Bachelor of Data Science

2024 Deakin University Handbook

Year	2025 course information
Award granted	Bachelor of Data Science
Deakin course code	S379
Faculty	Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment
Campus	Offered at Burwood (Melbourne)
Online	Yes
Duration	3 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Course Map - enrolment planning tool	This course map is for new students commencing from Trimester 1 2025 Course maps for commencement in previous years are available on the Course Maps webpage or please contact a Student Adviser in Student Central.
CRICOS course code	109274B Burwood (Melbourne)
Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition	The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7

Course sub-headings

Course overview

Propel yourself into a thriving field with Deakin's Bachelor of Data Science.

With every click, swipe, search, share and stream data is created at a phenomenal rate. Its volume and complexity give rise to considerable opportunities as businesses strive to harness the power of big data to remain competitive. Throughout this course you will explore the entire lifecycle of data. You will develop a deep understanding of how information is created, gathered, processed, and analysed as well as how it is used to generate insights and inform strategic decisions.

You will study innovative course content covering the latest data science trends and insights. This ensures you graduate with a specialist, technical and highly relevant skill set that is sought after by employers across the globe. Explore different analytical methods, tools and techniques as you learn key concepts and deep dive into advanced topics in machine learning, AI and predictive analytics.

Want to hone your analytical skills for a rewarding career in data science?

Designed in collaboration with industry, the Bachelor of Data Science gives you ample opportunity to sharpen your skill set under the guidance and direction of our supportive teaching staff. You’ll explore fundamental concepts across maths, stats and programming at the beginning of the course, before diving into more advanced topics in data wrangling, capture and mining; machine learning; deep learning and AI. You’ll also have opportunities to undertake a professional placement and to work in teams with an industry partner, tackling authentic business challenges using real-world data sets as part of a capstone project in your final year. These real-world learning opportunities enable you to deepen your knowledge as well as your technical and problem-solving skills building your preparedness to enter the workforce and hit the ground running.

To differentiate your studies and focus your career towards the area that interests you most, you will also have the opportunity to undertake minor studies in a topic of your choosing.

Indicative student workload

You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.

Career opportunities

Data professionals are in high demand as organisations increasingly rely on skilled specialists to unlock hidden patterns in big data. This provides meaningful insights that inform decisions, drive business growth and increase their strategic advantage in the competitive business world.

No longer found solely amongst the big tech giants, data analysts are needed across every industry, opening a world of opportunities for your career.

As a graduate, you will have the skills, knowledge and industry connections to build a varied and sustainable career as a data analyst, data scientist, business strategist, data engineer, data architect, data visualisation specialist, information analyst or reporting analyst in the public and private sectors. Depending on your chosen industry or sector, you could be optimising digital marketing campaigns, developing new and innovative products and services, predicting customer sales patterns, or increasing productivity in areas such as sales or supply chain management.

Participation requirements

Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.

Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.

Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.

Mandatory student checks

Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.

Equipment requirements

The learning experiences and assessment activities within this course require that students have access to a range of technologies beyond a desktop computer or laptop. For information regarding hardware and software requirements, please refer to the Bring your own device (BYOD) guidelines via the School of Information Technology website in addition to the individual unit outlines in the Handbook.

Course Learning Outcomes

Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes	Course Learning Outcomes
Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities	Develop a broad and coherent knowledge of data science, with detailed knowledge of the data analytics principles and approaches and knowledge, skills, tools, and methodologies for professional practice.
Communication	Communicate in a professional context to inform, explain and drive sustainable innovation through data science, utilising a range of verbal, graphical and written methods, recognising the needs of diverse audiences.
Digital literacy	Use digital technologies, platforms, frameworks and tools from the field of data science to generate, manage, process and share digital resources and solutions.
Critical thinking	Critically analyse information provided to inform decision making and evaluation of plans and solutions associated with the field of data science.
Problem solving	Apply cognitive, technical, and creative skills from data science to understand requirements and design, implement, and operate solutions to real-world and ill-defined computing problems.
Self-management	Work independently to apply knowledge and skills to new situations in professional practice and/or further learning in the field of data science with adaptability, autonomy, responsibility, and personal accountability for actions as a practitioner and a learner.
Teamwork	Work independently and collaboratively to achieve team goals, contributing knowledge and skills from data science to advance the teams objectives, employing effective teamwork practices and principles, and comprehending distinct workplace roles and their functions.
Global citizenship	Apply professional and ethical standards and accountability in the field of data science, and engage openly and respectfully with diverse communities and cultures.

Course rules

To complete the Bachelor of Data Science students must pass 24 credit points and meet the following course rules to be eligible to graduate:

DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in their first study period
SIT010 Safety Induction Program (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
17 credit points of core units
3 credit points of data science capstone units
4 credit points - one of:
- 1 minor (4 credit points)
- 4 credit points of open elective units
a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3

Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements. See the enrolment codes and terminology to help make sense of the University’s vocabulary.

Minors

Refer to the details of each minor sequence for availability.

Course structure

Core

Year 1 - Trimester 1

DAI001

Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0 credit points)

SIT010

Safety Induction Program (0 credit points)

STP010

Career Tools for Employability (0 credit points)

SIT111

Computer Systems

SIT192

Discrete Mathematics

SIT112

Introduction to Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

SIT102

Introduction to Programming

Year 1 - Trimester 2

SIT103

Database Fundamentals

SIT191

Introduction to Statistics and Data Analysis

SIT232

Object-Oriented Development

SIT292

Linear Algebra for Data Analysis

Year 2 - Trimester 1

SIT202

Computer Networks and Communication

SIT220

Data Wrangling

SIT221

Data Structures and Algorithms

Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)

Year 2 - Trimester 2

SIT223

Professional Practice in Information Technology #

SIT343

Feature Generation and Engineering

SIT225

Data Capture Technologies

Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)

Year 3 - Trimester 1

SIT330

Natural Language Processing

SIT307

Machine Learning

SIT374

Team Project (A) - Project Management and Practices ^

Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)

Year 3 - Trimester 2

SIT319

Deep Learning

Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)

Plus 2 credit points from the following capstone options:

SIT378

Team Project (B) - Execution and Delivery ^

SIT306

IT Placements and Industry Experience ^+

SIT344

Professional Practice (2 credit points)^+

^ Offered in Trimester 1, Trimester 2 and Trimester 3

# Corequisite of STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit)

+ Students must have completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit) and SIT223 Professional Practice in Information Technology.

It is important to ensure your course plan meets the course rules detailed above. Students should contact Student Central for assistance with course planning, choosing the right units and understanding course rules.

Electives

Select from a range of elective units offered across many courses. You may even be able to choose elective units from a completely different discipline area (subject to meeting unit requirements).

Work experience

This course includes a compulsory work placement with an approved host organisation to take your learning beyond the classroom and prepare you to be work and career ready. Work Integrated Learning units offered in this course provide you with the opportunity to develop your professional networks and work practices while completing your degree.

Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.

For more information visit SEBE Work Integrated Learning.

Details of minor sequences

Cloud Technologies

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000011

Overview

In today’s data-driven digital world, cloud technologies are an area of significant business interest and their adoption and integration into business practices is growing at a rapid pace. This minor focuses on providing you with the knowledge, skills and expertise required to construct solutions using virtualisation, enterprise networks, system security and cloud infrastructure.

Units

SIT233

Cloud Computing

SIT226

Cloud Automation Technologies

SIT323

Cloud Native Application Development

SIT314

Software Architecture and Scalability for Internet-Of-Things

Cyber Security

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000015

Overview

This minor sequence provides an insight into cyber security and equips you with skills in secure coding, security management and ethical hacking. In today's digital world, cyber security threats are a major challenge across many sectors. As cyber-attacks become everyday occurrences, IT professionals with the ability to identify, analyse and manage cyber security challenges are in increasing demand globally.

Units

SIT182

Real World Practices for Cyber Security

SIT218

Secure Coding

SIT284

Cyber Security Management

SIT379

Ethical Hacking

Education

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-A000066

Overview

Explore topics like the sociology, politics and policy of education, the history and philosophy of education, how psychology is applied to the work of educators to better understand how people learn and become motivated, and how we teach each other about inclusivity and diversity.

Units

To complete a minor sequence in education studies, select any four (4) units from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3.

EDU101

Education, Knowledge and Society

EDU102

From Aristotle to ATARS: the History, Philosophy and Future of Education

EDU201

Educational Psychology

EDU202

Educators and Learners

EDU203

Literacy, Numeracy and Education

EDU301

Culture, Diversity and Participation in Education

EDU302

Education and Humanitarian Development

EDU303

Education, Communication and Technology

Embedded Systems

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000005

Overview

This minor will focus on developing solutions that use hardware, software, sensors, actuators, prototyping platforms and systems software. Students will gain the skills and knowledge to solve real-world problems in smart-homes, the Internet of Things and robotics.

Units

SIT122

Robotics Studio

SIT225

Data Capture Technologies

SIT210

Embedded Systems Development

SIT329

Advanced Embedded Systems

Finance

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-M30005

Overview

This minor will provide students with an understanding of the basic principles of business finance and the operation of money and capital markets. This knowledge is extended into practical application in domestic and international equity and debt markets.

Units

MAF101

Fundamentals of Finance

Plus three (3) units from:

MAF203

Business Finance

MAF202

Banking and Financial Institutions

MAF306

International Finance and Investment

MAF307

Equities and Investment Analysis

Full Stack Development

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000012

Overview

Web development is one of the fastest-growing careers in today’s economy, with growing demand for full stack web developers who are proficient in both front-end and back-end web development. Throughout this minor sequence, you will explore responsive web apps, full stack development across frontend applications and backend services, and mobile programming for Android and iOS.

Units

SIT120

Introduction to Responsive Web Apps

SIT331

Full Stack Development: Secure Backend Services

SIT313

Full Stack Development: Secure Frontend Applications

SIT305

Mobile Application Development

Health Analytics

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000017

Overview

This minor provides specialisation in health data analysis, enabling students to have the specific domain knowledge to work with field experts and to introduce the use of data science tools in the area. Students who are interested in the field of health and want to work as a data scientist in this area are encouraged to do this minor. Unit HSH302 Policy, Politics and Health is recommended as an elective for those wanting to extend their studies in this area.

Units

HBS107

Understanding Health

HBS108

Health Information and Data

HSH205

Epidemiology and Biostatistics 1

HSH216

Epidemiology and Biostatistics 2

Human Resource Management

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-M30012

Overview

This minor will equip students with the skills, knowledge and abilities needed to perform basic workplace tasks in human resource management. Human resource management is a critical area that is relevant to all organisations as it encompasses employees working effectively within and for organisations.

Units

MMM132

Management

Plus three (3) units from:

MMH230

Fundamentals of Human Resource Management

MMH231

Human Resource Practice

MMH232

Human Resource Development

MMH349

Employment Relations

Marketing

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-M30008

Overview

This minor focusses on developing discipline knowledge and industry-relevant practices in marketing. There is a strong focus on industry-relevant insights, the latest marketing practices, future market trends and strategy development in an ever-changing business landscape. The knowledge and skills developed within the marketing minor are complementary to anyone looking to better understand drivers to successful business outcomes, irrespective of which sector a business may sit within.

Units

MMK101

Marketing Fundamentals

Plus three (3) units from:

MMK251

Services Marketing

MMK266

Consumer Behaviour

MMK295

Integrated Marketing Communications in the Digital Age

MMK368

Business Marketing

Psychology

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000019

Overview

This minor provides specialisation in psychology, enabling students to have the specific domain knowledge to work with field experts and to introduce the use of data science tools in psychology. Students who are interested in the field of psychology and want to work as a data scientist in this area are encouraged to do this minor.

Units

HPS104

Foundations of Psychological Science

HPS111

Introduction to Psychology: Human Behaviour

HPS201

Psychology Research Methods (Introductory)

HPS301

Psychology Research Methods (Intermediate)

Retail Management

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-M30009

Overview

This minor provides you with an understanding of what underpins management and operations in today’s retailing sector. Retail businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to compete without adopting innovation. More and more, new retailers (e.g. Amazon) are impacting the retail landscape at the expense of more traditional bricks and mortar stores. The minor places a strong emphasis on the dynamic nature of retailing, highlighting evolving trends driven by the increasing prevalence of digital marketing technologies. These technologies are changing every aspect of the retailing landscape.

Units

MMK101

Marketing Fundamentals

Plus three (3) units from:

MMK217

Retail Management

MIS313

Strategic Supply Chain Management

MMK280

Brand Management

MMK317

Advanced Retail Management

Security Management

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000003

Overview

This minor will give you the opportunity to use your learned managerial and cyber security skills to assist companies in their planning, governance and change policies, ensuring their resilience and defence of related threats.

Units

Four units from:

MIS211

Cyber Security and Governance

MMH356

Change Management

MMM132

Management

SIT182

Real World Practices for Cyber Security

SIT284

Cyber Security Management

Sports Analytics

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000020

Overview

This minor provides specialisation in sports and exercise data analysis, enabling students to have the specific domain knowledge to work field experts and to introduce the use of data science tools in sports and exercise. Students who are interested in the field of sports and exercise and want to work as a data scientist in this area are encouraged to do this minor.

Units

HSE010

Exercise and Sport Laboratory Safety (0 credit points)

HSE104

Research Methods and Data Analysis in Exercise and Sport

HSE202

Biomechanics

HSE311

Applied Sports Science 1

HSE314

Applied Sports Science 2

Sustainability and Environmental Science

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000021

Overview

This minor provides specialisation in sustainability and environmental science, enabling students to have the specific domain knowledge to work with field experts and to introduce the use of data science tools. Students who are interested in the field of sustainability and environmental science and want to work as a data scientist in this area are encouraged to do this minor.

Units

SLE101

Environmental Techniques and Monitoring

SLE121

Environmental Sustainability

SLE207

Environmental Planning and Impact Assessment

SLE245

Marine Geographic Information Systems

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000009

Overview

Virtual and augmented reality technologies are revolutionising business processes, disrupting the way companies work with complex data sets, and enhancing educational and training practices. They contribute to novel therapies and treatments, and allow access to opportunities despite physical and geographical restrictions. They have also redefined the way we represent and interact with digital media - whether it be our holiday souvenir snapshots, or the latest interactive gaming experience.

Units

SIT183

Interactive Application Design for Virtual and Augmented Reality

SIT283

Development for Virtual and Augmented Reality

SIT253

Content Creation for Interactive Experiences

SIT383

Assembling Virtual and Augmented Reality Experiences

Course duration

Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as failing of units or accessing or completing placements.

Further information

Student Central can help you with course planning, choosing the right units and explaining course rules and requirements.

Contact Student Central

Other learning experiences

You will have the opportunity to participate in a range of extra-curricular learning opportunities, such as internal and external competitions and challenges, industry projects within the Deakin Incubator Group, and international study tours.

Fees and charges

Fees and charges vary depending on the type of fee place you hold, your course, your commencement year, the units you choose to study, and their study discipline or your study load.

Tuition fees increase at the beginning of each calendar year and all fees quoted are in Australian dollars ($AUD). Tuition fees do not include textbooks, computer equipment or software, other equipment or costs such as mandatory checks, travel and stationery.

Estimate your fees

For further information regarding tuition fees, other fees and charges, invoice due dates, withdrawal dates, payment methods visit our Current students website.