Security in Computing and IT
UndergraduateRMI-CPT2512023
Course information for 2023 intake
Secure a solid technical grasp of IT security systems. Clarify and assess security measures and privacy issues across diverse digital platforms. Verify and protect data. Lock in a career as an IT security expert in a high demand, growth industry.
Enrolments for this course are closed, but you may have other options to start studying now. Book a consultation to learn more.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- Subject may require attendance
- Entry requirements
- Prior study needed
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Security in Computing and IT
About this subject
Upon successful completion of this course you should be able to:
1. explain the functioning of security services in computing environments and the security issues in networked applications.
2. discuss various types of data integrity and confidentiality mechanisms including public key cryptography.
3. describe basic system security mechanisms and protocols, such as those used in operating systems, file systems and computer networks.
4. analyse the overarching importance of IT security in areas such as networking, databases, operating systems, and web systems.
5. apply privacy principles in basic practical settings in IT environments.
6. analyse and evaluate the security of computing and IT systems on a practical level and privacy related issues in computing.
- Introduction
- Security mechanisms, attack methods
- Elementary cryptography
- Authentication
- Access control
- Operating system security
- Database security
- Network security
- Web security
- Mobile computing
- Privacy
- Internet banking
Security has become a focal area in IT; it has grown and evolved significantly in recent years and different areas of specialisation have emerged.
This course gives an introduction to technical aspects of security for future IT professionals, and presents the foundations. It looks at fundamental cryptographic and security mechanisms used in various areas of networked applications and computing, including operating systems, databases and web-based applications as well as modern privacy preserving systems and blockchains.
For computer systems that are used and relied upon in many areas of life, security has become an important aspect; availability and correct operation are essential. IT professionals working in the field need to be well acquainted with the security features of the tools and applications they use and produce. Protection of data regardless of the information they contain is a critical task, and requires expertise.
- Invigilated Exam (50%)
- Assignment 2 (25%)
- Assignment 1 (10%)
- Online Test(s) (15%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
One of Australia's largest dual-sector institutes, offering both TAFE and higher education, RMIT University proudly delivers work-related education and practical research relevant to current business and community needs. More than 96,000 students study with RMIT, and many of their degrees are available through Open Universities Australia.
Learn more about RMIT University.
Explore RMIT courses.
- QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 10
- Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 16
Entry requirements
Prior study
To help set you up for success before you start this subject, we suggest completing or having equivalent knowledge in:
Additional requirements
- Other requirements - Stable broadband connection required to access online learning materials and live chat sessions/recordings. (note: mobile broadband users may have difficulties participating in live chat sessions)
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
Single subject FAQs
What’s a single subject?
Single subjects are the individual components that make up a degree. With Open Universities Australia, you’re able to study many of them as stand-alone subjects, including postgraduate single subjects, without having to commit to a degree.
Each of your subjects will be held over the course of a study term, and they’ll usually require 10 to 12 hours of study each week. Subjects are identified by a title and a code, for example, Developmental Psychology, PSY20007.
How can I use single subjects to get into a full degree?
First, find the degree that you would like to study on our website.
If that degree allows entry via undergraduate subjects, there will be information about this under the Entry Requirements section. You will find a list of 2-4 open enrolment subjects you need to successfully complete to qualify for admission into that qualification.
Once you pass those subjects, you will satisfy the academic requirements for the degree, and you can apply for entry.
Our student advisors are here to help you take that next step, so don’t hesitate to reach out when you’re ready! We’ve also made it easier to figure out the right way to get started on our pathways page.
Can anyone help me choose a subject?
Our student advisors are more than happy to help you plan your online study. Get in touch with an advisor by:
How do I pay for my subjects?
You can pay up front with your credit card, or you may be eligible for a HELP loan from the Australian government depending on your citizenship status and where you’ll live during your studies.
For more information about how to pay for your studies visit our fees page or contact a student advisor.
How do I enrol?
When you’ve made your choice, click ‘Enrol 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.
When is the cut-off date for enrolling?
Close of enrolment times vary between universities and subjects. You can check the cut-off dates for upcoming study terms by visiting key dates.