James Cook University
Bachelor of Science (Data Science)
Nationally Recognised Higher EducationTake on some of the most sought-after jobs in industry when you study Data Science, with the Bachelor of Science at JCU. Develop knowledge and skills that place you at the forefront of the field, including data visualisation, big data analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence. Data science is a union of statistics, computer science and domain application. Its goal is to extract information from data to advance knowledge across industry, business, and societies and support key decision making.
Increasingly, industries are collecting and using data to gain insight into their domain. For example, many retail companies use a rewards program to collect information on their customers and use the data to obtain insights into their behaviours and habits, in order to design products and experiences to more completely meet their needs. Storing, wrangling and analysing large and complex data sets (also known as data mining) is a key skill increasingly demanded by employers across the contemporary workplace. Those with this skillset, and the analytical abilities to interpret the results, are becoming more and more valuable. Numerous businesses are beginning to incorporate data into their key decision-making process.
Data science and statistical modelling may be used to analyse human behaviours and patterns to optimise a range of scenarios including transport routes, urban planning, health services, crime prevention and more. Big data, algorithms, data visualisation, analytics and more are all terms you hear regularly in the corporate world, but currently, few people have the expertise to really understand data science and apply it to help businesses discover new potential. The sector is ripe for career growth as potential applications continue to develop.
Delivery mode
James Cook University offers this course through the following delivery modes:
On campus
Work with instructors and classmates in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Locations
- City Arcade, 383 Flinders Street, Townsville
- 36 Shields Street, Cairns
Entry requirements
Domestic Students
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Course pre-requisites
Assumed Knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C), Mathematical Methods (3/4,C); or equivalent
Recommended: At least one of Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science, Geography, Marine Science, Specialist Maths or Physics (Units 3/4,C); or equivalent
Minimum English language proficiency requirements
Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 1
Post admission requirements
Some majors require attendance in intensive or mixed mode attendance subjects on either the Townsville or Cairns campus. If students must attend intensive mode classes at a campus other than the one they are enrolled at, they are responsible for their own expenses.
Course pre-requisites
Assumed Knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C), Mathematical Methods (3/4,C); or equivalent
Recommended: At least one of Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science, Geography, Marine Science, Specialist Maths or Physics (Units 3/4,C); or equivalent
Minimum English language proficiency requirements
Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 1
- IELTS - 6 (no component lower than 6.0)
- TOEFL - 74 (no component less than 18)
- Pearsons - 52 (no component less than 52)
- C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency - 169 (no component less than 169)
- ISLPR - At least 3 in each skill area
- OET* - No component less than B
- AEMG English for Academic Purposes Direct Entry Program (AEAP DEP) Final Exam - Overall 65 with no exam sub-score below 65%
- JCUCEAP - EAP Level 3
*OET is only accepted for the following undergraduate courses: Physiotherapy, Pharmacy, Psychological Science, Occupational Therapy, Nursing Science, Medicine, and Dental Surgery.
Post admission requirements
Some majors require attendance in intensive or mixed mode attendance subjects on either the Townsville or Cairns campus. If students must attend intensive mode classes at a campus other than the one they are enrolled at, they are responsible for their own expenses.
Additional requirements may apply.Course fees
$24,090
$113,880
Career opportunities
The Bachelor of Science (Data Science) will prepare you for the following roles.
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst interprets information and uses it to improve the way a company does business. You’ll use various methods to collect information and...
Data Engineer
Data Engineers work with big data, helping organisations store and access their operating data more efficiently. They liaise closely with senior ex...
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist looks for trends in data to provide information that guides organisational decisions. You might work for a retail business to prov...
Quantitative Analyst
A Quantitative Analyst applies mathematical and statistical techniques to analyse financial data and support decision-making in financial markets. ...
Statistical Analyst
A Statistical Analyst collects, analyses, and interprets data to inform decision-making processes within an organisation. You might work in various...
Machine Learning Engineer
A Machine Learning Engineer develops and implements machine learning models and algorithms to solve complex problems. You might work in technology ...
Big Data Engineer
A Big Data Engineer is responsible for designing and implementing robust data processing systems that facilitate the handling and analysis of large...
About James Cook University
As Australia’s only university established to focus on the issues of Northern Australia and the Tropics worldwide, JCU is dedicated to helping the world’s tropical regions to prosper.
Ranked in the top 2% of universities worldwide we are focused on addressing the critical challenges facing the tropics, in areas as diverse as Medicine, Dentistry, Marine Science, Nursing, Arts and Society.
Inspired by a research-rich environment, the significance of our endeavours is recognised globally by the most credible world university rankings providers. Our strong performance is assessed on quality, relevance and impact.
JCU was awarded 5 Stars for teaching and employability in the QS Stars Rankings for 2021 and 5 Stars for full-time employment, graduate starting salary and student teacher ratio by the Good Universities Guide for 2023.
Career-focused courses provide an exceptional student experience, led by industry professionals who are passionate about sharing their expertise, because experience has no substitute.
