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
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's degree in any field or equivalent.
You can use professional experience and prior learning to enter into a postgraduate qualification at UC through their Professional Pathway Entry program. If you have significant work experience or hold industry-recognised qualifications, this program could be your route to bypass undergraduate study and accelerate your career.
Assumed knowledge
Year 12 mathematics and functional knowledge of using computer systems.
English language requirements
- An IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with no band score below 6.0 (or equivalent).
Contact the university or visit its website for more information.
Recognition of Prior Learning
There are currently no formal credit transfer arrangements for entry to this course. Any previous study or work experience will only be considered as part of the application process in accordance with current course rules and university policy.
Outcomes
Learning outcomes
- Communicate theoretical and technical data science concepts, information and ideas to a variety of audiences using appropriate media.
- Develop specialised knowledge of data science principles, concepts and tools.
- Critically analyse and interpret mathematical and statistical data and other data science information to investigate and solve complex problems.
- 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
Average full-course fee in 2026: From $4,168 (Commonwealth Supported Place)
The fee shown is calculated based on a full-time study load of 12 credit points (four units).
Student fees may vary in accordance with:
- 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.

















