The University of Melbourne's Faculty of Science has recently added two new majors to the Bachelor of Science: Data Science & Environmental Engineering Systems. Each new major is being introduced to offer students the opportunity to combine a number of disciplines to lead to new combinations of knowledge and skills.
Data Science Major
Over the past decade, there has been an explosion in the amount of data available worldwide. Trillions of bytes are now captured daily from mobile devices, web logs, sensors, and instruments. Organising and making sense of this information requires distinctive new skills. The Data Science major has an emphasis on statistics and computer science. It will support students in developing a strong foundation in the statistical aspects of data analysis (data collection, data mining, modelling and inference), as well as the principles of computer science (algorithms, data structures, data management and machine learning). This major is designed to provide students with an intellectual understanding of how to integrate and apply statistical and computing principles to solve large scale, real-world data science problems.
Careers - through this major, students will develop skills in business, technology, mathematics and statistics, all of which are increasingly important in research and industry. This may lead to careers in:
- Information technology and communications
- Research and education
- Health and medical industries
- Business and financial services
- Sales and marketing
- Engineering and mining
- Climate and weather forecasting
- Government
Graduate Pathways - students with a major in Data Science will be well prepared for graduate study in the newly-launched Master of Data Science, as well as the Master of Science (Computer Science) and the Master of Science (Mathematics & Statistics). You might also pursue graduate study in fields such as software engineering.
Environmental Engineering Systems
There is a steady demand for engineers who work at the interface of engineering technology and bio-physical and natural environments. The Environmental Engineering Systems major focuses student learning on the interactions between physical materials and processes, and human and non-human organisms. Students who successfully master these tools will be in a strong position to apply them as environmentally literate scientists in industry, or to continue their study in the field of environmental engineering to become a professional engineer.
Bachelor of Science - Science and Technology Internship
A reminder that Bachelor of Science students can now undertake a Science and Technology Internship subject which will offer real experience working in a science or technology related workplace. The internship will help students to identify and articulate their knowledge and skills and apply them to relevant contexts and work-settings, produce original work in an appropriate format which demonstrates analytical, research and problem-solving skills, understand the value of industry and professional networks and their importance to lifelong learning and career progression and develop greater confidence in their ability to contribute to a science-related workplace, awareness of the strengths they offer to a future employer as well as areas to further develop beyond their degree.
To learn more about his exciting new subject, click here: http://science.unimelb.edu.au/students/enrich-your-studies/science-technology-internship.
If you have any questions or require more information about the University of Melbourne, please contact Nicky Haslinghouse via hnicola@unimelb.edu.au.