Master of Statistics and Operations Research

Master of Statistics and Operations Research

POSTGRADUATE

Use your specialist skills to conduct major research into statistics and their processes.

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Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

Not applicable

Duration:
Full-time 2 years
Part-time 4 years
Fees:

AU$32,640 (2025 annual)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

See admissions

Duration:
Full-time 2 years
Fees:

AU$41,280 (2025 annual)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City

Overview

The Master of Statistics and Operations Research will develop your knowledge of statistical and operations research methodologies.

You’ll combine a theoretical foundation with practical applications of current techniques employed by practising engineers, scientists and other professionals in industry, research, consulting, teaching and business.

This is achieved using statistical software accompanied by an in-depth understanding of the statistical processes involved.

You will be particularly knowledgeable, creative and critical in the sense of how you interpret and analyse data. You will also be equipped with the ability to apply knowledge to solve a wide range of real-world problems.

You’ll be exposed to a wide variety of analytics tools including R, SQL, SAS Enterprise Guide, SAS Enterprise Miner, Python, Java, CPLEX, Gurobi and Arena.

The program includes an industry project component and/or minor thesis which will develop your consulting and research skills.

Based on your previous studies you may be eligible for exemptions that may shorten your program duration by up to one year full-time.

Details

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The program is offered through a flexible combination of lectures, tutorials and computer laboratory classes.

Classes are usually held once a week in the evenings. There are also opportunities for you to work as part of a team on projects and in consulting activities.

Learning at RMIT

The types of classes you have will depend on the course you’re studying. Classes are offered in various formats designed to provide meaningful engagement with staff, industry and peers and provide for access and use of spaces where learning can be applied and active, including an array of specialised equipment.

Most RMIT courses do not include passive large-scale classes such as lectures, instead the content traditionally provided in lectures is made available online. This may be in the form of readings, videos or other on-demand learning materials. This content will also support the basis of interactive learning that takes place in on-campus classes.

You'll apply your knowledge and skills via consulting and a focus on work-integrated learning (WIL), providing you with Statistical experience.

Your involvement with industry projects and data will give you the chance to build your theoretical capabilities in the context of practical problems.

Recent international student placements/projects include:

  • Bosch Corporation, Japan
  • Continental, Germany
  • Siemens, Germany
  • Novartis Switzerland

All Statistics students have a capstone experience with our industry partners, working with real data.

You'll do industry projects and develop your Statistical capabilities by solving problems hands-on.

Students will also have the opportunity to apply for industry internships and placements advertised through their study.

This program is linked to industry through the Industry Advisory Committee (IAC) and through various consulting and research projects undertaken by staff.

Members of the IPAC provide valuable input and are a major driver for change in the program, particularly with regard to industry trends and future graduate capabilities, the use of state-of-the-art software, the introduction of specialisations and, most importantly, support for the use of work-integrated learning (WIL).

WIL will be visible in each year of the program through guest speakers, industry projects, and when available, student placements/internships in industry.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

The first year of the program includes four core courses in analytics, statistics and operations research, which lay the foundation of the program.

Throughout the program students will choose up to four general options and seven other options from analytics, statistics, computer science, geographic information science (GIS) and operations research courses.

The final year includes an applied research project where students work on a real industry problem.

Students who find approved placements or internships in their second year can have them count towards their applied research project course.

As part of RMIT’s continuous improvement efforts, the program structure is regularly updated to reflect industry trends.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Master of Statistics and Operations Research
Program code: MC004
Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Master of Statistics and Operations Research
City Campus
2 years full time or 4 years part time
MC004P12
074919G
Location
City Campus
Duration
2 years full time or 4 years part time
Plan code
MC004P12
CRICOS
074919G
View plan
Master of Statistics and Operations Research
City Campus
2 years full time
MC004P12
074919G
Location
City Campus
Duration
2 years full time
Plan code
MC004P12
CRICOS
074919G
View plan

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Career

Demand for statistical and operations research skills is growing in a data-driven world.

Graduates are employed by a variety of scientific, commercial and government enterprises, most commonly as data scientists, statisticians, business analysts, consultants, modellers and researchers.

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Graduates are eligible to apply for membership of the following organisations:

Entry requirements and admissions

You need to satisfy all of the following entry requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

Entry requirements:

  • An Australian bachelor degree in any discipline, or equivalent.

OR

  • You may also be considered if you have at least 10 years of work experience in statistics and operations research.

If you wish to have industry or employment experience assessed as part of meeting the entry requirements you will need to provide a detailed CV/resume listing previous positions, dates of employment and position responsibilities; a statement from your employer confirming these details (or contact details of employer so RMIT can seek confirmation); and evidence of any relevant professional development undertaken. 

International qualifications are assessed for comparability to Australian qualifications according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

Some applicants might be eligible for exemptions that might change the duration of their program. Please refer to the Articulation and Pathways section for more detail.

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

You must meet the University's minimum English language requirements to be eligible for a place in this program.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

Entry requirements:

  • An Australian bachelor degree in any discipline, or equivalent.

OR

  • You may also be considered if you have at least 10 years of work experience in statistics and operations research.

International qualifications are assessed for comparability to Australian qualifications according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

Some applicants might be eligible for exemptions that might change the duration of their program. Please refer to the Articulation and Pathways section for more detail.

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus at RMIT University Pathways (RMIT UP).

Pathways

You can gain entry to this masters degree from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs, if you meet the entry requirements.

Masters advanced standing

If you have successfully completed one of the following qualifications majoring in analytics, statistics, operations research or a relevant discipline you will be eligible for credit as follows:

Qualification level

Credit

Remaining program duration

Bachelor degree (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
Graduate Certificate

Up to 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester full-time study)

144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters full-time study)

Bachelor degree (Honours)
Graduate Diploma
Master
PhD
(AQF Level 8 or higher)

Up to 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters full-time study)

96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters full-time study)

If you have successfully completed one of the following qualifications majoring in information technologies, information security, computer science, geospatial science or a relevant discipline you will be eligible for exemptions as follows:

Qualification level

Credit

Remaining program duration

Bachelor degree
Bachelor degree (Honours)
Graduate Certificate
Graduate Diploma
Masters
PhD
(AQF Level 7 or higher)

Up to 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester full-time study)

144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters full-time study)

 

If you choose to exit this degree after completing 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters full time study) you will eligible to be awarded the Graduate Diploma in Statistics and Operations Research (GD120). Note that the exemptions mentioned above cannot be used to exit with a Graduate Diploma.

The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is the national policy for Australian qualifications in vocational and higher education.

Credit and recognition of prior learning

Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Upon completion of your program, if you wish to continue your studies with a PhD degree, you may need to have completed MATH1332 Minor Thesis.

You can gain entry into this degree from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs.

Master Advanced Standing

If you have successfully completed one of the following qualifications majoring in analytics, statistics, operations research, or a relevant discipline you will be eligible for exemptions as follows:

Qualification level Masters exemptions offered Remaining program duration*

(AQF Level 7 or equivalent)

  • Bachelor degree
  • Graduate certificate

Up to 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester of full-time study)

144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters of full-time study)

(AQF Level 8 or higher)

  • Bachelor degree (Honours)
  • Graduate diploma
  • Master
  • PhD

Up to 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full-time study)

96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full-time study)

If you have successfully completed one of the following qualifications majoring in information technologies, information security, computer science, geospatial science or a relevant discipline you will be eligible for exemptions as follows:

Qualification level Masters exemptions offered Remaining program duration*

(AQF Level 7 or higher)

  • Bachelor degree
  • Bachelor degree (Honours)
  • Graduate certificate
  • Graduate diploma
  • Master
  • PhD

Up to 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester of full-time study)

144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters of full-time study)

If you choose to exit this degree after completing 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters full time study) you will eligible to be awarded the Graduate Diploma in Statistics and Operations Research (GD120). Note that the exemptions mentioned above cannot be used to exit with a Graduate Diploma.

The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is the national policy for Australian qualifications in vocational and higher education.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit.

Credits

Applicants with a bachelor honours degree, graduate certificate, graduate diploma or masters degree qualification majoring in a different discipline may also be eligible for credit transfer of up to 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester full time study).

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and weightings, and reference to the learning resources.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Upon successful completion of this degree, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT Masters by Research or Doctoral (PhD) program.

Fees

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2025 indicative fees

  • Full-fee places: AU$32,640 (2025 annual fee)*.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$365 maximum fee for 2025*.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment*

Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.

*Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Defer your payment

This program is offered on a full-fee paying basis only. If you are offered a place, you will need to pay the full tuition costs of your program. However, eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your course, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from course to course.

FEE-HELP loans

Eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

SA-HELP Loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.

This program is approved for income support.

You may be eligible for student income support payments from the Commonwealth Government if you are undertaking a graduate certificate, graduate diploma or an approved professionally oriented masters by coursework program. For more information see Income support for Masters students.

If you are enrolled in an eligible program you will also need to satisfy all other student payment eligibility requirements. You can contact Centrelink or Services Australia for further information about student income support entitlements, your eligibility and how to apply.

You may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to your employment.

See the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for more information.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

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In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Student services and amenities fee (SSAF)

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365. 

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information