Data is at the core of modern society. We are producing it, collecting it, wrangling it, analysing it, modelling it, understanding it, visualising it, using it on a scale that seemed impossible not so long ago.
Data Science is fundamentally about how we can learn from data and how we can meaningfully use it to improve our world. Studying Data Science leads to opportunities in fields as diverse as banking and biotechnology, entertainment and education, gaming and government, medicine and manufacturing, retail and research.
Data Science is also a broad area of study. At Otago, the Data Science programme pulls together the best that computer science, information science, and statistics have to offer while stressing application and understanding of the impact of Data Science on society.
Information on this page is about Data Science as a major for undergraduate science degrees, and as an endorsement for the Diploma for Graduates. The University of Otago also offers the Master of Business Data Science, a one-year postgraduate degree with a strong business focus:
Data is everywhere and the demand for data scientists is exploding. Data Science is a broad field but it essentially boils down to extracting information from large and complex data sets. Working as a data scientist for an organisation means you will be at the heart of decision-making processes.
Data Science brings together techniques and methods from computer science, information science, and statistics. This means there are opportunities in areas that particularly interest you, whether it is efficient computation, data storage infrastructure, data analysis or applied machine learning. In addition to problem-solving skills that can be applied to many areas, you will gain valuable communication and data visualisation skills.
Career opportunities
There are opportunities for Data Science graduates at all levels of business, industry, government, and science.
Data Science at Otago
What will I learn?
Data Science brings together techniques and methods from computer science, information science, and statistics to extract insight from large and complex data sets, and to communicate this acquired knowledge through effective modelling and visualisation.
You will learn how to acquire, handle and analyse data to solve problems in a wide variety of areas. You will also learn to think critically and ethically about the increasing role Data Science plays in society.
How will I learn?
The programme is delivered using lectures, tutorials, and practical labs. Assessment is a combination of assignments, projects, presentations, and exams. There will be opportunities to work in groups.
Background required
Entry into the BSc (BSc) in Data Science is open to anyone, however taking Digital Technology for NCEA is useful and NCEA Level 3 Mathematics and Statistics is helpful.
STAT 110 Statistical Methods or STAT 115 Introduction to Biostatistics
Note: Students are exempt from COMP 161 if they have gained entry to COMP 162 by passing COMP 151 with a grade of at least B or via an Advanced Placement Test.
1st Non standard period (26 February 2024 - 14 February 2025), 2nd Non standard period (15 July 2024 - 4 July 2025), 3rd Non standard period (15 July 2024 - 4 July 2025), 1st Non standard
