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Software engineering course
Undergraduate

Bachelor of Computer Science

Key details

Duration

3 year/s full-time
6 year/s part-time
3 year/s full-time

Intake

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

Locations

Danala - Education and Community Precinct, Online
Danala - Education and Community Precinct

Credit points required

240

Course code

WCOMS1
SATAC codes
MyNextCourse

Overview

The Bachelor of Computer Science will prepare you to be part of a continually evolving and diverse field, developing new applications and systems to improve the modern world. You will develop skills and knowledge in the technical principles and applications of computer science as well as strengthen your problem solving, decision making and communication skills making you a confident and competent candidate for a role in the IT industry.



Professional recognition

The Bachelor of Computer Science is accredited by Australia Computer Society at the level of professional practice in ICT and therefore recognised internationally under the Seoul Accord.

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:


Pathways for Higher Education to Higher Education

For information about credit transfer available to students with complete or incomplete study at this or other Institutions refer to Pathways for Higher Education to Higher Education

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 in 2025 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?

The core units of this program provide students with the necessary computer science skills so that they are well prepared for work when graduated. The program stresses both the importance of theory and the application of theory into practice through projects and practical exercises. Progression into the Bachelor of Science (Honours) is available for suitable candidates or students can progress with a Master of Information Technology.

Course structure


A candidate must successfully complete units totalling 240 credit points (cp) as detailed below. All units are valued at 10 credit points unless otherwise indicated.

Unit typeCredit PointsSpecific requirements
Common Units 
(2 units)
20cpCommon 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 
(20 units)
200cp

Compulsory Core units totalling 200 credit points as detailed below.

HIT137 Software Now 
HIT164 Computing Fundamentals 
HIT172 Operating Systems and Applications 
SMA101 Mathematics 1A 
SMA102 Mathematics 1B 
HIT140 Foundations of Data Science (replaces STA101 from 2021) 
HIT220 Algorithms and Complexity 
HIT226 Mobile Web Structures 
HIT234 Database Concepts (replaces BIS234 from 2019) 
HIT235 Digital Systems and Computer Architecture 
HIT237 Building Interactive Software 
HIT274 Network Engineering Applications (replaces HIT174 from 2020) 
PMO201 Project Management 
ENG303 Research Project 
HIT326 Database-Driven Web Applications 
HIT332 Embedded and Mobile Systems 
HIT333 Cyber Security (replaces BIS243 from 2019) 
HIT339 Distributed Development (replaces HIT337 from 2019) 
HIT365 C Programming 
HIT381 Human Computer Interaction Design

Electives  
(2 units)
20cpElective units totalling 20 credit points selected from undergraduate units offered by the University.
 240cpTotal Credit Points

Course Rules (unless otherwise indicated in the above course structure) (240cp)

  • A maximum of 100 credit points may be taken from 100 level units.
  • A minimum of 60 credit points must be taken from 300 level units or above.
  • See the Higher Education Course Rules (Award Requirements) in the Units and Courses Policy.

If course commenced prior to 2023: 
No more than 20 credit points shall be counted with a grade of "PC" in a Bachelor AQF Level 7 course award and no more than 10 credit points at "PC" may be received at the highest level of the program of learning.



COURSE CHANGES AND TRANSITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS - 2022

CUC100 added as an alternative to CUC106. 

 

COURSE CHANGES AND TRANSITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS - 2021 

HIT140 Foundations of Data Science replaces STA101 Statistics 1 from 2021. Students who have already completed STA101 will not be required to complete HIT140. 

 

COURSE CHANGES AND TRANSITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS - 2020

HIT274 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 HIT274. 
 

Study plan


STUDENTS COMMENCING IN SEMESTER 1

The Recommended Study Plan provided below is suitable for a student enrolling in a full-time study load. Students entering this course with advanced standing, or wishing to 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:

  • maintain the basic order in which units are to be attempted; and
  • check the prerequisite and assumed knowledge for each unit as some units assume you have completed foundation unit/s in the unit area at a lower level.   
     
Legend:CU = Common UnitCO = Core UnitE = General Elective

Full-Time Study Plan

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 ApplicationsCOHIT140 Foundations of Data Science (replaces STA101 from 2021)CO
SMA101 Mathematics 1ACOSMA102 Mathematics 1BCO
Year 2
HIT226 Mobile Web StructuresCOHIT220 Algorithms and ComplexityCU
HIT235 Digital Systems and Computer ArchitectureCOHIT274 Network Engineering Applications (replaces HIT174 from 2020)CO
HIT237 Building Interactive SoftwareCOPMO201 Project ManagementCO
HIT234 Database Concepts (replaces BIS234 from 2019)COElectiveE
Year 3
HIT365 C ProgrammingCOHIT339 Distributed Development (replaces HIT337 from 2019)CO
HIT381 Human Computer Interaction DesignCOENG303 Research ProjectCO
HIT326 Database-Driven Web ApplicationsCOHIT333 Cyber Security (replaces BIS243 from 2019)CO
HIT332 Embedded and Mobile SystemsCOElectiveE

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_____________________________________

STUDENTS COMMENCING IN SEMESTER 2

The Recommended Study Plan provided below is suitable for a student enrolling in a full-time study load. Students entering this course with advanced standing, or wishing to 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:

  • maintain the basic order in which units are to be attempted; and
  • check the prerequisite and assumed knowledge for each unit as some units assume you have completed foundation unit/s in the unit area at a lower level.   
     
Legend:CU = Common UnitCO = Core UnitE = General Elective

Full-Time Study Plan

Semester 1Semester 2
Year 1
  IAS201 Cultural Capabilities (replaces CUC107)CU
  HIT140 Foundations of Data Science (replaces STA101 from 2021)CO
  HIT137 Software NowCO
  ElectiveE
Year 2
CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology OR LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100)CUSMA102 Mathematics 1BCO
HIT164 Computing FundamentalsCOHIT220 Algorithms and ComplexityCO
HIT172 Operating Systems and ApplicationsCOHIT274 Network Engineering Applications (replaces HIT174 from 2020)CO
SMA101 Mathematics 1ACOPMO201 Project ManagementCO
Year 3
HIT226 Mobile Web StructuresCOHIT339 Distributed Development (replaces HIT337 from 2019)CO
HIT235 Digital Systems and Computer ArchitectureCOENG303 Research ProjectCO
HIT237 Building Interactive SoftwareCOHIT333 Cyber Security (replaces BIS243 from 2019)CO
HIT234 Database Concepts (replaces BIS234 from 2019)COElectiveE
Year 4
HIT365 C ProgrammingCO  
HIT381 Human Computer Interaction DesignCO  
HIT326 Database-Driven Web ApplicationsCO  
HIT332 Embedded and Mobile SystemsCO  

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____________________________________________

STUDENTS COMMENCING IN SUMMER SEMESTER

The Recommended Study Plan provided below is suitable for a student enrolling in a full-time study load. Students entering this course with advanced standing, or wishing to 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:

  • maintain the basic order in which units are to be attempted; and
  • check the prerequisite and assumed knowledge for each unit as some units assume you have completed foundation unit/s in the unit area at a lower level.   
     
Legend:CU = Common UnitCO = Core UnitE = General Elective

Full-Time Study Plan

Semester 1Semester 2Summer Semester
Year 1
    IAS201 Cultural Capabilities (replaces CUC107)CU
    HIT137 Software NowCO
Year 2
CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology OR LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100)CUHIT140 Foundations of Data Science (replaces STA101 from 2021)CO  
HIT164 Computing FundamentalsCOSMA102 Mathematics 1BCO  
HIT172 Operating Systems and ApplicationsCOElective 1E  
SMA101 Mathematics 1ACO    
Year 3
HIT226 Mobile Web StructuresCOHIT220 Algorithms and ComplexityCU  
HIT235 Digital Systems and Computer ArchitectureCOHIT274 Network Engineering Applications (replaces HIT174 from 2020)CO  
HIT237 Building Interactive SoftwareCOPMO201 Project ManagementCO  
HIT234 Database Concepts (replaces BIS234 from 2019)COElective 2E  
Year 4
HIT365 C ProgrammingCOHIT339 Distributed Development (replaces HIT337 from 2019)CO  
HIT381 Human Computer Interaction DesignCOENG303 Research ProjectCO  
HIT326 Database-Driven Web ApplicationsCOHIT333 Cyber Security (replaces BIS243 from 2019)CO  
HIT332 Embedded and Mobile SystemsCO    

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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.

International entry pathway

International applicants who have completed the CDU Foundation Studies Program and achieved a minimum mark of 65% in the Foundation English units A and B are eligible to apply.

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. From 2025 ALL applicants will be required to supply evidence of this at the time of application. For further details on the English requirements for CDU courses, please refer to CDU English Language Proficiency Policy.

DOMESTIC STUDENTS   
English language proficiency requirements - Domestic students

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS   
English language proficiency requirements - International students   
Course specific English language proficiency requirements for International students are included below.

The minimum English language requirement for this course is met by either undertaking previous education from 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 Module (including One Skill Retake)A 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, 2024

ATAR based offers onlyATAR
(excluding adjustment factors)
Selection Rank
(ATAR plus any adjustment factors)
Lowest rank to receive an offer 51.85 60.35
Median rank to receive an offer 67.95 72.95
Highest rank to receive an offer 88.05 88.00

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 7.

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, 2024.

Applicant background (Semester one intake 2024)No. of Students% of all Students
A. Higher education study
(includes a bridging or enabling course)
6 .0
B. Vocational education and training (VET) study 8 .0
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 9 .0
All students 23 .0

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
Bachelor of Computer Science
Faculty/College
Faculty of Science and Technology
Sector
HE
Area of study
IT and Network 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
Danala - Education and Community Precinct (CSP)
103151
Online (CSP)
103151
* CSP = Commonwealth supported place
FF = Full fee

CRICOS codes

Location
CRICOS Code
Danala - Education and Community Precinct
096275A

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