Data science is an interdisciplinary field that uses scientific methods, algorithms and systems to gain insights from data. It combines skills from statistics, mathematics, computer science and specialist expertise to analyse big data, see patterns, make predictions and inform decision-making.

Data analysts work in fields such as finance, sport, healthcare, marketing and technology.

Learning areas/subjects

You may be interested in this occupation group if you enjoyed these learning areas at school:

  • Physics
  • Computing
  • Electrotechnology
  • Maths

Skills

  • Teamwork
  • Business
  • Problem-solving
Data Science

ICT Business and Systems Analysts

ICT Business and Systems Analysts work with users to formulate system requirements, develop system plans and documentation, review and evaluate existing systems, and design and modify systems to meet users' business needs.

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Software Engineers

Software and Applications Programmers

Software and Applications Programmers design, develop, test and document code to meet user requirements, and system and technical specifications.

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Data Science

Database and Systems Administrators

Database and Systems Administrators, and ICT Security Specialists plan, develop, maintain, manage and administer organisations' database management systems, operating systems, and security policies and procedures to ensure optimal database and system integrity, security, backup, reliability and performance.

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Latest stories from women in STEM

Sophia Frentz

"Take any pathway you want but don’t forget to try stuff. You don’t know what will scratch the itch on your brain."

Sophia Frentz

Technical Product Manager

Meet Prof Kerrie Mengersen, Statistician and Data Analyst

Data is everywhere, and no one crunches the numbers better than QUT's Prof Kerrie Mengersen. Learn what it's like using the power of maths, stats and data science to help jaguars in the Amazon, save the Great Barrier Reef, or help people with cancer.

Analyst and TV presenter Lily Serna: Challenging maths stereotypes

Maths superstar Lily Serna works as a Data Analyst at the enterprise software company Atlassian, focusing on creating mathematical and statistical models. However, you may recognise her for her role as the resident numbers expert on SBS's Letters and numbers

What do Data Scientists do?

What does a job in data look like? Where do Data Scientists work? Take a look at this article from Careers in STEM to find out about the wide-ranging career options on offer in this area. 

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