Become an expert in digital systems and solutions that the future holds.
Cleverly designed and implemented software underpins every major organisation in the world. With a limitless range in complexity and size of software, skilled professionals in this area of computer science are vital to the development and maintenance of complex software systems.
The Master of Computer Science (Software Engineering) allows you to choose from units that cover aspects of the software lifecycle, as well as tools and techniques for delivering reliable, quality software. You’ll graduate with specialist knowledge, ready to explore new career possibilities.
Learn from leaders of industry.
This course was designed by award-winning and internationally recognised academics from the Monash Faculty of Information Technology – the only dedicated IT faculty in the Group of Eight universities.
Equip yourself.
Digital systems and solutions are integral to every industry, and with them, software engineering specialists. This degree gives you the tools to become an expert in your field.
Put theory to practice.
The Master of Computer Science (Software Engineering) integrates foundational knowledge, as well as practical application skills focusing on new and innovative technology used in the field.
Fast-track your career, without sacrificing it.
Study and work at the same time. This prestigious degree is formatted to balance your lifestyle with flexibility and support at every step.
Go further, faster.
Enjoy all the benefits of advanced online learning. Our six-week teaching periods mean you can accelerate your study when it suits you and push your career further.
Graduate with value.
Monash is consistently ranked as the preferred hiring university by the leaders of the world’s most successful companies.
What units are in the Software Engineering specialisation?
Alongside core foundational units, the Master of Computer Science (Software Engineering) requires you to complete three of the following:
- Web applications development: This unit provides you with the knowledge, understanding and skills to develop an application system. It focuses on mastering key concepts and the basic knowledge and skills required to build applications.
- Mobile and distributed systems: In this unit, you’ll enhance your understanding of current mobile and distributed technologies such as web services, context-aware computing, location awareness, wireless sensor networks and current research trends.
- User interface and usability: A seamless user experience is the aim of all emerging computer technologies. This unit will give you a detailed understanding of user interaction design theories, principles and practices – examining the challenges faced by designers with emerging technologies.
- Software testing, quality and standards: This unit covers the processes, tools and techniques for system validation and verification. On completion, you’ll be able to detect, analyse and control defects in complex systems.
Where a Master of Computer Science (Software Engineering) can take you.
As technological progress accelerates, so does the demand for skilled computer science professionals. Become an expert in this transformative field, using your specialist knowledge of software engineering to help shape the future of business.
Software Engineer
Software Architect
IT Manager
Information Technology Specialists
Business Analyst
IT Technicians
How Monash Online can change your world.
#36
Globally recognised programs
Monash University was ranked #36 in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings (2026) for academic excellence.
#3
Top-ranked university
Monash is ranked #3 globally and #1 nationally (Shanghai Ranking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025).
Having a degree from one of the most reputable universities in Australia is important to me. The concepts and techniques we have been learning are very modern and up-to-date trends in software engineering which I can apply to my workplace.
Aybars
Master of Computer Science (Software Engineering)
Structure
This course is structured in three parts:
Part A. i and ii – Foundations of Computer Science
Part B. Specialist studies
i. Core Masters Studies
ii. Specialisation Units
Part C. Applied practice
Depending on prior qualifications, you may receive credit for all of part of Part A or Part B, or both. If you are eligible for credit for prior studies, you may elect not to receive the credit.
Need further clarification about our online course structure?
You can submit an enquiry directly to our student consultants by using the form listed on our contact us page. You’ll have the opportunity to schedule a call if you’d like to receive further information.
Part A (i): Foundations of Computer Science
Choose one foundational unit from:
Java programming
Introduction to Python
Part A (ii): Foundations of Computer Science
You must complete the following three (3) units:
Introduction to databases
Architecture and networks
Foundations of computing
Part B (i): Core Masters Studies
You must complete the following three (3) units:
Fundamentals of artificial intelligence
Software engineering
Part B (ii): Software Engineering Specialisation units
If choosing Software Engineering as your specialisation, you must complete the following three (3) units:
Web applications development
User interface design and usability
Software testing, quality and standards
Part C. Applied practice
You must complete both of the following units:
Applied practice 1
Applied practice 2
Entry Requirements
Entry level 1: 72 credit points to complete
Duration: two years part-time
An Australian bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline* with at least a credit (60 per cent) average, or equivalent qualification approved by the faculty.
* Relevant disciplines include: any degree in a STEM discipline or degrees that have mathematics, business analytics, scientific or critical thinking, or problem solving.
Entry level 2: 48 credit points to complete
Duration: 1.4 years part-time
A Monash University Graduate Certificate of Computer Science, with at least a credit (60 per cent) average or equivalent.
Entry level 3: 24 points to complete
Duration: 0.7 years part-time
A Monash University Graduate Diploma of Computer Science, with at least a credit (60 per cent) average or equivalent.
English requirements
Applicants must meet the English language requirements.
University entrance requirements
Minimum entrance requirements apply for admission to Monash University Australia.
If you need help understanding the above entry requirements, reach out to our student consultants on our contact us page and schedule a booking for a chat.
Fees
For the Master of Computer Science, the estimated cost is $5,200.00 per unit*. You may be eligible to receive a FEE-HELP loan to cover part or all of your tuition. Fees are subject to change annually.
*Please note: these are the estimated domestic fees.
Scholarships
We offer over 360 types of scholarships, valued at up to $280,000. Some scholarships offer one-off payments while others continue for the length of your course. Learn more about Monash Scholarships.
Looking for clarification on fees, FEE-HELP or scholarships?
Enquire with our student consultants and schedule a call to get your questions answered.
Graduate as an in-demand computer science expert.
You can tailor your Master of Computer Science to suit your career goals. It’s a degree that will empower you to transition into tech, as you only need to have an undergraduate degree that reflects your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. No prior experience in the field is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions with Associate Professor Yuan-Fang Li
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to study software engineering if I want to build AI applications?
What are the highest paying Computer Science Software Engineering jobs?
What do software architects and software engineers do?
Study a software engineering qualification delivered by those who change it.
Supported by our expert academics and student assistance team, you’ll experience the benefits of an immersive learning experience that is tailored to your needs. Our award-winning academics are at the forefront of researching and developing new technologies, turning that research into meaningful change in the world.
Meet your academic team
Dr Pari Delir Haghighi
Senior Lecturer
Dr Pari Delir Haghighi is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Information Technology. Her research interests include context-aware and mobile computing, edge and IoT computing, and mobile health monitoring.
Yi-Shan Tsai
Academic Director Online Programmes
Yi-Shan Tsai is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Human-Centred Computing in the Faculty of Information Technology at Monash University. Her work seeks to enhance learning experiences and teaching practice through the use of data and AI technologies.
Dr Don Samitha Elvitigala
Deputy Course Director (Master of Computer Science)
Dr. Don Samitha Elvitigala is a Senior Lecturer in the Human Centred Computing Department of Monash. His research investigates novel human augmentations that can enhance human physical and cognitive capabilities by implicitly understanding humans’ physical and mental behaviours. In particular, he explores how we can utilise everyday clothes and clothing accessories to develop augmented human interfaces.
Studying online, the Monash way.
World-focused courses delivered online.
Step into a dynamic virtual class, learn from leading academics and industry leaders, so you can experience world-class education – your way.
Support at your fingertips.
You’ll have easy access to dedicated support services designed specifically for your discipline. Seven days a week.
Your success is our priority.
Our online courses are designed to help you graduate as an in-demand employee, ready to take the next step in your career.
Download a course guide
Fill in your details to download an interactive course guide containing:
-
course information
-
career pathways
-
how online study works
-
how to apply