Computer science

Why study Computer science?

Computer science students train in programming, database, data structure and software engineering, with the flexibility to choose from a wide range of electives within the school or from other areas of the university. Learn how to identify and solve problems, secure and maintain large networks, design and implement large databases and effectively manage human and IT resources. Specialisations within this course include artificial intelligence, network engineering, data engineering and software engineering.

Industry enterprise practices

The Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering offers the opportunity to gain industry-standard qualifications with CISCO and Microsoft as part of your degree.

Computer Science

Career opportunities

Graduates are prepared for careers such as systems analyst, systems programmer, analyst programmer, application programmer, developer programmer, software engineer, database engineer, database developer, security and network expert. You may work in artificial intelligence, graphics, robotics, games development or multimedia. For information on past students and the positions they hold worldwide, see alumni careers.

Courses

Local students

Computer science courses
Offer yearCourse titleCampus(es)DurationSemester starts
2013 Bachelor of Computer Science Melbourne
3 years full-time or up to 6 years part-time Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Computer Science continued…

Course description
Computer science is a highly diverse field, covering computer software systems and design, databases, artificial intelligence, computer architecture, networks, multimedia systems and games technology. This flexible course focuses on computing processes, hardware and software, and their underlying principles. It aims to give students the knowledge and skills needed to design, implement, and maintain complex computer systems, and to develop effective solutions for problems in areas such as data storage, computer networks, and computer security.

Distinctive features include object-oriented programming using Java and C++ from first year, industry-based project work and industry placements, and the option to take up to 25 per cent of subjects from other disciplines. The course also includes an opportunity for industry-recognised CISCO certification in computer networks.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: English (any) and either Mathematical Methods (either) or Specialist Mathematics.
Extra requirements
Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 70 or above receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs are considered through normal selection processes.
Non-Year 12 selection may involve: ATAR, VTAC Personal History online, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. They may also be asked to complete a maths test.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Selection
ATAR (2013)
Melbourne: 60.65

Middle band
Completion of Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional information
Students without the appropriate computer science background may be required to commence three weeks early to undertake accelerated first-year computer science subjects.

A CISCO certification training program is available for students who pass the network engineering subjects in their undergraduate studies. For more information, contact the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering at the beginning of first semester.
How to apply
VTAC
Professional recognition
The degree is accredited by the Australian Computer Society, and graduates are eligible for professional membership.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Computer Science Melbourne
2013 Bachelor of Computer Science/Bachelor of Accounting Melbourne
4.5 years full-time (4 years in accelerated program) or up to 9 years part-time. Semester 1 (March)

Bachelor of Computer Science/Bachelor of Accounting continued…

Course description
Designed to meet an industry demand for combined computer science and business skills, this course gives students opportunities for industry-based project work, advanced studies in accounting, and a choice of streams in computer science, such as software engineering, data engineering, artificial intelligence or network engineering. See individual course entries for general details on content.
Students can access the Faculty's industry experience and student support programs.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 25 in English (ESL) or 20 in any other English, and 25 in Mathematical Methods (either) or 20 in Specialist Mathematics.
Extra requirements
Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 80 or above receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs are considered through normal selection processes.

Non-Year 12 selection may involve: ENTER/ATAR, VTAC Personal History online, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. They may also be asked to complete a maths test.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Selection
ATAR (2013)
n/a
Middle band
Successful completion of Mathematical Methods or Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
How to apply
Through VTAC or UAC. Students applying to our Melbourne campus can apply directly to La Trobe University. Please note that direct applications are only available to non-Year 12 applicants and to applicants who have not already applied through VTAC. For more information about direct applications please visit Ask La Trobe.
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Computer Science is accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS), and graduates are eligible for professional membership.

The Bachelor of Accounting is accredited by CPA Australia and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia (ICAA). Graduates are eligible for membership with either professional accounting body or other professional groups such as National Institute of Accountants (NIA) and Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Computer Science/AccountingMelbourne
2013 Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)/Bachelor of Electronic Engineering Melbourne
6 years full-time (5 years in an accelerated program), or up to 10 years part-time Semester 1 (March)

Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)/Bachelor of Electronic Engineering continued…

Course description
A course designed to give students many career options across two fields - and the areas where they intersect. Students can choose computer science specialisations in artificial intelligence, data engineering, network engineering, and software engineering. In electronic engineering, students can specialise in sustainable energy production, or biomedical, communications, electronic systems or optical engineering. See individual course entries for more detail on content.

The course includes an opportunity for industry-recognised CISCO certification in computer networks, an incorporated Honours year, industry experience, and practical learning. Students also have access to opportunities for industry-based project work in both disciplines, as well as the Faculty's industry experience and student support programs.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 25 in English (ESL) or 20 in any other English, and 25 in Mathematical Methods or 20 in Specialist Mathematics.
Extra requirements
Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 80 or above receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs are considered through normal selection processes.

Non-Year 12 selection may involve: ENTER/ATAR, VTAC Personal History online, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. They may also be asked to complete a maths test.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Selection
ATAR (2013)
Melbourne: 89.2

Middle band
Successful completion of Physics or Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points for each area of study.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional information
A CISCO certification training program is available for students who pass the network engineering subjects in their undergraduate studies. Any students interested in obtaining full details of this CISCO program should contact the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering at the beginning of first semester.
How to apply
VTAC
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for professional membership of the Australian Computer Society and the Institution of Electronics and Electrical Engineers (IEEE).
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Computer Science/Electronic Engineering Melbourne

Want to know more?

Feel free to ask us a question about any course for local students.

Fees and scholarships

Undergraduate courses are Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) for eligible Australian and New Zealand citizens. The domestic fee calculator can be used to calculate the cost of subjects this year.

There is also a wide range of scholarships available for local students. 

International students

Show mid year entryShow next year’s courses

Computer science international courses
Offer yearCourse title (CRICOS)Campus(es)DurationSemester startsAnnual Tuition Fee (AUD)
2013 Bachelor of Computer Science (022037E) Melbourne
3 years Semester 1 and 2 (March and July) $24 340

Bachelor of Computer Science continued…

Year
2013
Course description
Computer science is a highly diverse field, covering computer software systems and design, databases, artificial intelligence, computer architecture, networks, multimedia systems and games technology. This flexible course focuses on computing processes, hardware and software, and their underlying principles. It aims to give students the knowledge and skills needed to design, implement, and maintain complex computer systems, and to develop effective solutions for problems in areas such as data storage, computer networks, and computer security.

Distinctive features include object-oriented programming using Java and C++ from first year, industry-based project work and industry placements, and the option to take up to 25 per cent of subjects from other disciplines. The course also includes an opportunity for industry-recognised CISCO certification in computer networks.
English Language Requirements
IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;

TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;

TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;

Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B (EFS5 UG minimum 60 per cent) which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 60
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - 61.35
International Baccalaureate - 24
GCE A Levels - 8
Hong Kong A Levels - 6
HKDSE - 2 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - CCC
STPM - 8
MICSS (UEC) - 5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 60
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.5
Sweden Slutbetyg - G
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 65
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8
Indonesia (SMA) - 7.5
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.3
GAOKAO - see: the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite
Mathematics determined to be equivalent to the Australian VCE Units 3 & 4, English (any) Mathematical Methods (CAS) or Specialist Mathematics.
Professional recognition
This course is accredited by the Australian Computer Society, and graduates are eligible for professional membership.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Computer Science Melbourne
2013 Bachelor of Computer Science/Bachelor of Accounting (067179G) Melbourne
4.5 years Semester 1 and 2 (March and July) $24 370

Bachelor of Computer Science/Bachelor of Accounting continued…

Year
2013
Course description
Designed to meet an industry demand for combined computer science and business skills, this course gives students opportunities for industry-based project work, advanced studies in accounting, and a choice of streams in computer science, such as software engineering, data engineering, artificial intelligence or network engineering. See individual course entries for general details on content.
Students can access the Faculty's industry experience and student support programs.
English Language Requirements
IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;

TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;

TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;

Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B (EFS5 UG minimum 60 per cent) which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 75
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - not available
International Baccalaureate - 24
GCE A Levels - 9
Hong Kong A Levels - 7
HKDSE - 3 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - BBB
STPM - 8.67
MICSS (UEC) - 4.5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 75
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 4
Sweden Slutbetyg - VG
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 80
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.5
Indonesia (SMA) - 8
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6
GAOKAO - see: the website
If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite
Mathematics determined to be equivalent to the Australian VCE Units 3 & 4 with a minimum score of 25 in Mathematical Methods (either) or 20 in Specialist Mathematics. VCE Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (ESL) or 20 in any other English.
Additional information
Students without an appropriate computer science background may be required to commence three weeks early than the semester start dates to undertake accelerated first year computer science subjects.
Professional recognition
Graduates of the Bachelor of Computer Science are eligible for professional membership of the Australian Computer Society (ACS).

The Bachelor of Accounting has been accredited by both CPA Australia and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia (ICAA). Graduates are eligible for membership with either professional accounting body, or with other professional groups such as the National Institute of Accountants (NIA) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Computer Science/AccountingMelbourne
2013 Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)/Bachelor of Electronic Engineering (077919E) Melbourne
6 years Semester 1 (March) $26 430

Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)/Bachelor of Electronic Engineering continued…

Year
2013
Course description
A course designed to give students many career options across two fields - and the areas where they intersect. Students can choose computer science specialisations in artificial intelligence, data engineering, network engineering, and software engineering. In electronic engineering, students can specialise in sustainable energy production, or biomedical, communications, electronic systems or optical engineering. See individual course entries for more detail on content.

The course includes an opportunity for industry-recognised CISCO certification in computer networks, an incorporated Honours year, industry experience, and practical learning. Students also have access to opportunities for industry-based project work in both disciplines, as well as the Faculty's industry experience and student support programs.
English Language Requirements
IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;

TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;

TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;

Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B (EFS5 UG minimum 60 per cent) which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 80
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - 80.75
International Baccalaureate - 29
GCE A Levels - 8
Hong Kong A Levels - 7
HKDSE - 2x Level 5
Sri Lankan A Levels - BBB
STPM - 8.67
MICSS (UEC) - 4.5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 75
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 4
Sweden Slutbetyg - VG
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 80
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.6
Indonesia (SMA) - 8
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 3.0
GAOKAO - see: the website
If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information, visit the La Trobe International College website.
Subject prerequisite
Mathematics determined to be equivalent to the Australian VCE Units 3 & 4 with a minimum score of 25 in Mathematical Methods (either) or 20 in Specialist Mathematics. VCE Units 3 and 4: minimum score of 25 in English (ESL) or 20 in any other English.
Additional information
This course may be offered in 2013 subject to CRICOS approval. International students need to check the course status before making an application.
Students with Advanced Standing (credit) may commence in Semester 2 (July).
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for professional membership of the Australian Computer Society and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Computer Science/Electronic Engineering Melbourne

How to apply?

Enquire now about any course for international students or find out how to apply.

Fees and scholarships

Estimated fees for international students are indicated for each course above. Fees are indicative only and set at 120 credit points per course, unless otherwise stated, and may vary depending on the number of credit points in which students enrol. Some courses may vary in credit point load and fees will be adjusted accordingly.

There is also a range of scholarships available for international students to assist students.

Computer science placements

Computer Science and Computer Engineering students can apply for the industry-based learning program, that provides successful applicants with paid, full-time employment in industry as well as credit towards their degree. See Industry-based learning (IBL) program

The IT branded cadetship program also offers IT students the chance to work full-time and study part-time, whilst gaining mentoring and support from an Industry Partner workplace coach. See IT branded cadetship program

In addition, work experience and industry project work is part of many of our courses.

Overseas study opportunities

Gain valuable overseas experience by studying with one of our global exchange partners. La Trobe has partnerships with over 100 universities in more than 30 countries in Asia, Europe, and North and South America. See education abroad.

Find out about the experiences of our students.

Mr Chris Long,
Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)

"I am looking forward to using all the knowledge and skills I’ve learnt at La Trobe in the workplace."

About the academic staff

You'll get to meet a large number of academic staff during your studies, from tutors through to lecturers and supervisors. You can view staff in Computer science or search all staff in the Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering.

Computer science events

Please see the Event Calendar for events that are related to this study option.

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