Bachelor of Mathematics (Data Science)
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
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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
2025 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 75.00
Year 12 (Grades-based): A,B,B
TAFE/RTO: DIP
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2024 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.
Ask UniSA
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How do I apply?
The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.
The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.
There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.
If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.
You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.
If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
Undergraduate
The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or 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. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.
Postgraduate
Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.
As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.
