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Software engineering course
Undergraduate

Associate Degree of Network Engineering

Key details

Duration

2 year/s full-time
4 year/s part-time
2 year/s full-time

Intake

Semester 1, Semester 2, Summer Semester
On campus - Semester 1, Semester 2, Summer Semester
Online - No
Important Dates

Locations

Casuarina campus, Online
Casuarina campus

Credit points required

160

Course code

XNENG1
SATAC codes
MyNextCourse

Overview

The Associate Degree of Network Engineering plays a crucial role in the infrastructure of industry and government organisations. This course will provide you with the skills, knowledge and confidence required to design, operate and maintain networks. The course has a strong practical emphasis and you will be given extensive opportunities to put theory into practice.



Credit transfers and advanced standing

Pathways

Pathways for VET to Higher Education

Guaranteed credit transfer arrangements are available to students commencing a bachelor degree at Charles Darwin University with completed Certificate IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree qualifications in the same field or discipline. Students who hold completed qualifications should refer to the additional information provided about Advanced Standing and Credit Transfer and Pathways using the links below:

Credit transfer

For further information on credit transfer and how to apply visit ASK CDU

Credit transfers and advanced standing

Credit transfer

For further information on credit transfer and how to apply visit ASK CDU

Fees

Commonwealth supported places

Commonwealth Supported places are available in this course to students who meet one of the following residency requirements:

(a) be an Australian citizen, who will complete some of your course of study while resident in Australia; or

(b) a New Zealand citizen; or an Australian permanent visa holder; or an eligible former permanent humanitarian visa holder; who studies the entire course while living in Australia.

Further information about fees and charges can be found at Fees and Payments.

International tuition fees

The annual tuition fee for full time study is AUD $31,688.00. This equates to $ $3,961.00 per 10 credit point unit (0.125 EFTSL).
These fees are subject to increases annually, effective at the start of each calendar year.

You can find a list of International fees and payments you can expect to pay as part of your studies in Australia.

CDU offers a number of scholarships to international students to assist with the cost of study.

CDU International Student in the library

Why study IT and network engineering at CDU?

From dealing with cyber crime to software engineering and data collection, an IT degree at CDU is tailored to industry demand. You'll graduate equipped with the technical and analytical skills to future-proof your career across multiple sectors. 

  • #2 in Australia for undergraduate learner engagement in computing and IT (GUG 2024)
  • Use state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies
  • Choose to study online, on campus, part-time or full-time as it suits you
Female CDU IT student working on a switchboard

Why study IT and Network Engineering at CDU?

From dealing with cyber crime to software engineering and data collection, an IT degree at CDU is tailored to industry demand. You'll graduate equipped with the technical and analytical skills to future-proof your career across multiple sectors.

  • #2 in Australia for undergraduate learner engagement in computing and IT (GUG 2024)
  • Use state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies
CDU International Student in the library

Why study IT and network engineering at CDU?

From dealing with cyber crime to software engineering and data collection, an IT degree at CDU is tailored to industry demand. You'll graduate equipped with the technical and analytical skills to future-proof your career across multiple sectors. 

  • #2 in Australia for undergraduate learner engagement in computing and IT (GUG 2024)
  • Use state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies
  • Choose to study online, on campus, part-time or full-time as it suits you
Female CDU IT student working on a switchboard

Why study IT and Network Engineering at CDU?

From dealing with cyber crime to software engineering and data collection, an IT degree at CDU is tailored to industry demand. You'll graduate equipped with the technical and analytical skills to future-proof your career across multiple sectors.

  • #2 in Australia for undergraduate learner engagement in computing and IT (GUG 2024)
  • Use state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies

What will I study?

This two year course covers data networks and their implementation.

Course structure

Successful completion of the Associate Degree of Network Engineering will enable entry into the third year of Charles Darwin University's Bachelor of Information Technology or Bachelor of Software Engineering Honours.

This course is available externally by distance learning for those who are not able to attend classes on campus on a regular basis. Distance learning requires reliable broadband internet access.


A candidate must successfully complete units totalling 160 credit points (cp) as detailed below. All units are valued at 10 credit points unless indicated.

Unit type

Credit Points

Specific requirements
Common Units

(2 units)

20cp

Common units totalling 20 credit points as detailed below.



IAS201 Cultural Capabilities (replaces CUC107 from 2024) (compulsory)

Plus either:

CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology OR

LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100 from 2024)



Select Common Units to find out more about individual units and advanced standing options.

 
Core Units

(11 units)

110cp

Compulsory Core units totalling 110 credit points as detailed below.

HIT137 Software Now

HIT164 Computing Fundamentals

HIT172 Operating Systems and Applications

HIT234 Database Concepts (replaces BIS234 from 2019)

HIT220 Algorithms and Complexity

HIT235 Digital Systems and Computer Architecture

HIT372 Organisation Network Infrastructure (previously HIT272)

HIT274 Network Engineering Applications

PMO201 Project Management

HIT333 Cyber Security (replaces BIS243 from 2019)

HIT374 Enterprise Network Engineering (replaces HIT174 as a core unit from 2020)

Electives

(3 units)

30cp

Select units totalling 30 credit points may be selected from undergraduate units offered by the University.
 

160

Total Credit Points

Course Rules (unless otherwise indicated in the above course structure) (160cp)

  • A minimum of 60 credit points must be taken from 200 level, or higher.
  • See the Higher Education Course Rules (Award Requirements) in the Units and Courses Policy.

If course commenced prior to 2023:

No more than 10 credit points shall be counted with a grade of "PC" in an Associate Degree or Advanced Diploma AQF Level 6 course award.

 

Course Changes from 2022

CUC100 added as an alternative to CUC106.



Course Changes from 2020

HIT374 Network Engineering Applications replaces HIT174 Network Engineering Concepts as a core unit from 2020. Students who have already completed HIT174 will not be required to complete HIT374.

 

Study plan


Students commencing in Semester 1

The Recommended Study Plan provided below is suitable for a student commencing in semester 1 and enrolling in a standard load. Students entering this course with advanced standing, or wishing to reduce or vary their study plan due to work, personal, financial or other reasons should use the table as a guide to create an individual study plan.

When designing an individual study plan:
-    ensure Common Units are completed in the first year of study;
-    maintain the basic order in which units are to be attempted; and
-    check the assumed knowledge for each unit as some 200 and 300 level units assume you have completed foundation unit/s in the subject area at a lower level. 200 level units have the unit code which includes a number starting with 200.

Legend:CU = Common UnitCO = Core UnitSE = Specialist ElectiveE = Elective

 

Semester 1Semester 2
Year 1
CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology OR LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100)CUIAS201 Cultural Capabilities (replaces CUC107)CU
HIT164 Computing FundamentalsCOHIT137 Software NowCO
HIT172 Operating Systems and ApplicationsCOHIT220 Algorithms and ComplexityCO
ElectiveEHIT274 Network Engineering ApplicationsCO
Year 2
HIT234 Database Concepts (replaces BIS234 from 2019)COPMO201 Project ManagementCO
HIT235 Digital Systems and Computer ArchitectureCOHIT333 Cyber Security (replaces BIS243 from 2019)CO
HIT374* Enterprise Network Engineering (replaces HIT174 as a core unit from 2020)COHIT372 Organisation Network Infrastructure (previously HIT272)CO
ElectiveEElectiveE

*Students who have completed HIT174 do not need to complete HIT374.

Students commencing in Semester 2

The Recommended Study Plan provided below is suitable for a student commencing in semester 2 and enrolling in a standard load. Students entering this course with advanced standing, or wishing to reduce or vary their study plan due to work, personal, financial or other reasons should use the table as a guide to create an individual study plan.

When designing an individual study plan:
-    ensure Common Units are completed in the first year of study;
-    maintain the basic order in which units are to be attempted; and
-    check the assumed knowledge for each unit as some 200 and 300 level units assume you have completed foundation unit/s in the subject area at a lower level. 200 level units have the unit code which includes a number starting with 200.

 

Legend:CU = Common UnitCO = Core UnitSE = Specialist ElectiveE = Elective

 

Semester 1Semester 2
Year 1
  IAS201 Cultural Capabilities (replaces CUC107)CU
  HIT137 Software Now CO
  HIT220 Algorithms and ComplexityCO
  ElectiveE
Year 2
CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology OR LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100)CUPMO201 Project ManagementCO
HIT164 Computing FundamentalsCOHIT274 Network Engineering ApplicationsCO
HIT172 Operating Systems and ApplicationsCOHIT333 Cyber Security (replaces BIS243 from 2019)CO
ElectiveEHIT372 Organisation Network Infrastructure (previously HIT272)CO
Year 3
HIT234 Database Concepts (replaces BIS234 from 2019)CO  
HIT235 Digital Systems and Computer ArchitectureCO  
HIT374* Enterprise Network Engineering (replaces HIT174 as a core unit from 2020)CO  
ElectiveE  

*Students who have completed HIT174 do not need to complete HIT374.

Students commencing in Summer Semester

The Recommended Study Plan provided below is suitable for a student commencing in Summer Semester and enrolling in a standard load. Students entering this course with advanced standing, or wishing to reduce or vary their study plan due to work, personal, financial or other reasons should use the table as a guide to create an individual study plan.

When designing an individual study plan:
-    ensure Common Units are completed in the first year of study;
-    maintain the basic order in which units are to be attempted; and
-    check the assumed knowledge for each unit as some 200 and 300 level units assume you have completed foundation unit/s in the subject area at a lower level. 200 level units have the unit code which includes a number starting with 200.

Semester 1Semester 2Summer Semester
Year 1
    IAS201 Cultural Capabilities (replaces CUC107)CU
    HIT137 Software NowCO
      
      
Year 2
HIT164 Computing FundamentalsCOCUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology OR LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100)CU  
HIT172 Operating Systems and ApplicationsCOHIT220 Algorithms and ComplexityCO  
Elective 1EHIT274 Network Engineering ApplicationsCO  
Elective 2EElective 3E  
Year 3
HIT234 Database Concepts (replaces BIS234 from 2019)COPMO201 Project ManagementCO  
HIT235 Digital Systems and Computer ArchitectureCOHIT333 Cyber Security (replaces BIS243 from 2019)CO  
HIT374* Enterprise Network Engineering (replaces HIT174 as a core unit from 2020)COHIT372 Organisation Network Infrastructure (previously HIT272)CO  
      

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

Admission requirements are met by one of the following:

  • Successful completion of the Northern Territory Certificate of Education and Training (or equivalent) and the awarding of an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) of at least 60*.
  • Successful completion of a national qualification at Certificate III level or higher.
  • Successful completion of at least 0.5 year of full-time study (or equivalent) of a higher education degree/diploma.
  • Overseas secondary or tertiary qualifications considered equivalent to the above Australian qualifications.
  • Attainment of a STAT Multiple Choice score of 140.
  • Successful completion of the Tertiary Enabling Program, the Preparation for Tertiary Success courses, or other recognised tertiary preparation course.
  • Submission of an acceptable personal competencies statement and/or employment experience.
  • Defence members with service of 1 year or more at the following ranks (or higher) meet the academic entry requirement for this course:
    • Navy: Seaman, Able Seaman, Leading Seaman
    • Air Force: Aircraftmen/Aircraftwoman, Leading Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman, Corporal
    • Army: Private, Lance Corporal, Corporal
  • Current School Leaver Pathways:
    • Best of 3 Year 12 subject grades
    • School recommendation program

* After any applicable adjustment factors have been applied.

Essential requirements

English language requirements

To gain entry into Charles Darwin University, all Higher Education applicants must satisfy the University's English Language Proficiency Requirements for their chosen course of study. International applicants will be required to supply evidence of this at the time of application.

The minimum English language requirement for this course is met by either undertaking previous education in an English-speaking country or undertaking one of the following English language tests and obtaining the minimum requirements listed below.

CDU English for Academic Purposes 3 (ZEAP30)Successful completion of EAP003 English for Academic Purposes 3
IELTS Academic ModuleA minimum overall score of 6.0 with no band less than 6.0.
Cambridge Advanced English (CAE)A minimum overall score of 169, with no skill below 169.
Common European Framework Certificate of English ProficiencyA minimum overall grade of B2.
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic moduleA minimum overall score of 50 with no score lower than 50.
TOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT)A minimum overall score of 60 and a minimum writing score of 21.

* All tests are valid for two years from the date of the test to the date of commencement at CDU, unless otherwise specified.

* Where applicable, international applicants must also satisfy the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) English language requirements for student visa applications.

Do you have a question regarding English requirements at CDU? Please email: international@cdu.edu.au.

 

ATAR profile

The following table represents the ATAR and selection rank profile for applicants offered a place on the basis of their ATAR in semester 1, 2023

ATAR based offers onlyATAR
(excluding adjustment factors)
Selection Rank
(ATAR plus any adjustment factors)
Lowest rank to receive an offer<5<5
Median rank to receive an offer<5<5
Highest rank to receive an offer<5<5

Notes
"<5" indicates less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made.

CDU is a growing university and encourages people to grow as well. There are a lot of options and flexibility when it comes to study and the staff have always been helpful and supportive in making my dreams come true.

Sami

Dr Sami Azam

I have decided to stay in Darwin because I found an amazing job here. I wouldn’t be exposed to this variety of roles and experience anywhere else in Australia.

Srijana

CDU student

CDU student Srijana Ghimire standing against a backdrop of a national park in the Northern Territory

CDU is a growing university and encourages people to grow as well. There are a lot of options and flexibility when it comes to study and the staff have always been helpful and supportive in making my dreams come true.

Sami

Dr Sami Azam

I have decided to stay in Darwin because I found an amazing job here. I wouldn’t be exposed to this variety of roles and experience anywhere else in Australia.

Srijana

CDU student

CDU student Srijana Ghimire standing against a backdrop of a national park in the Northern Territory

Course details

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the University in accordance with the Higher Education Standards.

Inherent Requirements

There are inherent requirements for this course. Students must read and understand the requirements for this course.

Australian qualification framework

This course is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 6.

Student profile

The table below gives an indication of the likely peer cohort for new students in this course. It provides data on students that commenced this course and passed the census date in Semester 1, 2023.

Applicant background (Semester one intake 2023)No. of Students% of all Students
A. Higher education study
(includes a bridging or enabling course)
<5N/P
B. Vocational education and training (VET) study<5N/P
C. Work and life experience
(Admitted on the basis of previous achievement not in the other three categories)
<5N/P
D. Recent secondary education
  • Admitted solely on the basis of ATAR

(regardless of whether this includes the consideration of adjustment factors such as equity or subject bonus points)

<5N/P
  • Admitted where both ATAR and additional criteria were considered

(e.g. portfolio, audition, extra offer conditional on minimum ATAR)

<5N/P
  • Admitted on the basis of other criteria only and ATAR was not a factor

(e.g. special consideration, audition alone, schools recommendation scheme with no minimum ATAR requirement)

<5N/P
International students<5N/P
All students<5N/P

Notes
"<5" - the number of students is less than 5
N/A - Students not accepted in this category
N/P - Not published: the number is hidden to prevent calculation of numbers in cells with less than 5 students.

Additional information

Can offers be deferred?
Yes
Award
Associate Degree of Network Engineering
Faculty/College
Faculty of Science and Technology
Sector
HE
Area of study
IT and Network Engineering, Engineering

Contact details

For further information about the course, enrolment procedures, closing dates and other administrative issues please contact Student Central on:

Email:Student.Central@cdu.edu.auPhone:1800 061 963 (free call)

You make CDU

Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.

Learn about information technology at CDU

Kalyani is from India studying a Master of Information Technology (Information Systems and Data Science) at CDU. Hear more about her experience of studying, living, working and playing in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia.

You make CDU

Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.

Learn about information technology at CDU

Kalyani is from India studying a Master of Information Technology (Information Systems and Data Science) at CDU. Hear more about her experience of studying, living, working and playing in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia.

How to apply

There are many ways to apply to CDU. The method you use depends on your course type, where you live and whether you are a new or returning student to CDU.

Remember to apply early for your best chance at securing an offer to study with us.

SATAC

SATAC is the application channel for residents of NT, ACT, SA, WA, QLD, VIC, NSW or TAS.

MyNextCourse

Direct applications are available to students who have completed a CDU or BIITE course at a Certificate III level or higher. Most CDU and BIITE enabling programs are also accepted through this process.

International applications

Applications must be submitted online through our application portal, Studylink. You'll need a valid email address to create your online account. Once you have started your application, you will be able to save it and resume it later. There is no application fee when you apply online.

You may be able to lodge a direct application; however, there may be restrictions on your geographic location. If you cannot submit a direct application via the application portal, please apply through one of our registered agents.

Apply through StudyLink or through an Agent.

International applicants currently studying year 12 in Australia should apply via SATAC.

If you do not meet any of the criteria above please visit Pathways to study to view the options available to you.

SATAC codes

Location
SATAC Code
Casuarina campus (CSP)
115121
Online (CSP)
115121
* CSP = Commonwealth supported place
FF = Full fee

CRICOS codes

Location
CRICOS Code
Casuarina campus
089401C

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