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Graduate Certificate in Data Science (Applied)

Postgraduate | 2026

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Mode
Mode
Your study is delivered 100% online
100% Online
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Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
January, March, May, July, August, October
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Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load.
0.8 year(s) part-time only (no full-time option)
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Program code
XGCDS
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Study as
Part-time only (no full-time option)
Fees
Indicative total fees
Indicative total fees
Fee-Paying programs require the full tuition fees of your study, which can be deferred partly or in full to a FEE-HELP loan. The total cost of the program is displayed.
$18,530 per 0.5 of a year
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Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
None
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Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
Good knowledge of mathematical concepts.
Time commitment
Time commitment
Time commitment
We recommend that students dedicate 10-15 hours per week to each course, which includes time studying, engaging with learning resources, and completing assessments.
20-25 hours per week per course
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

  • A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) degree or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution.
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Note:

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

Why Graduate Certificate in Data Science (Applied)?

Transform raw data into actionable insights.

The world generates vast amounts of data every day. Organisations across all sectors are focused on gathering, analysing and leveraging this data to improve decision-making and foster innovation. 

Our Graduate Certificate in Data Science (Applied) will put these highly sought-after skills in your professional portfolio.

This program is taught 100% online, giving you the freedom to study on your terms.

Program overview

Overview

Learn fundamental data science skills while you keep working. Our flexible Graduate Certificate in Data Science (Applied) is taught 100% online and is designed to be completed in eight months of part-time study.

In this graduate certificate, you'll learn from content designed by practising industry-leading data scientists who are experts in their respective fields. Cover core topics in data science technologies and best practices to drive organisational change. Apply the principles of big data and data science analysis to tackle real-world challenges. Implement context-aware data analysis, machine learning, and optimisation techniques using industry-standard methods. Evaluate the social and ethical implications of data science to ensure responsible practice. Communicate data insights effectively using advanced analysis, presentation, and visualisation techniques.

You’ll emerge with a comprehensive skill set that combines technical expertise with critical thinking and ethical awareness, preparing you to lead data-driven initiatives across various sectors.

What you'll learn

Our 100% online Graduate Certificate in Data Science (Applied) provides you with freedom to study on your own terms. Designed to be completed over eight months of part-time study, this flexible online program will equip you to apply data science principles effectively and confidently in your chosen professional field.  

You’ll complete four core courses, covering topics such as: data taming, modelling and visualisation, foundations of computer sciences – Python A; applied data science; and human and ethical factors in computer science. 

This combination of courses is designed to help you gain a broad understanding of data science as an organisational process. Throughout, you’ll build sound working knowledge of the discipline’s technical practice alongside comprehensive skills in evaluating and applying best-practice analytics tools and techniques in real-world settings. 

Your study will include real world-languages and tools, such as: 

  • Python: Known as the Swiss Army knife of the coding world, Python is the most popular and easy to use programming language that demands the highest salaries.  
  • R & RStudio: Our data certification will teach you to master the most powerful tools in R that will allow you to turn raw data into insights. Learn how to wrangle, analyse and visualise data using R in the course ‘Data taming, modelling, and visualisation’. 
  • NumPy: NumPy is an important linear algebra library in Python that data science and machine learning packages depend on. You will become familiar with how to build multidimensional arrays and high-level mathematical functions. 
  • Pandas: Pandas is another Python software library used for data manipulation and analysis. Discover how to explore, clean, transform, visualise and learning from data.  
  • Matplotlib: Matplotlib is used to create high-quality graphs, charts and figures – an essential component of data science. 

All assessments and coursework are 100% online. Types of assessments include analysis, case studies, discussion board discussions, practical projects or quizzes. 

What courses you'll study

Complete 24 units comprising:

  • 24 units from Core courses

Complete exactly 24 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Foundations of Computer Science - Python A
Course code
COMP5057
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Data Taming, Modelling and Visualisation
Course code
INFO5043
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Applied Data Science
Course code
INFO5044
Units
6
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Course name
Applied Data Science and Mathematics
Course code
MATH5023
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Human and Ethical Factors in Computer Science
Course code
COMP6029
Units
6
How to Apply

How to apply

Applications are open for Australian students to study at Adelaide University in 2026.

Your study experience and support

Studying 100% online with Adelaide University means joining a dynamic community of learners – all supported by dedicated teams committed to your success. From day one to graduation, you’ll have access to comprehensive academic, student and technical support teams to ensure you get the most out of your online learning journey.   

Student support services 

Need help with enrolments, managing your study load, or setting your academic goals? Our student support team is here to assist. They’re your first point of contact for advice and are available seven days a week, including out-of-hours and on weekends. Get the help you need – when it suits you. 

As an online student, you’ll also have access to our specialised on-campus student support services. Whether you’re looking for career advice, health and wellbeing support, international student assistance, accessibility services, or something else, we’ve got you covered. Visit the Support webpage to explore the services available.   

Online academic support 

From understanding course content to tackling assignments, writing, and referencing, our expert academics are here to guide you. Available seven days a week, they’ll provide personalised support to help you progress through your studies. 

Tech support 

We’ve got your back when it comes to technology. Our IT support team is available 24/7 to resolve any tech challenges you might face. With fast response times and tailored solutions, we’ll ensure nothing stands in your way. You’ll also enjoy free access to software downloads required for your program.

Study hours

Adelaide University’s 100% online programs offer the flexibility to fit your lifestyle. You can engage with course materials at any time that works for you – there’s no need to log in at set times. To stay on track, we recommend setting aside 10 to 15 hours per week for each course, but you can adapt your schedule and your study load to suit your needs. 

Assessment

All assessments, including exams (if required) are conducted 100% online – so you’ll never need to travel to submit an assignment or sit an exam. Depending on your program, your assessments might include: 

  • An industry-relevant project or case study 
  • An online presentation 
  • Essays and reports.