Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This online graduate certificate focuses on the applied use of data to support decision-making in sport. You will study core topics in sports analytics, including data management and cleaning, descriptive and inferential statistics for sport, data visualisation and communication, and introductory predictive modelling. Coursework emphasises hands-on use of common analytical tools and programming environments used in the sector, practical case studies from team and individual sports, and ethical issues around data use and athlete privacy.

• Foundations of sports analytics — introducing the analytics pipeline, performance indicators and the role of analytics in coaching and operations.
• Statistics for sport — practical application of descriptive and inferential statistics, experimental design and interpretation of results in sport contexts.
• Data visualisation and storytelling — techniques for presenting insights to coaches, athletes and stakeholders using dashboards and visual reports.
• Applied modelling and machine learning for sport — introductory predictive techniques, model evaluation and use-cases such as player tracking, injury risk and performance forecasting.
• Project or applied case study — a practical assessment that integrates data collection, analysis and clear communication of findings relevant to a sporting organisation.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need an Australian bachelor degree (or recognised equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as sports science, exercise physiology, statistics, IT, computer science, business, or a demonstrated combination of work experience and prior study. Applicants without a bachelor degree but with substantial professional experience in sport or analytics may be considered on a case-by-case basis. International applicants must meet ACU's English language requirements for postgraduate coursework. You will usually be asked to provide academic transcripts, a current CV and a statement outlining your experience and motivation for the course.

Career prospects

Graduates develop practical skills that are applicable across a range of sport and recreation settings. Typical roles and career pathways include:

• Performance analyst or data analyst within professional and amateur sports teams
• Sports scientist or support staff using data to inform training and recovery strategies
• Data-focused roles in sports technology companies, broadcast and media organisations
• Analytical or strategic roles in sporting federations, clubs and high-performance programs
• Transition into broader data science or analytics roles within related industries such as health, fitness and recreation

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers flexible online delivery that enables working professionals to apply learning directly to their workplace. The university has established teaching and research expertise in sport science, coaching and health, and fosters industry connections with sporting organisations that inform real-world case studies and applied assessments. Small‑group teaching and a practical, applied curriculum help students build a portfolio of analytical work and the professional communication skills needed to translate technical findings to coaches and decision-makers.