Computer science courses

Computer science study FAQs

• What’s the difference between IT vs computer science?

  While information technology (IT) and computer science both involve computers, there are some slight differences between the two fields. IT tends to focus more on the running of computers systems and making sure the networks they operate in are safe and secure. Computer science, on the other hand, involves designing and developing computers and programs.

• Is computer science hard?

  Computer science has earned a reputation for being challenging… but with the right mindset and study plan, most students graduate with a sense of confidence in their abilities. Don’t let difficulty (real or rumoured) stop you from achieving your goals. Time invested now will pay dividends later!

  Take advantage of your online tutors, be active and present on unit forums and don’t be afraid to ask questions. You’re not studying a topic because you already know everything about it, so there are no silly questions. You may end up asking something everyone else wants to know.

• Should beginners study a Diploma of Computer Science or a Bachelor of Computer Science?

  A Diploma of Computer Science, or a Diploma in an IT field, is a great first step for those seeking a pathway into the world of technology. You’ll cover foundational essentials like computer languages, programming and systems.

  With a Bachelor of Computer Science, you’ll cover these skills in more depth, and have the opportunity to major in a specialisation like data science, software development or artificial intelligence.

  If you’d prefer to get a taste for computer science before deciding on the field, there is another option. Through us, you can enrol in single computer science subjects without committing to a degree. These subjects allow you to gain an insight into how online study works—and you’ll earn credit towards a degree that you can use later on, if you choose to keep studying.

  Check out our undergraduate computer science single subjects now.

  In the industry already? Upskill with our postgraduate single subjects.

• How do I enrol?

  Here at Open Universities Australia, we make enrolling online as straightforward as possible. To get started, find the course for you by browsing the options on this page. You can also compare different qualifications using our handy comparison tool, or request help from one of our student advisors.

  When you’ve made your choice, click ‘Apply now’ on the relevant course page and follow the prompts to begin your enrolment. We’ll ask you to supply some supporting documentation, including proof of your identity, your tax file number, and a unique student identifier (USI) during this process.

  Your university will get in touch with you via email to confirm whether or not your application has been successful.

  If you get stuck at any time, reach out to us and we’ll talk you through it.

  You can also take a look at our online self-service enrolling instructions.

• How do I know if I’m eligible to apply for a course?

  Before starting an enrolment, it’s important to read the entry requirements for your chosen course to ensure that you’re eligible to apply. If you don’t quite meet the requirements, we can help you find a pathway into your course through open-entry subjects, which anyone can study. Chat with us to find out more.

• Why should I study online through Open Universities Australia?

  There are a lot of reasons to study your course online through us.

  • You can enrol without entry requirements 
    We have a unique open-door policy that makes it possible for everyone to enrol in university study, no matter their academic history. If you don’t meet the entry requirements for a degree, we’ll help you get in through single undergraduate subjects and transition into a qualification from there.
  • You have total control over how you study
    Upskill without committing to a whole degree upfront. Or enrol in a full degree, but take it a subject at a time. We’ll introduce you to flexible study options you didn’t even know about, so you can fit uni around what matters to you.
  • You’ll graduate with the same qualification as an on-campus student
    Once you enrol through us, you’ll study online with the university that provides your degree. This means that when you complete your qualification, you’ll graduate with the same degree as on-campus students.
  • We’ll help you navigate the university world
    Our friendly student advisors will be your guide every step of the enrolment journey. They'll help you compare universities, choose a course, provide documentation and understand your finance options.

How we can help you

Studying through Open Universities Australia means we take care of the guesswork and administration of university study, so you can focus on learning.