Bachelor of Data Science (Honours)

2026 Deakin University Handbook

Year	2026 course information
Award granted	Bachelor of Data Science (Honours)
Course Credit Points	32
Deakin course code	S479
Course version	1
Faculty	Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment
Course Information	For students who commenced from 2023 onwards
Campus	Offered at Burwood (Melbourne), Online
Duration	4 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Course Map - enrolment planning tool	This course map is for new students commencing from Trimester 1 2026 This course map is for new students commencing from Trimester 2 2026 Course maps for commencement in previous years are available on the Course Maps webpage or please contact a Student Adviser in Student Central.
CRICOS code	109275A Burwood (Melbourne)
Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition	The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 8

Course sub-headings

Course overview

Explore the entire lifecycle of data and develop a deep understanding of how information is transformed into insights that drive strategic business decisions. During the Bachelor of Data Science (Honours), you will have the opportunity to complete a professional placement or work in teams with an industry partner to solve authentic business challenges using real-world data sets. Hone your skills through focused studies in your area of interest and complete a research project in your final year.

Propel yourself into the thriving field of data science. You will study the latest data science trends, insights and emerging topics to ensure you graduate with a 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?

The Bachelor of Data Science (Honours) 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 management; data modelling and design; data wrangling, capture and mining; software development; machine learning; deep learning and AI. You can focus your studies towards your area of interest by undertaking minor studies in a topic of your choosing. In your final year, consolidate your knowledge through the completion of an honours research project.

Indicative student workload

You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, 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.

Professional recognition

The Bachelor of Data Science (Honours) is professionally accredited with the Australian Computer Society (ACS). This course is recognised internationally for entry to professional practice by other accrediting bodies through the Seoul Accord.

Career opportunities

According to the World Economic Forum’s ‘Future of Jobs Report 2025’, big data specialists top the list of the fastest-growing roles globally. Data warehousing specialists, along with data analysts and scientists, also rank within the top 12. This course provides you with the cutting-edge knowledge and hands-on experience to stand out in this booming industry.

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.

Graduates from the Bachelor of Data Science (Honours) are highly sought after by employers for their investigative, exploratory and lateral-thinking approach to complex data challenges. By undertaking a focused research project in your final year of study, you will acquire advanced technical expertise in your chosen specialisation. Plus, you will have the skills to become a creative, solutions-driven professional in the dynamic and ever-evolving field of data science.

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.

Alternative exits

Bachelor of Data Science (S379)

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. Students will be required to purchase minor equipment, such as small single board computers, microcontrollers and sensors, which will be used within a range of units in this course. This equipment is also usable by the student beyond their studies. Equipment requirements and details of suppliers will be provided on a per-unit basis. The indicative cost of this equipment for this course is AUD$500.

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 coherent and advanced knowledge of data science, with detailed knowledge of the data analytics principles and approaches and knowledge, skills, tools, and methodologies for professional practice and research.
Communication	Communicate in a professional context incorporating research-driven perspective 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	Identify, select and use digital technologies, platforms, frameworks, and tools from the field of data science to generate, manage, process and share digital resources for research and practice.
Critical thinking	Critically analyse information provided to inform decision making and evaluation of plans and solutions associated with research and practice in data science.
Problem solving	Apply cognitive, technical, and creative skills from data science to understand requirements and design, implement, operate, and evaluate innovative solutions to real-world and ill-defined computing problems.
Self-management	Work independently to apply knowledge and skills to new situations in research and 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 practice and research 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 research and practice 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 (Honours) you must pass 32 credit points. This includes:

DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
17 credit points of core units
3 credit points of capstone units
4 credit points of research training capstone units
8 credit points which may comprise of:
- 2 minors (8 credit points)
- 1 minor (4 credit points) and 4 credit points of open elective units
a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
a minimum of 10 credit points at level 3 or above.

Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.

Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.

Minors

Refer to the details of each minor sequence for availability.

Students wishing to complete two minor sequences in the Bachelor of Data Science (Honours) cannot count more than 2 units in common for both minor sequences.

Course structure

Core units

Year 1 - Trimester 1

DAI001

Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (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 ^ (capstone)

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 ^ (capstone)

SIT306

IT Placements and Industry Experience ^+ (capstone)

SIT344

Professional Practice (2 credit points)^+ (capstone)

Year 4 - Trimester 1

SIT723

Research Techniques and Applications (2 credit points) (research training capstone)^

Plus 2 open electives or minor units (2 credit points)

Year 4 - Trimester 2

2 open electives or minor units (2 credit points)

Plus two (2) credit points from the following research training capstone options:

SIT724

Research Project (2 credit points)^ (research training capstone)

SIT746

Research Project (Advanced) (2 credit points)^* (research training capstone)

^ 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.

* Entry to SIT746 is subject to specific unit entry requirements.

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. In some cases 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 (WIL) 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. 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 cyberattacks 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

Cyber Security Analytics

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000016

Overview

In today's digital world, cyber security threats are a major challenge across many sectors. As cyberattacks become everyday occurrences, IT professionals with the ability to identify, analyse and manage cyber security challenges are in increasing demand globally. This minor sequence provides an insight into the analysis of data associated with cyber security attacks.

Units

SIT182

Real World Practices for Cyber Security

SIT282

Computer Forensics and Investigations

SIT384

Cyber Security Analytics

Plus one (1) unit from:

SIT326

Advanced Network Analytics and Forensics

SIT327

Network Forensics

Education

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-A310007

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) credit points 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

EDU202

Educators and Learners

EDU204

Literacy, Numeracy and Multi-Tier Systems of Supports (MTSS) Across the Curriculum

EDU210

The Brain and Learning

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 (IoT) 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. There is growing demand for full stack web developers who are proficient in both frontend and backend 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, which will enable students to have specific domain knowledge to work with the experts of the field and introduce using 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. 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

Information Technologies Research

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000018

Overview

This minor provides students with hands on experience in research and publishing scientific papers. This minor is designed to help support students aiming to pursue a research higher degree.

Units

SLE761

Professional Research Practice

SIT718

Real World Analytics

SIT747

Research Project (Publication) (2 credit points)+

+ Entry to SIT747 is subject to specific unit entry requirements.

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.

Units

MMK101

Marketing Fundamentals

plus 2 units from:

Services Marketing

Consumer Behaviour

Brand Management ^*

Integrated Marketing Communications in the Digital Age

plus 1 unit from:

MMK365

Marketing Insights

MMK368

Business Marketing

MMM343

Business Ethics

* MMT code denotes the study tour version of the unit.

Students are advised to review the unit prerequisites to ensure they meet the requirements for each unit in the minor sequence.

Psychology

Campuses

Burwood (Melbourne), Online

Unit set code

MN-S000019

Overview

This minor provides specialisation in psychology, which will enable students to have specific domain knowledge to work with the experts of the field and introduce using data science tools in psychology. Students who are interested in the field of psychology and who 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

The security management 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)

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 with 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)

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 in the area. 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

You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.

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

Tuition fees will vary depending on the type of fee place you hold, your course, your commencement year, the units you choose to study, your study load and/or unit discipline.

Your tuition fees will increase annually at the start of each calendar year. All fees quoted are in Australian dollars ($AUD) and do not include additional costs such as textbooks, computer equipment or software, other equipment, mandatory checks, travel, consumables and other costs.

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

Estimate your fees

Further information

Contact Student Central for assistance in course planning, choosing the right units and explaining course rules and requirements. Student Central can also provide information for a wide range of services at Deakin. To help you understand the University vocabulary, please refer to our Enrolment codes and terminology page.

Contact Student Central