Adelaide University
Master of Computer Science
- Delivery: Face to Face
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 24 months
- Course Type: Master's
Create applications and programs, master cybersecurity to protect society from hackers and bring virtual worlds to life through game development.
Course 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.
CSP Subsidised Fees Available
This program has a limited quota of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). The indicative CSP price is calculated based on first year fees for EFT. The actual fee may vary if there are choices in electives or majors.
Key facts
July, 2026
What you will study
Students must complete 96 units comprising:
- 66 units for all core courses.
- 30 units for electives.
Each course is worth six units.
Complete 66 units for all of the following:
- Ethics, Privacy and Security in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Machine Learning Algorithms
- Advanced Topics in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Programming for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Event Driven Computing (PG)
- Industry Research Project
- ICT Master Capstone Project 2
- ICT Master Capstone Project 1
- Security Architecture and Engineering
- Cloud Security
- Project Management for IT Professionals
Entry requirements
Admission criteria
To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.
- A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) or bachelor honours (AQF level 8) degree or equivalent in computer science, computer systems engineering or software engineering from a recognised higher education institution; OR
- A completed graduate diploma (AQF level 8) or higher in computer science from a recognised higher education institution.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Adelaide University is committed to recognising the contribution of students’ prior learning towards their program requirements.
Credit may be granted for formal, informal and non-formal learning, with guidance on eligibility provided to prospective students in a clear, transparent and publicly available credit framework.
Credit determinations will be:
- Evidence-based, equitable and transparent.
- Academically sound.
- Applied consistently, fairly and subject to review.
Credit will be granted for prior learning that is relevant and equivalent to the learning required for the courses for which credit is sought.
Credit will only be granted if it:
- Maintains the credibility and integrity of the program for which credit is sought.
- Does not contravene the conditions of the program’s professional accreditation.
- Does not disadvantage the student’s ability to achieve the expected course or program learning outcomes.
For more information, contact the university or visit its website.
Outcomes
Learning outcomes
- Learn how to problem-solve advanced issues in computational programs.
- Build on your knowledge of systems to explore greedy algorithms and brute-force.
- Build skills in distributed databases and data mining.
- Develop advanced communication skills and critical problem-solving techniques.
Career outcomes
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
Fees and CSP
Estimated student contribution amount per 1.0 EFTSL (48 units) in 2026: $9,537 (Commonwealth Supported Place)
Commonwealth-supported students are charged a portion of the cost of their higher education through a student contribution. Where the duration of the program is less than one year, the total cost of the program is displayed.
Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP)
A Commonwealth Supported Place is a higher education place where the Australian Government subsidises your fees so that you only pay a portion through a student contribution amount.
The amount of student contribution you’ll pay depends on:
- Number of courses you are enrolled in.
- Unit value of courses.
- Funding cluster your courses fall under.
A HECS-HELP loan allows students to borrow from the Australian Government to cover some or all of their student contribution. To be eligible for HECS-HELP, you must be studying in a Commonwealth Supported Place.