Excel in Data Science
Postgraduate study in Data Science will help you gain an in-depth understanding of working with structured and unstructured data.
You will learn how to solve real-world problems with a combination of statistics, computer science, mathematics, and artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Gain a deeper understanding of working with large data sets. You’ll learn how to extract valuable insights to inform high-level decisions and opportunities within an organisation.
Choose your study path
Postgraduate study gives you the flexibility to focus on either coursework or research, depending on your goals and interests.
When you study by coursework, you’ll learn in a structured way through lectures, tutorials, assignments, and exams. When you do a research degree, you’ll do independent research while working closely with an academic supervisor.
Focus on coursework
- Graduate Certificate in Science
- Graduate Diploma in Science
- Postgraduate Certificate in Science
- Postgraduate Diploma in Science
Coursework and research
Focus on research
Master of Data Science
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.
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.
Study options
Find out how you can study postgraduate Data Science at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Why Wellington
Take advantage of the University’s links with the many government departments, research institutes, and businesses based in Wellington. Staff and students are involved in research collaborations with organisations, including:
- Statistics New Zealand
- Department of Conservation
- Wellington City Council
- GNS Science
- NIWA
- data science companies in the private sector.
You can build your professional networks and apply your learning to real-world data.
Future careers
Data scientists are in high demand—your skills will be useful both in the public and private sector.
You could work in:
- a data science consultancy
- most areas of government, such as ministries for health, education, social development, or Stats NZ
- private sector companies—for example in tech, finance, health, or insurance companies, or banks
- a research institute
- a university.
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 Mathematics and Statistics
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This Scholarship was established in 2025 to honour Professor Margaret Hyland who held the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research at Victoria University of Wellington from 2018 to 2025.
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The purpose of this scholarship is to assist female students in the area of Mathematical Sciences or Geosciences to complete their M.Sc. or PhD thesis, by helping to extend enrolment in the final months of writing up their thesis.
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Applicants must be female, New Zealand or Canadian citizens studying full time at 300 level BSc (Hons) and Master's by Coursework in any area of Science, including Architecture and Design at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
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 Mathematics and Statistics
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The purpose of this scholarship is to assist female students in the area of Mathematical Sciences or Geosciences to complete their M.Sc. or PhD thesis, by helping to extend enrolment in the final months of writing up their thesis.
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In honour of Jonathan Nicholls (ACC's Head of Actuarial Services who passed away in early 2015), ACC wishes to promote the actuarial profession in much the same way that Jonathan did. ACC is dedicated to supporting Actuarial Science students and others looking to pursue a career in the actuarial profession.
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Applicants must be female, New Zealand or Canadian citizens studying full time at 300 level BSc (Hons) and Master's by Coursework in any area of Science, including Architecture and Design at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
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.
Academic staff research areas
Ryan Admiraal
Senior Lecturer in Statistics and Data Science
Richard Arnold
Council Member
Alejandro Frery
Professor in Statistics and Data Science
David Huijser
Lecturer in Statistics
Ivy Liu
Deputy Director,A Centre of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
Stephen Marsland
Deputy Head of School
Louise McMillan
Senior Lecturer
Binh Nguyen
Senior Lecturer in Data Science
Nokuthaba Sibanda
Associate Professor in Statistics
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.