In the modern high-tech world ‘big data’ management and analysis has become a very critical part of businesses across the economy. Governments, institutions, non-profit organizations and industries worldwide are racing to the information era and skilled data scientists are on high demand to help sort, interpret and analyse data for use in a range of ways within the economy. Pursuing Masters of Data Science will equip students with analytic and technological skills to provide a solution to complex real-world problems. For instance, how can a business use purchasing data to create an effective marketing strategy or governments use social patterns to make better policies?

 

According to a survey published by Deloitte, there are approximately 300, 000 skilled employees in Australian Data Science workforce with the number expected to grow by only 2.4%  between 2017 and 2020. This depicts a shortage of talent in the industry where the demand for a skilled data scientist is higher than the supply. In view of this, a post-graduate degree in Data Science would be a plus for anyone seeking to open to a pool of career option across the sectors.

Where and how can Data Science be applied?

Availability of advanced technology and information in all industries in Australia signify a wide range of opportunities for application of data science for different purposes. These opportunities can be separated into two wider categories; technological which involves machine learning and data analytics which is a core product offering which increases cybersecurity and defence. Another application is statistical which involves the use of data science in retail, finance, research and agriculture to boost sales and productivity.

What are the Minimum Requirements for the Data Science Post-graduate Degree Program?

To qualify for enrolment in MS in Data Science, you need to have at least a first degree in business, finance, computer science, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics or any other relevant area of study.  Students with practical experience in handling big data and basics programming skills are also eligible. You can check all the requirements and course guide to learn what you need to start off your career in data science.

 

Top Five Career Opportunities for Data Science Students

Due to the increasing demand for data science skills, students enrolled in the master’s program start applying their analytical skills even before they complete the course. Depending on your background or preference, you may land in one of the following five career options:

1.      Business intelligence (BI) professional

The roles of a business intelligence officer include market research and generation of reports from business data to improve performance and quality. BI experts use various statistical tools, machine learning and SQL to analyze and organize data for decision-makers and can work for Financial, Tech, Reporting companies and business consultancies.

2.      Statistician

This role involves data extraction/collection, testing and validation to ensure accuracy and quality of the final conclusions. This is a good fit for students with a background in statistics as it involves various statistical tools and methods. You can work for market agencies, local and national government and research institutions.

3.      Data Engineer

This involves collection and analysis of huge amount of data, mostly in unstructured and use of scripting and programming languages to build and initiate big data solutions. It opens up opportunities to work in the entertainment, tech and commerce industries.

4.      Data Analyst

A data analyst role comprises a collection of data and keeping track of several factors to identify trends that would inform the decision-making process. It also involves the use of visual graphics tools to present your data evaluation results. Data analysts can work in the telecommunication, construction, manufacturing companies and many others.

5.      Project Management Officer (PMO)

PMO roles are very critical to business decisions and involve the use and evaluation of data collected from various departments and planning to make sure that operations meet the required standards in terms of quality, schedule and budget. PMO can work for in any industry.