Computing and IT Courses in Australia: A Complete Guide

As an international student, choosing a career path in Australia can be stressful and overwhelming. To find the right career option, you must evaluate yourself and look for a career that has a broader scope, like computers and technology.

Studying computing and information technology courses in Australia can open doors to many IT jobs if you want to become an IT professional.

It offers a wide range of career opportunities if you have hands-on experience in Business Intelligence, Data Warehousing, Data visualisation, Data Management and Machine Learning.

You can expect high salary packages if you end up in banking, hospitality, telecom, cable and Media. 

There Are Three Qualification Levels:

1. VET (Vocational Education & Training) Study

2. Undergraduate (Bachelor's) Study

3. Postgraduate (Master's) Study

1. VET Courses in Computing and Information Technology (IT)

The basic level to study computing and Information Technology is through VET qualifications. VET courses in computing and IT are available at the certificate level through advanced diplomas and diplomas. 

These courses include four lower-level certificates, which I, II, and III, provide basic computer skills. In contrast, certificate IV level has diplomas and advanced diplomas that prepare students with skills needed to enter specific careers in computing and information technology.

Consider a certificate I or II before pursuing more specialised or advanced diplomas. 

A general IT qualification offers graduates various skills they can use in different Information Technology roles. However, there is also a long list of specialisations to prepare students for specific areas:

• Computer System Engineering

• Information technology Project Management

• Computer System Technology

• System Analysis and Design

• Testing

• Software Development

• Systems Administrations

• Digital and Interactive Games

• Networking and Programming

• Information Technology Support

VET qualifications also offer high-level qualifications at a vocational graduate diploma level and vocational graduate certificate level. These qualification levels are equivalent to graduate diplomas and certificates in the higher secondary sector but are more focused on practicals. 

As these qualifications are more practical than any other degree in the higher education sector, they provide a gateway to undergraduate computing and information technology degrees.

Where To Study VET Courses?

Australia is home to many TAFE institutes, universities with TAFE departments and private colleges that offer these courses. You can visit a website like OzStudies to find the right place to study VET courses in Computing and Information Technology. 

2. Undergraduate Courses in Computing and Information Technology

The bachelor in computing and IT allows you to complete a stand-alone program with an in-depth specialisation of your choice. 

IT bachelor degrees range from technical classes in a programming language and software engineering to end-users topics like web development, database management systems and e-commerce. 

Combinations between Bachelor of Business degrees and Bachelor in IT are common at many Australian universities. It integrates information systems with professional accounting and management skills.

The undergraduate qualification level in computing and Information Technology offers many different specialisations in areas such as:

• Database Programming

• Games Design

• Mobile Computing

• Network Engineering

• Artificial Intelligence

• Telecommunications

• Software development

If you have a more specific career in mind, you can enter any specialised course in your area of interest. But, if you are still deciding whether to complete a degree in a particular field, you can undertake IT electives and computing as a part of the program in other disciplines. 

Graduates in the computing and IT field are also eligible to complete the Australian Computer Society's (ACS) Professional Year Program (PYP). This one-year program helps international students gain workplace skills and work experience at the end of their Australian study program. 

Graduates who complete PYP successfully receive 5 points under the Skilled Occupation List (SQL), which helps them to gain a Permanent Residency in Australia. 

Where To Study Undergraduate Courses?

Undergraduate computing and information technology degrees are available in most Australian universities, TAFE institutes and some private colleges. When choosing a university or institution to study this undergraduate course, look for its accreditation from the Australian Computer Society (ACS). 

Courses that gain recognition from ACS follow an industry-approved standard curriculum and maintain facilities and equipment to a high industry standard. 

3. Postgraduate Courses in Computing and Information Technology (IT)

The third level is the postgraduate qualification in Computing & Information Technology. This field has grown significantly in recent years, and Postgraduate courses are not the only preferred choice. Many professionals study these to update their knowledge and skills or qualify for more senior positions. 

There is an extensive list of postgraduate coursework degrees in computing and information technology. The options are available at the graduate diploma, graduate certificate and master by coursework level. 

The general courses allow students to complete different specialisations in areas like:

• Forensic Computing

• Mobile Applications Development

• Cyber Security

• Multimedia studies

Students also get options of double degrees combining information technology courses with fields like business, management, engineering and technology, including Master of Business Administration. Research degrees are also popular among international students, including research and professional doctorates.  

Where To Study Postgraduate Courses?

The best places to study information technology postgraduate degrees are TAFE institutes, universities and many private colleges across Australia. The course you choose depends on your career goals and qualifications level.

You can study for a specialised degree to enhance your skills. And if you want to enter IT management positions, you can go with a double degree with a management focus.

Useful Links to Explore: 

• English Language Requirements for Australia
• Cultural differences you may experience in Australia
• How to find Part-Time work as a Student in Australia
• Seven Tips for Students on a Budget in Australia
• How to get a Scholarship to Study in Australia
• Driving in Australia as an International Student
• How to change your Course or Institute in Australia
• The Benefits of a Professional Year Program (PYP)
• A Complete Guide to Study in Australia
• Types of Education in Australia 
• What to Study in Australia?