Whether your ambition is to build a career in research or rise in the ranks to the C-suite, the additional rigour of this degree ensures you’ll be able to independently investigate problems, deliver solutions and communicate them to others. You’ll complete all the requirements of the Bachelor of Computer Science, choosing either advanced computer science or data science as a specialisation. Then, to practise what you’ve learned, you’ll complete an advanced research project or, if you’re selected, an Industry-based Learning placement. In your honours year, you’ll work on a year-long individual research project and thesis with support from a leading supervisor – which could involve software development, experimentation or just be theoretical in nature. Topics that are central to Monash’s research strengths include intelligent systems, bioinformatics, cybersecurity, modelling, optimisation and visualisation. Your research will also help us address the three great challenges facing the world – climate change, geopolitical security and communities that thrive. When you successfully finish this course, you’ll be poised to start a PhD or excel in the growing field of IT research.

 

This course is an advanced version of the Bachelor of Computer Science, designed for high-achieving students who wish to study computing in depth with a strong research component through four years of study.

 

Computer science is the theory and practice of applying computers and software to problem-solving. Its applications underpin many other disciplines including science, engineering, business and commerce, the performing arts and the humanities.

 

Learn how to problem-solve like a computer scientist, enabling you to design algorithms (instructions for computers) and data structures (ways to store information). You will also acquire programming skills to implement these in software that solves real-world problems.

 

This course lets you choose one of three specialisations:

• Algorithms and software covering data structures, graphics, intelligent systems and networks.
• Cybersecurity that deep dives into fundamental privacy concepts, secure software and network systems, and tools and techniques.
• Data science and artificial intelligence which involves uncovering hidden insights from Big Data and using them to train computer intelligence.

 

On top of your specialisation, be prepared for graduate study or employment requiring research and advanced computer science skills through a supported project in your second year followed by a hands-on capstone project in your third year. These will provide practical experience in designing, developing and testing a non-trivial computer science project.

 

If you are eligible, you may also apply for the Industry-Based Learning (IBL) program as part of the curriculum in your third year. This initiative sees you apply your skills and knowledge directly in a professional organisation via a placement.

 

Your studies will conclude with a full-year honours-level research project related to your specialisation, ensuring you graduate with strong research, analysis, problem-solving, communication and teamwork skills, deep computer science knowledge and hands-on experience in conducting impactful IT research.