Computer Science
This course information is for local students only
Year
2012
Award
Bachelor of Computer Science
Length
3 years full-time or up to 6 years part-time
Campuses
Melbourne
Course description
This bachelor degree offers the right blend of theory and practice. Computer science involves a wide range of topics, such as computer software systems and design, databases, artificial intelligence, computer architecture, networks, mulitmedia systems and games technology. This comprehensive and highly flexible course focuses on computing processes, hardware and software, and their underlying principles. Graduates should be able to design, implement, and maintain complex computer systems, and to develop effective solutions for problems in areas such as data storage, computer networks, and computer security.
Distinctive features of this course include object-oriented programming using Java and C++ from first year, industry-based project work and industry-based learning placements, and the option to take up to 25 per cent of their subjects from other disciplines.
The course also includes an opportunity for industry-recognised CISCO certification in computer networks.
Course structure
First-year studies include computer science, mathematics, and object-oriented programming in Java and C++. Second- and third-year studies include databases, computer systems architecture and design, algorithms, and data structures. Students can specialise in artificial intelligence, data engineering, computer networks, or software engineering. In third year, students also undertake an industry-based software engineering project.
Contact hours
24 hours a week (average) in first year
Subject details
Major areas of study
Algorithms and data structures, artificial intelligence, computer and network security, data communications, databases (advanced programming), games technology, industry collaboration and experience, Java and C++ software development, LANs, mobile communications, multimedia systems, network applications, network engineering, network security, object-oriented programming, operating systems, project management, software systems, wireless technology.
Overseas study opportunities
Overseas study opportunities are available.
Please see
www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange
for more information
Application
VTAC
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Scholarships
Applicants who are Australian citizens or who hold permanent humanitarian visas are eligible for a range of University-wide scholarships, including Commonwealth Scholarships. For details please see http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships/future-undergraduatesFirst-year scholarships are available for high-achieving students. Prospective candidates should contact the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering early in their Year-12 studies for details.
Middle Band
Completion of Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points.
Selection
ATAR: 62.80 (2011).
Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 70 or above receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs are considered through normal selection processes.
Non-Year 12 selection may involve: ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. They may also be asked to complete a maths test.
Prerequisites
VCE Units 3 & 4: English (any) and either Mathematical Methods (either) or Specialist Mathematics.
Semester starts
Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Industry experience
The following types of industry experience are available in this course.
- Workplace experience for academic credit
Additional information
Students without the appropriate computer science background may be required to commence three weeks early to undertake accelerated first-year computer science subjects.
A CISCO certification training program is available for students who pass the network engineering subjects in their undergraduate studies. For more information, contact the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering at the beginning of first semester.
Career opportunities
Graduates are likely to embark on highly successful career paths in computing. Examples of possible future roles include systems analyst, analyst programmer, developer programmer, software engineer, database engineer, security and network expert, and multimedia and game designer.
Professional recognition
The degree is accredited by the Australian Computer Society, and graduates are eligible for professional membership.