Master of Computer Science
Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-03-01 | - |
2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Master of Computer Science
Overview
The Master of Computer Science offers a rigorous and immersive curriculum designed to equip students with both foundational knowledge and practical skills in the field. The curriculum combines core computing theory with hands-on expertise using cutting-edge software development tools and technologies.
Program Details
This two-year program is perfect for anyone wishing to develop their knowledge and skills in the ever-advancing field of computer science. Our curriculum is designed to meet the current and future industry demands and provides students with opportunities to apply their learning in industry-aligned projects. With a strong focus on hands-on learning, students are exposed to real-world projects and experiential learning opportunities, producing graduates who are job-ready.
Core Curriculum
The core curriculum is embedded in every degree. It is a distinguishing characteristic of Notre Dame and provides our graduates with transferable skills that are integral to every industry, vocation and profession, laying the foundation for a fulfilling career and a purposeful life.
The postgraduate core curriculum elective can be any postgraduate philosophy or theology course offered by the school of philosophy and theology, including pilgrimage or international experiences.
- PHIL6020 Ethical Issues in Professional Life
Real-World Experience
Our industry-linked team project provides you with the opportunity to tackle real-world challenges through internships, industry-based scenarios, or collaborative Work Integrated Learning (WIL) with industry partners. Our strong partnerships with various industries offer you access to internships and work placements, allowing you to start building your professional networks. Additionally, you will learn from expert lecturers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.
First Year
- COMP5001 Computer Systems
- COMP5002 Advanced Database Systems
- COMP5003 Technology Project Management
- COMP5004 Cyber Security Management
- COMP6001 Operating Systems
- COMP6002 Computer Architecture
- COMP6003 Software Design and Development
Second Year
- COMP6004 Programming Languages and Compilers
- COMP6005 Data Structures and Algorithms
- COMP6006 Human-Computer Interaction
- COMP6007 Computer Science Project
Elective Courses
Students enrolling into Year 2 can choose four elective courses listed below:
- COMP6008 Web Application Development
- COMP6009 Artificial Intelligence
- COMP6010 Computational Modelling and Simulation
- COMP6011 Machine Learning Applications
- COMP6012 Cyber Threat Intelligence
- COMP6013 Network Security and Cryptography
- COMP6014 Digital Forensics and Incident Response
- COMP6015 Predictive Analytics and Decision Making
- COMP6016 Advanced Data Visualisation
- RSCH5103 Developing a Research Proposal
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the Master of Computer Science graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the core concepts and methodologies including data analytics, that underpin computer science.
- Apply computer science project management skills with a high level of professionalism, autonomy, and accountability.
- Critically evaluate the ethical and legal implications in computer science, including data privacy, intellectual property, and cyber security.
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of computer systems, architecture, and software development, and the ability to apply this knowledge to generate innovative and efficient solutions to solve broader societal issues.
- Exhibit analytical skills and creativity when designing and implementing advanced solutions, including the ability to identify, analyse, and solve complex problems, supported by research and evidence-based practices.
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to real-world scenarios and be equipped with the ability to learn independently and continue to develop skills in the field.
- Apply advanced cognitive and technical skills to plan and execute a substantive computer science project and effectively communicate the outcomes to both specialist and nonspecialist audiences.
Practical Component
Practicum or internship requirements are not applicable to the Master of Computer Science. However, there are opportunities for students to address real-world problems or complete projects in the workplace (WIL).
Career Outcomes
With a strong foundation in computer science principles and hands-on experience, our graduates are equipped to tackle new and existing challenges in the field.
By gaining expertise in areas such as programming, algorithms, data analysis and software development, our graduates possess the advanced computer science skills needed to thrive in the tech industry.
With a Master of Computer Science from Notre Dame, you will have the qualifications and knowledge necessary to excel in a wide range of career opportunities in the tech industry.
Careers
- Software engineer
- Computer science research scientist
- Cybersecurity analyst
- Artificial intelligence researcher
- Incident responder
- Database administrator
- Machine learning engineer
Industries
- Software Development
- IT and Cybersecurity
- Data Science
- Government and Finance
- Web Development
- Research
- Consulting
Professional Accreditations
The Master of Computer Science will seek accreditation from the Australian Computer Society (ACS) for delivery in Fremantle and Sydney.
Admission Criteria
Academic requirements for this program are outlined below. In addition, to be eligible for admission, all applicants need to satisfy the Minimum University Admission requirements outlined. These include those relating to minimum age and English language proficiency.
We consider your application more broadly – your non-academic achievements (such as any previous leadership roles, volunteering, work, church and/or community involvement) as well as personal qualities – your aspirations and interests and your capacity to complete your chosen program. See Individual Factors for further details regarding this.
Select an Option that Best Suits You:
- Current or previous university experience
- Discipline-specific requirements
An AQF Level 7 qualification*
OR
Studies sufficient to meet the requirements of an AQF Level 7 Award
OR
Informal
on-formal learning equivalent to an AQF Level 7 qualification plus evidence of the skills necessary to complete postgraduate studies.
*Applicants who have successfully completed subjects at another university, which are relevant to the selected program of study, may be eligible for credit (Advanced Standing).
In accordance with the University Procedure: Credit applicants for the Master of Computer Science who have the following recognised prior learning are eligible for 100 units of credit of advanced standing:
A 4-year Bachelor degree or a Bachelor Honours Degree
OR
A 3-year Bachelor degree in a Computer Science related discipline
OR
An AQF Level 8 qualification
OR
An AQF Level 7 qualification in any field with a minimum of three (3) years professional experience in a computer science related field.
Where advanced standing is granted as part of admission, the student will be offered unspecified credit, and credit transfer for specific courses, on condition that the student presents satisfactory evidence of the previous study or professional experience. The Head of School may direct the student’s selection of courses to ensure that the program learning outcomes are achieved within the reduced volume of learning.
Fees & Scholarships
Indicative fee: $9,314
The figure quoted is the indicative annual fee for 2025 for domestic students. The exact fee for an individual student will depend on the mix of courses studied. All costs and fees are provided in Australian Dollars (AUD).
- Scholarships can provide you with financial support while you study. There are numerous scholarships available to you as a new or continuing student, across all study levels and campuses.
Scholarships may be funded by Notre Dame, industry, individuals or not-for-profit organisations, and provide financial assistance for costs associated with study. These could include buying food, paying rent, transport and household bills, raising children as single parents, being a single-income household, becoming unemployed or caring for a sick loved one.
Please visit the scholarships finder to see which scholarships are available.
- Commonwealth supported place (CSP)
With a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) the Australian Government contributes part of your tuition fees. This contribution is a subsidy, meaning you do not have to pay it back. However, this subsidy does not cover the total cost of your studies. Students are responsible for paying the remaining amount, referred to as the 'student contribution amount'.
The student contribution is the portion of the fees that you must pay. You can pay this amount upfront or defer it using a HECS-HELP Loan. The HECS-HELP loan scheme assists eligible students with covering all or part of their tuition fees, excluding additional expenses such as accommodation or textbooks. The amount of your HECS-HELP debt will be indexed each year in line with the Consumer Price Index.
Eligible students will automatically be offered a CSP, so there is no need to apply.
For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees, costs and scholarships page.