University of Canberra
Graduate Certificate in Data Science
- Delivery: Face to Face
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 6 months
- Course Type: Graduate Certificate
Gain a solid understanding of data science fundamentals including statistics, data analysis, data preparation and data visualisation.

Course overview
Taught by expert academics, you'll develop your capacity to address complex issues with data-based solutions. You'll be trained to consider both the ethical and technological implications of data reporting and apply your knowledge to real-world examples.
No matter your industry, you'll gain foundational data science skills that can be applied across a diverse range of industries and roles. From health and education to social media and sales, understanding data can unlock insights and patterns that can improve your work.
CSP Subsidised Fees Available
This program has a limited quota of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). The indicative CSP price is calculated based on first year fees for EFT. The actual fee may vary if there are choices in electives or majors.
Key facts
10th August, 2026
15th February, 2027
9th August, 2027
What you will study
Students must pass 12 credit points from the units listed below to complete the Graduate Certificate in Data Science. Each unit is valued at three credit points.
Required
Students must pass 12 credit points as follows:
- Introduction to Statistics
- Introduction to Data Science
- Exploratory Data Analysis and Visualisation
- Data Capture and Preparations
Entry requirements
- Applicants must have an Australian Bachelor degree in any field or equivalent.
Additional admission requirements
International students can only commence their studies in Semester 1 and must study On Campus.
Domestic students can commence their studies in Semester 1 or Semester 2, with the option to study either On Campus or Online.
NOTE: Domestic students commencing in Semester 2 may be required to study some online units in their first semester, even if enrolled as On Campus students.
English language requirements
- An IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with no band score below 6.0 (or equivalent).
Outcomes
Learning outcomes
- Critically analyse and interpret mathematical and statistical data and other data science information to investigate and solve complex problems.Develop specialised knowledge of data science principles, concepts, and tools.
- Communicate theoretical and technical data science concepts, information, and ideas to a variety of audiences using appropriate media.
- Evaluate and apply common programming, modelling, data management, data visualisation, and data mining tools as appropriate to the data, task and/or environment.
Career outcomes
- Data Scientist
- Data Engineer
- Data Analyst
- Statistician
Fees and CSP
Estimated full-course fee in 2026: From $4,168 (Commonwealth Supported Place)
A student’s fee may vary depending on:
- The number of units studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of units.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.
Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.
Commonwealth Supported Places
The Australian Government allocates a certain number of CSPs to the universities each year, which are then distributed to students based on merit.
If you're a Commonwealth Supported Student (CSS), you'll only need to pay a portion of your tuition fees. This is known as the student contribution amount – the balance once the government subsidy is applied. This means your costs are much lower.
Limited CSP spaces are offered to students enrolled in selected postgraduate courses.
Your student contribution amount is:
- Calculated per the unit you're enrolled in.
- Dependent on the study areas they relate to.
- Reviewed and adjusted each year.
HECS-HELP loans are available to CSP students to pay the student contribution amount.