Graduate Certificate of Data Science (CRICOS course code 099118A) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 1 year. This program is ideal for graduates and professionals seeking to enter or advance in the data science field, covering core topics in computer science, statistics, and data analytics. At AQF Level 8, it offers a solid foundation for further postgraduate study or immediate career progression. Swinburne University of Technology, a public university established in 1908, operates from its main Hawthorn campus in Melbourne, Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00111D), Swinburne meets strict Australian government standards for international education. The course is taught entirely in English and does not include a work component. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses available across Australia, international students have a wide range of options, but this graduate certificate stands out for its focus on data science in a city renowned for its technology sector and vibrant student community.
The Graduate Certificate of Data Science (CRICOS 099118A) is a one-year postgraduate qualification offered by Swinburne University of Technology. Classified under the field of Computer Science (020100), this course provides an introduction to data science principles, including data manipulation, statistical analysis, and machine learning fundamentals. As a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8), it is designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent, and it can serve as a pathway to a master's degree. Swinburne is a government-funded university with a strong reputation in technology and innovation, located in Hawthorn, a suburb of Melbourne. All international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and financial safeguards. Data sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026 confirms the course details.
This graduate certificate focuses on the broad discipline of computer science, specifically data science. Students can expect to cover topics such as data wrangling, exploratory data analysis, statistical modeling, and introductory machine learning. The curriculum is designed to equip graduates with practical skills to analyse and interpret complex data sets, communicate findings, and support data-driven decision-making in various industries. While exact units may vary, courses at this level typically emphasise hands-on learning through projects and case studies. Swinburne's industry connections may provide additional networking opportunities, but students should confirm the specific syllabus with the provider.
The course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered on a full-time basis, with all instruction in English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include any foundation studies. The language of instruction ensures that international students develop or enhance their English proficiency while studying. Students should be prepared for a standard academic workload, typically involving lectures, tutorials, and independent study. Swinburne may offer flexible study options, but the CRICOS listing confirms the standard duration for this course.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$45,010, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$45,010. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Swinburne University of Technology. Please note: fees are subject to change, and students should always verify current charges on the provider's website. Additional costs not included in the above are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (such as accommodation, groceries, and transport), and the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500). For Melbourne, indicative living costs are around A$30,000 per year, including rent (A$200–350 per week for shared accommodation), food, and transport.
Entry to the Graduate Certificate of Data Science requires a completed bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. English language proficiency must be demonstrated, with typical IELTS scores ranging from 6.0 to 6.5 overall (no band less than 6.0). However, requirements vary by provider, so check Swinburne's specific criteria. Applicants who do not meet the direct entry requirements may consider pathway programs offered by Swinburne or other institutions. Always consult the provider for the most up-to-date entry requirements. Additionally, international students must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their visa application.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake internships, placements, or work experience as part of the program. However, student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. This provides opportunities to gain work experience and supplement living costs while studying.
The course is delivered at Swinburne University of Technology's Hawthorn Campus, located at John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria. Hawthorn is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne, approximately 7 km from the CBD. The campus is well-served by public transport (trains, trams, and buses), making it easily accessible from across Melbourne. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students and more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers a diverse cultural scene, excellent food and entertainment, and a strong economy with opportunities in technology and data science fields. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with weekly rent averaging A$250–450 for shared housing.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: confirmation of enrolment (CoE), sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC + travel), and meeting the GTE requirement. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring tuition assurance and complaint handling.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Certificate of Data Science at Swinburne University of Technology: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm the course (CRICOS 099118A) meets your goals. 2. Apply directly to Swinburne University of Technology: Check entry requirements, prepare English test results, gather academic transcripts, and submit an application by the deadline. The provider's website (swinburne.edu.au/international) has detailed instructions. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once offered a place and CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of funds, health insurance, and GTE statement.
Melbourne is one of Australia's premier study destinations, consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities. For data science students, it offers a thriving tech ecosystem with major companies like ANZ, Telstra, and numerous startups. The city has multiple universities offering data science courses, and its cultural diversity makes international students feel welcome. Public transport is extensive, and student amenities like libraries, cafes, and study spaces are abundant. However, living costs can be high, so budget accordingly. Consider your personal preferences for city life versus quieter suburbs—Hawthorn strikes a balance with proximity to the CBD and a leafy environment.
Start your application for the Graduate Certificate of Data Science today.
Graduate Certificate of Data Science is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.