Faculty of Information Technology
Bachelor of Computer Science (C2001) is a 3 years full-time, 144-credit-point, bachelor degree course from the Faculty of Information Technology, taught at Malaysia and Clayton. In 2027 you can choose from 4 specialisations. Students rate it 4.0 out of 5 from 1 review. Map your units semester by semester with the MonMap planner.
Good course if you want a strong algorithms and theory base. The core units are well designed and there is decent room for electives later. Course advice can be slow during enrolment periods, so plan your units with a tool like this early.
The course is designed for students who wish to study computing in depth. Computer science is the theory and practice of applying computers and software to problem-solving. Its practical applications span all disciplines including science, engineering, business and commerce, creative and performing arts and the humanities. You will learn how to think like a computer scientist about processes and their descriptions. This will enable you to design algorithms (instructions for computers) and data structures (ways to store information). You will also acquire practical programming skills to implement these in efficient software that solves real-world problems. The course provides strong foundations in the theory of computation and its connection to mathematics.
This flexible course offers you a choice of four specialisations in; algorithms and software studies including graphics, intelligent systems and networks; artificial intelligence with machine learning, deep neural networks, natural language processing, generative methods and computer vision, complemented by ethical considerations; cybersecurity including tools and techniques, fundamental privacy concepts and secure software and network systems; or specialisations in data science or data science and artificial intelligence to handle the massive datasets of the information age. Your studies will conclude with a significant project in the area of your specialisation.
If you are an eligible student, you may apply for the industry-based learning (IBL) placement program as part of the curriculum. Through the IBL placement program you will apply the computer science skills and knowledge you have gained to real-world problems in a professional organisation.
The course develops through the themes of computer science foundation studies, professional practice studies, specialist studies and applied studies
Part A. Foundation studies
This study will develop your understanding of the role and theoretical basis of computer science and computational methods.
Part B. Professional practice studies
This study develops professional skills by providing an understanding and appreciation of the ethical and professional guidelines applicable to computer science, developing the ability to work as an effective team member, developing the ability to communicate proficiently and appropriately for professional practice, and developing formal project management skills.
Part C. Specialist studies
This study will develop your in-depth knowledge of the specific computer science methods of your specialised field within computer science. You will also develop your ability to apply appropriate methodologies in computer science and develop efficient computational solutions, strong problem-solving skills and the ability to apply analytical thinking.
Part D. Applied studies
The above knowledge and skills are integrated and consolidated in applied practice as demonstrated in a computer or data science project, and in some cases in an industry-based learning placement.
Part E. Free elective studies
These elective units will enable you to broaden and deepen your knowledge of computer science, or to select units from across the University in which you are eligible to enrol.
If you are in a double degree courses, some units required for the partner degree are credited as electives towards the computer science degree.
Course progression map
The course progression map (Clayton) (Malaysia) provides guidance on unit enrolment for each semester of study.
This course comprises 144 points, of which 96 points must be from computer science study and 48 points are used to provide additional depth or breadth through elective study. The course develops through theme studies in: Part A. Foundation studies (42 points), Part B. Professional practice studies (12 points), Part C. Specialist studies (30 points), Part D. Applied studies (12 points), and Part E. Free elective studies (48 points).
Elective units may be at any level, however, no more than ten units (60 points) can be credited to the computer science course at level 1 and a minimum of 36 points must be completed in computer science at level 3.
Note: Students at the Malaysia campus are required to have completed an industry placement in order to graduate. This can either be the Industry-based learning unit (Part E) or a zero credit point unit FIT3199 Industry work experience. This unit will provide a framework for all undergraduate information technology students at the Malaysia Campus to complete the compulsory industry experience as required by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency.
Units are 6 points unless otherwise stated.
Part A. Foundation studies (42 points)
You must complete:
Part B. Professional practice studies (12 points)
*If you are selected to participate in the IBL placement program you will replace this unit with 6 points of the 18 point IBL unit (FIT3045).
Part C. Specialist studies (30 points)
You must complete one of the following specialisations.
Algorithms and software
You must complete the following five units (30 points):
Note: If you select the Algorithms and software specialisation you are not permitted to complete the Computer science major or minor.
Artificial intelligence
You must complete the following five units (30 points):
Note: If you select the Artificial intelligence specialisation you are not permitted to complete the Artificial intelligence algorithms and models major, Applied artificial intelligence major or the Artificial intelligence minor.
Cybersecurity
You must complete the following five units (30 points):
Note: If you select the Cybersecurity specialisation you are not permitted to complete the Cybersecurity major or minor.
and one of:
Data science
You must complete the following five units (30 points):
Note: If you select the Data science specialisation you are not permitted to complete the Data science major or minor.
Part D. Applied studies (12 points)
You must complete one of the following options.
Clayton students - you must complete a full-year project (12 points) relevant to your specialisation, or the industry-based learning placement unit (18 points).
Malaysia students - you must complete a full-year project (12 points) relevant to your specialisation and the industry-based learning placement unit (18 points) or the industry work experience unit (0 points):
Algorithms and software
Artificial intelligence
Cybersecurity
Data science
OR
Industry-based learning placement (18 points):
FIT3045 is available only if you are selected to participate in the IBL placement program.
For Clayton students - If you are selected to participate in the IBL placement program you will complete FIT3045 Industry-based learning (18 credit points) and FIT2108 Industry-based learning (0 credit points); or FIT3045, FIT2108 and one of FIT3201 Industry-based learning onboarding (8 weeks) (0 credit points) or FIT3202 Industry-based learning onboarding (4 weeks) (0 credit points) (depending on the duration of your placement). This will replace the Applied studies project units (12 points) and FIT2135 (6 points).
For Malaysia students - Students at the Malaysia campus are required to have completed an industry placement in order to graduate as required by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency. This can either be FIT3045 Industry based learning (if you are selected to participate) or FIT3199 Industry work experience. Note: You must complete FIT3199 over the Summer vacation period between second and third year.
If you are selected to participate in the IBL placement program you will complete FIT3045 Industry-based learning (18 credit points) which will replace three free electives (18 credit points).
All students in the IBL program must complete a unit over summer semester or overload in one semester by one unit in order to complete the degree within three years (this is because you only complete 18 credit points of credit during the IBL placement semester). You must have completed at least three semesters of your course before starting your IBL placement.
Part E. Free elective studies (48 points)
Your elective units may be chosen from the Faculty of Information Technology, or from across the University; or you may choose to complete a major or minor from the Faculty of Information Technology or other courses, as long as you have the prerequisites and there are no restrictions on enrolment in the units.
Elective units may be at any level; however, no more than 10 units (60 points) at level 1 may be credited to your degree, and a minimum of 36 points must be at level 3.
You may complete one of the Flagship Rich Educational Experiences (FREE) units. These flagship rich educational experience units may be credited utilising your free electives if approved by the faculty. There are both 6 and 12 credit point unit options available.
If you are in a double degree course, some units required for the partner degree may be credited as electives towards the Bachelor of Computer Science.
These course outcomes are aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework and Monash Graduate Attributes.
Upon successful completion of this course it is expected that you will be able to:
Apply ethical principles, relevant legal and regulatory obligations, and professional standards to computer science practice, evaluating the social, cultural, environmental, security, privacy and societal impacts of computational systems.
Demonstrate self-directed, reflective and adaptable practice as computer scientists, maintaining currency with evolving programming languages, computational methods, algorithmic design practices and AI-enabled development tools.
Communicate effectively and appropriately using technical and non-technical language through written, verbal, mathematical, code-based and visual forms within professional and interdisciplinary contexts.
Plan, coordinate, deliver and evaluate software and computing projects within given constraints, working effectively with teams and stakeholders across the software lifecycle.
Analyse complex computational problems using abstraction, algorithmic thinking, theoretical foundations, evidence and experimentation to design efficient, reliable and adaptable solutions.
Design, implement, test, debug, document, maintain and refine substantial software systems using appropriate programming paradigms, data structures, algorithms, tools and security practices.
Apply and evaluate computer science methods, software design principles and computational tools to model, architect and construct software solutions that meet specified requirements and operate effectively in real-world contexts; in particular:
70; International: UERT Year 12/Foundation Band 3 (80-82.49); UERT Post-Secondary Band 2+ (High Credit)
All applicants must satisfy the equivalence of the VCE subject prerequisites.
VET Diploma graduates: To be considered, applicants who are applying with a diploma, in any field of study, will require a minimum average result of at least 60%. Preference will be given to students whose prior studies are related to the course in which they are seeking admission. Programs that involve competency-based assessment without grades or marks will not meet the admission requirements. IT related diplomas may receive up to a maximum of 48 points of first year level credit.
VET Certificate IV graduates: Preference will be given to students whose prior studies are related to the course in which they are seeking admission. To be considered, applicants will normally require at least 70% average. Programs that involve competency-based assessment without grades or marks will not meet the admission requirements.
University course transfers:
STAT: The STAT can be used to complement an applicant's overall academic background. It cannot be used as the sole pathway of admission into the course.
Monash Level A, that is: IELTS (Academic): 6.5 overall (no band lower than 6.0); or Pearson Test of English (Academic): score of 58 overall with no band lower than 50; or TOEFL Internet-based test: score of 79 overall with minimum scores: Writing: 21, Listening: 12, Reading: 13 and Speaking: 18; or Equivalent approved English test
Diploma of Higher Education Studies - Computer Science (offered at Malaysia)
Monash College - Diploma of Information Technology
Monash Transition Program
Successful completion of the Bachelor of Computer Science may provide a pathway to the one year honours course C3702 Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours). To be eligible to apply for entry into the Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours), you must have successful completion of a relevant Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent) with an average of at least 70% overall or equivalent qualifications and experience approved by the faculty.
This course is accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) as meeting the standard of knowledge for professional-level membership.
Clayton students: you can contact the Course Director at [email protected]
For information on the Industry Based Learning program: Clayton, Malaysia.
You can enrich your degree to hone your academic and professional skills with a range of Flagship Rich Educational Experiences (FREE). These flagship rich educational experience units may be credited utilising your free electives, or alternatively in place of your discipline specific electives (up to 6 credit points) if approved by the faculty. There are both 6 and 12 credit point unit options available.*
For information on eligibility please see FREE
The course is designed for students who wish to study computing in depth and build strong foundations for solving complex problems with software, data, systems and algorithms. Computer science is the theory and practice of applying computers and software to problem solving, with practical applications across science, engineering, business and commerce, creative and performing arts, the humanities, government and society.
You will learn how to think like a computer scientist about processes, systems and their descriptions. This will enable you to design algorithms, develop data structures, reason about computation, and build efficient software that solves real-world problems. You will also acquire practical programming capability and strong foundations in the theory of computation, computer systems, data, and the mathematical principles that underpin computer science.
Core computer science studies are extended through a choice of specialisations, allowing you to focus your study in areas such as algorithms and software studies, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or data science. You can also use elective space to pursue complementary majors offered across the Faculty, including areas such as artificial intelligence algorithms and models, cybersecurity, agentic software engineering, data science, games and interactive media, and others. These options allow you to shape your computer science degree in line with your interests, strengths and career goals.
Eligible students may apply for the industry-based learning placement program as part of the curriculum. Through industry-based learning, you will apply the computer science skills and knowledge you have developed to real-world problems in a professional organisation, strengthening your technical capability, professional experience and readiness for future employment.
3 years full time, 144 credit points. At 24 credit points a semester, that is 6 semesters of full-time study.
4 specialisations in 2027, including Algorithms and software; Artificial intelligence; Cybersecurity; and Data science.
The guaranteed ATAR listed for 2027 entry is 70.
At Malaysia and Clayton.
Open the course in the MonMap planner. It lays out your semesters, checks prerequisites as you drag units in, and tracks the credit points each requirement still needs.
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