About the School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences

We offer high quality teaching and research programs to advance knowledge in engineering, computing and mathematical sciences.

Comprising three departments – the Department of Computer Science and Information Technology, the Department of Engineering and the Department of Mathematical and Physical Sciences – our goal is to offer innovative cross-disciplinary undergraduate and postgraduate programs that meet the needs of industry.

Our students have outstanding placement opportunities and access to industry projects that expose them to real world problems and experiences.

Photo of Professor Wenny Rahayu

Our researchers specialise in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, smart sensor technology, data science, physics and mathematical modelling. Our advanced manufacturing capability has applications in healthcare, agriculture, transport, logistics, infrastructure and sustainable environments.

Professor Wenny Rahayu
Dean, School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences

Industry-engaged learning

Our undergraduate and postgraduate programs are industry-focused, providing students with placement opportunities in their chosen discipline and exposure to real world projects.

Our programs train graduates to meet the need for an adaptive and technologically trained workforce. We do this by carefully designing our programs in consultation with industry. The result: a strong course portfolio in specialised engineering, information technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science and physics.

Our laboratories and facilities provide students with hands-on experience that complements their theoretical training.

Where appropriate, our programs are accredited by governing bodies such as Engineers Australia, the Australian Computer Society and the Statistical Society of Australia.

Research with impact

The School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences has recognised research expertise in engineering, computing and mathematical sciences.

The Australian Research Council's Excellence in Research for Australia ranks many of our disciplines as above world standard, or better. Our researchers have received prestigious awards and fellowships in recognition of their achievements.

Our key areas of strength include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science and mathematical modelling, infrastructure and advanced manufacturing. We champion cross-disciplinary research in health, infrastructure and agriculture to positively impact our communities.

Our research also aligns with La Trobe University’s five research themes: Sustainable food and agricultureResilient environments and communitiesHealthy people, families and communitiesUnderstanding and preventing disease; and Social change and equity.

Research centres

The School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences is home to four prestigious research centres.

The Centre for Materials and Surface Science is an interdisciplinary research centre that brings together experts across physics, chemistry, materials science and engineering from La Trobe, and local and international partners. It offers Australia’s most comprehensive suite of surface science and surface analysis equipment and is an international leader in the application of machine learning for understanding very large and complex spectroscopic datasets.

Discover more about the Centre.

The Centre for Technology Infusion focuses on strategic and translational research through integration of complementary research expertise in micro/nanotechnologies, and information and communication technologies. The Centre creates technology-focused solutions for all areas of industry including transport, health, and agriculture.

Find out more about the Centre.

The Cisco-La Trobe Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things galvanises a decade-long partnership between Cisco and La Trobe University. The Centre is the first of its kind in Australia to exploit the synergy between state-of-the-art artificial intelligence and Internet of Things technologies. It is creating a new home for innovation and collaboration, enabled by access to world-leading programs, to deliver ideas that will drive Australia’s digital future.

Find out more about the Centre.