MC061 - Master of Computer Science

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Plan: MC061P14 - Master of Computer Science
Campus: City Campus

Overview

Program details
Purpose of the Program
Articulation and pathways
Entrance requirements
External accreditation and industry links
Student expenses and charges in addition to fees
Library, IT and specialist resources

Program details

Award title: Master of Computer Science
Award abbreviation: MCompSc
Total credit points: 144
Career: PGRD
Duration: 3 semesters full time or 6 semesters part time
Location: City Campus
Owning school: Science (171H)
Owning school URL: www.rmit.edu.au/about/our-education/academic-schools/science/
ASCED code: 020100
CRICOS code: 079938G

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Purpose of the Program

The Master of Computer Science program is designed for Computer Science graduates who wish to study advanced postgraduate-level topics to enhance their career prospects.

This program develops a skill set that spans from theoretical and algorithmic foundations to cutting-edge developments in computing. As a graduate of this program, you will be knowledgeable and creative; have excellent programming skills; be capable of designing, implementing and maintaining complex software systems; and be able to readily adapt to new advances in the rapidly changing information technology environment and/or continue towards a research degree.

This program aims to help you develop the knowledge, skills and application of knowledge and skills that are essential to be employed as a competent software developer, with potential to move into a leadership role. In undertaking the Master of Computer Science program you will move from theory to the practice of coding solutions to a wide range of real-world problems. It will also provide you the opportunities to undertake further studies in related programs, including Master of Computer Science by Research and PhD in Computer Science.

There are two pathways in this program: Research pathway -- you will undertake a research project under the supervision of a senior academic; or Projects pathway -- you will undertake a major software engineering project in the final semester of the program. In addition to this capstone project or research thesis, you will be able to specialise in one of the following areas:  

  • Big Data Management
  • Cloud Computing
  • Intelligent Systems
  • Mobile Computing
  • Security
  • Software Architecture
  • Web Systems and Search Technology

Courses in these specialist areas are at the cutting edge of research and development. They are designed to allow you to explore the area thoroughly, while providing the knowledge and skills for true mastery.

In addition, you are required to undertake a large-scale software engineering project or a research project in the area of your specialisation.

This program is delivered face-to-face at the Melbourne City campus. Some courses may be available online.

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Articulation and pathways

Articulation:

If you have completed one of the following qualifications majoring in Software Engineering, Computer Science or Information Technology, subject to RPL requirements outlined in the Admissions and Credit policy and AQF Volume of Learning requirements,  you will be eligible for advanced standing as follows:

Qualification level Advanced Standing Remaining program duration
Bachelor of Software Engineering, Bachelor of Computer Science, or Bachelor of Information Technology No advanced standing Minimum of 144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters full-time study)
Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) Up to 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester of full-time study)  Minimum of 96 credit points (equivalent to two semester full-time study)
[Cognate] Graduate Diploma in Software Engineering or Computer Science which require the completion of a bachelors degree in Software Engineering or Computer Science as the entry requirement. Up to 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester of full-time study)  Minimum of 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full-time study) 
[Non-cognate] Other graduate Diploma and Masters Programs No advanced standing Minimum of 144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters full-time study)

Information is available on the RMIT University website about how to apply for Credit Transfer or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) http://www.rmit.edu.au/students/enrolment/credit. 

Pathways: 

Upon completion of the first year of the program (96 credit points), including core courses, you will be eligible to exit the program with the GD057P14 Graduate Diploma in Computer Science.

Upon successful completion of this program you may be eligible to undertake further studies in related programs at RMIT University, including MR221 Master of Computer Science (Research) and DR221 PhD in Computer Science, subject to each program's entry requirements.

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Entrance requirements

** From 2021, this program is not open for intake**

Academic requirement: 

A bachelor degree with a minimum GPA of 2.0 out of 4.0 in (1) Computer Science; (2) Software, Computer, Network Engineering; or (3) Information Technology
or:
A minimum of 5 years current relevant work experience, in:

  • Programmer (web, application, database)
  • Software engineer
  • System, functional or business analysis
  • Information, system or enterprise architect
  • ICT Manager 

International qualifications are assessed according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). 

English Language Requirements

A minimum IELTS (Academic module) overall score of 6.5, with no band below 6.0; or equivalent. For equivalents to English entry requirements, see the English equivalents web page.

Credit Transfer and Recognised Prior Learning

Some applicants may be eligible for credit. Please refer to the Articulation and Pathways section for further information. 

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External accreditation and industry links

The School of Science has substantial links with the ICT industry both within Australia and internationally. Employers and industry professionals are members of our Industry Advisory Committee and have contributed to the initial development and ongoing improvement of the program. Their involvement ensures that the program remains relevant to your needs as a graduate and the needs of graduate employers. The committee meets quarterly and provides feedback on the currency of the programs, the changing needs of Industry and has input into the design of new programs. It also actively contributes to the School through participation in seminars, marketing events, industry awards and scholarships.

Many of the teaching staff within the program are practising (or have been) industry professionals with extensive industry experience and contact networks. This experience, when integrated into teaching and learning practice, enriches your learning environment.

Graduates of the MC061P14  Master of Computer Science program may be elgibile to apply for graduate membership of the Australian Computer Society: http://www.acs.org.au/

 

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Student expenses and charges in addition to fees

Once you are enrolled as a student in this program you will need to allow for expenses other than university tuition fees.  Additional expenses may relate to the purchase of lecture notes, textbooks, stationery, consumables such as printer paper, fees levied by commercial internet service providers for internet access outside of the university campus, and other relevant costs.

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Library, IT and specialist resources

Resources available from the Library

As a student enrolled in a program at RMIT University you can access the extensive services, facilities and study space provided by the Library. You can access books, journals and other course related materials, such as DVDs, past exams, newspapers and e-books. Through our document delivery service you can also request items from any library in the world.

Computers for study are available at every Library site, where you can access the Internet, myRMIT or Library e-resources. If you have a laptop you can access the RMIT wireless network in the Library.

Library staff can show you how to find information for your assignments or you can work through web-based tutorials or use our online Ask a Librarian service.

The Library is continually expanding our electronic collections to make it easier for you to get the information you need when you need it. All RMIT students have unlimited access to quality electronic resources such as, e-books, e-journals and newspapers.

You can find more information on Library resources and services at: http://www.rmit.edu.au/library including specific resources for computer science: http://rmit.libguides.com/compsci. 

Online learning tools and content

As a student in this program you may access online learning tools and content for your program and associated courses from the student portal, myRMIT.

The School of Science also provides you with access to its specialised computer laboratories both for use during scheduled classes and outside scheduled class times. These laboratories provide access to a range of computer environments including a variety of database products under different operating systems. 

Learning services available to you as a student at RMIT

RMIT provides a wide range of resources and opportunities to assist your learning and wellbeing so you can achieve your study and career goals. 

Services are available face to face and online assisting with: 

  • transition to tertiary study and learning
  • study skills, academic skills including literacy, mathematics and basic sciences if relevant
  • enabling assistance if you have a disability, long term medical condition or other form of disadvantage which may impact on your learning
  • career development and employment
  • living and wellbeing (including advice on health, housing and financial matters)
  • opportunities for scholarships, leadership and study abroad
  • opportunities for participating in arts, sport, recreation, fitness activities as well as student activism and university governance 

We also offer a friendly and supportive environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

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