Use data to interpret the changing world
Data science is a modern discipline in high demand. It expands the capabilities of statistics and computer science to interpret large and complex data sets.
With the Master of Data Science, you can develop the skills to adapt to the constant change in data, tools, and statistical techniques.
Your study will consist of advanced coursework, a research project, and a work placement to apply your skills.
Who can study for this qualification
You can study for the MDataSc if you have a Bachelor’s degree with a major in Data Science, Computer Science, or Statistics. You should have an average grade of B+ or better in the courses making up your Bachelor’s degree
If you've studied in a different area, you may also be considered if you have relevant work experience in data science, or if your previous studies include sufficient coursework in data science, computer science, or statistics.
Contact the postgraduate programme director for Data Science to discuss your options.
What you’ll learn
Your study will cover:
- advanced techniques in data science, including statistical methods, machine learning, and their uses in the world of big data
- learning to critically analyse data requirements and sources in a variety of areas from the sciences, humanities, and social sciences, to business and government
- working with data collected by, for, and about Māori. You’ll consider how the Treaty of Waitangi applies—applying Māori sovereignty in data collection, transfer, storage, and publication.
How you’ll study
The 240-point MDataSc includes both coursework and research. You’ll complete it in 2 years of full-time study.
The MDataSc has two parts.
Part 1
You’ll complete coursework that address fundamental techniques of data science, statistical methods, and machine learning.
Part 2
You’ll complete:
- core courses covering statistical methods and computational techniques
- a research preparation course
- a research project under the supervision of experts in the School of Mathematics and Statistics
- a practicum work placement with one of our industry partners, such as data science consultancies, government departments and agencies, and private companies.
You’ll study through a combination of assignments, group work projects, oral presentations, a written research project report, term tests, written examinations, workplace reports, and self-reflections.
If you are already qualified in Data Science
If you have a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science or a double major in Computer Science and Statistics, you may be exempted from Part 1 and begin your degree at Part 2. This reduces your MDataSc to 180 points, and lets you complete it in 12 months of full-time study.
Part-time study options
Studying part time, you can complete the MDataSc over a maximum of 4 years.
Qualification support and advice
We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.
If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser through our enquiry form.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
For the research portion of your study, you’ll need a supervisor to help guide your research. Your programme coordinator will work with you to find the right person.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the MDataSc degree shall have:
(i) completed a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, or Statistics; and
(ii) been accepted by the head of school or nominee as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study
(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived or varied by the associate dean for a candidate who has had extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience that provides an equivalent level of preparation.
Qualification requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the MDataSc
2. (a) The course of study for the MDataSc shall consist of courses worth 240 points, consisting of:
Part 1: 60 points from Artificial Intelligence (AIML 420), AIML 421, DATA 471–475 or approved alternatives;
Part 2: (i) Big Data (AIML 427), one of (Neural Networks and Deep Learning (AIML 425), Evolutionary Computation and Learning (AIML 426), Probabilistic Machine Learning (AIML 429)), Computational Statistics (STAT 432), Generalised Linear Models (STAT 438), Research Preparation for Data Science (DATA 480), Advanced Techniques in Data Science (DATA 501), Data Science Practicum (DATA 581);
(ii) Research Project (DATA 487) or 489;
(iii) 30 or 45 further points from AIML 400–479; COMP 400–479; DATA 400–469; DATA 490–499; MATH 400–483; STAT 400–483 or approved alternatives
(b) A candidate who has completed a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, or a double major in Statistics and either Artificial Intelligence or Computer Science shall be exempted from Part 1 and admitted directly to Part 2.
(c) The Head of School of Mathematics and Statistics may exempt a student from any 400- level DATA course in Part 1 for which they have mastered the material through prior study.
(d) The Head of School of Mathematics and Statistics may approve the substitution of (Research Project (DATA 487), Data Science Practicum (DATA 581)) by Research Project (DATA 588).
Future careers
Data scientists are in high demand in most sectors. The Master of Data Science gives you the knowledge and practical experience you need for a career working with data.
More career information
Find out more about careers in data science.
The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It’s a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Science and Engineering
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These scholarships are open to full-time or transferring students enrolling in a Master’s programme in Chemistry at the School of Chemical and Physical Sciences or in a Master’s programme at the New Zealand School of Music, Victoria University of Wellington.
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The Brian Murray Fox Scholarship in History offers an opportunity to students who are intending to undertake their second, third or Honours year of their degree at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington in the year following application.
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The Brian Murray Fox Scholarship in Creative Writing supports a student who has been accepted into the MA in Creative Writing. With one application deadline each year.
Scholarships for international students
We are currently offering a NZ$10,000 VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Master’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma programme.
Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.
Other scholarships
We also have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It’s a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Science and Engineering
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These scholarships are open to full-time or transferring students enrolling in a Master’s programme in Chemistry at the School of Chemical and Physical Sciences or in a Master’s programme at the New Zealand School of Music, Victoria University of Wellington.
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The scholarship is open to graduates of any university in New Zealand or of the University of the South Pacific, who are enrolled or intending to enrol full-time or part-time, in a Master of Criminology (MCrim) or a PhD in Criminology at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
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The purpose of the award is to assist postgraduate (full-time or part-time) students in the study of a Master’s of Linguistics, Applied Linguistics or TESOL by coursework at Te Herenga Waka–Victoria University of Wellington. Applicant will be assessed on the basis of academic merit. Relevant prior experience may also be taken into account.
Join our postgraduate community
The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides a voice for you on campus and information on studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Postgraduate Students’ Association
MAI ki Pōneke
MAI ki Pōneke are part of an international network of Māori and Indigenous postgraduate students. They provide advice, support, and information to Indigenous postgraduate students of all levels, as well as those thinking about enrolling.
Study for a PhD
If you do well in your Master’s degree, and show an aptitude for advanced research, you’ll be able to apply to do a PhD.
You’ll carry out original and sustained research under supervision from world-class academics in the Wellington Faculty of Engineering.
As a PhD candidate, you’ll also be supported by the Faculty of Graduate Research.
Academic staff research areas
Our academic staff are active across a range of specialist research areas.
Get help to manage your finances
We can help you:
- budget your money
- manage your student loan or allowance
- work out your accommodation payment schedule.
If you’re facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.
You may be eligible for government or community support, too.
Apply for a New Zealand study visa
You’ll need to apply for a study visa if you plan to study with us as an international student.
You should apply for your visa after you’ve received your Offer of Place, and before you come to New Zealand.