Graduate Diploma in Information Technology (Computer Science)

You will develop a flexible and adaptable digital skill set to craft refined ICT solutions for discipline-specific problems. Graduates will also gain advanced knowledge of computer science and its applicability within organisational and business contexts, developing the analytical skills needed to assess practices, guide investment decisions and lead improvement projects with confidence.

Skills and tools in this course:

1. Problem-solving.
2. Demonstrate advanced knowledge in the computer science discipline.
3. Core Body of Knowledge.
4. Work effectively in both self-directed and collaborative contexts.
5. Analytical skills.

The Graduate Diploma in Information Technology (Computer Science) gives you a strong foundation in ICT knowledge and best practices while opening the door to advanced skills in computer science. Built as a generalist program, it introduces you to emerging areas like networking, software development and cyber security, then takes you deeper into programming, app development, information security and data exploration.

You will learn to solve problems, think critically and apply computational systems in ways that drive meaningful impact in the real world. This breadth of study prepares you to design people-focused ICT solutions with creativity and confidence. 

Delivered fully online, this course is accessible to professionals from non-ICT backgrounds who want to build their expertise in computer science. For existing ICT professionals, it offers the chance to deepen technical knowledge and specialise in an area that is shaping the future of the field.

Recommended study pattern

Students need to complete a total of 8 units:

• 6 – Core units 
• 2 – Elective units

Core units

Programming Fundamentals (IFQ581)

Rapid Web Development with Databases (IFQ582)

Computer Systems and Security (IFQ583)

Systems Innovation and Design (IFQ585)

Major core

Object-Oriented Design and Development (IFQ584)

Cyber Security and Governance (IFQ635)

Core options units

Select any two (2) units (24 credit points) from the Computer Science Unit Core Options list:

• Introduction to Data Science (IFQ509)
• Machine Learning (IFQ580)
• Software Lifecycle Management (IFQ636)
• Human-Centred Design of IT Systems (IFQ637)
• Machine Learning for Natural Language Processing (IFQ647)
• Applied Cryptography (IFQ648)
• Software Security (IFQ657)
• Networks and Security (IFQ658)
• Advanced Algorithms and Computational Complexity (IFQ664)

Award requirements

To qualify for the award of the Graduate Diploma in Information Technology (Computer Science), students must complete a total of 96 credit points.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $9,600

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

QUT Online is a leading Australian university known for practical, real-world learning, strong industry connections, and global recognition. QUT equips students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make an impact in their careers and communities. Wherever you are, through Open Universities Australia, you can study flexible online programs. You’ll earn a respected qualification, gain career-ready skills, and benefit from a university experience that combines academic excellence with practical, real-world applications.

Learn more about Queensland University of Technology.

Explore QUT Online courses.

QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

15

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

12

• A completed bachelor’s degree (or higher qualification) in any discipline, or
• A completed diploma (or higher qualification) in a relevant area, and two years full-time (or equivalent) professional work experience in a relevant area.

Five years full-time (or equivalent) professional work experience in a relevant area.