Postgraduate study in Data Science

What can you study in Data Science?

There are two different options to consider when choosing your postgraduate qualification in Data Science.

The Master of Professional Studies specialising in Data Science concentrates on the application of data management and data analysis skills to a professional domain, such as business.

The Master of Data Science is an advanced programme and takes the skills learned from your undergraduate degree in Data Science to the next level. You will be taught how to apply state-of-the-art techniques to real-world problems, drawing from computer science and statistics.

Both options concentrate on a strong core of Computer Science and Statistics courses. You will have the opportunity to:

  • Apply techniques from large-scale data management, data mining, machine learning, statistical modelling and statistical analysis to relevant domains
  • Assemble theories and tools from Computer Science, Statistics and domains of Data Science to create information, knowledge, or innovative products, from data
  • Critically analyse data, but also assess the appropriateness and limitations of the methods and solutions
  • Take into account ethical considerations and evaluate the impact of their findings on culture, economy, environment and society
  • Utilise techniques for visualisation and communication to express and share their findings at a level that is appropriate for the target audience
  • Manage knowledge and time in Data Science projects

The Department of Statistics is the birthplace of the R Project. Founded in 1996 by Associate Professors Robert Gentleman and Ross Ihaka, R is a programming language and environment for statistical computing and graphics. It is taught around the world and is used by Ivy League universities, Google, Uber and many more organisations. Learn more about the R Project

Structuring your postgraduate programme in Data Science

Master of Data Science – 180-point taught masters

See our Master of Data Science page for information about how to structure the 180-point Taught Masters.

Master of Data Science – 240-point taught masters

From 2020 we will offer a 240-point taught masters option for the Master of Data Science. See our Master of Data Science page for information about how to structure the 240-point taught masters.

Courses

Explore the postgraduate courses you can take for a Data Science specialisation:

Postgraduate Certificate in Data Science

The PGCertDataSci can be completed online. Read more.

Where can postgraduate study in Data Science take you?

Jobs related to Data Science include:

  • Big data engineer
  • Business analyst
  • Data mining
  • Data scientist
  • Data steward
  • Machine learning engineer
  • Organisational change analyst
  • Programmer
  • Software architect
  • Software developer

Meet our graduate

Nishita Balamuralikrishna completed a Master of Professional Studies in Data Science and is now working as a Data Analyst and Business Intelligence Developer at EROAD. Watch her story below.

Scholarships and awards

Each year we award scholarships and prizes to thousands of students.

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for, search available scholarships or begin an application by visiting Scholarships and awards.

Help and advice

Student Hubs

Visit your hubs for help and advice on any aspect of your studies and life at University.

The Student Hubs are your physical gateway to Waipapa Taumata Rau | the University of Auckland.

The Student Hubs services are available seven days a week at the City, Grafton, Epsom and Tai Tonga campuses and six days a week at Tai Tokerau, with friendly staff available to provide you with advice on any aspect of your studies and life at the University.

Find out more.