Data science has been called the “sexiest job of the 21st century” and those who can manage and make sense of data will undoubtedly take on some of the most important roles in the information age.
The new interdisciplinary field of data science combines areas of computer science with mathematical statistics and domain expertise to manage and analyze data. Specialists develop the capability to derive insight and opportunity from the vast repositories of information that organizations collect. Data science also puts an emphasis on the specialized computational skills required to manage and analyze big data from sources such as social media, massive sensors, mobile and transaction data. It enables businesses to gain a competitive edge, governments to deliver more targeted services, and research teams to make new discoveries.
Data science and its analysis could appeal to people from a broad range of backgrounds, such as graduates from computing, mathematics, science, engineering or health.
Through this degree, students will build a mix of skills in analytics, statistics and computer science that will enable them to be central to business decision-making, corporate strategy and government planning. This prepares graduates for a career in a field that is driving scientific research, economic growth, public policy and corporate strategy, using technologies to aid the management and analysis of very big data sets.
This degree also provides opportunities to experience an industry project where students will undertake a capstone project giving them hands-on, practical experience analyzing data in a business setting. Working within a corporate environment, students will integrate the knowledge they have acquired throughout the course into a solid skills base to take into their professional life.
Exposure to theoretical knowledge and practical expertise means that graduates of the Master of Data Science have the potential to become influential leaders within their organizations.
