Why Graduate Diploma in Data Science (Applied)?
Uncover opportunities and inform innovation.
Data science is everywhere. In every industry and sector – from business, manufacturing and defence, to health, education and the arts – it's shaping directions and driving decisions at every level. The ability to apply data insights can take your career virtually anywhere.
Our Graduate Diploma of Data Science (Applied) puts it all within your reach – delivered 100% online, giving you the flexibility to study on your own terms.
Overview
Our flexible Graduate Diploma in Data Science (Applied) is taught 100% online, and is designed to be completed in 1.3 years of part-time study. Develop your industry-aligned technical skills while you continue working. Build on your broad and foundational expertise so you can adapt to future innovations effectively and confidently.
In this graduate diploma, you’ll expand your skillset beyond foundational practices and lay the groundwork for the advanced skills covered in the master’s level program. You’ll build strong interpersonal skills, enabling you to communicate data science strategies and analyses to diverse audiences. Broaden your understanding of global perspectives in data science by exploring case studies from a wide variety of disciplines and fields.
You’ll emerge as a well-rounded professional, equipped with technical expertise, sharp critical thinking, and ethical awareness, ready to drive data innovation across different industries.
Key features
Study 100% online and at a pace that suits you. - Learn from content designed by practising, industry-leading data scientists who are at the forefront of the field.
- Benefit from flexible learning with courses taught in intensive and blended mode.
- Develop your skills in multiple programming languages, learning from leaders in the data science field.
- Build on your fundamental data science skills including key mathematical and data modelling methods.
- Use this qualification to further your career or continue onto our master’s program.
What you'll learn
Our 100% online Graduate Diploma in Data Science (Applied) is a 1.3-year part-time program that will teach you how to effectively implement and confidently apply data science principles in your chosen profession.
Build on your understanding of data science as an organisational process. Develop comprehensive skills in evaluating and applying best-practice analytics tools and techniques in real-world settings and explore the strategic impact of data science within various industry contexts, technical data practice and management.
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.
Then you’ll continue with four courses to deepen your data science knowledge: foundations of computer sciences – Python B, applications of data science, mathematical foundations of data science, and real data: modern methods for finding hidden patterns.
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 48 units comprising:
- 42 units for all Core courses, and
- 6 units from Core selective
Complete 42 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Foundations of Computer Science - Python A
|
Course code
COMP5057
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations of Computer Science - Python B
|
Course code
COMP5058
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
OL Human and Ethical Factors in Computer Science
|
Course code
COMP6029
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Data Taming, Modelling and Visualisation
|
Course code
INFO5043
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Applications of Data Science
|
Course code
INFO5045
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Real Data: Modern Methods for Finding Hidden Patterns
|
Course code
INFO5046
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
OL Mathematical Foundations of Data Science
|
Course code
MATH5022
|
Units
6
|
Complete exactly 6 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Applied Data Science
|
Course code
INFO5044
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Applied Data Science and Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH5023
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
You’ll graduate well-prepared to apply data science skills in your chosen industry. You could uncover hidden opportunities to gain a competitive edge with innovative products or services. You might discover evidence-based strategies to optimise curriculum or training delivery for more impactful learning. Perhaps you'll find ways to speed up trauma rehabilitation or boost attendance at cultural events.
Tech giants such as IBM, Amazon, and Microsoft employ the largest number of data scientists globally. With access to vast amounts of data, they are well-placed to drive innovation in AI, automation, and machine learning, helping them sustain their competitive edge.
Big data insights can generate significant financial gains by uncovering both untapped opportunities and hidden risks. Consultants and financial institutions hire data scientists to assist clients, automate processes, and improve cost efficiencies.
Data science roles in the government sector are on the rise as leaders recognise the economic, environmental, and social advantages that data can provide. Areas such as fraud detection, tax compliance, weather forecasting, smart cities, and intelligence all demand specialised data science expertise.
Potential roles you could work in include:
- Business data analyst
- Data analyst
- Data scientist
- Database coordinator.
Industry trends
The data science job market is growing as organisations employ large numbers of data specialists and data analysts to demystify today’s world (Department of Industry, Science and Resources, 2024). The need for data scientists is predicted to grow in an increasingly data-driven world. The projected job growth for data scientists is 28% in the next five years, making the career prospects promising (Randstad, 2024).
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.
