Key facts

Domestic students course information.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on a bachelor, graduate certificate or diploma, or bachelor with honours qualification, or overseas equivalent in a relevant discipline.

Entry is based on a bachelor, graduate certificate or diploma, or bachelor with honours qualification, or overseas equivalent in a relevant discipline. English language requirements must also be met.

View full entry requirements
Duration
  • 1.5 or 2 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Number of Units (Subjects)
  • 16 units (96 credit points)
View course structure
Fees
  • Commonwealth Supported Place (quotas apply)
  • Full Fee
  • International
View more fees information
CRICOS code
  • 012207G
Start Dates and Campus
Trimester 1 – February 2024Trimester 2 – June 2024Trimester 3 – October 2024
OnlineOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Armidale CampusOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Sydney CampusNot OfferedNot OfferedNot Offered
OnlineOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Armidale CampusOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Sydney CampusNot OfferedNot OfferedNot Offered

Course information

Download course brochure
UNE student studies on computer and laptop in classroom

Information and computing technology affect all aspects of modern life. Its applications include not only commerce and science, but also health, education, engineering, transport, government, entertainment, sport, and social networking.

Computer science and information technology have become so complex that only well-educated professionals have the skills and capabilities to develop and apply information and communications technology (ICT) systems in modern organisations. Worldwide, there is a well-documented shortage of ICT professionals.

In this essential field, changes occur rapidly, and professionals must continually refresh their skills and knowledge. UNE's Master of Computer Science provides you with a comprehensive postgraduate education in the latest ICT principles and practice, along with enhanced knowledge and skills in research.

Why study the Master of Computer Science with UNE?

Building on your existing relevant qualifications, you will develop advanced competencies in a range of areas critical to the rapidly changing disciplines of computer science and information technology.

You will expand your theoretical knowledge and practical experience, and hone your problem solving and analytical skills to future proof your career in today’s fast-paced ICT environment.

By choosing UNE, you are choosing an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, students award UNE the maximum 5-star ratings in The Good Universities Guide for Overall Experience and Student Support.

Choose between studying online or on campus, giving you the flexibility to balance your studies with your work and other commitments.

What makes our course different?

Our Master of Computer Science allows you to add to your knowledge and experience of ICT in the field, laboratory and professional workplace. You will work with industry-leading technologies and complete core units covering topics such as web programming, user experience and interaction design, artificial intelligence and machine learning.

You will have opportunities to:

  • Study a combination of coursework and research, to advance your knowledge of research principles and methods and apply theory in the real world.
  • Select from a wide range of elective units such as GIS, advanced statistics, linear algebra and multivariable calculus, giving you the flexibility to tailor your degree to meet your career goals.
  • Hone your written and oral communication skills to justify and interpret theoretical propositions, methodologies, conclusions and professional decisions to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
  • Choose between studying online or on-campus, giving you the flexibility to balance your studies with your work and other commitments.
  • Work in a small team on a capstone research project derived from academic linkages, community organisations or industry to develop an ICT solution to a real-world issue.
  • Work independently within a research environment to produce a thesis in computer science/IT, allowing you to contribute to scientific knowledge and expand your options in a research-oriented career path.
  • Apply for admission to PhD candidature, upon successful completion of the thesis.

Study online

Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.

Study on campus

Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.

* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.

Entry requirements

Select the option that best describes you.

If you are an international applicant who wants to study on campus in Australia:

You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.

This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline.*
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule B: You have completed a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Bachelor with Honours (AQF Level 8 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline.*
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).

* Relevant disciplines include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Computer Science
  • Data Science
  • Information Systems
  • Information Technology
  • Mathematics
  • Software Engineering
  • Statistics

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

Assumed Knowledge

By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of the programming language Java or C++.

Inherent Requirements

You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Visa Information

On-Campus study
If you would like to study full-time in Australia at one of UNE's campuses, you will need to have a visa that allows you to study. For most international students this visa will need to be a Student Visa. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has further information about visa eligibility and conditions.

If you are an international applicant who wants to study online (overseas or in Australia):

You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.

This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline.*
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule B: You have completed a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Bachelor with Honours (AQF Level 8 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline.*
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).

* Relevant disciplines include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Computer Science
  • Data Science
  • Information Systems
  • Information Technology
  • Mathematics
  • Software Engineering
  • Statistics

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

Assumed Knowledge

By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of the programming language Java or C++.

Inherent Requirements

You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Visa Information

Online study in your own country
If you would like to study online with UNE while you reside outside of Australia you do not need a Student Visa. If your course requires you to visit Australia to attend any mandatory study requirements, you would need to explore Visitor Visa options for a short-term stay.

Online study in Australia
If you would like to study online with UNE while you are residing in Australia, you will need to hold a visa (other than a Student Visa) that allows you to study. If you are unsure if your visa allows you to study, you can check with UNE's International Admissions team. If you hold a Student Visa you cannot study completely online; you must be enrolled as an on-campus student (although you can study a limited number of online units).

Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:

  • certified academic transcript of your completed qualification.
  • Proof of identity and citizenship. This can be a certified/notarised copy of the photo page of your passport, or another form of official photo identification that lists your full personal details including name and date of birth; for example, a foreign government identity card.
  • Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. If you have completed a UNE-approved formal English test within the last two years, you must provide a copy of the test results with your application. Please see UNE’s English Language Requirements above for further information.

Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.

Course Entry Advanced Standing
Some entry rules come with Advanced Standing or Articulation Programs that are assessed automatically without the need for you to fill in an additional application. Simply apply for your course and we’ll look after the rest.

If you are admitted under Rule B, you will be granted 24 credit points of Block Advanced Standing.

Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.

  • If you are admitted under Rule A, you can apply for up to 48 credit points of Advanced Standing. This may include up to 6 credit points of Advanced Standing based on relevant professional experience.
  • If you are admitted under Rule B, you can apply for up a further 24 credit points of Advanced Standing. This may include up to 6 credit points of Advanced Standing based on relevant professional experience.

Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for the following units:

  • COSC594 Information Technology Project: Proposal and Design
  • COSC595 Information Technology Project: Implementation
  • SCI501 Special Topics in Science A
  • SCI502 Special Topics in Science B

> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing

This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline.*
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule B: You have completed a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Bachelor with Honours (AQF Level 8 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline.*
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).

* Relevant disciplines include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Computer Science
  • Data Science
  • Information Systems
  • Information Technology
  • Mathematics
  • Software Engineering
  • Statistics

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

English Language Requirements

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

Assumed Knowledge

By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of the programming language Java or C++.

Inherent Requirements

You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:

certified academic transcript of your completed qualification.

Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.

Course Entry Advanced Standing
Some entry rules come with Advanced Standing or Articulation Programs that are assessed automatically without the need for you to fill in an additional application. Simply apply for your course and we’ll look after the rest.

If you are admitted under Rule B, you will be granted 24 credit points of Block Advanced Standing.

Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.

  • If you are admitted under Rule A, you can apply for up to 48 credit points of Advanced Standing. This may include up to 6 credit points of Advanced Standing based on relevant professional experience.
  • If you are admitted under Rule B, you can apply for up a further 24 credit points of Advanced Standing. This may include up to 6 credit points of Advanced Standing based on relevant professional experience.

Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for the following units:

  • COSC594 Information Technology Project: Proposal and Design
  • COSC595 Information Technology Project: Implementation
  • SCI501 Special Topics in Science A
  • SCI502 Special Topics in Science B

> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing

Course structure

To qualify for the award a candidate must pass units to the value of 96 credit points including at least 42 credit points at 500-level.

96 credit points

For candidates admitted under Rule (a)

42 credit points

Complete the following units:

Complete 12 or 24 credit points from the following units:

COSC593 is available only to students who have achieved a grade point average of at least 5 for 500-level units to the value of 18 credit points.

Complete 0 to 18 credit points from the following units:

Complete 12 to 42 credit points from the following units:

OR 6 credit points at 500-level may be selected from any unit offered by the University subject to meeting overall course requirements and prerequisite and timetabling requirements for individual units and approval of the course coordinator.

96 credit points

For candidates admitted under Rule (b)

24 credit points

24 credit points block advanced standing granted for those candidates who hold an AQF Level 8 Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma or Bachelor with Honours in a relevant discipline.

42 credit points

Complete the following units:

Complete 12 or 24 credit points from the following units:

COSC593 is available only to students who have achieved a grade point average of at least 5 for 500-level units to the value of 18 credit points.

Complete 6 or 18 credit points from the following units:

See UNE Handbook for more details. The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course plans, exit awards, intensive schools, and work placement requirements.

Fees and scholarships

How much will it cost?

Estimated fees for your first year of study in this course are:

Fee typeCost
Full Fee
$22,712*
International
$33,829*
Commonwealth Supported Place (quotas apply)
$8,373*
Estimated amenities fee per year if studying full-time$351
*The costs will depend on the units you choose to study as the cost of individual units vary. “Estimated fees” are provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking a study load of 48 credit points in the first year of this course. For courses that require less than 48 credit points the fees indicated are based on the total credit points required for completion of that course. For more information, please see fees and costs.

*Annual course fees only cover the cost of tuition. They do not include other expenses associated with university study such as text books, accommodation and living expenses. If you are successful in gaining admission to study at UNE, the Offer of Admission will list the exact tuition fees you need to pay for your course. Fees quoted cover full-time tuition for two full-time trimesters only. For more information, please see fees and costs.

What are the course fee payment options?

A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a government subsidised place in a university course. The government pays part of your tuition fees, and you pay the remainder.

If you have a CSP in either an undergraduate or postgraduate (coursework) degree, you may be eligible for a HECS-HELP Loan, which allows you to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.

Full Fee places are mostly in postgraduate coursework degrees. In a full fee place you pay the tuition fee set for your course, however you may be eligible for a FEE-HELP Loan to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.

If you are enrolled in a Full Fee place and there is a direct connection between your work and your study, you may be able to claim your tuition fees as a tax deduction.

UNE scholarships are open for all to apply and offer financial help while you are studying. There are scholarships for students with high academic achievement, from rural areas, studying specific degrees, in disadvantaged groups, experiencing financial hardship, who excel at sport or want to live in a UNE residential college.

UNE scholarship applications are free and confidential. You may apply for more than one scholarship.

Scholarships

UNE offers bursaries and scholarships that can help you with the costs of studying and living in Australia.

The UNE International Bursary reduces the published annual tuition fees for international students by up to 20%. These bursaries are available for international students commencing coursework studies at UNE in 2024. View detailed Bursary information.

UNE also offers a number of substantial research scholarships to postgraduate students studying research-based degrees.

Your career

Career outcomes

Computer science professionals are in high demand and career options include a wide variety of positions in the IT industry. You will have the skills and knowledge needed to consider roles such as:  

  • research team leader 
  • software developer 
  • IT project manager 
  • software architect 
  • software quality/testing specialist 
  • systems analyst. 
Other career information

Australia’s technology workforce will grow by 100,000 workers between 2018 and 2024, according to the ACS Australia’s Digital Pulse 2019 report. That’s an average annual growth rate of 2.3%, compared with the overall workforce growth of 1.3% a year. 

Course outcomes

The Master of Computer Science is designed for computer science/information technology practitioners. The aim of the course is to enable students to enhance their competencies in a range of areas critical to computer science/information technology; to develop a knowledge of research principles and methods; and to apply knowledge and skills to plan and execute a substantial research-based project/capstone experience. The course will enable students to attain the theoretical knowledge, problem solving and analytical skills and the practical experience needed to be an effective computer science/information technology practitioner.
  1. demonstrate through their own practice and research a mastery of scientific knowledge that includes knowledge of recent developments in computer science, established knowledge and practices and specialised skills in computer science;
  2. demonstrate through their own practice and research mastery of technical competencies in the field laboratory and professional workplace related to computer science; and knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to computer science;
  3. demonstrate mastery of a body of scientific knowledge by planning and executing a substantial research-based project, capstone experience and/or piece of research that integrates their own research findings with the current body of disciplinary knowledge/paradigms; demonstrating a capacity to make original contributions to scientific knowledge;
  4. conduct a research investigation under academic supervision in a research environment by critically analyse a complex problem, identify research questions, and apply established theories to their research question; justify and interpret theoretical propositions, methodologies, conclusions and professional decisions to specialist and non-specialist audiences; and analysing, interpreting and critically evaluating research findings;
  5. be effective communicators of science by communicating scientific ideas and research findings to specialist and non-specialist audiences using a variety of written and oral communication modes; and
  6. be accountable for their own learning and scientific work by applying creativity and initiative to new situations; operating with a high level of personal autonomy within a research environment; planning and executing a substantial research-based project, capstone experience and/or piece of research while complying with regulatory frameworks and practising professional ethics relevant to computer science.
Knowledge of a Discipline

Graduates have an increased knowledge of computing science/information technology through the learning and teaching activities associated within each unit and interaction with the unit coordinators, lecturers and tutors, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, online activities and discussion board, and work and study in a global environment. Graduates have an in-depth understanding of the risk and benefits associated with the global nature of computing science and information technology. Students are assessed using: program design tasks; computational assignments; theory based assignments; individual and group project reports; and written examinations.

Communication Skills

Graduates are able to communicate results, information and arguments relevant to computer science/information technology to a range of audiences, for a range of purposes and via a range of media.

Problem Solving

Graduates are able to investigate and solve problems by using recognised methods and appropriate practical techniques in computer science/information technology. Students practise and are assessed on their problem solving skills in all units and particularly in planning and execution of the research project.

Information Literacy

Graduates are able to access information from a range of sources, using a range of technologies, and they are able to synthesise and critically evaluate that information.

Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility

Graduates are able to take social responsibility by recognising the relevant and ethical frameworks within which computer science is practised. Reflection on social responsibility and professional practice in computer science/information technology is embedded in course content and graduates are able to work responsibly and ethically in both individual and team environments.

Lifelong Learning

Computer science/information technology is a very rapidly changing field of study. Graduates have the fundamental skills which enable them to supplement their knowledge and adapt to the changes in computer science/information technology. This is taught and practised by providing core skills and exposing students to a variety of programming languages, environments and specialised systems.

Independence and Collaboration

Graduates are able to apply their skills and knowledge individually and as part of collaborative teams. They are able to work with intellectual independence, and to collaborate with technical and non-technical colleagues and customers. Working in a group environment is an essential component of the course and in the professional practice of software development. To develop these skills, a number of units in the course require students to work in groups and provide guidance and assessment on group work.

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024
Woman studying online at home

Studying online

At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.

We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*

*The Good Universities Guide

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024
Woman studying online at home

Studying online

At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian University.

As an international student you can take advantage of flexible online study from overseas or while you are studying in Australia on a visa other than a student visa. You can’t study fully online on a Student Visa.

To study online from overseas you need to consider that you may need to travel to Australia to attend a UNE campus for some mandatory intensive schools.

Studying on Campus

Whether you are an undergraduate student coming to study in Australia for the first time, a PhD student coming to live here with your family, or you only need short-stay accommodation whilst in Armidale for Intensive Schools, we have the perfect accommodation option for you.

Find out more about studying on campus

Stay connected

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Why study with us?

Professional photo of Master in IT, Computer Science graduate Cathy Song

I found the lecturers and tutors very approachable and supportive, which was extremely valuable during projects and assignments.

Cathy Song, Bachelor of Computer Science/Master in IT

Why study with us?

UNE graduate poses on campus in springtime

UNE has a great academic environment, access to unlimited learning resources, exposure to leading academic staff in a university of international reputation.

Jesta Masuku, UNE graduate

How to apply

Applying to UNE is quick and easy. If you are an
you can apply at any time. Apply now and we'll get you started in the next possible intake.

Preparing to apply

You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.

The kind of documents you need will depend on:

  • Your preferred course/s
  • Your personal circumstances
Applying to UNE is quick and easy. If you are applying as a
, the application process may be a little different depending on who you are and what you want to study.

Preparing to apply

You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.

The kind of documents you need will depend on:

  • Your preferred course/s
  • Your personal circumstances

Important Dates

Different application methods and courses can have different closing dates. To find your correct application method click the Apply Now button below. Please check the appropriate application website for opening and closing dates.

If you are applying online direct to UNE please see below for application dates.

IntakeApplication Closing DateTrimester Start Date
Trimester 116 February 202426 February 2024
Trimester 214 June 202424 June 2024

Important Notice for Prospective Students

For accurate, up-to-date details on entry requirements, course structure, and other essential information, please consult the UNE Student Handbook before applying or enrolling. The Handbook provides comprehensive guidance to assist in your decision-making process. We apologise for any inconvenience.