Bachelor of Mathematics (Data Science)
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2024
You're viewing degree information for Australian students
You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Entry Scores
2024 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 75.00
Year 12 (Grades-based): A,B,B
TAFE/RTO: DIP
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2023 Cut-Offs
Year 12 (ATAR-based):
- Internal: 75.00
TAFE/RTO: Cert IV
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Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:
Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND- Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
- Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
- Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points
Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.
OR
Higher education study- Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
- Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR
Work and life experience- Qualify for Special Entry, or
- Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
SACE Stage 2 Math MethodsAssumed Knowledge
None
Hypatia Scholarship available for mathematically talented women – $5,000 available, click here for more information and to apply.
Degree overview
- Study at SA's number one university for teaching quality1, and quality education2 in maths and science.
- Prepare for a dynamic career in the growing field of data science.
- Learn a uniquely balanced mix of mathematics, information technology and data science.
- Join an exceptional cohort of students learning from educators dedicated to training to next generation of mathematicians and data scientists.
- Gain access to a diverse range of researchers in statistics, data science and applied mathematics working together to discover, understand, interpret and apply mathematics to important industrial and social problems.
- Develop the ability to solve complex problems quantifying and understanding data.
- Gain real-world experience with a major project or completion of the Maths Clinic program working closely with an industry partners.
- Study at a university with research in the field of mathematical sciences, applied mathematics and statistics ranked well above world-class3.
- Pursue a career in industry across a range of sectors or consider building your expertise with a research degree.
- Apply for the Bachelor of Mathematics (Data Science) / Master of Teaching (Secondary) to follow a path to teaching.
1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Science and Mathematics – Teaching Quality Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.
2ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Science and Mathematics – Overall Quality of Educational Experience Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.
32018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Snapshot
Information and data are being generated faster than ever before, with the trend driven by advances in computing power, exponential growth in internet use and increased cloud computing. Organisations can benefit significantly from the analysis of this data, resulting in growing demand for data science experts to inform and drive business decisions1.
This degree is designed to produce job-ready graduates to meet this need and fill the growing range of work opportunities. Successful maths and data scientists draw on skills from a range of complementary disciplines, so this degree offers a balanced mix of mathematics, information technology and data science. In your final year you’ll have the chance to complete an industry-based project to experience real-world challenges and gain workplace experience.
You will graduate ready to work in a data science role in industry or the public sector. Because data science is also a tool that supports research across an increasing range of disciplines, you could also choose to continue with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) (Mathematics), a Bachelor of Information Technology (Honours), or eventually a PhD.
Flexible study opportunities are available, you can study full-time or part-time, and some courses are available online.
If you think you might be interested in secondary school teaching, you can apply for the Bachelor of Mathematics (Data Science) / Master of Teaching (Secondary) - it's a direct pathway into postgraduate study.
If you would like to apply directly into the Bachelor of Mathematics (Data Science)/Master of Teaching (Secondary) package option, please apply via SATAC using 434221.
1Deloitte Access Economics 2018
What you'll learn
In your first year you’ll study core subjects in maths and IT. You will focus on building your mathematical and programming skills with courses that include calculus, statistical methods, fundamentals of programming, and databases.
You will then move into your applied data science studies. You’ll study cross-disciplinary areas such as web development, data structures and mathematical communication, and mathematical modelling.
In your final year you’ll combine study and hands-on experience with courses in programming and networking, decision making and analytics. You will also complete either an industry-based Maths Clinic project or a major project to strengthen your abilities in research, analysis, and interpretation of data.
You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally-focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:
- group and individual projects
- examinations
- essays, assignments and tests
- reports and project documentation
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Take a look at the global opportunities available.
Why Bachelor of Mathematics (Data Science)
This degree offers the opportunity to benefit from our strong industry partnerships, providing real-world experience and significant opportunities to learn in a cooperative environment and build important networks and connections. High achieving students will have the chance to work in the Maths Clinic to solve an industry problem for a sponsoring private, government or non-profit organisation. The Maths Clinic not only offers valuable experience, but a supportive academic setting to maximise your technical and professional skill development.
Many of your courses will be small, incorporating activities that encourage peer learning and develop cooperation and communication skills. Our degrees emphasise the development of critical thinking, creativity and hands-on learning.
Mathematics degrees at UniSA share many common courses, so if you wish to change to the Industrial and Applied Mathematics specialisation at the end of your first year you can receive credit for the courses you’ve already done.
On-campus teaching for this program is based at the Mawson Lakes campus. Only 20 minutes from the city centre with easy parking. The Mawson Lakes campus is also accessible by bus and train with the Mawson Lakes train station only a short walk.
Real-world connections
UniSA collaborates with over 2,500 companies worldwide – so you’ll have plenty of chances to get hands-on experience and make industry connections. Many of our graduates have been employed through work placements or internships.
We are home to a diverse range of researchers in statistics, data science and applied mathematics who work together to discover, understand and interpret data related to important industrial and social problems. Our group also seeks to develop new research strengths in mathematics and statistics and train the next generation of mathematicians and data scientists.
We also host regular University-wide career expos and employment forums through our Career Service, as well as alumni events in Australia and overseas.
Online study
Part, or all, of this degree can be studied online. With interactive online course materials and a 24/7 learning environment you can organise your study to suit your lifestyle. You can:
- study online, including accessing videos and course resources
- participate in an interactive online learning environment
- submit your assignments and get feedback online
- use discussion forums for team work and communication
Please note that for some degrees, some on-campus attendance (such as to attend seminars, workshops or examinations) and/or placements may apply. Any requirements like this are detailed on individual course pages.
Hear from Bethany Caldwell, Mathematics student
Bethany Caldwell talks about her experience studying UniSA's Bachelor of Mathematics (Industrial and Applied Mathematics) which has led her to endless possibilities.
Your career
The growth and diversity of data available is allowing companies to integrate analytics into their daily operations, triggering the development of analytics roles in a broad range of sectors, and subsequently increasing demand for people with data science skills1. Graduates can consider the following careers:
- data scientist: understanding interfaces, data migrations, big data and databases; taking the lead in processing raw data and determining the best types of analysis; mining large volumes of data to understand user behaviours and interactions; communicating data findings to IT leadership and business leaders to promote innovation
- big data researcher: extracting data from relational databases; manipulating and exploring data using quantitative, statistical and visualisation tools; selecting appropriate modelling techniques so predictive models are developed using rigorous statistical processes; maintaining effective processes for validating and updating predictive models
- big data visualiser: using visualisation software to analyse data, drawing implications and communicating findings; providing input on database requirements for reporting/analytics; acquiring, managing and documenting data (e.g. geo-spatial); creating visualisations from data or GIS data analysis
- data miner: collecting data from numerous databases; helping businesses to make decisions about how data should be analysed in areas such as expenses, profitability, and for other important business decisions
If you think you might be interested in secondary school teaching, you can apply for the Bachelor of Mathematics (Data Science)/Master of Teaching (Secondary), it’s a direct pathway into postgraduate study.
1Deloitte analytics trends 2018
Industry facts
To apply:
- go to the top of this page and make note of the relevant SATAC code*, then click Apply
- you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application
*There are two SATAC codes – one for this degree, and one for this degree packaged with the Master of Teaching. You can apply to study this degree on its own. However if you already know you would like to combine it with a Master of Teaching, you can apply for both together.
Alternative Pathways
Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
- UniSA College Diploma in STEM
- UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (STEM)
Deferment
This degree is available for deferment. This option is made available by responding to your offer during the application process via the SATAC website. Applicants who receive an offer into a midyear degree are eligible to defer for six months.
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
UniSA Excellence Scholarships
$5,000 scholarship for South Australian students with an ATAR of 99 who enrol to study a UniSA undergraduate degree.
UniSA Outstanding Achievement Scholarship
Up to $10,000 per annum (full time) for South Australian students who obtain an ATAR of 99.95 or IB equivalent and enrol to study at UniSA.
Your study experience and support
Our campuses are home to fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. But you’ll also discover that your journey at UniSA is about social experiences, healthy living and getting involved. You’ll find student sports and fitness facilities, community clinics, tech zones and chill-out spaces. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and loads more.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:
- academic counselling
- personal counselling
- social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- career services and mentoring
- Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
- as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.
When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.
24/7 digital environment
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Your program director
As well as doing research in mathematics, I am also interested in improving the way mathematics is communicated to students and the public in general. My research interests include partial differential equations, analysis, and probability.
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How do I apply?
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
Applications for admission into the University of South Australia’s undergraduate and most postgraduate degrees are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Visit satac.edu.au and follow the links.
For the MBA degrees please apply through the UniSA MBA Application Portal. Applications for a small number of degrees are submitted direct to UniSA through our Apply Online portal. It will be noted on the degree page if you need to apply via Apply Online.
Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Master of Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit unisa.edu.au/resdegrees. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
Undergraduate
Yes. The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be given equal consideration is in early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers (mid January). Some degrees will not make any offers after the main offer round. Please click here find all of the key dates for applications here.Postgraduate
Most postgraduate degrees do not have a closing date for applications. However, there are exceptions, so it is best to check – either on the SATAC website, Apply Online or the degree homepage. Postgraduate offers are normally ‘rolling’, meaning they may be sent out at any time up until the program starts. This also means that applications may close at any time without warning, if the quota is filled earlier. For this reason, postgraduate applications should be submitted without delay. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquiries team on (08) 8302 2376 or via the online enquiry form. -
What credit can I receive for previous studies?
Credit transfer or advanced standing
You may be eligible to receive a credit transfer or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving a credit transfer will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
Recognised prior learning
If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning for this experience. Receiving recognised prior learning will normally reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and can reduce the duration of the degree.
How do I get credit?
Credit transfer and recognition of prior learning is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Program Director who will discuss your prior learning and experience with you to ascertain what credit you may be eligible for.
Many of our credit transfer arrangements are listed on our online Credit Assessor.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
If you are interested in studying an MBA please contact admissions@unisa.edu.au and our Future Student Enquiries team will contact you regarding your enquiry.
Alternatively, you can complete a MyCareerMatch career profile. MyCareerMatch is an online career profiling tool that you can use free-of-charge through UniSA. MyCareerMatch specialises in career profiles and provides you with a personalised career report outlining information about your personality style and a list of career options, which are complementary to your natural strengths and talents.
We have many events throughout the year where you can speak with a lecturer or tutor about your degrees of interest. You can find out what is happening at UniSA by visiting our events page or by signing up to our mailing list, so you're the first to know about careers events, information sessions, degree requirements, scholarships and more!
There are also many career counsellors external to the University that you can discuss your career options with. If you are unsure where to start your search, you can contact the Government's Work Ready team (formally Skills for All). Visit skills.sa.gov.au or call 1800 506 266.
You may also find Job Outlook a helpful resource in your decision-making.
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Where can I get further information?
It can be difficult to decide what degree you would like to do and where. You might find information from government organisations will help to weigh up your degree and provider options.
Find a course or a provider
TEQSA is a regulatory body for higher education providers. Use the TEQSA national register of higher education providers to search for a course or a provider. Compare courses and providers for undergraduates and postgraduates using the Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) online comparison tool.
More information on university admission
Visit the SATAC website to find out important news, events and information on applying to university in South Australia. Visit Study with Us to find out everything you need to know about studying at UniSA, admissions and the application process.
Questions about your application
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your application you should contact the Future Students Enquiries team in the first instance.
