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.

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.

Rule A

96 credit points

For candidates admitted under Rule (a)

• Core Units
• Research/Capstone Experience
• Listed Units Group 1
• Listed Units Group 2

Rule B

96 credit points

For candidates admitted under Rule (b)

• Advanced Standing
• Core Units
• Research/Capstone Experience
• Listed 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.

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. 

A candidate shall: (a) hold an AQF Level 7 Bachelor qualification in a relevant discipline; or (b) hold an AQF Level 8 Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Bachelor with Honours qualif

An IELTS (Academic) overall score of at least 6.0 with no sub-band less than 5.5; or equivalent TOEFL score of at least 213 in the computer-based test; or at least 79 in the internet-based test with no less than 22 in the written component; or a PTE Academic minimum overall score of 57 with no skill less than 50.