UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY · NEW ZEALAND
Master of Applied Data Science
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
18 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 180 pointsProgram Length
- 1 to 1.5 years full-timeDuration
- On-campus, distance, or onlineStudy Mode
- Work-integrated learning opportunitiesIndustry Projects
- Accommodates diverse undergraduate backgroundsEntry Flexibility
The Master of Applied Data Science is designed for individuals from various undergraduate backgrounds who wish to develop expertise in data collection, analysis, and interpretation. In today's world, where large-scale data is generated across nearly every industry, data science skills are becoming increasingly essential for informed business decision-making and predicting future trends. This program equips you with advanced analytical capabilities, problem-solving skills, critical thinking, teamwork, and communication abilities necessary for a career in data science.
Curriculum
The Master of Applied Data Science requires a minimum of 180 points, comprising foundation courses, advanced data science competencies, elective options, and a project. You can complete the degree full-time in 1 to 1.5 years or part-time over a maximum of 5 years. The program offers flexibility with options for on-campus, distance, or fully online study.
- Foundation Courses
- Introduction to Data ScienceDATA401
- Computer ProgrammingCOSC480
- Data ManagementMBIS623
- Advanced Data Science Competencies
- Scalable Data ScienceDATA420
- Texts, Discourses and Data: the Humanities and Data ScienceDIGI405
- Big DataSTAT448
- Data MiningSTAT462
- Data Science Project
- Applied Data Science ProjectDATA601
- Applied Data Science Industry ProjectDATA603
- Applied Data Science Industry Research ProjectDATA605
- Elective Courses
- Relevant 400 or 600-level courses from various disciplines
Careers
Graduates of the Master of Applied Data Science will be well-prepared for a growing number of roles in the data-driven economy. The program's focus on analytical capabilities, problem-solving, and communication equips students for diverse applications across industries.
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Data Engineer
- Machine Learning Engineer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Applied Data Science?
- You need a Bachelor's degree with a B Grade Point Average in 300-level bachelor's degree courses, or equivalent postgraduate achievement. International students can also explore the International Pre-Master’s pathway if they do not meet direct entry requirements.
- What is the tuition fee for international students?
- International tuition fees vary for the Master of Applied Data Science. Please visit the International tuition fees page on the University of Canterbury website for the most current rates.
- How long does the Master of Applied Data Science take to complete?
- The program requires 180 points and can be completed full-time in 1 to 1.5 years. Part-time study is also an option, with a maximum duration of 5 years.
- What are the career prospects after completing this degree?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Engineer, and Machine Learning Engineer in the data-driven economy.
- How do I apply for the Master of Applied Data Science?
- You can apply online through myUC for on-campus or distance study, or through Tuihono UC | UC Online for the fully online program. Ensure you submit all required supporting documents, including academic transcripts and English language proficiency evidence.
- Are there any scholarships available for this program?
- Various scholarships may be available, including the Gough MBA Leaders Scholarship, Graduate Women Canterbury Scholarship, Pacific Community Scholarship, Ngāi Tahu Research Centre Postgraduate Scholarship, Manaaki NZ Scholarships, and general UC Scholarships. Scholarship details and eligibility vary.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeA B Grade Point Average in 300-level bachelor's degree courses, or evidence of achievement at postgraduate level.
Postgraduate language requirementsRefer to UC's Postgraduate language requirements
International students who do not meet direct entry requirements may be eligible for the International Pre-Master’s pathway. Domestic students may consider the Diploma in Advancing University Studies. UC offers English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programs for those needing to improve their English skills.
Fees
Tuition (international)Fees vary. Please check the International tuition fees page for current rates.
Tuition (home)Fees vary. Domestic students can 'pay-as-you-learn'. Please check the Domestic tuition fees page for current rates.
LivingNot specified.
The provided MBA fee information ($43,931 NZD for 2026) is for a different program and should not be applied to the Master of Applied Data Science.
How to apply
1. Choose your application portalFor on-campus or distance study, apply through myUC. For the online program, apply through Tuihono UC | UC Online.
2. Submit your applicationComplete and submit the online application form.
3. Provide supporting documentsEnsure all required academic transcripts, English language proficiency evidence, and any other necessary documents are submitted.
4. Check eligibility and requirementsVerify that you meet the academic and English language entry requirements. If you need assistance, explore pathway programs or English language courses offered by UC.
Scholarships
The Gough MBA Leaders ScholarshipFinancial support
Graduate Women Canterbury (Inc.) Trust Board ScholarshipNot specified
Pacific Community ScholarshipNot specified
Ngāi Tahu Research Centre Postgraduate ScholarshipNot specified
Manaaki NZ ScholarshipsFull scholarship
UC ScholarshipsVaries
Accreditation
Not specified.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Applied Data Science?
+
You need a Bachelor's degree with a B Grade Point Average in 300-level bachelor's degree courses, or equivalent postgraduate achievement. International students can also explore the International Pre-Master’s pathway if they do not meet direct entry requirements.
What is the tuition fee for international students?
+
International tuition fees vary for the Master of Applied Data Science. Please visit the International tuition fees page on the University of Canterbury website for the most current rates.
How long does the Master of Applied Data Science take to complete?
+
The program requires 180 points and can be completed full-time in 1 to 1.5 years. Part-time study is also an option, with a maximum duration of 5 years.
What are the career prospects after completing this degree?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Engineer, and Machine Learning Engineer in the data-driven economy.
How do I apply for the Master of Applied Data Science?
+
You can apply online through myUC for on-campus or distance study, or through Tuihono UC | UC Online for the fully online program. Ensure you submit all required supporting documents, including academic transcripts and English language proficiency evidence.
Are there any scholarships available for this program?
+
Various scholarships may be available, including the Gough MBA Leaders Scholarship, Graduate Women Canterbury Scholarship, Pacific Community Scholarship, Ngāi Tahu Research Centre Postgraduate Scholarship, Manaaki NZ Scholarships, and general UC Scholarships. Scholarship details and eligibility vary.