Computing Major (BAdvSci) (Honours)

Outline Outline

Computer scientists, software engineers, programmers and other computing professionals are experts on how technology works and how computing can address even the most complicated and intricate problems.

This major is a Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) course, designed for high-performing students to pursue their interest in science through research, leadership and entrepreneurship opportunities.

You will benefit from a personalised and flexible learning experience, exploring the field of computing through for-credit immersive research experiences, industry placement and/or interdisciplinary team-based projects.

In your first year, you'll develop your programming skills and study the fundamental theoretical knowledge of computing. Topics covered will include C++, Java, Linux and object oriented programming.

You can then tailor a specialised skill set in Computer Science, Cyber Security, Information Technology or Software Engineering.

Your studies will culminate in a capstone project, with topics ranging from pure research through to translational (entrepreneurial) science.

SPECIALISATIONS

Computer Science
You'll develop an in-depth knowledge of software design and algorithm analysis, as well as artificial intelligence, computer communications, databases and graphics. Your study will focus on the knowledge required to build operating systems and design new programming languages. As computer science theory and applications are mathematically based, there is a strong emphasis on mathematics.

Cyber Security
Cyber Security focuses on the key concepts and challenges in data and resource protection and computer software security. You'll examine high level aspects of computer security - cryptography theory, data access policy development and security program management - and the low level practical aspects comprising computer forensics, network intrusion detection and incident handling.

You'll develop the skills to identify appropriate applications for specific scenarios, with an understanding of cultural and ethical issues related to protecting individual rights.

Information Technology
You'll learn the technological and applied aspects of computing, with less emphasis on theory. You'll study system programming, software design and engineering, networking (including the internet and the web), artificial intelligence for decision support, and graphics.

Software Engineering
Software engineers are experts in the principles of design, measurement and analysis applied in the context of the development of software-based systems. You'll gain a strong foundation in computer science, with further emphasis on software requirements gathering, design, implementation and testing. You'll also study communication skills, professional responsibility, ethics, interpersonal relationships, teamwork and time management.

See our handbook for more course information.

How this course will make you industry ready

This course has been designed with industry to ensure that the skills and knowledge are those required for employers in this dynamic field.

Work-integrated learning (WIL) is ensured, through engagement in immersive industry and/or research experiences. During second and third year of your studies you have the opportunity to source internal and external internships and immersive work experiences, which can be used for course credit.

You'll also have the opportunity to interact with potential employers though your final-year capstone project, in which you will work on real-world problems presented by industry.

What you'll learn

• Demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the nature of science, its methods and processes, and an advanced ability to apply the theoretical foundations of computing to new application areas; place new technological developments in a historical context for a changing and evolving society.
• Evaluate standard algorithms, techniques, and software technologies in a manner that is appropriate for challenging and multi-faceted problems; think critically and creatively to generate innovative and optimum theoretical and practical solutions.
• Access evaluate and synthesise information from a range of computing sources to optimise the process of software design and implementation.
• Communicate the process of software development effectively in written and oral form to informed professional audiences from both technical and non-technical backgrounds.
• Effectively use emerging and existing technologies to address complex problems, recognising their advantages and limitations.
• Sustain intellectual independence and curiosity by updating their knowledge and engaging in continuous training and research.
• Consider computing problems from a global perspective and recognise the inherent global nature of information and communications technology.
• Work collaboratively and respectfully with colleagues from a range of cultural backgrounds and contribute to society using technology in an ethical, legal, and socially responsible manner.
• Demonstrate initiative, leadership and ethical practice when working independently and collaboratively and as a leader of research; recognise and apply IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)/ACM (Association for Computing Machinery)/ACS (Australian Computer Society) standards and best practices in process software design and development.