Computer science courses

In your computer science course, you may cover topics such as:

• Algorithms and operating systems

• Analytics

• Computer architecture

• Database management

• Information technology (IT)

• Machine learning

• Mobile applications

• Networking

• Programming

• Robotics

• Scientific computing

• Systems administration

• Visualisation and big data mining

• Website user experience (UX)

Information technology (IT) focuses on the running of computer systems and making sure the networks they operate in are safe and secure. As an IT specialist, you may work within a company to troubleshoot any network problems that arise.

Computer science, on the other hand, is a broader discipline, which involves designing and developing computers and software programs.

If you’d like to browse study areas related to computer science, consider the below:  

• Software development courses 

• Cyber security courses 

• Data science courses 

• Engineering courses 

• Mathematics courses 

Computer science experts are in high demand, both in Australia and overseas. As a computer science graduate, you’ll have plenty of career options open to you—and will likely fetch a high salary.

From artificial intelligence, big data and automation to software design and engineering, you’ll find a role that is satisfying, stimulating and at the forefront of technological change.

No, generally you don’t need a coding background to study computer science. You can learn these skills throughout the course. However, this may depend on the level you are studying at.

If you are enrolling in a Master of Computer Science, for example, it may be beneficial to have some coding knowledge down pat. It’s best to check individual course pages to see what is expected.

Many online computer science courses do offer workplace learning opportunities, but this depends on the particular course you choose, so it’s best to check each course page for more information.

The Bachelor of Computer Science at Griffith University, for example, gives you the chance to work in the App Factory studio, where you’ll work on software solutions for real clients.

Or, you might have the chance to undertake a placement at a software company, to gain professional skills that will give you an edge as a graduate.

A computer science course leads to plenty of career options. You may like to become a:  

• Software engineer

• Computer programmer

• Web and mobile app developer

• Data analyst or engineer

• Systems analyst or architect

• Computer games programmer

• Games developer

• Software systems architect

• Cyber security engineer

• Computer science researcher

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.

Please note that enquiries and applications for some courses are handled directly by the university. If this is the case, it will be indicated on the course listing page.  

For more information about enrolment, read our online self-service enrolling instructions. If you get stuck at any time, contact us and we’ll talk you through it.