Master of Data Science Industry Based Capstone ProjectsGuide for industry partners

The University of Queensland commenced a flagship postgraduate program in 2017. The program is one of the most comprehensive data science programs in Australia, and combines high-level analytical and technical skills with industry-specific knowledge and essential professional attributes.

A core component of the program is a capstone project which involves designing and implementing a data science solution to an industry or academic problem. Students undertaking the capstone will further their specialist knowledge and technical skills through industry placements.

During the capstone which spans two semesters, the student is expected to spend approximately one day per week during the first semester developing a proposal and performing an initial analysis of the problem. In the second semester the student is expected to commit around three days per week to execute a solution and write a report for assessment.

Projects should be both beneficial to the industry partner, and satisfy broad academic technical complexity requirements to ensure that they provide students with sufficient learning opportunities for their degree program. These will be discussed during the project formulation.

Steps Description

Step 1

Project Proposal

If you think you have a suitable project for a student, or wish to discuss possible ideas with an academic in the program, please complete the online form (bit.ly/2WavetB).

*Note there are several levels of industry engagement that might be appropriate: These range from analysis of a static data set where a student is based at UQ and has occasional meetings with their industry partner, through to a student working off-campus with the industry partner.

Step 2

Applicant Interviews

Once all projects are received, students will be asked to indicate their preferences and submit their applications. Applications from the students who select your project will be sent to you for consideration. The Student Employability Team can make all the interview arrangements for you if you wish, including use of facilities on campus at UQ if preferred.

Step 3

Placement Paperwork

Following selection and confirmation of the successful student/s and clarification of your requirements. Confidentiality: Many of our industry partners have strict requirements around confidentiality and non-disclosure.

If you have such requirements, the Student Employability Team are available to assist.

Step 4

Confirmation Placement paperwork finalised and introduction to UQ academic supervisor who will provide advice to the student on the academic requirements of the project.

For further details, please contact:EAIT Student Employability Team industryplacements@eait.uq.edu.au +61 7 3365 8534CRICOS Provider Number 00025B

Placement Process

What does it cost?

Our standard scholarship model is outlined below.

Project spanning 2 semesters:

$12,000 per student

$9,000 goes directly to the student in the form of a scholarship in two instalments of $4,500 in each semester.

$3,000 contributes to the promotion and administration of the program; engagement with the industry placement coordinator throughout the process and the student selection process.

Project Timelines

The capstone project can commence in either semester 1 (March- June) or semester 2 (July – October). The project will span two consecutive semesters as outlined in the diagram below.

In the first semester of the project, students are expected to spend approximately one day per week on the project developing a proposal and performing an initial analysis of the problem. It is important that access to data and domain experts is ensured by week two of the semester.

In the second semester of the project, the students are expected to commit around three days per week to execute a solution and write a report for assessment.

The project scope should allow the project to be completed in the above time frames to ensure that the capstone courses are completed to align with UQ semester timetables.

Capstone Project Assessment/Milestone Timeline

First SemesterDATA7901 (Propose)

Second SemesterDATA7902 (Build)

Support for student from UQ and workplace supervisors via meetings, emails and phone calls

Semester break

Week 3

Problem formulation

Onsite meeting with UQ academic

and workplace supervisors

Seminar Progress report

Demo week

Final report

Week 4 Week 12 Week 11Week 15 Week 15

Placement ends