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Graduate Diploma in Data Science (Applied)

Postgraduate | 2026

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Your study is delivered 100% online
100% Online
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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.
1.3 year(s) part-time only (no full-time option)
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Program code
XGDDS
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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.
$37,016
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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 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. 

Program overview

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.  

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:

  • 48 units from Core courses

Complete exactly 48 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Foundations of Computer Science - Python A
Course code
COMP5057
Units
6
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Course name
Foundations of Computer Science - Python B
Course code
COMP5058
Units
6
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Course name
Human and Ethical Factors in Computer Science
Course code
COMP6029
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Data Taming, Modelling and Visualisation
Course code
INFO5043
Units
6
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Course name
Applied Data Science
Course code
INFO5044
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Applications of Data Science
Course code
INFO5045
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Real Data: Modern Methods for Finding Hidden Patterns
Course code
INFO5046
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Mathematical Foundations of Data Science
Course code
MATH5022
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Applied Data Science and Mathematics
Course code
MATH5023
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.