If tackling complex challenges and making data-driven decisions excites you, a career in data science could be your next move.  

Data scientists are at the forefront of IT, using data visualisation, big data, and machine learning to transform how organisations operate. With expertise in data modelling, supercomputing, and advanced computer systems, they analyse vast datasets to uncover practical solutions.

Build your career in data science

A career in data science is driven by curiosity, analytical thinking, and a problem-solving mindset—turning information into strategies that shape the future.

With a growing demand both locally and globally, data science offers the potential for a lucrative career. IBM reports that 90% of companies face challenges in finding skilled data scientists, pointing to a significant talent shortage—your expertise will be sought after from day one.

Swinburne offers courses to support you at any stage, whether you’re just starting out or building on your data science career.

Discover the qualifications you’ll need, how Swinburne’s courses help you gain hands-on skills, and ways to build a network for success as a data scientist.

3 steps to become a data scientist 

Becoming a data scientist takes three steps: earning qualifications, gaining industry experience, and building a professional network. 

With Swinburne’s UniLink diplomas to masters, there’s a course for every stage, whether you’re starting out or building on existing skills.

1. Obtain a qualification

Undergraduate courses

Passionate about statistical methods, tech-driven solutions, and supercomputing for big data? The Bachelor of Data Science dives straight into data science, software development, data visualisation, and machine learning. Start hands-on learning from your first semester.

Gain a solid foundation in computer science with the flexibility to specialise in data science with the Bachelor of Computer Science (Majoring in Data Science). You'll cover software development, programming, systems, and IT architecture alongside core data science courses.

You could also consider the Bachelor of Computer Science (Professional) which includes a mandatory 12-month paid work placement.

Postgraduate courses

The Graduate Certificate of Data Science is ideal for those with a degree in any field or relevant work experience.  Provides a pathway into a masters in data science for deeper specialisation. 

Advance your data science skills, preparing to lead and tackle complex challenges with the Master of Data Science. Learn advanced techniques for decision-making in a data-driven field.

Pathway courses

The Diploma of Information Technology (UniLink) is a one-year program that provides a pathway to a bachelor’s degree. Start with core skills in business analytics and computing—ideal for exploring data science.  Finish with direct entry into the second year of the Bachelor of Data Science.

2. Gain experience

Swinburne’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) gives you hands-on data science experience throughout your course. 

You’ll access the OZStar supercomputer, learn from top-ranked academics, and work with industry partners across fields like infrastructure, healthcare, and tech. 

Through placements, internships, and real-world projects with partners like the Bureau of Meteorology and Bosch, you’ll build in-demand skills and a standout CV for your data science career.

Bachelor of Data Science

This degree offers specialised data science training with a mix of theory and practical industry experiences. Choose a 6- or 12-month professional placement, work on six data science projects, and complete a capstone project, solving a real-world client challenge.

Bachelor of Computer Science

Includes industry-informed case studies and the option of a 6- or 12-month work placement. Gain practical experience that connects classroom learning with real industry applications.

Or the Bachelor of Computer Science (Professional) includes a guaranteed 12-month paid work placement.

Master of Data Science 

Swinburne’s advanced data science training equips you for leadership. Projects start in your first semester, tackling issues like dental implant identification, understanding green house gas footprints and aviation route planning using social media data. Practice-driven learning makes you job ready and capable of becoming a data science leader. 

Diploma of Information Technology (UniLink)

Ideal for building foundational skills in computing, IT, and data science. Projects are industry-informed, giving you relevant experience as you prepare for further studies or direct entry into a bachelor’s program.

3. Build your network

Hone your expertise in software engineering and computer science with foundational skills in hardware and operating systems at Swinburne, where state-of-the-art labs and the latest tech ensure you stay ahead.

As a Swinburne data science student, you can connect with the Australian Computer Society

Membership opens doors to networking, career events, mentoring, and professional development with fellow students and industry professionals.  

For more opportunities, check out the Association of Data Scientists, a global community offering continuous learning, certifications, research access, and discounts on further education—ideal for expanding your skills and connections worldwide.

Explore data science courses

Searching for a data science course? From entry-level to expert, explore courses that build essential skills, practical experience, and connections for your career.

Browse data science courses

How long will it take to train as a data scientist? 

Becoming a data scientist usually takes 3-4 years with a bachelor’s degree. Want to dive deeper? Adding a master’s or certifications can take 1-2 more years for advanced roles.

Quick facts about data science careers

Average salary

$100 to $130k

Growth rate

26% over next 5 years

Job satisfaction

80%

What skills do data scientists need? 

Technical skills:

  • software programming using programs such as Python and R
  • perform statistical analysis
  • apply analytical thinking techniques
  • advanced problem solving
  • converse with technical peers.

Creative skills:

  • create data visualisations
  • storytelling using data
  • simplify complex concepts
  • apply design thinking to technical challenges
  • apply user experience design techniques.

Soft skills:

  • written and verbal communication skills
  • work in cross-functional teams
  • critical thinking
  • stakeholder empathy and management
  • adaptability in tackling diverse data science challenges.

Study data science at Swinburne

At Swinburne, you’ll find data science courses designed to fit your career goals—whether you’re starting fresh or advancing in the field.

Courses and study pathways

Duration:

3-4 years full-time or part-time equivalent  

Entry requirements:

Bachelor degree or higher award from a recognised higher education institution or equivalent.

Accreditation:

Australian Computer Society

Career outcomes:
  • data scientist
  • business intelligence developer
     
Recommended courses:
Duration:

2 years full-time

Entry requirements:

Completion of a recognised bachelor’s degree or higher award in any discipline, or Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma of Data Science from a recognised higher education institution, or completion of the Postgraduate Qualifying Program at Swinburne.

Accreditation:

Australian Computer Society

Career outcomes: 
  • data scientist
  • data engineer
  • data architect.
     
Recommended courses:

The master's degree is a nested suite of courses that includes a Graduate Certificate of Data Science and the Graduate Diploma of Data Science.

Duration:

8 months full-time or part-time equivalent

Entry requirements:

Successful completion of Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or its equivalent, and/or relevant work history.

Completion or partial completion of an approved tertiary qualification (includes certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, associate degrees and degrees). 

Recommended course:

Why study data science at Swinburne?

  • Gain real-world problem-solving experience

  • Access state-of-the-art OzStar supercomputing facilities

  • Get hands-on experience through internships and placements

Frequently asked questions

Data scientists play a key role in turning data into meaningful information that guides decisions across a range of industries.  

As a data scientist, your day-to-day tasks include collecting and cleaning data, analysing trends through statistics and visualisations, and building predictive models. Your work might support areas like public health, infrastructure, or sales forecasting.  

You’ll also interpret and share your findings with stakeholders and collaborate with teams of experts—like doctors, engineers, and business leaders—to make data-driven insights accessible and actionable.

To become a data scientist, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field.  

Swinburne offers data science courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, giving you plenty of options to build your skills.  

If you’re looking for a flexible start, the Diploma of Information Technology (UniLink) is a great entry point, providing foundational knowledge that prepares you for undergraduate data science studies.

A data science qualification from Swinburne sets you up for a career as a data scientist, but it can also open doors to plenty of other paths based on your interests.  

With these skills, you can work across a range of industries—whether it’s tech, healthcare, finance, or marketing: 

  • business intelligence developer
  • data analyst
  • data infrastructure architect
  • data engineer
  • machine learning scientist
  • statistician
  • business analyst
  • marketing analyst.
     

These roles let you apply your data skills in many different ways, so you’ll always have options and never be bored. Whether you love designing systems or diving into market trends, there’s a path that fits your interests.

Swinburne’s data science courses dive into computing, technology, stats, and maths.

To keep up with the coursework, you’ll need some background in these areas, either from past studies or work experience.

Want to chat about your options? Book a one-on-one chat with a course expert or email us your questions.

To become a data scientist, you’ll study subjects like programming, big data visualisation, software design, cloud computing, and database management. Plus, you can tailor your studies by choosing electives that match your interests.

These units, known as majors or minors, might include areas like cybersecurity, data analytics, business forecasting, digital advertising, or engineering.

Data science combines computing, statistics, logic, and creativity.

To succeed in these courses, you’ll need to show that you can handle subjects like computer science, analytics, and statistics, especially as the complexity ramps up.

Make sure to check the entry requirements for your chosen course before applying. If you’d like to discuss your fit for a Swinburne data science course, book a one-on-one consultation with a course expert to chat about your options.

There’s no official accreditation needed to be a data scientist in Australia, but Swinburne’s courses make sure you’re set up to handle the real challenges that data scientists face.  

Plus, our bachelor’s and postgraduate degrees are accredited by the Australian Computer Society, so you’ll graduate with skills that are recognised by industry experts.

Absolutely! Completing the Diploma of Information Technology (UniLink) guarantees you entry straight into the second year of either the Bachelor of Data Science or the Bachelor of Computer Science.  

You can choose between two streams: Computer Science or Business Analytics and Analyst and it’s a great way to get a head start on your degree. 

Along with FEE-HELP loans, Swinburne offers a range of scholarships to support students, promote equity, and recognise hard work and academic excellence—take a look at the full list of scholarships.

Swinburne data science courses are delivered face-to-face at our Hawthorn campus in Melbourne, giving you the chance to really get involved in hands-on learning.

You'll have access to cutting-edge facilities, like the OZStar supercomputer, and benefit from in-person interactions with peers and experts.

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