On November 21, 2025, the Faculty of Data Science at the City University of Macau hosted a special lecture by Mr. Nicolas Tranquille, International Partnerships Manager from Australia's Deakin University, in Lecture Hall HG03. The information session was presided over by the undergraduate program coordinator Chia-Wei Chu and commenced with a welcome speech by the Vice-Rector of the City University of Macau and the Dean of the Faculty of Data Science Wanlei Zhou. The event aimed to provide students majoring in Intelligent Technology and Services and Computer Science with an in-depth analysis of the pathways and development prospects of the "2+2 Dual Degree Joint Program" between the two institutions. It attracted over a hundred teachers and students, fostering lively interaction.
Deakin University, ranked first in teaching quality in Victoria and consistently placed within the global top 1% of universities, was represented by Mr. Tranquille, who detailed its outstanding achievements in the fields of Data Science and Information Technology. Addressing the professional development needs of data science students, he highlighted two programs accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS): the Bachelor of Data Science and the Bachelor of Information Technology. The Data Science major offers 14 specializations including Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Health Analytics, and Sports Analytics, while the Information Technology program covers cutting-edge areas such as Application Development, Cybersecurity, and Human-Computer Interaction Design. ACS accreditation not only ensures international recognition of the qualifications but also provides strong support for graduates seeking skilled migration and career development.
The "2+2 Joint Program Model" became the focal point of the session. Students will spend two years at the City University of Macau and another two years at either Deakin University's Burwood or Waurn Ponds campus, graduating with bachelor's degrees awarded by both institutions. This model seamlessly integrates the strengths of Macau's local education with high-quality Australian resources, creating a synergistic "1+1>2" effect. Regarding employment prospects, Mr. Tranquille cited the latest industry data, noting that Australia's tech industry is experiencing a remarkable 16% annual growth rate and is projected to create 445,000 new jobs by 2030.
To encourage outstanding students, Deakin University offers several scholarships: the Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship can cover 50% to 100% of tuition fees, while the International Scholarship provides a 25% tuition fee waiver. Additionally, the university offers comprehensive student services including on-campus accommodation, airport pickup, and 24-hour security.
During the Q&A session, students actively asked questions about course articulation, internship opportunities, and migration policies, which Mr. Tranquille addressed in detail. This collaboration builds a direct bridge for our students to prestigious international universities. The faculty will continue to expand international exchanges to cultivate globally competitive, interdisciplinary data science talents. Aligning with Macau's "1+4" strategy for appropriate economic diversification, the demand for data science and information technology professionals continues to grow. The implementation of this joint program marks a crucial step forward in the faculty’s internationalization efforts, providing an excellent platform for Macau's youth to broaden their global perspectives and connect with cutting-edge technology.
