University of Western Australia

What you'll study

The Master of Information Technology combines core technical foundations with options to specialise or pursue a broad, flexible study plan. Core areas typically include software engineering, algorithms and data structures, databases, computer networks and systems, and professional practice. Students can also work with elective streams such as data science and machine learning, cybersecurity, human–computer interaction, cloud and distributed computing, and enterprise systems.

• Foundational units: software design and development, systems analysis, databases, and programming.
• Advanced technical units: machine learning, data mining, advanced software engineering, secure systems and network security.
• Applied and professional units: IT project management, industry practice or professional placement, ethics and law for IT professionals.
• Capstone or research project: an industry-linked project or substantial technical project that integrates technical skills and professional communication.

Study load and structure are flexible: the degree can typically be completed by full‑time or part‑time study over a period appropriate to the student’s prior qualifications and selected stream. Depending on prior study, credit may be available for recognised prior learning or previous IT qualifications.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a recognised bachelor degree in computer science, information technology, software engineering or a related discipline. Applicants with a bachelor degree in another discipline may be considered if they can demonstrate sufficient quantitative and computing background through previous study or professional experience. UWA also considers applicants with substantial professional experience in IT for admission.

• Academic transcripts demonstrating a completed undergraduate degree in a relevant field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Possible requirement for prerequisite computing units for applicants without a formal IT background; bridging units may be specified.
• Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements.
• Domestic and international applicants may be asked to provide a CV and a statement of purpose; referees or evidence of professional practice can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Information Technology are prepared for a wide range of roles across industry, government and research. The degree emphasises practical, industry‑relevant skills that align with employer needs in software and systems development, data-driven decision making and IT security.

• Typical roles: software developer/engineer, systems analyst, data analyst or data scientist, cybersecurity analyst/engineer, cloud engineer, IT consultant, and systems architect.
• Sector opportunities: technology companies, finance, health, government agencies, resources and mining, professional services and start-ups.
• Further study: graduates wishing to pursue research can transition to higher degree research programmes such as a Master by Research or PhD in computing-related fields.

Why study at University of Western Australia

UWA’s School of Computer Science and Software Engineering provides postgraduate IT education combining taught units and applied projects with access to research expertise. The university’s Perth location offers connections to local industries such as resources, energy, health and government that frequently require advanced IT capability.

• Strong industry links and opportunities for industry projects or placements that help bridge study and professional practice.
• Access to modern computing facilities, specialist laboratories and research centres in areas such as data science, cybersecurity and human-centred computing.
• Support services for postgraduate students, including academic skills development, career services and networking events with employers in Western Australia and nationally.