Postgraduate Coursework Programs

Which CSE postgraduate coursework program is best for me?

Each CSE postgraduate coursework program is targetted for students with a particular kind of background. You'll get the most out of your time at UNSW if you apply for the program that best suits your background. In the past, students have applied for unsuitable programs simply because they were shorter or perceived to be "more relevant". Students who do this typically struggle to complete their program, and don't get the best out of their study at UNSW. This page aims to help you choose the program that's best for you.

I already have a broad-based computing degree and (possibly) work in the IT industry. I want to extend my knowledge in the area by studying advanced computing courses.

The MEngSc program is most appropriate. If you're specifically interested in databases or networking, you might consider either the MInfSc(Database) or MInfSc(Internetworking), although you can study much the same collection of courses under the MEngSc.

I have a four-year technical degree in a non-computing area. I know some computing (e.g. done some programming courses), but wish to extend my knowledge in a specialist area such as databases or internetworking, with the aim of working in the IT industry in this area

The MInfSc program is most appropriate.

I have a four-year technical degree in an area that's related to computing such as telecommunications or electrical engineering. I have studied half-a-dozen or so computing courses, primarily in the area of microprocessors, real-time systems, etc.

The MInfSc program is most appropriate. You are not qualified for the MEngSc program.

I have a four-year technical degree in a non-computing area. I haven't studied any computing before, except maybe an introductory programming course or maybe some TAFE computing courses. I want to get a solid background in computing to get a job in the IT industry.

The MCompSc program is most appropriate. It builds up from the foundations and covers all core areas of computing to give you a solid technical foundation for working in the IT industry.

I have a three-year technical degree, and have a small amount of computing knowledge. I wish to extend my computing knowledge as a way of getting into the IT industry.

The GradDipInfSc is most appropriate.

I have a three-year science degree in a non-computing area. I haven't studied any computing before, except maybe an introductory programming course. I want to get a solid background in computing to get a job in the IT industry.

The GradDipCompSc is most appropriate.

I have a non-technical degree such as arts, law or commerce. I don't know any computing (except email and word-processing), but I want to get a solid background in computing, either as a way of getting into the IT industry or to help with my current work

If you also have some tertiary-level Maths background, then the GradDipCompSc is most appropriate. Without Maths or a technical background, you are not eligible for CSE postgraduate programs.