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.
Our worldwide University rankings
Monash University holds high rankings domestically and internationally for research and teaching excellence.
Structure
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.
Part A. Core master’s studies
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
Part B | a. Core specialist units
You must complete the following units
Fundamentals of artificial intelligence
Software engineering
Information and computer security
Mathematical foundations for data science and AI
Part B | b. Specialist units: Software Engineering
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
Part C. Applied practice
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 Requirements
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.
Fees
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
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
5 stars out of 5
Information technology specialists report extremely high job satisfaction.
30% job growth is expected for Software Developer roles over the next five years.
$110,000 is the most common salary for a software developer in Victoria.
Studying online, the Monash way
Courses designed for online
Gain a world-class education, delivered through a dynamic virtual classroom and taught by leading academics.
Support seven days a week
You’ll have ongoing access to dedicated support services that have been specifically designed for your discipline.
Equipped for career success
You’ll graduate as an in-demand employee, ready to take the next step in your career.
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.