IT and Computer Science Courses in Australia

IT and computer science: what you can study

Australian universities offer a wide range of computing degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate level, often under titles such as Bachelor of Computer Science, Bachelor of Information Technology, or specialised master degrees. Course content and specialisations vary by university.

This guide describes the field neutrally and explains what to check before applying. It does not rank programs, promise jobs or salaries, or guarantee migration outcomes — those depend on many factors and on processes outside any course.

Common specialisations

Computing degrees frequently let you focus on a particular area as you progress. The specialisations below are commonly offered; availability and naming differ by institution, so check each course page.

• Software engineering and software development
• Data science, artificial intelligence and machine learning
• Cybersecurity and networks
• Cloud computing and systems
• Human–computer interaction and UX

Entry requirements and English

Computing programs set their own academic entry requirements, and most expect evidence of English-language proficiency. Many computer science courses also assume a mathematics background; postgraduate courses may expect a relevant prior degree or foundational study.

Australian universities commonly accept English tests such as IELTS, TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic, with the minimum set per course. Exact prerequisites and scores change between intakes — verify the current requirement on the official university course page and the official test provider before applying.

Accreditation and professional recognition

Some IT and computing degrees are accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS), the professional association for Australia’s ICT sector. Accreditation can matter for professional recognition, and Australian software-engineering programs may also be accredited by Engineers Australia.

Accreditation status varies by program and can change — if professional recognition matters to you, confirm a specific course’s status on the official ACS or Engineers Australia source.

• Some programs are accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS)
• Software-engineering programs may be accredited by Engineers Australia
• Verify a specific course’s accreditation on the official source

Cost, intakes and student visa basics

Tuition, living costs and scholarships differ by university and city and change each year, so use official university pages and the official Study Australia site for current figures.

International students generally study on a Student visa (subclass 500). Visa rules and conditions are set by the Australian Government and can change. This is general information, not immigration advice — verify current requirements on the official Australian Department of Home Affairs source, and note that studying IT does not guarantee a job or permanent residency.