Key facts

UNE unit code: COSC351

*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.

Start
  • Trimester 1 - On Campus
  • Trimester 1 - Online
Campus
  • Armidale Campus
24/7 online support
  • Yes
Intensive schools
  • No
Supervised exam
  • Yes
Credit points
  • 6

Unit information

UNE student studies on a laptop on her lounge at home

Deep learning is one of the most important techniques in Artificial Intelligence, underpinning rapidly advancing innovative technologies such as autonomous systems, biometrics, cybersecurity and digital assistance. This unit introduces you to deep learning using a range of toolkits and technologies commonly applied within industry and research settings. You will gain invaluable hands-on experience building deep learning workflows to solve computer vision and natural language processing problems using advanced techniques. Topics covered include computer vision, natural language processing and generative AI, using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks (DCNNs), Transformers, Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) and Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPT). You will understand the theoretical concepts underpinning deep learning best practices, with a strong focus on applied skills. The unit culminates in self-directed deep learning project applying knowledge and skills learned.

Offerings

For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.

Teaching period
Mode/location
Trimester 1On Campus, Armidale Campus
Trimester 1Online

*Offering is subject to availability

Intensive schools

There are no intensive schools required for this unit.

Enrolment rules

Pre-requisites
(COSC110 or COSC102) and MTHS120 and (COSC210 or COSC220 or COSC230 or COSC240)
Co-requisites
None
Restrictions
COSC551
Combined units

Notes

Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.

Unit coordinator(s)

profile photo of Andreas Shepley
Andreas ShepleyAssociate Lecturer - Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law; School of Science and Technology

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. understand the fundamentals of deep learning including tensors and their operations, gradient descent and backpropagation;
  2. solve problems using a range of deep learning toolkits and technologies commonly applied within industry and research settings;
  3. apply principles of deep learning using deep convolutional neural networks for computer vision;
  4. apply principles of deep learning using transformers for natural language processing:
  5. design and implement an effective deep learning workflows to solve problems using advanced deep learning techniques, applying best practices; and
  6. demonstrate effective oral communication skills to justify decisions and approach to solving a deep learning problem.

Assessment information

Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.

TitleMust CompleteWeightOfferingsAssessment Notes
Final Exam (Supervised) - Assurance TaskYes30%All offerings

Final Exam: Supervised MyLearn Quiz.

Students must pass the Final Examination and also pass the sum of the Final Examination and Assessment 5 in aggregate in order to pass the unit.

Formative Assessment 1: Fundamentals of Deep Learning and Computer VisionYes10%All offerings

Students complete an open-book timed quiz covering the fundamentals of Deep Learning and Computer Vision.

Formative Assessment 2: Major Project PlanYes10%All offerings

Students submit a scaffolded plan for their major project.

Formative Assessment 3: Deep Learning for Time-seriesYes10%All offerings

Students complete an open-book timed quiz covering advanced Computer Vision methods and Time-series.

Formative Assessment 4: Deep Learning for Natural Language ProcessingYes10%All offerings

Students complete an open-book timed quiz covering Natural Language Processing.

Student Research Portfolio - Assurance TaskYes30%All offerings

Students design and implement a custom workflow to solve a Computer Vision OR Time-series OR Natural Language Processing problem. Students submit a git project and video presentation of their workflow.

Students must pass the Final Examination and also pass the sum of the Final Examination and Assessment 5 in aggregate in order to pass the unit.

Learning resources

Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.

Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.

Deep Learning with Python

ISBN: 9781633436589

Chollet, F. and Watson, M., Manning 3rd ed. 2025

Text refers to: All offerings

Excellence in experience, equity and employability

2026 Overall Experience

Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.

Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
2026 Social Equality

Five Stars for
Social Equity

UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.

Good Universities Guide 2026
2026 Graduate Employment

Five Stars for
Graduate Employment

UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.

Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
2026 Diamond-Rated Digital Learning

Diamond-Rated Digital Learning

UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.

ASCILITE TELAS 2025
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

Stay connected

Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.

  • Course updates and important changes as they happen
  • Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
  • Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
  • Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire

Ready to stay in the loop?

GET IN TOUCHUniversity campus with students on a sunny day, historic brick building and green lawn

Why study with us?

Graduate Jess Trow, Bachelor of Education (K–6)

UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.

Jess Trow, Bachelor of Education (K–6)

What happens next?

laptop icon
1. Decide on your course

Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.

pencil icon
2. Apply

2026 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!

form icon
3. Receive an offer, enrol and start studying

Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.