Bachelor of Data Science and Decisions

Unlock hidden insights and powerful predictions using data.

Data has the power to transform communities, businesses and government through informed decision-making and prediction. How will you harness the power of data to change the world?

Faculty

Faculty of Science

Delivery Mode

Face-to-face (includes blended)

Award

Bachelor of Data Science and Decisions

Commencing Terms

Term 1, Term 2, Term 3

Duration (Full Time)

3 Year(s)

Overview

If you’re thinking about studying data science, you’re probably already aware of its power to shape our world. As billions of devices feed data to central databases, businesses and governments need experts to interpret that data. Data scientists have become one of the most in-demand professionals globally because they have the unique skills to unlock hidden insights within data to improve prediction and decision-making.

The Bachelor of Data Science and Decisions will prepare you to compile, interpret and act on data in ways that make a big impact. This degree combines training in mathematical methods, statistics, computing and business decision-making with communication skills. You’ll gain the theoretical and practical skills required to enter the field of data analysis, where networking, decision-making, strategic thinking and attention to detail are essential.

Leveraging the expertise of three renowned schools – Mathematics and Statistics, Computer Science and Engineering and Economics – you’ll graduate career-ready with a globally recognised degree from a global top 20 university*.

^{*QS World University Rankings 2024}

Key features

Build your degree around your interests

This degree harnesses the power of three disciplines: science, engineering and business. It will equip you with transferable skills in mathematical methods, statistics, computing, business decisions and communication. You’ll choose from a broad range of electives across three leading faculties and specialise in quantitative, business or computational data science..

Get first-hand experience while you study

We provide a balance of theory and practical work to give you the skills to fast-track your career. Our Work Integrated Learning opportunities include professional placements at Information Technology (IT) companies, start-ups, government departments and large biomedical and biotechnology companies. Along with new professional skills and connections, you’ll also gain course credit for your work placement.

The SCIF2041 Research Internship course allows you to complete a short theoretical or experimental research project in a world-leading research team supervised by a member of academic staff.

Gain a competitive edge with an industry-aligned degree

This degree was designed to meet the growing demand for data scientists and analysts. Our graduates demonstrate skills in programming languages, problem-solving and processing, interpreting and presenting data using qualitative and quantitative techniques. It will equip you with specialist skills in mathematics, computer science and business to meet the soaring demands of the industry.

Why study this degree at UNSW?

Study at a global top 20 university*

Graduate with a widely-respected degree from a prestigious Go8 university, ranked equal 19th globally*. We’re ranked #1 in Australia for Engineering and Technology and #3 in Australia for Mathematics**.

^{*QS World University Rankings 2024}

^{**QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023}

Unlock the expertise of three renowned schools

By studying Data Science and Decisions, you’ll benefit from the expertise of three renowned schools: Mathematics and Statistics, Computer Science and Engineering and Economics. Our educators are world-leading experts who are passionate about creating the next generation of data science leaders.

With a career-focused, hands-on approach, you’ll graduate with the practical skills and industry knowledge to seamlessly transition into the workforce. UNSW graduates earn some of the highest salaries compared to other Go8 universities.^ We’ve also been recognised for producing the Most Employable Graduates four years running.^^

^{^Highest graduate median salaries of Go8 universities (QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey 2022)}

^{^^Most employable graduates (AFR Top 100 Future Leaders Awards 2020,2021,2022,2023)}

Find your place in the data science community

At UNSW, equity, diversity and inclusion are integral to our success. Connect with other students in one of 16 clubs and societies within the Faculty of Science and 300+ university-wide. Join our Data Science Peer Mentoring Program, where you’ll get support transitioning into university life with social events and the opportunity to meet others in the data science community. We’re also committed to inspiring young women to pursue an enriching career path in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).

Program Code

3959

CRICOS Code

093085J

Campus

Kensington

UAC Code

429150

Total Units of Credit (UOC)

144

Indicative Enrolments

270

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Entry requirements

2023 Lowest Selection Rank

2023 A levels

2023 IB Diploma

2023 Lowest ATAR

83.65*

The 2023 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2023.

The 2023 A levels score is based on four Advanced Level (A2) subject. Entry scores are calculated from the best three or four A2 subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1. At most one Applied A Level subject may be included in the best four subjects used to calculate the aggregate.

The 2023 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2023. It is to be used as a guide only.

The 2023 Lowest ATAR is the lowest ATAR (before adjustment factors were applied) to which an offer was made. Where <5 is listed, this indicates that less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made and so the score has not been published. N/A indicates no offers were made on the basis of ATAR.
At UNSW, we are committed to ensuring prospective students have all the information they need in order to make informed decisions about their study options.

To assist you in gaining a better understanding of how Admissions works at UNSW, we have provided you with a summary of ATAR offers and the student profile.

We hope this information will help you identify the degree that is right for you.

See more

Assumed knowledge

Mathematics Extension 1

Adjustment Factors

We offer a range of adjustment factor schemes that reward students for academic performance and extra-curricular achievements. These schemes also take into account a range of personal and educational disadvantages that may have affected your studies.

HSC Plus
This scheme rewards students who perform well in Year 12 subjects that are relevant to their preferred UNSW degree. You may be awarded up to five points.

Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EAPL)
This program recognises achievements in the areas of sport, academia, leadership and music at an elite level. You may be eligible for up to five points.

Educational Access Scheme (EAS)
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don't always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12. If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen UNSW degree.

Admission pathways

Your ATAR is not the only measure of your potential to succeed, which is why we offer a range of pathways into university. Explore your options below and get in touch with our future student advisors to discuss your path to UNSW.

Gateway Admission Pathway
This scheme is open to students in Years 11 and 12 who attend Gateway schools. It significantly adjusts the ATAR requirements for your preferred UNSW degree and provides you with an early conditional offer to UNSW.

Entry programs for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
We offer entry programs for Indigenous Australians, including the Indigenous Preparatory Programs and the Indigenous Admission Scheme (IAS). The entry pathway program you apply for will depend on the degree you want to study.

English language requirements

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.

If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.

International direct entry

I studied in:

We do not accept secondary qualifications from this country. We may accept tertiary study results, please contact us for more information.

Please contact us for direct entry requirements.

Admission pathways

If you do not meet the requirements for direct entry into your chosen degree, you may be eligible for a pathway program with UNSW College. UNSW College provides alternative entry options using university-approved content so that you can start your UNSW journey with confidence. 

English language requirements

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

Check the specific English language requirements for this program

Select from the options below

Which applies to you?

Program structure

The Bachelor of Data Science and Decisions is a three-year full-time degree that can be completed part-time. It involves a blend of face-to-face and independent learning. The program comprises:

Core courses
A data science major
General education courses
Free elective courses.

This degree explores the methods for organising, modelling and analysing large and complex data for businesses, governments or other organisations. You’ll study core foundational knowledge combined with a specialisation in quantitative, computational or business data science.

Full program structure

The Bachelor of Data Science and Decisions is made up of 24 courses taken over three years of full-time study.

You’ll develop broad theoretical knowledge and practical skills in data science across mathematics and statistics, computer science and economics. You’ll also select a major to gain specialised knowledge in quantitative, computational or business data science.

Business Data Science

This major focuses on econometrics and business applications of data science. It involves examining the methods for organising, modelling and analysing large and complex data relevant for businesses, governments or other organisations. The information from the data analysis is intended to improve business decisions and inform policies. Learn more

Quantitative Data Science

This major revolves around mathematical and statistical methods to interpret, understand and predict data. The information gleaned from the data analysis is intended to improve business decisions and inform policies. Learn more

Computational Data Science

This major investigates statistics, computer science, mathematics and machine learning to identify trends and make predictions based on large data sets. This specialisation enables further study into the manipulation and management of data. Learn more

Download Sample Program

Go to the handbook

Future careers

The era of Big Data

With quintillion bytes of data generated each day, it’s safe to say that we’re in the era of big data. Social media, the Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning and artificial intelligence are driving trends in data and influencing the role of data scientists. The increasing need for people who can interpret and understand data means that data scientists and analysts are in very high demand across a range of industries.

What does a career in this field look like?

Data science is a multidisciplinary field of study that blends mathematical methods, statistics, computing, business decisions and communication. Data scientists translate user data into insights that help companies understand their audience and personalise their products or services. Uncovering new insights and predicting trends has become vital in the retail, environmental, not-for-profit, IT and professional services sector.

Career opportunities in data science span across many industries, from start-ups to established corporations, including Coles, AirBnB, Spotify, Netflix and Greenpeace, to name a few. As a data scientist, you might be asked to calculate the price of new products for the market, determine warehouse or retail employee schedules, make predictions of environmental phenomena and model the spread of new diseases.

Potential roles in Data Science and Decisions

Explore the potential industries and roles based on different Data Science and Decisions disciplines.

Business Data Science

Data analyst
Pricing analyst
Business reporting and analytics manager
Technical business analyst
Data migration specialist
Market intelligence manager

Quantitative Data Science

Quantitative researcher
Predictive model data scientist
E-commerce data analytics specialist
Data consultant
Data mining engineer
Statistician

Computational Data Science

Computational scientist
Big Data developer
Business information analyst
Data warehouse architect
Computational data researcher

Our alumni

"My favourite part about the Data Science and Decisions degree was that I could customise it to fit my interests. I got to pick electives from a pool that contains everything from software construction to calculus to economic game theory. This allowed me to follow my passion for mathematics while also building on my newly discovered love of coding, and then get to throw a bit of economics into the mix!"

Jessica Boyle

Consultant, Data Assurance, PwC

"The data science program at UNSW has provided me with a solid foundation in advanced mathematics and computer science, as well as the opportunity to pursue elective courses in physics. Knowledge of these three fields has proven invaluable to my career as they are fundamental to almost every industry."

Saksham Yadav

Innovation Manager at the Commonwealth Bank of Australia

CEO of The Adecco Group (Australia/NZ) for one month (2021)

"We live in a world of technology, which revolves around economics, but is all underpinned by maths and numbers. This program covers all three major areas, which are incredibly useful to contribute to society.”

Serena Xu

Data Graduate

How to apply

Applications for undergraduate study from domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders and New Zealand citizens) are processed by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).

Visit the Apply section of the UAC website and you can nominate up to five degrees in order of preference, with the first being your most desired degree and university.

On-time applications for admission usually close at the end of September each year for Term 1 admission. Late applications can be submitted, but a late fee will apply. For study starting in Term 1, the majority of offers are made in December and January. Visit the UAC website for key dates for admission outside of Term 1.

Ready to start your application?

Apply now

For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.

Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For more information visit our international applicant information page.

*If you are an international student studying an Australian qualification, go to the Universities Admission Centre (UAC) for application and UAC key dates. Note: If you are under 18 years of age, you need to make special arrangements. Read more.

Ready to start your application?

Apply now

Fees & Scholarships

2023 Indicative First Year Full Fee

$6,650*

Commonwealth Supported Place: Student Contribution Band 1

*The student contribution for a Commonwealth Supported Place is an indication only of the amount payable in Year 1 based on a standard full-time load of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL). The actual student contribution you will be liable for depends on your individual program of study and the calendar year in which you enrol. Actual fees are calculated upon enrolment. Student contribution amounts are subject to annual review by the university and may increase each year during your studies (subject to caps determined by the Australian Government), effective at the start of each calendar year.

The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only - other fees and charges are not included.

2023 Indicative First Year Fee

$46,885*

2023 Indicative Fee to Complete Degree

$143,390*

*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).

Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.

Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.

Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.

Scholarships

At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.

Explore Scholarships