Shifting digital reality
As technological progress accelerates, so does the demand for skilled computer science professionals. Become an expert in this transformative field, using your knowledge to shape the future.
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Gain a world-class education, taught by leading academics.
Equipped for success
Grow your skillset with Monash
Graduate as an in-demand employee in your industry.
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 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 a speciality within the field, choosing from software engineering, cybersecurity or artificial intelligence.
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.
Pathways to a masters degree
You can graduate with a Master of Computer Science in approximately 2 years part-time, after completing 12 units (72 credit points total).
You can also exit the course after completing approximately:
- 0.7 years part-time, 4 units (24 credit points), and you’ll receive a Graduate Certificate of Computer Science; or
- 1.4 years part-time, 10 units (60 credit points), and you’ll receive a Graduate Diploma of Computer Science.
Computer science
Graduate Certificate
0.7 years part-time accelerated
- Architecture and networks
- Introduction to databases
- Foundations of computing
- Java programming
Or
- Introduction to Python
Computer science
Graduate Diploma
0.7 years part-time accelerated
- Fundamentals of artificial intelligence
- Software engineering
- Information and computer security
1 unit from one of the course structure specialist units
Computer science
Master
0.7 years part-time accelerated
- Machine learning
- Web applications development
- Blockchain
Choose 3 units from one of the course structure specialist units
Structure
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 three units:
Architecture and networks
Introduction to databases
Foundations of computing
Choose one core unit from:
Java programming
Introduction to Python
Part B | a. Core specialist units
You must complete the following three units:
Fundamentals of artificial intelligence
Software engineering
Information and computer security
Part B | b. Specialist units
Select one of the specialisations below, and complete three of the units within them:
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
Cybersecurity
If choosing Cybersecurity as your specialisation, you must complete three of the following units:
Software and network security
Cyber operations
Blockchain
Cloud computing and security
Artificial Intelligence
If choosing Artificial Intelligence as your specialisation, you must complete three of the following units:
Machine learning
Natural language processing
Intelligent image and video analysis
Discrete optimisation
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 both of the following units:
Applied practice 1
Applied practice 2
Entry Requirements
Entry level 1: 72 credit points to complete
Duration: two years part-time
An Australian bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline* with at least a credit (60%) average.
* 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%) average.
OR
An Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline and a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma in a relevant discipline, with at least a credit (60%) average in the higher degree.
*To undertake artificial intelligence studies, you must have knowledge of calculus and linear algebra at the level of undergraduate physical science or engineering.
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%) average.
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 $5,200 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, FEE-HELP or scholarships?
Enquire with our student consultants and schedule a call to get your questions answered.
Career outcomes
The workplace of the future is an exciting and dynamic place. A Master of Computer Science degree is designed to equip you with the necessary skills to succeed in a constantly changing global environment.
What does the future look like for Security Analysts?
Security is an ever-growing, expansive industry, and analysts in this field are sought-after and well-paid.
Salary
$115,000
STAR RATING
4 / 5
Industry Growth
+8.3%
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. Choose from one of three specialties: software engineering, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
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.
Cybersecurity
As the security risks arising from an increasingly digital world increase, specialists in cybersecurity have never been more important. This specialisation covers the skills to manage and administer cybersecurity and blockchain.
Artificial intelligence
With artificial intelligence making its way into every aspect of our lives, the field requires specialists with the knowledge and skills to effectively build AI-based products and intelligent systems. This specialisation covers the many facets of AI, as well as its impact on organisations, society and the world.
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.
The best aspect of the course is being exposed to my cohort and the networking opportunities this has facilitated. Monash is a prestigious university that tends to attract talent, so it has been great to learn alongside such a talented bunch. The exposure to diverse elements of software engineering has been enjoyable and rewarding.
Kweku Acquah
Master of Computer Science (Software Engineering)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do more than one unit from another computer science specialisation?
- Master of Computer Science specialising in Artificial Intelligence
- Master of Computer Science specialising in Cybersecurity
- Master of Computer Science specialising in Software Engineering
What's the difference between Computer Science and Applied Data Science?
What are some of the highest paying computer science jobs?
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
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course information
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