Program Overview

Introduction to the Programming Principles Unit

The Programming Principles unit, coded as ZAT113, is designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of software design and development. This unit is part of the University College's curriculum and is available for students to undertake as an elective.

Unit Details

• Unit Name: Programming Principles
• Unit Code: ZAT113
• Credit Points: 12.5
• College/School: University College
• Discipline: Pathways
• Coordinator: Ms Fiona Brodribb
• Available as an Elective: Yes
• Delivered By: University of Tasmania
• Level: Introductory

Sustainable Development Goals

This unit aligns with specific UN Sustainable Development Goals, which are currently under review for precise alignment.

Availability

The unit is available in different study periods and attendance options:

• Location: Online
• Study Period: Semester 1 and Semester 2
• Attendance Options: Online tutorials
• Available to: Domestic and international students

Key Dates

Important dates for the unit include:

• Semester 2:
  • Start date: 6/7/2026
  • Census date: 28/7/2026
  • Withdrawal without penalty date: 31/8/2026
  • End date: 25/10/2026
• Semester 1:
  • Start date: 23/2/2026
  • Census date: 17/3/2026
  • Withdrawal without penalty date: 20/4/2026
  • End date: 14/6/2026

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:

• Design software solutions applying fundamental programming principles to solve real-world problems.
• Apply programming methodologies to create programs that meet specific requirements.
• Communicate and document ideas and solutions for software projects using professional standards.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the project development process.

Fee Information

The fee structure for this unit is as follows:

• Field of Education:
• Commencing Student Contribution: $1,192.00
• Grandfathered Student Contribution: $1,192.00
• Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution: Not applicable
• Domestic Full Fee: $2,919.00

Requisites

There are mutual exclusions for this unit, meaning students cannot enrol in ZAT113 and the following units simultaneously:

• ZAE104
• ZAT103

Teaching Pattern

The teaching pattern for this unit includes:

• Two-hour weekly online tutorials for 12 weeks
• Assessment through a Project Scoping and Design Presentation, a Programming Portfolio, and an Integrated Development Project

Textbooks and Resources

Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. Students are expected to have their own computer with administrator rights, MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and the ability to download and install Python and its libraries as required.