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Master of Computer Science – specialising in Software Engineering
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Master of Computer Science – specialising in Software Engineering

Help design and build the software foundations of any organization.

 

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Become an expert in digital systems and solutions that the future holds.

Cleverly designed and implemented software underpins every major organisation in the world. With a limitless range in complexity and size of software, skilled professionals in this area of computer science are vital to the development and maintenance of complex software systems.

The Master of Computer Science (Software Engineering) allows you to choose from units that cover aspects of the software lifecycle, as well as tools and techniques for delivering reliable, quality software. You’ll graduate with specialist knowledge, ready to explore new career possibilities.

Learn from leaders of industry.

This course was designed by award-winning and internationally recognised academics from the Monash Faculty of Information Technology – the only dedicated IT faculty in the Group of Eight universities.

Equip yourself.

Digital systems and solutions are integral to every industry, and with them, software engineering specialists. This degree gives you the tools to become an expert in your field.

Put theory to practice.

The Master of Computer Science (Software Engineering) integrates foundational knowledge, as well as practical application skills focusing on new and innovative technology used in the field.

Fast-track your career, without sacrificing it.

Study and work at the same time. This prestigious degree is formatted to balance your lifestyle with flexibility and support at every step.

Go further, faster.

Enjoy all the benefits of advanced online learning. Our six-week teaching periods mean you can accelerate your study when it suits you and push your career further.

Graduate with value.

Monash is consistently ranked as the preferred hiring university by the leaders of the world’s most successful companies.

Study Mode

Accelerated 100% Online

Duration

2 years part-time

Units

12

Intakes

Jan, Mar, May, Jul, Aug, Oct

Fees

Est. $5,200 per unit

FEE-HELP

Eligible students may apply for FEE-HELP.

Enhance your career in software engineering

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What units are in the Software Engineering specialisation?

Alongside core foundational units, the Master of Computer Science (Software Engineering) requires you to complete three of the following:

  • Web applications development: This unit provides you with the knowledge, understanding and skills to develop an application system. It focuses on mastering key concepts and the basic knowledge and skills required to build applications.
  • Mobile and distributed systems: In this unit, you’ll enhance your understanding of current mobile and distributed technologies such as web services, context-aware computing, location awareness, wireless sensor networks and current research trends.
  • User interface and usability: A seamless user experience is the aim of all emerging computer technologies. This unit will give you a detailed understanding of user interaction design theories, principles and practices – examining the challenges faced by designers with emerging technologies.
  • Software testing, quality and standards: This unit covers the processes, tools and techniques for system validation and verification. On completion, you’ll be able to detect, analyse and control defects in complex systems.

How Monash Online can change your world.

#37

Globally recognised programs

Monash University was ranked #37 in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings (2025) for academic excellence.

#3

Top-ranked university

Monash is ranked #3 globally and #1 nationally (Shanghai Ranking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025).

Having a degree from one of the most reputable universities in Australia is important to me. The concepts and techniques we have been learning are very modern and up-to-date trends in software engineering which I can apply to my workplace.

Aybars

Master of Computer Science (Software Engineering)

This course is structured in three parts:

Part A. i and ii – Foundations of Computer Science

Part B. Specialist studies
i. Core Masters Studies
ii. Specialisation Units

Part C. Applied practice

Depending on prior qualifications, you may receive credit for all of part of Part A or Part B, or both. If you are eligible for credit for prior studies, you may elect not to receive the credit.

Need further clarification about our online course structure?

You can submit an enquiry directly to our student consultants by using the form listed on our contact us page. You’ll have the opportunity to schedule a call if you’d like to receive further information.

Choose one foundational unit from:

Java programming

Introduction to Python

You must complete the following three (3) units:

Introduction to databases

Architecture and networks

Foundations of computing

You must complete the following three (3) units:

Introduction to cryptography for cybersecurity

Fundamentals of artificial intelligence

Software engineering

If choosing Software Engineering as your specialisation, you must complete the following three (3) units:

Web applications development

Mobile and distributed systems

User interface design and usability

Software testing, quality and standards

You must complete both of the following units:

Applied practice 1

Applied practice 2

Entry level 1: 72 credit points to complete

Duration: two years part-time

An Australian bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline* with at least a credit (60 per cent) average, or equivalent qualification approved by the faculty.

* Relevant disciplines include: any degree in a STEM discipline or degrees that have mathematics, business analytics, scientific or critical thinking, or problem solving.

Entry level 2: 48 credit points to complete

Duration: 1.4 years part-time

A Monash University Graduate Certificate of Computer Science, with at least a credit (60 per cent) average or equivalent.

Entry level 3: 24 points to complete

Duration: 0.7 years part-time

A Monash University Graduate Diploma of Computer Science, with at least a credit (60 per cent) average or equivalent.

English requirements

Applicants must meet the English language requirements.

University entrance requirements

Minimum entrance requirements apply for admission to Monash University Australia.

If you need help understanding the above entry requirements, reach out to our student consultants on our contact us page and schedule a booking for a chat.

For the Master of Computer Science, the estimated cost is $5,200.00 per unit*. You may be eligible to receive a FEE-HELP loan to cover part or all of your tuition. Fees are subject to change annually.

*Please note: these are the estimated domestic fees.

Scholarships

We offer over 360 types of scholarships, valued at up to $280,000. Some scholarships offer one-off payments while others continue for the length of your course. Learn more about Monash Scholarships.

Looking for clarification on fees, FEE-HELP or scholarships?

Enquire with our student consultants and schedule a call to get your questions answered.

Graduate as an in-demand computer science expert.

You can tailor your Master of Computer Science to suit your career goals. It’s a degree that will empower you to transition into tech, as you only need to have an undergraduate degree that reflects your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. No prior experience in the field is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions with Associate Professor Yuan-Fang Li

play

Frequently Asked Questions

When you study an AI related specialisation or elective you’ll learn the mathematical foundations and data modelling concepts for various AI technologies. When you add the software engineering specialisation or electives, you can learn to develop AI-powered software applications.
According to Australian Government career statistics, Usability Architects are among top earners in the Information Technology Industries. Software Engineers and Software applications programmers and software testers are amongst higher earners with very strong demand predicted by the Australian Government.
Software architects focus on the technical feasability of the software. Software engineers build the solutions that enables the software to operate in the technical environment.

Study a software engineering qualification delivered by those who change it.

Supported by our expert academics and student assistance team, you’ll experience the benefits of an immersive learning experience that is tailored to your needs. Our award-winning academics are at the forefront of researching and developing new technologies, turning that research into meaningful change in the world.

Meet your academic team

Dr Pari Delir Haghighi

Senior Lecturer

Dr Pari Delir Haghighi is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Information Technology. Her research interests include context-aware and mobile computing, edge and IoT computing, and mobile health monitoring.

Yi-Shan Tsai

Academic Director Online Programmes

Yi-Shan Tsai is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Human-Centred Computing in the Faculty of Information Technology at Monash University. Her work seeks to enhance learning experiences and teaching practice through the use of data and AI technologies.

Dr Don Samitha Elvitigala

Deputy Course Director (Master of Computer Science)

Dr. Don Samitha Elvitigala is a Senior Lecturer in the Human Centred Computing Department of Monash. His research investigates novel human augmentations that can enhance human physical and cognitive capabilities by implicitly understanding humans’ physical and mental behaviours. In particular, he explores how we can utilise everyday clothes and clothing accessories to develop augmented human interfaces.

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