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Master of Computer Science specialising in Software Engineering

100% online

Study Load

20-24 hours per week

Units

12

Intakes

Jan, Mar, May, Jul, Aug, Oct

Equip yourself with the toolkit you need to tackle today’s most pressing digital challenges.

Lead technological innovation into the future 

As technological progress accelerates, so does the demand for skilled computer science professionals. Become an expert in this transformative field, using your specialist knowledge to help shape the future of business.  

The Master of Computer Science specialising in Software Engineering integrates foundational learning, specialist knowledge of a key industry area and application studies focused on understanding technology used in the field. The course ensures you are industry-ready come graduation through an elevated curriculum. It offers you an opportunity to gain speciality knowledge within the field and industry of software engineering.

What you will learn 
  • A shifting digital reality
    Understand how digital technology is reshaping the world, preparing you to play an integral part in that shift. 
  • Computer science fundamentals
    Acquire technical skills in a range of areas: Java programming, algorithms, systems architecture, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and more. 
  • Specialist skills
    Specialise in one of the following areas: software engineering, cybersecurity or artificial intelligence. 
Receive a one-on-one consultation about your study options.

Our worldwide University rankings

Monash University holds high rankings domestically and internationally for research and teaching excellence. 
Australia
# 2
The World University Rankings
(2024)
International
# 42
QS World University Rankings
(2024)

2024 COURSE STRUCTURE UPDATES: Some of the Master of Computer Science core units and specialist units have changed for 2024. Learn more about the 2024 course structure changes.

This course is structured in three parts:

Part A. Core master’s studies,

Part B. Specialist studies
a. Core specialist units,
b. Specialist units

Part C. Applied practice.

Depending on prior qualifications, you may receive credit for all of part of Part A or Part B, or both. If you are eligible for credit for prior studies, you may elect not to receive the credit.

Need further clarification about our online course structure?

You can submit an enquiry directly to our student consultants by using the form listed on our contact us page. You’ll have the opportunity to schedule a call if you’d like to receive further information.

These units will provide a critical understanding of theoretical and practical issues related to computer science. You must complete the following four units.

Java programming

Architecture and networks

Introduction to Python

Introduction to databases

You must complete the following units

Fundamentals of artificial intelligence

Software engineering

Information and computer security

Mathematical foundations for data science and AI

If choosing Software Engineering as your specialisation, you must complete three of the following units.

Web applications development

Mobile and distributed computing systems

User interface design and usability

Software testing, quality and standards

The focus of this unit is professional or scholarly work that can contribute to the portfolio of professional development. You must complete this unit.

Applied practice 1

Entry level 1: 72 credit points to complete

Duration: two years part-time

An Australian bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline* with at least a credit (60 per cent) average, or equivalent qualification approved by the faculty.

* Relevant disciplines include: any degree in a STEM discipline or degrees that have mathematics, business analytics, scientific or critical thinking, or problem solving.

Entry level 2: 48 credit points to complete

Duration: 1.4 years part-time

A Monash University Graduate Certificate of Computer Science, with at least a credit (60 per cent) average or equivalent.

Entry level 3: 24 points to complete

Duration: 0.7 years part-time

A Monash University Graduate Diploma of Computer Science, with at least a credit (60 per cent) average or equivalent.

English requirements

Applicants must meet the English language requirements.

University entrance requirements

Minimum entrance requirements apply for admission to Monash University Australia.

If you need help understanding the above entry requirements, reach out to our student consultants on our contact us page and schedule a booking for a chat.

For the Master of Computer Science, the estimated cost is $4587.50 per unit. You may be eligible to receive a FEE-HELP loan to cover part or all of your tuition. Fees are subject to change annually.

Scholarships

We offer over 360 types of scholarships, valued at up to $280,000. Some scholarships offer one-off payments while others continue for the length of your course. Learn more about Monash Scholarships.

Looking for clarification on fees or scholarships?

Enquire with our student consultants and schedule a call to get your questions answered.

Computer Science online at Monash

The Master of Computer Science is designed by award-winning and internationally recognised academics from the Faculty of Information Technology. The course combines foundational knowledge and skills with specialist study in software engineering.

Software engineering

With organisations increasingly looking to digital systems and solutions, software engineering specialists are integral. This speciality covers aspects of the software lifecycle, together with the tools required to deliver robust reliable software, on time and within budget.

Meet your academic team

Dr Pari Delir Haghighi

Dr Pari Delir Haghighi is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Information Technology. Her research interests include context-aware and mobile computing, edge and IoT computing, and mobile health monitoring.

Yi-Shan Tsai

Course coordinator

Yi-Shan Tsai is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Human-Centred Computing in the Faculty of Information Technology at Monash University. Her work seeks to enhance learning experiences and teaching practice through the use of data and AI technologies

Dr Amin Sakzad

Dr Amin Sakzad is a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Information Technology at Monash University. He is also the Deputy Head and Director of Education at the Department of Software Systems and Cybersecurity. He has over 15 years of experience teaching Maths, Engineering, and Computer Science in Australia, Canada and Iran.

I am currently in a career transition phase, working to become a full-time software engineer; all this made possible by the excellent pathways Monash has created.

Rashid Elhouli

Graduate of Computer Science

Receive a one-on-one consultation about your study options.

Industry insights

By bolstering your Computer Science expertise with a specialisation in Software Engineering, you will be ready for work in a wide range of careers in the information and computer science industry, including as a: 

  • Software engineer 
  • Software developer 
  • data scientist  
  • business analyst  
  • IT project manager  
  • IT support engineer 
Star icon

5 stars out of 5
Information technology specialists report extremely high job satisfaction.

Chart icon

30% job growth is expected for Software Developer roles over the next five years.

Currency icon

$110,000 is the most common salary for a software developer in Victoria.

Download a course guide

Fill in your details to download an interactive course guide containing:

  • course information
  • career pathways
  • how online study works
  • course fees
  • how to apply

Monash Online is a partnership between Monash University and Online Education Services (OES). Learn more.