Introduction

The realm of Computer Science is always evolving and growing. It requires individuals who are eager to be at the forefront of innovation. A job in computer science would probably be a good fit if you are easily bored with the status quo and are constantly contemplating ways to make things better or more efficient. 

According to PayScale, median annual incomes for computer sciences professionals in 2023 is around AU$71,744, with a significant fraction of high earners earning considerably more. The individual earning potential differs due to a variety of reasons, but research shows that even the lowest-paid computer science employees are still earning well. 

Most students are concerned about obtaining work after graduation. While nothing is guaranteed in the job market, employment in the information technology area appears to be on the rise. Computer science and information technology employment are expected to rise by 11% from 2022 to 2029. 

Why study Computer Science in Australia?

No specific background needed.  

  •  If you are a high school graduate, you can start with a Diploma or Associate degree in related studies and continue your way into Bachelor’s degree, or you can use your final high school examination results to apply for the Bachelor’s.  
  •  If you have already completed a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline, you might still be eligible for a Master of Computer Science.  

Multiple start dates  

  • Australian universities will normally have 2 or 3 intakes each year, which makes it more flexible for international students to commence their program based on their individual situation. Multiple start dates also mean more flexibility with the different units and payments. 

Stay longer in Australia  

  • By studying Computer Science for 2 years or more in higher education (a Bachelor, Master, or PhD degree), students will be eligible for a 2-8 year Postgraduate Visa (485). Graduates can utilise these visa opportunities to get more work experience. For Computer Science students, they can also use this visa to prepare for their future migration options.  

Contact us at [email protected] or fill out the inquiry form to know which universities you can apply for – Our team will give you free consultation and free application process.  

What computer science programs might you study in Australia?

Associate degree of Computer Science 

It is a two-year undergraduate program that provides students with a foundational understanding of computer science principles and prepares them for entry-level roles in the technology industry. It is a shorter and more focused program compared to a full bachelor’s degree, making it a popular choice for students who want to enter the workforce relatively quickly or for those looking to transition into the field of computer science from another discipline. 

Bachelor of Computer Science 

It is a comprehensive undergraduate program that provides a solid foundation in computer science principles, programming, data structures, algorithms, and various specialised areas. It typically takes three to four years to complete. 

Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computer Science 

This program offers a broader focus on science, including computer science as a major. Students may have the flexibility to combine computer science with other scientific disciplines. 

Graduate Certificate or Diploma in Computer Science 

These shorter programs are designed for students who want to specialise in specific computer science areas without committing to a full master’s degree. The duration for these courses is normally 1 or 1.5 years.  

Master of Computer Science 

It is a postgraduate degree program that provides advanced knowledge and expertise in various areas of computer science. The program is designed for students who have completed a relevant undergraduate degree and want to deepen their understanding of computer science concepts, gain specialised skills, and explore advanced topics in the field. However, as mentioned, students without computer science background still can apply for this course.

PhD  

A doctoral program for students interested in pursuing advanced research in computer science and making significant contributions to the field. They can become a lecturer, researcher, or data scientist after graduation. They can also join technology companies, working in research and development roles.  

What are entry requirements for international students to study computer science courses?

  • For a Diploma course, normally applicants are required to have completed Year 12 or equivalent and attained IELTS 5.5. 
  • For a Bachelor’s course, normally applicants are required to have completed Year 12 or a Diploma and attained IELTS between 6.0 / 6.5. 
  • For a Master’s course, normally applicants are required to have completed a Bachelor’s degree and attained IELTS between 6.0 / 6.5.  

Not sure if you meet the entry requirements of a computer science course? Contact SOL Edu, one of the best education agencies in Brisbane, today! Our team will offer you free consultation and free application process.    

Which university or institution offer computer science courses in Australia?

Vocational Level (VET) 

  • Queensland University of Technology College – Diploma of IT 
  • Griffith College – Diploma of IT 
  • UNSW Glob al – Diploma in Computer Science  

 

Bachelor Level:  

 

Master Level  

 

If you want to know which university or college is best suit you, contact SOL Edu today! We will offer you free counselling and free application process!  

What are career outcomes after graduation from computer science courses?

  • Cyber Security Analyst 
  • Data Scientist 
  • Machine Learning Engineer 
  • Software Engineer 
  • Technical Business Analyst 
  • Data Engineer 
  • Statistical Analyst 
  • Security Architect 

How to pass skills assessments for computer science degree holders in Australia?

Due to a high demand in the force market, computer related occupations are recognised as skilled occupations that are nominated for permanent visas in Australia. For immigration purposes, computer science degree holders need to pass a skill assessment assessed by Australia Computer Society (ACS). There are clear criteria that graduates must meet to be considered for a positive assessment. 

(1) For those who have completed an Australian bachelor’s degree or higher with an ICT major 

  • If you obtain a bachelor’s degree or higher from an Australian university, with a ICT major which is closely related to your nominated occupation, then you only need 1-year relevant work experience after the completion date in order to apply for Post Australian Study Skills Assessment. Or applicants could choose to complete a ACS Professional Year program to replace the 1-year relevant work experience requirement. 

(2) For those who have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher with an ICT major overseas 

  • If the ICT courses you took are closely related to your nominated occupation, then you need a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience within the past 10 years, or you must have 4 years of relevant work experience in your previous employment history. 
  • If the ICT courses you took are not closely related to your nominated occupation, then you must get at least 4 years working to be eligible for general skilled assessment. 

(3) For those who have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher with an ICT minor 

  • If you have completed a course with an ICT minor that is closely related to your nominated occupation, then you must meet one of the following requirements: (1) you must have at least 5 years working in the relevant field in the past 10 years, or (2) you must gain 6 years of work experience in the industry any time previously. 
  • If you have completed a course with an ICT minor which is not closely related to your nominated occupation, then you are required to have at least 6 years working in the relevant field. 

(4) For those who complete a Diploma/Advanced Diploma/Associate Course 

  • If the applicant has completed Diploma, Advance Diploma or Associate Diploma courses with an ICT Major that is closely related to the nominated occupation, then they are required 5 years relevant work experience completed within the past 10 years; or 6 years relevant work experience completed anytime in their previous work history. 
  • If the applicant has completed a course with an ICT Major that is not closely related to your nominated occupation, they must have 6 years relevant work experience completed anytime in their previous work history. 

It is important to note that computer science courses cover broad knowledge and skills, so you can apply for numerous occupations after graduation. For skill assessment and migration purposes, you should choose a major and occupation that are listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).  

Want to know if your qualification and work experience are eligible for a migration skill assessment? Contact SOL Edu today at [email protected] or fill out the inquiry form. Our team will reach out to you within 24 hours at the latest!  

What is the PR pathway for a computer science degree holders?

Step 1: Apply for a 485 visa 

After completing a at least 2 years Computer Science Course, you are eligible to apply for visa 485 (Post-Higher Education Work stream). You are required to have at least IELTS overall 6.5 with no band score under 5.5 in the past 1 year before you lodge your visa application.  

Under visa 485, you can stay in Australia for 2-5 years depending on your degree and nationality. However, if you undertook and completed at least  2 years of study in a ‘Regional Area’ such as the Gold Coast, Adelaide or Perth, you can be eligible for an additional 1 or 2 years of the 485 Visa Thus, you will have more time to prepare yourself for permanent residence (PR) or a temporary visa that can lead to a PR. 

 

Step 2: Apply for a PR or a visa that can lead to a PR 

There are plenty of pathways that can help you migrate to Australia after you have completed an accredited computer science course in Australia. Below are the common options:  

Skilled visas    

  • 189 – Skilled Independent (subclass 189) – is a points-tested visa, allowing you to live and work permanently in any state or territory in Australia. The minimum score that you are required to be considered for a visa invitation is 65, but you may need a higher score to increase your chance of getting an invite.   
  • 190 – Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) – is a permanent residence visa but you need a nomination from one of Australian states or territories to apply for this visa. Each state may have its own occupation list and additional requirements, so you must investigate if you meet all the state’s eligibility criteria before asking for a nomination.   
  • 491 – Skilled Work Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 491) is not permanent, but it can lead to a PR (visa 191). You must commit to stay and work in your nominating regional Australia for a minimal period of time and achieve at least 65 points to be apply for this visa.    

Employer Sponsored visas   

  • 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) – allows you to work and stay indefinitely in Australia. To be eligible for this visa, you must be nominated by an approved employer and have at least 3 years of work experience and pass the skill assessment as a civil engineer.   
  • 482 – Temporary Skilled Shortage (subclass 482) Medium Term Stream – allows you to stay and work in Australia for up to 4 years. To apply for this visa, you must have an employer who is willing to sponsor you. You will have a high chance of getting a PR after a 482 visa.   

 Contact SOL Edu today at [email protected] to know which visa option is best for you! 

FAQs

What is expected salary after graduation from a computer science course in Australia?

The medium base annual salary for a graduate in Computer Science is very high, around AU$71,744 per year (Statistics from PayScale Australia), while the median annual income in Australia is 52,338 only.   

What do you study in computer science courses?

Computer science courses cover a wide range of topics related to the study of computers and computational systems. The curriculum can vary depending on the level of the course (undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate) and the specific focus of the program or institution. However, some common topics that are typically covered in computer science courses include programming fundamental, data structure and algorithms, database, software engineering, networking, artificial intelligence, machine learning, web development, cybersecurity and operating systems.  

 

Can you study computer science online?

In order to come to Australia under a student visa, international students are normally required to enrol in the on-campus course. It means you need to attend the course in person.  

 

How much does it cost to study computer science?

The cost of studying computer science in Australia can vary depending on the level of education and the specific university or institution. If you apply for a G8 Australian university, the tuition fee may be around 45,000 – 50,000 per year. However, the tuition fees of lower ranking universities should be more affordable, around 30,00 – 40,000 per year.  

 

Can you study computer science without prior knowledge?

Yes, you can study computer science without prior knowledge. Many computer science programs at the introductory level are designed to accommodate students with little to no prior experience in the field. These entry-level courses typically start with the basics and assume no prior knowledge of programming or computer science concepts.  

If you want to study Bachelor of Computer Science, all you need is to complete Year 12 or equivalent, plus 6.5 IELTS. If you want to pursue your master’s degree of computer science but your bachelor’s degree is not related to this field, you still can do it.  

 

Do you need to be good at maths to study computer science?

While having a strong foundation in mathematics can be beneficial for studying computer science, it is not an absolute requirement. Computer science is a multidisciplinary field that involves various aspects, and while math is important, it is just one of the many skills and areas of knowledge that computer science courses include. Mathematics may be required for the below subjects:  

  • Algorithms and Data Structures  
  • AI and Machine Learning  
  • Cryptography  
  • Graphic and Computer Vision  

What is difference between computer science and IT courses?

Computer Science and Information Technology (IT) are related fields but have distinct focuses and areas of study: 

Focus and Core Concepts: 

  • Computer Science: Computer science is primarily concerned with the theoretical and practical aspects of computation and algorithms. It deals with designing, developing, and analysing algorithms to solve problems, as well as the study of data structures, programming languages, and the theoretical foundations of computation. Computer science also explores topics like artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and the theory of computation. 
  • IT, on the other hand, focuses on the application of technology in various business and organisational settings. It involves the use of computers, networks, software, and databases to manage and process information. IT professionals are more involved in the implementation, management, and support of computer systems, software applications, and networks to meet specific business needs. 

Career Paths: 

  • Computer Science: Graduates with a degree in computer science often pursue careers as software developers, computer programmers, data scientists, AI specialists, researchers, or work in fields related to algorithm design and analysis. They are typically involved in creating new software and technologies. 
  • IT: IT professionals are more involved in roles like network administrators, system analysts, database administrators, IT consultants, and IT support specialists. Their primary focus is on managing, maintaining, and securing computer systems and networks to ensure smooth operations and information flow within organisations. 

Confused about which course you should apply for? Contact SOL Edu at [email protected] or fill out the inquiry form today. Our team will offer you free consultation and free application process.  

Interested in studying Computer Science in Australia?

Contact SOL Edu, one of the best education agencies in Australia, today for free counselling, and a free application process!