Why Master of Computer Science?
Shape the digital landscape of tomorrow.
Experiment and innovate with new technologies. Open the door to a world of careers. Create applications and programs. Become a cybersecurity expert and protect society from hackers. Bring virtual worlds to life through game development.
A Master of Computer Science puts you at the forefront of cutting-edge AI technology. You’ll be building smart systems that learn and adapt. Build practical skills and join the evolving tech scene. An increased adoption of technologies means the possibilities are endless.
Overview
The Master of Computer Science is guided by world-class research groups and leading academics. Graduates will be well equipped in a variety of industries. Be prepared to build rewarding careers in the scientific, entertainment, networking, software engineering and defence sectors.
Gain a competitive edge. Focus your expertise. Merge technical skills with creativity. Discover evolutionary computation, computer networks and systems modelling. Master your skills and broaden your knowledge through a specialisation and research project. Become an expert in your chosen field. Expand your horizons and grasp new career opportunities.
You’ll be ready to make a significant impact in the expanding software development industry. Acquire roles as a computer scientist or games developer. Work on cutting-edge technologies, solve complex problems and innovate in creative ways. You could find yourself developing immersive experiences, enhancing digital security or even exploring space technology.
Key features
Propose and execute an in-depth research project. - Design and construct large software systems.
- Evaluate trade-offs of computer systems in AI, cyber and data science.
- Choose your preferred specialist stream including computer security, data and information management and networks.
- Publicly present your work including design and performance analysis.
- Learn from world-class researchers and leading academics.
What you'll learn
In the Master of Computer Science, you’ll study a blend of core foundation courses and electives aligned to your career goals.
Core courses will include a specialised programming curriculum. Learn how to problem-solve advanced issues in computational programs. Build on your knowledge in systems to explore greedy algorithms and brute-force.
You can also specialise and choose from the following computer science electives:
- Computer Security
- Data and Information Management
- Networks.
The Computer security elective focuses on secure software engineering while the networks course will build skills in distributed databases and data mining. Most electives will also include topics on mobile and wireless systems. Examine the characteristics of these networks and their impact on the development of software and supporting protocols.
In your studies you’ll propose an idea and complete a research project. Develop advanced communication skills and critical problem-solving techniques. You’ll also deliver a public presentation and write a report on your research.
You’ll be able to complete majority of first year common courses at either our Adelaide City or Mawson Lakes Campus with some potential cross-campus study required. Throughout your degree, you’ll gain access to cutting-edge facilities across both campus locations to enhance your overall learning experience.
Assessments include a research project, written assignments, practical work and examinations.
What courses you'll study
Complete 96 units comprising:
- 66 units for all Core courses, and
- 30 units from Electives
Complete 66 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Ethics, Privacy and Security in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
|
Course code
ARTI5006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Machine Learning Algorithms
|
Course code
ARTI6003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Topics in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
|
Course code
ARTI6000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Programming for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
|
Course code
COMP5004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Event Driven Computing (PG)
|
Course code
COMP5050
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Industry Research Project
|
Course code
COMP5800
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
ICT Master Capstone Project 2
|
Course code
COMP6000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
ICT Master Capstone Project 1
|
Course code
COMP6024
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Security Architecture and Engineering
|
Course code
INFO6003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Cloud Security
|
Course code
INFO6004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Project Management for IT Professionals
|
Course code
PROJ5001
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
Course name
Ethics, Privacy and Security in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
|
Course code
ARTI5006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Programming for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
|
Course code
COMP5004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Cloud Security
|
Course code
INFO6004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Machine Learning Algorithms
|
Course code
ARTI6003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Event Driven Computing (PG)
|
Course code
COMP5050
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Industry Research Project
|
Course code
COMP5800
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Project Management for IT Professionals
|
Course code
PROJ5001
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Topics in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
|
Course code
ARTI6000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Security Architecture and Engineering
|
Course code
INFO6003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
ICT Master Capstone Project 1
|
Course code
COMP6024
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
ICT Master Capstone Project 2
|
Course code
COMP6000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Complete exactly 30 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Generative Artificial Intelligence
|
Course code
ARTI5001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Applied Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
|
Course code
ARTI5002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
ICT Internship 1
|
Course code
COMP4901
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Data in Information Technology Systems
|
Course code
COMP5003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Deep Learning Applications
|
Course code
COMP6004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Requirements and User Experience
|
Course code
COMP6023
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Ethics, Privacy and Security in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
|
Course code
ARTI5006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Programming for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
|
Course code
COMP5004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Cloud Security
|
Course code
INFO6004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Machine Learning Algorithms
|
Course code
ARTI6003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Event Driven Computing (PG)
|
Course code
COMP5050
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Industry Research Project
|
Course code
COMP5800
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Project Management for IT Professionals
|
Course code
PROJ5001
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Topics in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
|
Course code
ARTI6000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Security Architecture and Engineering
|
Course code
INFO6003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
ICT Master Capstone Project 1
|
Course code
COMP6024
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
ICT Master Capstone Project 2
|
Course code
COMP6000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
With an Adelaide University computer science degree, you’ll be equipped to innovate, create and lead in the tech world.
Maybe you’ll be a senior application developer designing the next must-have app. You might create machines that assist in everything from manufacturing to healthcare. Perhaps you’ll be a blockchain developer, working on the technology behind cryptocurrencies.
Other careers include:
- Computer scientist
- AI specialist
- Defence scientist
- IT manager
- Systems programmer.
Industry trends
Australia’s tech sector is currently worth AU$167 billion – an 80% increase in only 5 years (Australian Government, 2023). Australian innovators and local tech startups are attracting global investors. Develop your expert skills with us and find your place in this growing industry.
Accreditation
This program is provisionally accredited at the level of Professional by the Australian Computer Society (ACS). Graduates are eligible for membership with the ACS and are recognised internationally through the Seoul Accord.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
