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General information

Undergraduate

Postgraduate

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Postgraduate courses offered by the faculty

Graduate Diploma in Computer Science – Melbourne (Bundoora) (SGCS)

This course provides a sound professional education in computing for graduates of disciplines other than computer science. Theoretical and applied studies prepare graduates to work as ICT professionals or to apply skills and knowledge in computing to their own professions.

The principal objective of this course is to provide, for graduates of any discipline, a sound professional education in the discipline of computer science. The course includes both theoretical and applied studies and extensive practical experience.

This course is recommended, not only for those who wish to train for a career with computers, but also for anyone who would like to embark upon further studies which are relevant to their employment and to contemporary society. By making an appropriate choice of units, a student may pursue a course oriented towards theoretical, scientific, commercial or educational computing. Thus, the course is well suited to the prospective computer practitioner and to the teacher who wishes to become involved in the teaching and/or use of computing in schools. The Graduate Diploma in Computer Science provides an excellent springboard for further postgraduate study in computer science and it forms the first year of the Master of Information Technology course.

Admission requirements

Applicants are normally required to have obtained a pass degree in a discipline other than computer science. Consideration may be given to people with other tertiary qualifications, provided that they have relevant work experience. No previous knowledge of computer science is required or assumed. The course does, however, presume a level of mathematical knowledge and ability equivalent at least to VCE mathematics. Preference is given to applicants who have demonstrated a high level of academic achievement and who have successfully completed at least First year2 mathematics.

Course structure

This is a one-year full-time course offered over two teaching periods. The course is also offered part time and is normally completed over three years or six teaching periods. However, part-time students may complete the course over two years or may individually tailor their program of study to suit their own requirements.

This course begins three weeks prior to the normal commencement date for Semester 1 and for Semester 2. Students complete units totalling 120 credit points (60 credit points of core units and 60 credit points of elective units).

Upon completion of this course, students should possess:

• a comprehensive understanding of core areas of computer science including object-oriented programming and algorithms and data structures;
• a sound understanding of the computer-related mathematics covered in discrete mathematics;
• fundamental knowledge and understanding of additional areas selected from the broader body of computer science subject matter and
• an appreciation of pertinent social, legal, and ethical issues faced by today’s computing professional.

Professional recognition

Satisfactory completion of the course meets the associated level requirements for membership of the Australian Computer Society.

Course structure

Core units (60 credit points)

Elective units (60 credit points)

Some units have prerequisites.

Students must choose four units from the following list of (level 1, 2, or 3) units: