Courses and degrees

A-Z study options

Computer science

Why study Computer science?

We offer coursework programs for graduates seeking advanced training, those wishing to do Master’s level study and students from other disciplines. Study areas include web development, web engineering and web services, computer networks, data communication, databases, mathematics, network security, object-oriented application development, artificial Intelligence, games technology, network engineering, software engineering and software systems.

See the Research tab for information about Master's by research, or PhD.

Career opportunities

Web technology graduates are prepared for careers in internet services and in organisations using web browser interfaces. Advanced-level computer science graduates may work as network managers, research and development managers, network consultants and systems engineers. Opportunities exist in systems development, systems analysis, database development, software engineering, information systems management and computer networks management. Entry-level computer science graduates may work as ICT professionals, teachers or apply their skills and knowledge to their own professions.

Courses

Local students

Computer science courses (Mid year entry)
Offer year	Course title	Campus(es)	Duration	Semester starts
2013	Graduate Diploma in Computer Science	Melbourne	1 year full time or part-time equivalent	Semester 1 (March)
Graduate Diploma in Computer Science continued… Course description This course forms the first year of the Master of Information Technology.This program enables graduates of other disciplines to enter the field of computing. Prerequisite Australian Bachelor's degree in any discipline, or approved international equivalent. No previous knowledge of computer science is required or assumed. Preference is given to applicants who have demonstrated a high level of academic achievement and who have successfully completed at least year 12 mathematics. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2012): $20, 580 per 120 credit points. How to apply Apply directly to the University up to two weeks prior to the commencement of the course. Download, complete and submit a postgraduate coursework application form. Please ensure you also provide all supplementary information required. Professional recognition This course is accredited by the Australian Computer Society. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Computer Science (Graduate Diploma)Melbourne
2013	Master of Biocomputing and Biometric Security	Melbourne	2 years full-time or 4 years part-time.	Semester 1 and 2 (February and July)
Master of Biocomputing and Biometric Security continued… Course description This course offers students an opportunity to learn advanced computing techniques for two important fields: bioinformatics and biometric security, aiming to meet growing demand for employees in the industry. Prerequisite Australian Bachelor's degree or equivalent, in one or more of: computer science, information systems, information technology, biomedicine, electronic engineering, mathematics and statistics. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount TBC: new course in 2012. How to apply Apply direct to the University. Download, complete and submit a postgraduate coursework application form. Please ensure you also provide all supplementary information required. Professional recognition The Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering is currently applying for accreditation with the Australian Computer Society.
2013	Master of Computer Science	Melbourne	2 years full-time or up to 4 years part-time	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Master of Computer Science continued… Course description This course offers traditional training to computer professionals who design, manage, maintain and enhance large computer software systems, especially knowledge-based systems. Prerequisite Australian Bachelor's degree in computer science (3 years); or a four year engineering degree with a substantial computer science content, equivalent to a third year computer science course. Full-fee international students are required to have equivalent qualifications. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2012): $20,580 per 120 credit points. How to apply Apply directly to the University up to two weeks prior to the commencement of the course. Download, complete and submit a postgraduate coursework application form . Please ensure you also provide all supplementary information required. Professional recognition This course is accredited for professional level membership of the Australian Computer Society. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Computer Science (Master)Melbourne
2013	Master of Information Technology (Computer Networks)	Melbourne	2 years full-time or up to 4 years part time.	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Master of Information Technology (Computer Networks) continued… Course description The combination of core and specialised subjects in this course is aimed at giving students the skills to work in network administration. It encompasses the knowledge necessary for roles in data communications and networks, networks and systems security, network design and network management, application protocol and wireless networks. Students may complete the degree entirely by coursework, or include an industrial team project or undertake a minor thesis in the area of computer networks if they wish to progress to a PhD. Core studies include fundamental and intermediate programming using Java, fundamental IT-related mathematics, algorithms and data structures, system design engineering fundamentals, and a software engineering project. Prerequisite Three-year undergraduate degree in any discipline, or equivalent. Knowledge of C programming is an advantage. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2012): $20,580 per 120 credit points. Additional information Students without the appropriate computer science background may be required to commence three weeks earlier than semester start dates to undertake accelerated first-year computer science subjects. A seminar program is an integral part of the course. It covers ethical, professional, and social issues relevant to the IT industry. Compulsory tutorials are held throughout the year; students who do not attend are not permitted to graduate. How to apply Apply directly to the University up to two weeks prior to the commencement of the course. Download, complete and submit a postgraduate coursework application form . Please ensure you also provide all supplementary information required. Professional recognition The course leads to Professional Level membership of the Australian Computer Society. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Information Technology (Computer Networks) (Master)Melbourne
2013	Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Science	Melbourne	1 year full-time or up to 2 years part-time	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Science continued… Course description This course trains computing professionals in advanced and innovative areas of computer science and information. Students have the opportunity either to upgrade their knowledge and skills in a broad range of areas or to specialise in key areas such as artificial intelligence, games technology, software engineering and software systems, and computer communications and networking. The course forms the first year of the Master of Computer Science. Prerequisite Bachelor degree with a major in computer science or Graduate Diploma in computer science or equivalent. Applicants should also have good skills in a modern programming language (such as C, C++, Java) and be familiar with an operating system such as UNIX or NT. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2012): $20,580 per 120 credit points. How to apply Apply directly to the University up to two weeks prior to the commencement of the course. Download, complete and submit a postgraduate coursework application form . Please ensure you also provide all supplementary information required. Professional recognition Graduates of this course are eligible for professional level membership of the Australian Computer Society. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Computer Science (Postgraduate Diploma)Melbourne

How to apply?

Methods of application vary from course to course. Please see the course entry above for details of how to apply for the course you are interested in.

Fees and scholarships

Postgraduate coursework programs are either:

Fee-paying (where you pay the full cost of the course). FEE-HELP is available.
CSP (Commonwealth Supported Place), subsidised by the Commonwealth Government where you pay a contribution towards course costs. HECS-HELP is available.

Students enrolled for certain postgraduate coursework programs may be eligible for student income support.

International students

Show mid year entryShow next year’s courses

Computer science international courses
Offer year	Course title (CRICOS)	Campus(es)	Duration	Semester starts	Annual Tuition Fee (AUD)
2013	Graduate Diploma in Computer Science (002096D)	Melbourne	1 year	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)	$24 370
Graduate Diploma in Computer Science continued… Year 2013 Course description This course forms the first year of the Master of Information Technology.This program enables graduates of other disciplines to enter the field of computing. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0. TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English). TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22. La Trobe Melbourne (ELICOS): completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B Certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70 per cent) PG1) level. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. 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): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59. Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher. Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher. Or approved international equivalent. Academic entry requirements An Australian Bachelor's degree in any discipline, or approved international equivalent. Preference is given to applicants who have studied Year 12 Mathematics, including calculus or equivalent. Professional recognition This course is accredited by the Australian Computer Society. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Computer Science (Graduate Diploma)Melbourne
2013	Master of Biocomputing and Biometric Security (075105D)	Melbourne	2 years	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)	$25 060
Master of Biocomputing and Biometric Security continued… Year 2013 Course description This course offers students an opportunity to learn advanced computing techniques for two important fields: bioinformatics and biometric security, aiming to meet growing demand for employees in the industry. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0. TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English). TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22. La Trobe Melbourne (ELICOS): completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B Certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70 per cent) PG1) level. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. 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): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59. Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher. Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher. Or approved international equivalent. Academic entry requirements A Bachelor's degree in one or more of computer science, information systems, information technology, biomedicine, electronic engineering, mathematics, and statistics. Professional recognition The Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering is currently applying for accreditation by the Australian Computer Society.
2013	Master of Computer Science (001728G)	Melbourne	2 years	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)	$25 060
Master of Computer Science continued… Year 2013 Course description This course offers traditional training to computer professionals who design, manage, maintain and enhance large computer software systems, especially knowledge-based systems. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0. TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English). TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22. La Trobe Melbourne (ELICOS): completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B Certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70 per cent) PG1) level. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. 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): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59. Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher. Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher. Or approved international equivalent. Academic entry requirements A three-year Australian Bachelor's degree in computer science or a four-year engineering degree with substantial computer science content (equivalent to third-year computer science), or an approved international equivalent. Applicants with a four-year computer science (Honours) or computer systems engineering degree are eligible for direct entry into second year. Students who have completed the Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Science or an Honours degree in computer science, engineering, or equivalent, may be given Advanced Standing (credit) for some subjects. Additional information Stduents can specialise in computer networks and software engineering streams by choosing appropriate subjects. Professional recognition This course is accredited by the Australian Computer Society. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Computer Science (Master)Melbourne
2013	Master of Information Technology (Computer Networks) (049142D)	Melbourne	2 years	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)	$25 060
Master of Information Technology (Computer Networks) continued… Year 2013 Course description The combination of core and specialised subjects in this course is aimed at giving students the skills to work in network administration. It encompasses the knowledge necessary for roles in data communications and networks, networks and systems security, network design and network management, application protocol and wireless networks. Students may complete the degree entirely by coursework, or include an industrial team project or undertake a minor thesis in the area of computer networks if they wish to progress to a PhD. Core studies include fundamental and intermediate programming using Java, fundamental IT-related mathematics, algorithms and data structures, system design engineering fundamentals, and a software engineering project. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0. TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English). TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22. La Trobe Melbourne (ELICOS): completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B Certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70 per cent) PG1) level. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. 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): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59. Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher. Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher. Or approved international equivalent. Academic entry requirements An Australian Bachelor's degree or approved international equivalent of three years or longer in any discipline. Knowledge of C programming is an advantage. Additional information A seminar program is an integral part of the course. It covers ethical, professional, and social issues relevant to the IT industry. Tutorials are held throughout the year and attendance is required. Students who have not met this requirement will not be permitted to graduate. Professional recognition This course is accredited for professional level membership of the Australian Computer Society. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Information Technology (Computer Networks) (Master)Melbourne
2013	Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Science (009766C)	Melbourne	1 year	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)	$25 060
Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Science continued… Year 2013 Course description This course trains computing professionals in advanced and innovative areas of computer science and information. Students have the opportunity either to upgrade their knowledge and skills in a broad range of areas or to specialise in key areas such as artificial intelligence, games technology, software engineering and software systems, and computer communications and networking. The course forms the first year of the Master of Computer Science. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0. TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English). TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22. La Trobe Melbourne (ELICOS): completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B Certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70 per cent) PG1) level. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. 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): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59. Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher. Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher. Or approved international equivalent. Academic entry requirements An Australian Bachelors degree with a major in computer science, a Graduate Diploma in computer science, or an approved international equivalent. Strong skills in a modern programming language such as C, C++ or Java, and familiarity with an operating system such as UNIX or NT are also required. Additional information This course forms the first year of the Master of Computer Science. Professional recognition This course is accredited by the Australian Computer Society. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Computer Science (Postgraduate Diploma)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.

Related study options

Your study experience

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.

Student and graduate profiles

Students from our Faculty talk about their experience at La Trobe.

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.