The Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW equips you with foundational skills in programming, statistics and data systems, while exploring their applications in computer science, mathematics and economics. Delivered in seven-week study blocks, this 100% online program offers a fast-tracked pathway to advanced study and data-driven careers. 

The Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW is designed for flexibility and speed. Courses are delivered in seven-week study blocks, allowing you to focus on one course at a time while balancing other commitments. This fully online program consists of four courses and can be completed part-time in as little as eight months, with a study commitment of approximately 20 hours per week.

To apply for the Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW, you must meet one of the following criteria: 

1. Hold a bachelor's or master's degree in data science (or a related field such as computer science, mathematics, economics or statistics), OR
2. Hold a bachelor's or master's degree in a non-related field with strong academic performance (an average of 65 or above) and at least three Level III courses in mathematics, statistics, computer science or econometrics, OR
3. hold a non-related bachelor's or master's degree with at least two years of professional experience in a data science or analytics role. 

The best data science certificate depends on your goals and needs. A good program should teach core data science skills, offer flexibility and provide pathways for further study. The UNSW Graduate Certificate in Data Science checks all these boxes. Delivered 100% online in seven-week intensive blocks, it can be completed in as little as 8 months. The program includes two core courses with electives and serves as a formal pathway to the Graduate Diploma and Master of Data Science. UNSW’s strong rankings and outcomes further highlight the program’s quality and recognition. 

A graduate certificate can be a strong entry point. This program builds the foundations used in data science – programming, statistics, data systems across computer science, economics and mathematics – and after successful completion, you’ll be qualified to pursue relevant roles. Many learners use the built-in pathway to the Graduate Diploma or Master of Data Science to deepen capability before aiming for data scientist roles. Your background and experience matter too, which is why the page sets specific entry criteria. 

The Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW consists of four courses: two core courses (Foundations of Data Science and Principles of Programming) and two electives chosen from a diverse range of options, including Big Data Management, Data Visualisation, Neural Networks and more, depending on availability and prerequisites. 

The Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW allows students to choose from 12 electives, including Big Data Management, Data Visualisation and Communication, Neural Networks and Deep Learning, Strategic Decision Making, Bayesian Inference and Computation. This enables you to tailor your studies to align with your career goals. Elective availability is subject to prerequisites, ensuring you build on foundational knowledge for advanced learning. 

Yes, the Graduate Certificate in Data Science at UNSW serves as a direct pathway to further study. After completing the certificate, you can progress to the Graduate Diploma in Data Science and ultimately to the Master of Data Science online, offering a flexible, step-by-step approach to advancing your qualifications and expertise. Students require a weighted average mark (WAM) of 65 or higher in order to articulate. 

As a UNSW Online student, you’ll have access to dedicated student support, including personalised guidance from one of our Student Success Advisors. You’ll also gain access to the UNSW Career Success platform with exclusive tools including resume builders, LinkedIn optimisation, Career AI and CaseCoach. You will also have access to academic staff and wellness services, and be provided with online opportunities to network with peers and UNSW faculty, ensuring a successful and enriching learning experience. 

The Graduate Certificate in Data Science online at UNSW offers six study periods each year - January, March, May, July, September, and October - providing you the flexibility to start your studies at a time that best fits your schedule.

Yes, data science is closely related to computer science. While computer science focuses on areas such as software development, algorithms and system architecture, data science uses many of these foundations to analyse and interpret data. The Graduate Certificate in Data Science provides a strong introduction to essential data science skills such as programming, statistical modelling and data systems, which overlap significantly with key areas of computer science. This makes it an excellent starting point for those with a background or interest in computing or technology.

Yes, data science is one of the fastest-growing career fields, with high demand across industries such as finance, healthcare, technology and marketing. Organisations are actively seeking professionals who can transform data into actionable insights to drive decision-making. The Graduate Certificate in Data Science equips you with these essential, in-demand skills, preparing you for roles like data analyst, business intelligence analyst or junior data scientist. It also serves as a strong foundation for further study or career advancement in this dynamic field.

Yes, coding is an essential skill for those working in data science roles. Data scientists and data analysts utilise programming languages like Python, R and SQL to collect, clean, analyse and visualise data. You will develop these practical coding skills and learn how to apply them in real-world scenarios. This foundation is essential for anyone looking to build a career in data science or expand their capabilities in a data-driven role.

No, studying with UNSW Online does not make you eligible for a student visa, as all programs are delivered 100% online and can be completed from anywhere in the world. To be eligible for a student visa, you must enrol in an on-campus program that meets the visa requirements for studying in Australia.

No, you can study entirely online from your home country. UNSW Online programs are designed for flexible learning and do not require you to be in Australia. This means you don’t need a student visa to apply.

Yes, international students can apply for UNSW Online programs, provided they meet the entry requirements. A student visa is not required or will be issued.

While data science and data analytics are related, they serve distinct purposes.

Data science involves using advanced techniques, such as machine learning and predictive modelling, to solve complex problems across various fields. It focuses on building algorithms to capture data and predict future outcomes.

Data analytics focuses on interpreting existing data to drive business decisions and strategy. In this field you'll analyse information to understand past performance and uncover actionable insights that guide organisational direction.

Whether you are looking for data analytics courses or courses in data science, UNSW Online offers programs like the Master of Data Science to help you specialise in your chosen field.

Choosing between cyber security and data science depends on your personal interests and career goals.

If you're passionate about protecting critical systems and safeguarding data from evolving threats, cyber security is likely the ideal path for you. You'll focus on defence strategies, risk management and secure system design.

Alternatively, if you enjoy analysing complex datasets, building predictive models and solving problems through quantitative methods, data science may be a better fit. This field centres on extracting insights to drive decision-making and innovation.

Both fields offer strong career prospects and high demand in the current job market. Ultimately, the "better" choice is the one that aligns with your strengths and professional aspirations.

To start a career in data science, you can leverage your existing professional experience while building new, specialised skills.

A great first step is gaining a relevant postgraduate qualification. A program like UNSW’s Online Master of Data Science will give you a strong command of essential programming languages like Python and R, data analysis and machine learning.

You can apply this new knowledge directly in your current role by seeking out data-intensive projects. This helps you build a portfolio of real-world work and demonstrates your growing expertise. Sharing your skills and insights with colleagues is another effective way to build credibility.

Finally, staying connected with the industry through professional networks will keep you informed of the latest trends and opportunities as you transition into your new career.

Yes, you can build a strong foundation in data science in under a year.

Accelerated postgraduate programs are designed to equip you with essential skills in a focused timeframe. For example, UNSW’s Graduate Certificate in Data Science can be completed part-time in just eight months.

This format allows you to gain core data science knowledge quickly, making it an excellent and efficient starting point for launching your career in this high-demand field.

To excel as a data scientist, you need to combine technical proficiency with strategic communication skills.

Focus on mastering the essentials like programming, statistics and machine learning, alongside strong problem-solving abilities. If you want to build your expertise with a leading data science course, UNSW offers a distinctive advantage by placing emphasis on stakeholder management – equipping you to translate complex analysis into clear insights that influence less data-savvy decision-makers and drive real outcomes.

Finally, stay curious. Continuously learning new tools and gaining hands-on experience through diverse, real-world projects will ensure your skills remain relevant in this fast-evolving field.