Master of Information Technology
Postgraduate
SCU-IFT-MAS 2026Course information for 2026 intake
Advanced IT skills with a focus on AI or cybersecurity
Develop a professional edge to lead in a digital future. You’ll cover programming, networks, the cloud, and databases. Build skills in IT project management. Graduate ready to design solutions that protect, connect, and transform global industries.
- Study method
- 100% online study with practicum placement
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Credit available
- Yes
- Duration
- 2 years full time or part time equivalent
- Total subjects
- 16
- Available loans
- Australian Higher Education Loan Program (HELP)
Master of Information Technology
About this degree
Course Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a course. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes (GA).
Course Learning Outcome
GA1: Intellectual rigour
- Critically analyse and reflect on complex issues in a specialised area of information technology.
- Practice creative thinking techniques to drive innovative solutions to problems in a specialised area of information technology.
- Apply an integrated body of knowledge, project management and technical skills to solve real-world problems in a specialised area of Information and Communications Technology.
GA2: Creativity
- Critically analyse and reflect on complex issues in a specialised area of information technology.
- Practice creative thinking techniques to drive innovative solutions to problems in a specialised area of information technology.
GA3: Ethical practice
- Employ teamwork, professional communication and social skills using cultural values and professional ethics to effectively engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.
GA4: Knowledge of a discipline
- Critically analyse and reflect on complex issues in a specialised area of information technology.
- Practice creative thinking techniques to drive innovative solutions to problems in a specialised area of information technology.
- Develop commitment, responsibility and professionalism in using Information and Communications Technology (ICT) for sustainable and ethical goals.
- Apply an integrated body of knowledge, project management and technical skills to solve real-world problems in a specialised area of Information and Communications Technology.
GA5: Lifelong learning
- Develop commitment, responsibility and professionalism in using Information and Communications Technology (ICT) for sustainable and ethical goals.
- Demonstrate Intellectual independence, autonomy, personal judgement, and a capacity to reflect upon professional practice for continuous professional learning and development in their area of specialisation.
GA6: Communication and social skills
- Employ teamwork, professional communication and social skills using cultural values and professional ethics to effectively engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.
GA7: Cultural competence
- Develop commitment, responsibility and professionalism in using Information and Communications Technology (ICT) for sustainable and ethical goals.
- Employ teamwork, professional communication and social skills using cultural values and professional ethics to effectively engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.
IT professionals are always in high demand and at the forefront of the technology revolution. The skills you develop could help shape future technologies. If you are ready to advance your career in the fast-paced field of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), then the Master of Information Technology can help you get there.
The course is designed to adapt to industry trends, with a practicality perspective, and focus on cutting-edge technologies. It will provide you with a comprehensive technical skillset as well as the necessary communication skills and critical thinking abilities to help advance your career in ICT. It will deepen your understanding of a contemporary technology of your choice, Artificial Intelligence or Cybersecurity, while providing you with a solid foundation in programming, computer networks, cloud computing, database, and project management. You are also given the opportunity to reflect on and respond to related ethical, legal, and social issues.
Your career development will be further enhanced by globally recognised Microsoft certifications integrated into this course and an opportunity to either complete a research project or engage in industry-based learning.
Advanced standing may apply to students who have completed relevant undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
Award requirements
To be eligible to receive the Master of Information Technology, students must complete the equivalent of 16 units (192 credit points), comprising:
- 9 core units (120 credit points) and
- 1 specialisation in Cybersecurity or Artificial Intelligence (48 credit points), and
- 1 option unit (24 credit points).
Choose your subjects
Majors
Students choose a specialisation from the following:
Artificial Intelligence: offers students a unique curriculum that not only covers cutting-edge AI technologies such as machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, image and vision, and large language models but also trains students to apply them to modern software development. With a focus on practical, real-world applications and industry-relevant skills, this specialisation equips graduates with the expertise needed to excel in AI applications and modern software development.
Cybersecurity: equips students with the skills and knowledge to protect data and infrastructure in today’s increasingly digital world. Covering key areas including governance, risk and compliance, infrastructure security, network security, systems security, software security, and application security, this specialisation provides a comprehensive understanding of both the technical and strategic aspects of cybersecurity. Graduates are prepared to tackle the challenges of safeguarding information and infrastructure in various industries, positioning themselves for success in roles like cybersecurity analyst, network security engineer, and IT security consultant.
Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.
Indicative first year fee
$26,000
Indicative total fee $52,000
The amounts shown here are 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.
Southern Cross University believes in the power of change. Their graduates stride the global stage at the frontline of healthcare, transforming education in the classroom, and tackling the world’s wicked problems with scientific and engineering solutions. Students enjoy award winning support, teaching quality, and online delivery. Ranked among the best for many years, they will help you make the change you seek to transform your tomorrow.
Learn more about SCU.
Explore SCU courses.
- QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 30
- Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 35
How to apply
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Complete your details and we'll make sure your enquiry is sent to Southern Cross University who will contact you to discuss this degree.
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Entry requirements
- completed a bachelor degree (AQF Level 7) or higher at this University or another higher education provider; or
- equivalent professional experience as determined by the relevant Associate Dean (Education).
Language requirements
English language requirements apply to International applicants and other applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English. The minimum English language requirements for such applicants for entry to this course are as follows
Category Score
- Overall 6.5
- Listening minimum 6.0
- Speaking minimum 6.0
- Reading minimum 6.0
- Writing minimum 6.0.
Credit for Prior Learning, also referred to as ‘Advanced Standing’ or Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL), is the process of looking at your prior study and/or experience to assess if you can be awarded academic credit or gain entry to a course on the basis of your existing knowledge and skills.
Study method requirements
Students are given the opportunity to conduct a 12-week professional placement through the dual-term option unit, Information Technology Industry Based Learning.
Career opportunities
Graduates of the course can look forward to an exciting career across a wide range of industries and across government, private sector and not-for-profit organisations in roles such as cybersecurity analyst, AI and Machine Learning engineer, software developer, network engineer, data analyst, IT consultant, IT trainer or educator, and technical support professional.
Professional recognition
Southern Cross University is seeking accreditation by the Australian Computer Society (ACS).