Program Overview

---

Master of Computer Science (Machine Learning and Big Data)

The Master of Computer Science provides students with skills and abilities to solve complex real-world problems by teaching them how to develop and deploy computer applications, while integrating computer science methods with effective management strategies.

Overview

Throughout the degree, students will study subjects in IT project management, advanced programming, algorithms, and data structures. They will also have the opportunity to specialize in one of the following majors offered at the Wollongong campus:

• Cyber security (offered at both Wollongong and Liverpool campuses)
• Machine learning and big data
• Network and information security
• Software engineering

If students do not wish to select a specialization, they will complete advanced subjects providing them with specific knowledge, as well as professional skills in computer science.

The Master of Computer Science will equip students with independent learning strategies to keep abreast of innovations in technology and computer science, industry trends, and standards.

Machine Learning and Big Data (Specialization)

Machine learning is an essential approach to analyzing and extracting useful information from a wide range of big data; it provides the fundamental tools for big data analytics. There are numerous applications requiring professionals with advanced skills in machine learning and big data.

These applications include:

• Image recognition
• Computer vision
• Speech recognition and natural language processing
• Intelligent robotics
• Smart cars
• Automation
• Online search and recommendations
• Financial trading and risk management
• Healthcare
• Personal and public security

Students will study subjects including machine learning algorithms and applications, big data analytics, and computer vision algorithms and systems. They will be able to put theory into practice with an individual capstone project.

Careers

Possible career paths for graduates include:

• AI Engineer
• Analyst
• Animator
• Big Data Engineer
• Computer Engineer
• Cyber Security Analyst
• Data Mining and Analysis
• Data Scientist
• Database Administrator
• Electronics Engineer
• Games or App Developer
• Network Architect
• Programmer
• Security Engineer
• Web Developer
• Software Engineer
• User Interface Designer

Accreditation & Professional Recognition

The degree is professionally accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS). ACS has global reciprocal agreements, recognizing the degree internationally.

Admissions Information

A range of admission options are available for future students. The procedures governing admission are defined in UOW's Admissions Procedures and the UOW College Admissions Policy.

Entry Requirements

• Recognized bachelor's degree with an equivalent average mark of 60% in any area.
• Applicants with other qualifications and substantial relevant professional experience may also be considered.

English Language Requirements

The following level of English is required to gain admission to this program:

• IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each band
• TOEFL (Internet-based): 86 overall, with a minimum of 18 in Reading, 18 in Writing, 17 in Listening, and 17 in Speaking
• UOW College: English for Tertiary Studies: Credit (weighted average mark of 65 overall and minimum 50 in Academic Reading and Writing)

Other qualifications may also be considered. Full details can be found on the English Language Requirements website.

Workload

As a full-time student, you can expect to commit around 48 hours of study per week. This includes class time and independent study. You may need to factor more time for examination study and practical work & placements.

For more details on course workloads, please refer to the UOW Handbook.

Credit for Prior Learning

If you have completed prior studies or relevant professional experience, you can request course credit or subject exemptions to reduce the duration and cost of your program.

Credit for prior learning evaluates your previous study or work experience related to your chosen subjects.

UOW values lifelong learning and recognizes various types of prior learning, regardless of how or where it was obtained. For more information, refer to UOW's Credit for Prior Learning page.

More Detail

Fees

International Course fees table:

• Campus: Wollongong
• Delivery method: On Campus
• Session fee: $20,472 (2025)
• Course fee: $81,888 (2025)

Session fees are for one session for the year shown. Total course tuition fees shown are indicative and are based on normal course length and progression. These fees are subject to change from year to year.

Key Dates

• Autumn Session, 2025 at UOW:
  • Application Deadline: See important dates for more information
  • Orientation: Check your campus details
  • Session: 03 March - 27 June 2025
• Spring Session, 2025 at UOW:
  • Application Deadline: See important dates for more information
  • Orientation: Check your campus details
  • Session: 28 July - 20 November 2025
• Autumn Session, 2026 at UOW:
  • Application Deadline: Applications must include all required documents to be considered complete. If submitted late, your application may be reviewed for a future session if a decision cannot be made in time for your preferred session.
  • Session Details:
    • Orientation: Check your campus details
    • Session start: 2 March, 2026
    • Census date: 31 March, 2026
    • Mid-session recess: 20-24 April, 2026
    • Session end: 25 June, 2026
• Spring Session, 2026 at UOW:
  • Application Deadline: Applications must include all required documents to be considered complete. If submitted late, your application may be reviewed for a future session if a decision cannot be made in time for your preferred session.
  • Session Details:
    • Orientation: Check your campus details
    • Session start: 27 July, 2026
    • Census date: 31 August, 2026
    • Mid-session recess: 28 September - 2 October, 2026
    • Session end: 19 November, 2026

Specialization

Students can choose from the following specializations:

• Still deciding
• Cyber Security
• Machine Learning and Big Data
• Network and Information Security
• Software Engineering

Courses You Might Like

Other courses that may be of interest include:

• Master of Information Technology
• Master of Computing
• Master of Mathematical Sciences

These courses offer students the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge and skills in their chosen field, with a focus on practical application and real-world problem-solving.