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Curtin University

  • 28% international / 72% domestic

Data Science Major (BSc Science)

  • Non-Award

Data scientists analyse large volumes of data to predict trends and inform decisions across industries. This multidisciplinary course combines programming, statistics, and data analysis to prepare graduates for diverse industries.

Key details

Degree Type
Non-Award
Course Code
MJRU-DATSI

About this course

Overview

Data scientists collate and analyse large volumes of data and communicate their findings to a range of audiences. Their ability to use big data to predict future trends is becoming an essential part of decision-making in business and government.

Data sets are being generated at an unprecedented rate and data availability will continue to increase. Every industry is using large volumes of data - from predicting weather patterns and optimising harvesting in agriculture, to improving patient diagnosis in the health industry and enhancing the management of remote infrastructure in mining.

As a multidisciplinary science, data science combines studies in computing, emerging internet technologies, media and statistics.

In this course, you will gain a foundation in programming and statistics, which will form the basis of higher-level studies in data mining, data security and computer simulation. And throughout your studies, you'll build your capacity to extract, analyse and visualise large volumes of data and communicate analytical outcomes to various audiences.

When you graduate, you'll be equipped to enter a diversity of industries where data science is key to innovation.

This major is a Bachelor of Science (Science) degree and can also be studied as a Bachelor of Advanced Science degree.

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

What you need in order to get into this course. There are different pathway options depending on your level of work and education experience.

Select an option that best suits you:

You're considered a high school leaver if you:

  • Completed year 12 in Australia or overseas in the past two years, or
  • Completed TAFE or VET studies in the past two years.

ATAR pathway

  • Minimum ATAR 70
  • Essential WACE subjects (prerequisites)

Essential WACE subjects (prerequisites)

Subjects you must have studied in high school to be eligible for entry into a course.

Mathematics Methods ATAR

  • Desirable WACE subjects

Desirable WACE subjects

High school subjects that aren't essential for entry into the course, but provide a good foundation.

Mathematics Specialist ATAR

Please see our correlation comparability for previous TEE subjects, WACE courses and WACE ATAR courses.

StepUp Entry

StepUp grants additional ATAR points to help eligible students qualify for admission.

Successful StepUp Entry and StepUp Equity Adjustment Admission Pathway (StepUp Bonus) applicants will be eligible to be considered for admission into this course.

Alternative pathways

  • UniReady

If you don't meet our minimum admission criteria, the UniReady Enabling Program can help you qualify for entry into a range of undergraduate courses.

  • Certificate IV + English Competency

The certificate IV is the minimum requirement for university entry. It qualifies you for entry to Curtin courses with a 70 ATAR. You must also meet English language proficiency and check that you meet any extra subject prerequisites (where applicable).

  • STAT entry

Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)

The Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) is a national test for those who don't meet university admission criteria. STAT can be used to meet entry criteria for some courses, or as a way to satisfy Curtin's English proficiency requirements.

STAT is not accepted as an entry pathway, but may be used to demonstrate English language proficiency.

English requirements

Curtin requires all applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English. Specific English requirements for this course are outlined in the IELTS table below.

You may demonstrate English proficiency using the following tests and qualifications.

IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System)

  • Writing: 6
  • Speaking: 6
  • Reading: 6
  • Listening: 6
  • Overall band score: 6

What you will learn

What you'll learn

  • have demonstrated knowledge and understanding in Data Science that is typically at a level that, whilst supported by advanced textbooks, includes some aspects that will be informed by knowledge of the forefront of Data Science, GC1
  • can apply their knowledge and understanding in a manner that indicates a professional approach to Data Science, and have competencies typically demonstrated through devising and sustaining arguments (to both specialist and non-specialist audiences) and solving problems within Data Science, GC2
  • understand the constructs of the scientific method and apply these principles in Data Science using digital technologies, GC3
  • can gather and interpret relevant data within Data Science to inform judgements that include reflection on relevant social, scientific, or ethical issues, including being aware of the diversity of international perspectives associated with Data Science, and how these impact upon the practice of Data Science, GC4
  • understand and appreciate cultural diversity and how it impacts on the practice of Data Science, GC5
  • display a high standard of professional behaviour, including effective time management, both independently and as a team member, GC6

Career pathways

Careers
  • Data scientist
  • Data analyst
  • Data engineer
  • Business intelligence analyst
  • Financial analyst
  • Bioinformatician
Industries
  • Technology
  • Business
  • Economics
  • Banking and finance
  • Mining and energy
  • Agriculture and environment
  • Transport
  • Supply chain logistics
  • Geographic information science
  • Media and communication
  • Health and medical
  • Sport and recreation
  • Arts

Credit for prior study or work

Finish your course sooner with credit for your previous study or work experience.

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How to apply

How to apply

Please review information on how to apply for the campus of your choice

Apply now

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