Computer systems

Why study Computer systems?

Develop skills in computer hardware/electronics and computer software. Train in embedded systems and electronics, programming, database engineering, network and system security, and software engineering. Choose to specialise in network engineering. Work with high-end switches and routers to implement complex networks and provide end-to-end services including voice, video and hi-speed data. Apply business requirements to software systems and communication networks. The Cisco curriculum is part of our networking courses and can lead to industry certification.

Industry enterprise practices

Second year Computer Science and Computer Engineering students have the opportunity to study current industrial best practices in software development using tools and platforms provided by Microsoft. Across three modules, students are introduced to a number of programming and development tools and techniques including C# and Sharepoint 2010. Upon successful completion of this subject (CS2IEP), students will have the required knowledge and skills to sit the Microsoft certification exam.

Career opportunities

Graduates are prepared for work in all software-related occupations including software engineers, systems analysts, analyst programmers and developer programmers. You may work in research and development, consultation, project management, taskforce management, database engineering, networking and security. For information on past students and the positions they hold worldwide, see alumni careers.

Courses

Local students

Computer systems courses
Offer yearCourse titleCampus(es)DurationSemester starts
2012 Bachelor of Computer Systems Engineering Melbourne
4 years full time, or up to 8 years part time. Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Computer Systems Engineering continued…

Course description
This course offers a unique opportunity to develop skills in two different fields: computer hardware and electronics and computer software. The Bachelor of Computer Systems Engineering aims to give students knowledge of and skills in computer architecture, enabling them to design, install and operate complex computer systems, large software systems, and computer networks. It emphasises practical and transferable skills such as presentation and communication, management techniques, and entrepreneurship. Content also covers C++ and Java programming, technology project team work and a fourth-year thesis, which teaches research skills and provides students with an opportunity to study a current research area in depth. There is an option of industry-recognised CISCO certification in computer networks.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: English (any) and either Mathematical Methods or Specialist Mathematics.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form 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.
Selection
ATAR 61.00 (2012) 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: ENTER/ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Middle band
Successful completion of Physics or Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional information
Students must complete at least 12 weeks' certified practical experience to be deemed to have completed the course. This is usually undertaken during the vacation following third or fourth year. A CISCO certification training program is available for students who pass the network engineering subjects. Interested students should contact the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering at the beginning of first semester.
How to apply
VTAC
Professional recognition
This course is fully accredited by Engineers Australia and the Australian Computer Society.
Full course details
Computer Systems EngineeringMelbourne
2013 Bachelor of Computer Systems Engineering Melbourne
4 years full time, or up to 8 years part time. Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Computer Systems Engineering continued…

Course description
This course integrates an understanding of computer software and hardware with specialised knowledge in electronics. Students can choose computer science specialisations in artificial intelligence, data engineering, network engineering, and software engineering. In electronic engineering, they can specialise in sustainable energy production, or biomedical, communications, electronic systems or optical engineering. 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: English (any) and either Mathematical Methods or Specialist Mathematics.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form 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.
Selection
ATAR 61.00 (2012) 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: ENTER/ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Middle band
Successful completion of Physics or Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional information
Students must complete at least 12 weeks' certified practical experience to be deemed to have completed the course. This is usually undertaken during the vacation following third or fourth year. A CISCO certification training program is available for students who pass the network engineering subjects. Interested students should contact the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering at the beginning of first semester.
How to apply
VTAC
Professional recognition
This course is fully accredited by Engineers Australia and the Australian Computer Society.
Full course details
Computer Systems EngineeringMelbourne

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 are also a wide range of scholarships available for local students. 

International students

Computer systems international courses
Offer yearCourse title (CRICOS)Campus(es)DurationSemester startsAnnual Tuition Fee (AUD)
2012 Bachelor of Computer Systems Engineering (006949J) Melbourne
4 years Semester 1 (February) $23 360

Bachelor of Computer Systems Engineering continued…

Year
2012
Course description
This course offers a unique opportunity to develop skills in two different fields: computer hardware and electronics and computer software. The Bachelor of Computer Systems Engineering aims to give students knowledge of and skills in computer architecture, enabling them to design, install and operate complex computer systems, large software systems, and computer networks. It emphasises practical and transferable skills such as presentation and communication, management techniques, and entrepreneurship. Content also covers C++ and Java programming, technology project team work and a fourth-year thesis, which teaches research skills and provides students with an opportunity to study a current research area in depth. There is an option of industry-recognised CISCO certification in computer networks.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (60%) UG) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 60 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2011 (indicative only) - 64.00 International Baccalaureate - 24 GCE A Levels - 8 Hong Kong A Levels - 6 HKDSE - 8,3 Sri Lankan A Levels - CCC STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - 3A 3B 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) - 8.2 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 2.6 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.
Special requirements
Students are required to complete at least 12 weeks of certified practical experience. This usually is undertaken in the vacation following third or fourth year, but may be done at the conclusion of final year. International applicants are advised to ensure they have the correct visa to undertake this work placement.
Subject prerequisite
Mathematics determined to be equivalent to the Australian VCE Units 3 & 4 Mathematical Methods (either) or Specialist Mathematics.
Additional information
A CISCO certification training program is available for students who pass the network engineering subjects. Interested students should contact the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering at the beginning of Semester 1 (February). Semester 2 (July) start is only available to students with Advanced standing (credit).
Professional recognition
This course is fully accredited by Engineers Australia and by the Australian Computer Society.
Course details
Computer Systems EngineeringMelbourne

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 systems placements

Industry-based project experience is built into this course. All students are required to complete an internship as part of 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 industry cadetship program also allows you to gain paid workplace experience between semesters, offering the chance to build on your skills and build your career.  See industry cadetships

Overseas study opportunities

Gain valuable overseas experience by studying with one of our global exchange partners. We have 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 academics during your course, from tutors through to lecturers. You can view all the staff from the Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering or focus on staff in Computer systems.

Computer systems events

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