Top 10 in Australia for computer science
Professionally accredited by the Australian Computer Society
100+ hours of industry placement
Key facts
3 years full-time
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course overview
In our digital world, the information technology (IT) industry is central to the way we work, learn, play, communicate and socialise. Build a solid foundation for your future career with core IT skills suitable across multiple industries. During Deakin’s Bachelor of Information Technology, you will gain the essential skills and experience required to embark on a career in IT, while developing specialist knowledge in an industry-relevant study area of your choosing.
This course will give you the opportunity to explore areas like programming, networking, cyber security, cloud applications, entrepreneurship, innovation and user-centred design. You will undertake a specialised capstone project and access co-working spaces enabling you to collaborate with like-minded peers and kickstart your own professional network. An honours year is available for high-achieving students interested in undertaking a focused research project.
Want a diverse career at the forefront of new technology?
The course offers you a range of industry-based learning opportunities to further develop your professional IT career, including hands-on practical experience in industry for eligible students. This practical experience enhances the future employment prospects of students without industry exposure, adding experience to your resume and developing your professional networks before graduation.
IT professionals play critical roles across a broad range of industries - from health care, education and finance, through to government, mining and agriculture. By studying information technology, you will enter a dynamic, innovation-driven industry with expansive employment opportunities.
Deakin’s Bachelor of Information Technology offers diverse majors and minors, so you can specialise in the area that interests you most and develop in-demand skills to pursue a range of careers.
We offer a combination of experiential learning and practical exposure, with access to industry-standard resources and world-class facilities. These include our $1.2 million robotics and Internet of Things (RIoT) lab, dedicated cyber security labs, networking labs, and virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) labs.
Beyond the labs, you will have a range of industry-based learning opportunities, including an IT placement of a minimum of 100 hours. With this extensive hands-on industry experience, you will gain practical expertise and develop valuable professional networks, ensuring you graduate job ready.
Students undertaking capstone units will have the opportunity to develop solutions to real-world problems from industry while learn agile project management methods widely used across the industry.
Our past students have worked on capstone projects such as:
- medical: a mobile app that tracks pupil responses to light
- real estate: a mobile app to track your notes about properties you view
- transport: planning a bus trip with real-time data
- gaming: children’s computer game to build their resilience
- architecture: a virtual reality space to assess architecture student projects
- security: voice-activated passwords
- political: a secure online voting system
- wellbeing: virtual reality experience focusing on altering moods
- education: online student social network 'Study Buddy'
- security: threat and assessment toolkit for cyber security.
Course information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Information Technology
- Year
2025 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400314443 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), International full-fee paying place
1400514443 - Burwood (Melbourne), International full-fee paying place - Deakin code
- S326
- CRICOS code?
- 053993D Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Information Technology, students must pass 24 credit points, which include the following:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- SIT010 Safety Induction Program (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- 12 credit points of core units
- 3 credit points of information technology capstone units
- and one of:
- an IT major sequence (6 credit points) and 3 credit points of open electives
- an IT minor sequence (4 credit points) and 5 credit points of open electives
- two IT minor sequences (8 credit points) and 1 credit point open elective
- maximum 10 credit points at level 1
- minimum 6 credit points at level 3.
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
12
Core units
3
Capstone units
9
Major/Minor units
24
Total
Core
Information Technology capstone units:
OR
# Corequisite of STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit).
^ Offered in Trimester 1, Trimester 2, Trimester 3.
+ Students must have completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit) and SIT223 Professional Practice in Information Technology.
It is important to ensure your course plan meets the course rules detailed above. Students should contact Student Central for assistance with course planning, choosing the right units and understanding course rules.
Electives
Select from a range of open elective units offered across many courses, you may even be able to choose elective units from a completely different discipline area (subject to meeting unit requirements).
Major sequences
Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability.
- Application Development
- Cloud Native Application Development
- Cyber Security
- Networking and Cloud Computing
Minor sequences
Refer to the details of each minor sequence for availability.
- Application Development
- Cyber Security Network Operations
- Game Design
- Embedded Systems
- Network and Cloud Technologies
- Programming
- Security Management
- Virtual and Augmented Reality
Students wishing to complete two minor sequences in the Bachelor of Information Technology cannot count more than 2 units in common for both minor sequences.
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online
Trimester 2 - July
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Equipment requirements
The learning experiences and assessment activities within this course may require students to have access to a range of technologies beyond a laptop or desktop computer. For information regarding hardware and software requirements, please refer to the Bring your own device (BYOD) guidelines via the School of Information Technology website in addition to the individual unit outlines in the Handbook.
Course duration
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as failing of units or accessing or completing placements.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, workshops and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Participation requirements
Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.
Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Work experience
This course includes a compulsory work placement with an approved host organisation to take your learning beyond the classroom and prepare you to be work and career ready. Work Integrated Learning units offered in this course provide you with the opportunity to develop your professional networks and work practices while completing your degree.
Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.
For more information visit Work Integrated Learning.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
Current or recent secondary education
If you’re currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
Higher education
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
Vocational education
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and have not undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
English language proficiency requirements
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Selection adjustments
Subject adjustment
A study score of 30 in any English, any Information Technology or any Mathematics equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 10 points.
Access and equity
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
Admissions information
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2024 students (PDF, 793KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
Recognition of prior learning
If you have completed previous studies which you believe may reduce the number of units you have to complete at Deakin, indicate in the appropriate section on your application that you wish to be considered for Recognition of prior learning. You will need to provide a certified copy of your previous course details so your credit can be determined. If you are eligible, your offer letter will then contain information about your Recognition of prior learning.
Your Recognition of prior learning is formally approved prior to your enrolment at Deakin during the Enrolment and Orientation Program. You must bring original documents relating to your previous study so that this approval can occur.
You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
The tuition fees you pay are determined by the course you are enrolled in. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the length of your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together eight credit points of a typical combination of units for this course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year.
You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook.
Learn more about international student fees.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
Applications can be made directly to the University through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's International Student Application Service.
We recommend engaging with a Deakin Authorised Agent who can assist you with the process and submit the application.
If you are an international student completing an Australian Year 12 in Australia or overseas, you should submit an application through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC), in addition to applying directly to Deakin through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's international student application service.
For information on the application process, including required documents and important dates, visit the How to apply webpage.
If you need assistance, please contact us.
Pathways
Further study options
High performing graduates can continue on to an Honours year of study, which can be completed in two full-time trimesters, or equivalent part-time study. Graduates who gain high outcomes in the Honours year can then continue on to a higher degree by research, either within the School of Information Technology, or in others Schools within the Faculty or other Universities. Graduates can also progress to postgraduate coursework programs offered.
Careers
Career outcomes
IT is at the heart of innovation and productivity. It shapes the way we live, work, learn, communicate, socialise and entertain ourselves. It’s no surprise then that IT graduates are in high demand globally. Information Technology gives you the contemporary knowledge, skills and experience required for a successful and satisfying career as an IT professional.
Career opportunities include:
- application, software or game developer
- mixed and interactive experiences-creator
- Android/iOS developer
- digital designer or developer
- network specialist
- project manager
- security architect/cyber security analyst
- solutions architect
- technical architect
- UX designer
- web designer or developer
- technology consultant
- data analyst
- cloud architect
- application support analyst
- database administrator.
Alternatively, you can apply your skills in non-traditional fields, such as healthcare, education, government and business.
Professional recognition
Deakin’s Bachelor of Information Technology is professionally accredited with the Australian Computer Society (ACS).
Course learning outcomes
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Develop a broad, coherent knowledge of the IT discipline, including its dynamic environment, with detailed knowledge of project management principles, and in-depth knowledge in the area of the chosen major. Design, develop and implement IT systems and software, and associated policies and procedures for optimal use and apply industry standards and best practice in one or more specialised areas of IT. Apply an in-depth knowledge of the roles of IT in the context of modern organisations and society and propose enhancements. |
| Communication | Communicate in a professional context to inform, explain and drive sustainable innovation through information technology, utilising a range of verbal, graphical and written methods, recognising the needs of diverse audiences. |
| Digital literacy | Use digital technologies, platforms, frameworks and tools from the field of information technology to generate, manage, process and share digital resources and solutions. |
| Critical thinking | Critically analyse information provided to inform decision making and evaluation of plans and solutions associated with the field of information technology. |
| Problem solving | Apply cognitive, technical, and creative skills from information technology to understand requirements and design, implement, and operate solutions to real-world and ill-defined computing problems. |
| Self-management | Work independently to apply knowledge and skills to new situations in professional practice and/or further learning in the field of information technology with adaptability, autonomy, responsibility, and personal accountability for actions as a practitioner and a learner. |
| Teamwork | Work independently and collaboratively to achieve team goals, contributing knowledge and skills from information technology to advance the teams objectives, employing effective teamwork practices and principles, and comprehending distinct workplace roles and their functions. |
| Global citizenship | Apply professional and ethical standards and accountability in the field of information technology, and engage openly and respectfully with diverse communities and cultures. |