  • Townsville: February, July
  • Cairns: February, July
  • Online: February, July

Learn from world-renowned lecturers and engage with experts in your chosen field with an Advanced Science degree from JCU. Develop strong research and communication skills as you investigate the role of science in creating sustainable futures within the Tropics. Model solutions to case studies from an array of biophysical contexts and extend your hands-on learning by completing a research internship or practical placement.

Embrace the exciting world of science. Pair your scientific study with experiences like no other — explore environments like the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest or conduct research in state-of-the-art labs. Learn how to train an AI algorithm to identify flora and fauna species or dig into the earth’s history to find prehistoric remains. Graduate career-ready with advanced practical skills and a drive for discovery.

JCU's online Graduate Certificate of Data Science will give you immediately applicable data science skills. The JCU Graduate Certificate of Data Science is backed by an Industry Advisory Board, made up of data science and tech leaders from across Australia with extensive experience both domestically and abroad.

  • Online: January, March, May, July, September, November

JCU's online Graduate Diploma of Data Science can give you the skills and networks to place you at the forefront of the data science revolution. The JCU Graduate Diploma of Data Science is backed by an Industry Advisory Board, made up of data science and tech leaders from across Australia with extensive experience both domestically and abroad.

Gain the skills relevant to succeed in an increasingly connected world through understanding data, analytics, smart devices and smart ecosystems. JCU's online Graduate Diploma of Data Science (IoT) will give you professional skills required in business, government and research.

The JCU Online Master of Data Science is designed to put professionals who recognise the power of data and numbers ahead of the pack. The JCU Master of Data Science is backed by an Industry Advisory Board, made up of data science and tech leaders from across Australia with extensive experience both domestically and abroad.

Unlock a world of potential with the Master of Data Science at JCU and become an authority in the roaring big-data industry. Develop innovative solutions to contemporary problems in data science and mastermind database systems, programs, models, and projects.

  • Cairns: March, September
  • Brisbane: March, July, November

What jobs are there in data science?

From defence departments to internet start-ups, and financial institutions to sporting teams, almost every industry and profession in the world now uses data and data science to enhance its operations and outcomes.

While Silicon Valley is certainly an option, you may also find data science jobs in businesses and locations far removed from the stereotypical technology hubs.

As a data scientist, you may begin your professional life in a practical and tactical role, executing data queries and creating reports; however, your ability to deliver invaluable business insights may also give you the opportunity to move into highly strategic jobs, either in-house or as a consultant.

With a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Data Science , from JCU, you can embrace careers such as:

  • Data scientist
  • Data analyst
  • Business analyst
  • Strategic advisor
  • Researcher.

phd data science australia

Why study Data Science at JCU?

When you study Data Science at JCU in the Bachelor of Science , or in one of JCU's postgraduate Data Science programs , you will acquire the fundamental knowledge and skills you need in statistics, science and computer science to qualify for a range of data science and analytics roles.

JCU Data Science includes subjects covering the latest areas and developments in the field, including data visualisation, big data and machine learning.

You will also undertake projects, programming and modelling throughout your data science studies that will enable you to provide practical work examples to potential employers that are relevant across a range of industries.

JCU’s small class sizes mean you’ll benefit from personalised learning and one-on-one engagement with your lecturers. Explore opportunities to gain experience before graduation with the JCU Work Integrated Learning program, as well as other internships and industry networking events.

With options to study at our Townsville, Cairns or Singapore campuses, you can consider the domestic and international implications of this rapidly expanding field. Gain experience from across Europe, America or Asia by taking advantage of our Study Abroad programs , to see up-to-the minute developments in your field from an international perspective. The connections and knowledge you gain can carry you into a variety of career opportunities.

Rishitha Asam sitting at a computer.

Rishitha Asam

Alumni jcu data science.

“This course is helping me to build a career that I was always keen on. I strongly believe that after completion of this course, I will be able to synthesise and evaluate complex information, concepts, methods, and theories from a range of sources. I am certain that this course will be a bridge to fulfill my ambition in becoming a Data Scientist. There’s just so much to learn in this course and I have always been intrigued by it. This is a pretty vast subject and it is often said to be the future of AI. There are plenty of opportunities in this field. I enjoy the challenges in this course.”

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