The Diploma of Information Technology at Murdoch College is an AQF Level 5 pathway qualification designed for domestic and international students who want to enter the IT field or progress to a bachelor’s degree without entering the bachelor’s programme directly. It is particularly suitable for students who do not have the academic results required for direct entry to a Bachelor of Information Technology.

Key benefits include:

• Provides a nationally recognised AQF Level 5 IT qualification.
• Offers a pathway into the second year of Murdoch University’s Bachelor of Information Technology.
• Provides 24 credit points towards the Bachelor of Information Technology.
• Develops practical knowledge across programming, databases, networking, cyber security and IT project management.
• Covers emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, cloud computing, IoT and data analytics.
• Helps students develop both technical IT skills and business-oriented problem-solving skills.
• Provides a shorter pathway to university compared with starting a three-year bachelor’s degree from Year 1.

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

Students must complete 8 units:

• 7 core units
• 1 elective unit.

The published units and main topics are:

1. Introduction to Information Technology
   Covers IT concepts relating to web technologies, computer networking, ICT, Bitcoin, blockchain, IT security, machine learning, artificial intelligence, data analytics, wireless networks, cloud computing, IoT and virtual reality.
2. Professional Practice and Communication in IT
   Covers professional IT practice, communication, stakeholder requirements, teamwork, problem-solving and ethical decision-making.
3. Introduction to Computer Systems and Programming
   Covers computer architecture, digital logic, number systems, assembly programming, operating systems, algorithms, programming languages including Python, flowcharts, pseudocode and cloud computing.
4. Information Systems in Business
   Covers IT project specifications, requirements analysis, IT modelling techniques and Agile modelling frameworks.
5. Database Design and Management
   Covers relational database management systems, Entity Relationship Models, Data Definition Language, Data Management Language, SQL, database normalisation and security.
6. Introduction to Information Networks
   Covers computer and communication networks, internet architecture, network protocols, addressing, routing, electronic data communication and industry practices.
7. Introduction to Cyber Security
   Covers IT infrastructure vulnerabilities and threats, risk countermeasures, authentication, authorisation, encryption, web and mobile security, operating-system security, privacy and legal considerations.
8. IT Project Management
   Covers project management principles, IT service delivery, project planning, budgets, timelines and presentation of project outcomes to industry stakeholders.

Disciplines / Specialisations

The Diploma of Information Technology does not have formally named specialisations.

Its curriculum provides exposure to:

• Information technology
• Programming
• Computer systems
• Information systems
• Databases
• Computer networking
• Cyber security
• IT project management
• Artificial intelligence
• Machine learning
• Data analytics
• Cloud computing
• Blockchain
• Internet of Things
• Discrete mathematics.

Programme Highlights

• AQF Level 5 qualification.
• CRICOS code 113488J.
• 8 units.
• 2- or 3-trimester completion pathway.
• 24 credit points towards Murdoch University’s Bachelor of Information Technology.
• Face-to-face delivery.
• Full-time study for international students.
• February, June and October intakes.
• Perth campus location.
• Pathway to the second year of Murdoch University’s Bachelor of Information Technology.

Career Outcomes

The diploma can provide two main outcomes.

First, students may use the AQF Level 5 qualification to enter the IT workforce and improve their employability. Murdoch College specifically positions the programme as a qualification that can help students launch a career in a variety of IT areas or advance their existing career.

Potential areas include:

• IT support
• Systems and information technology
• Database-related roles
• Networking
• Cyber security
• Programming
• IT project support
• Technology and business systems.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

The current programme page confirms progression into the following Bachelor of Information Technology majors:

• Business Information Systems
• Cyber Security and Forensics
• Internetworking and Network Security.

International Student Visa Requirements

International students normally require an Australian Student visa (subclass 500).

Current Department of Home Affairs requirements include:

• Enrolment in an eligible Australian course.
• A valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) when the visa is decided.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), unless an exemption applies.
• Meeting the Genuine Student requirement.
• Meeting applicable financial-capacity requirements.
• Meeting health and character requirements.
• Signing the Australian Values Statement where applicable.