Master of Information Technology
- Commencing Terms
- Term 1, 2 & 3
- Duration
- 2 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Face-to-face (includes blended)
- Campus
-
Kensington
- Codes
- Program code 8543
- CRICOS code 061294J
-
Commonwealth Supported Places are available for this program2024 Indicative CSP first year fee
- $9,000*
-
2024 Indicative CSP fee to complete degree
- $18,500*
-
2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $54,000*
-
2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $112,500*
Fees
Fees
-
Accredited program
-
Industry partnerships
-
Specialisation options
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- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- Double degrees
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
The UNSW Master of Information Technology is a two-year full-time course that will empower you with the skills to make a difference through technology. You’ll gain a broad-based IT education, regardless of your level of computing experience.
Choose a broad range of core courses or two specialisations. Either way, you’ll be highly employable in a wide range of in-demand positions in the IT industry.
When you study the Master of Information Technology at UNSW, you’ll be taught by world-class researchers. You’ll learn to foresee future technology requirements and develop applications, frameworks, products and services in networking, data mining, robotics, internet services and more. You'll develop applications, frameworks, products and services for fast-growing areas such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
Organisations worldwide are built on information technology, allowing individuals, industries and businesses to work more efficiently and be more productive. Work in the lucrative world of IT, and you can build company communication networks, safeguard data and information, create and manage databases, and ensure business information security.
If you’re looking to study something even more specialised in the information technology field, UNSW also offers a Cybersecurity major as part of your Master of Information Technology.
Key features
Gain a degree accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS)
With over 47,000 members, the ACS is the largest professional association in Australia, representing the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry. Having an accredited degree from the public voice of the ICT profession demonstrates an added level of trust and professionalism that opens doors.
Immerse yourself in a research-intensive environment
You’ll study your postgraduate degree in a hands-on, research-intensive environment, exposing you to fundamental knowledge and cutting-edge advances in computing and information processing. So, when you graduate with a Master of Information Technology, you can apply the latest practices in your future career and contribute to genuine, positive change.
Develop specialised knowledge with up to two in-demand majors
Take your career further by developing specialised knowledge tailored to your passions and potential.
In the Master of IT you can choose up to two majors to further develop specialised knowledge tailored to your career. They include:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Database Systems
- Data Science and Engineering
- Information Technology
- Internetworking
Why study this degree at UNSW?
Graduate from Australia’s top-ranking Engineering & Technology School*
Graduate from UNSW’s School of Computer Science and Engineering and let the rankings do the talking. As a renowned world-class education and research leader, the School is ranked #1 in Engineering and Technology and #3 in Computer Science and IT. It’s ranked #1 in Australia by the internationally recognised CS Rankings in Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, Databases, Embedded and Real-Time Systems and Operating Systems. Plus, it’s rated five stars by the Research Council for Information and Computing Sciences.
(*QS World University ranking 2023)
Expand your thinking in world-class facilities
Study at the School of Computer Science and Engineering and benefit from our world-class facilities. Over $700M has been invested in new technology and equipment, makerspaces, virtual reality cinemas and modern teaching spaces, so you’ll have everything you need to succeed at your fingertips.
Leverage from powerful industry partnerships
We leverage our strong industry ties to improve our internationally acclaimed research and teaching to ensure you gain the best education. With industry partners including leading companies such as Atlassian, The Commonwealth Bank, Google, Honeywell, Microsoft and WiseTech Global, you’re in good company.
Learn from world-renowned researchers
Numerous lecturers within the School are world-renowned researchers in their field. Learning from the best means connecting with minds that challenge, enrich and expand your thinking and encourage you to think fearlessly.
Want to see more from UNSW Engineering?
Entry requirements
UNSW provides two entry points to the Master of IT depending on your cognate background. This provides a structured and supportive option for students with a non-cognate background, while enabling students with cognate backgrounds earlier flexibility in their course selection. Both entry points equate to the same duration of 2 years (96 UoC), and differ only in the order and structure of core foundation courses.
*Note: while a background in maths is not required for either entry, it is strongly recommended for all Master of IT students.
Students with a cognate background:
Admissions to the standard 2-year program requires the following:
A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) in a cognate discipline with a minimum 65% average*.
ORSuccessful completion of the UNSW Graduate Certificate in Computing (7543), UNSW Graduate Certificate in Infromation Technology (7546), OR UNSW Graduate Diploma in Information Technology (5546) with a 65% average.
Cognate disciplines |
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Students with a non-cognate background:
- Graduate Certificate in Information Technology/Master of IT pathway.
Admissions requires the following:
· A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) in any discipline with a minimum 65% average*.
Successful applicants will be offered entry to the Master of Information Technology via the Graduate Certificate in Information Technology/Master of Information Technology pathway. Students can articulate to the Master of Information Technology after passing 18 UOC of foundational courses. The total study duration is the same as the entry point for students with a cognate background (2 years/ 96 UoC). There is no separate application required for this pathway, applicants with non-cognate backgrounds must apply for the Master of Information Technology to be considered for this entry as a packaged offer.
Currently, there are no Commonwealth Supported Places available for the Graduate Certificate component of this pathway.
- Graduate Certificate in Computing
Admissions requires the following:
· A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) in any discipline with a minimum 65% average*.
After successful completion of four courses students have two options: Graduate from the Graduate Certificate; OR Prior to graduation, apply to articulate to the Graduate Diploma or Master of Information Technology with credit for the completed courses.
Students should pay careful attention when selecting their Graduate Certificate courses to ensure that they align with the requirements for the major of their preference if they intend on articulating into the Graduate Diploma or Master of Information Technology.
There are Commonwealth Supported Places available for the Graduate Certificate in Computing, if you intend on articulating into the Master of Information Technology a separate application will be required on the completion of the Graduate Certificate program.
*Qualifications from non-211 Chinese Universities will require a 70% average
Recognition of Prior Learning (Credit Transfer)
UNSW recognises that many students have professional experience or relevant previous studies. If you have worked in a relevant industry or have relevant previous study experience, you may be eligible for credit points that would enable you to complete your Master of Information Technology in as little as one year, or another accelerated option listed below dependent on your previous study and experience.
-
A 4 year Bachelor Degree with honours (AQF Level 8 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.
Cognate disciplines
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Software Engineering
- Computer Engineering
-
A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) from any institution in a Cognate discipline.
Cognate disciplines
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Software Engineering
- Computer Engineering
Admission pathways
5543 Information Technology, 7543 Computing
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
UNSW provides two entry points to the Master of IT depending on your cognate background. This provides a structured and supportive option for students with a non-cognate background, while enabling students with cognate backgrounds earlier flexibility in their course selection. Both entry points equate to the same duration of 2 years (96 UoC), and differ only in the order and structure of core foundation courses.
*Note: while a background in maths is not required for either entry, it is strongly recommended for all Master of IT students.
Students with a cognate background:
Admissions to the standard 2-year program requires the following:
A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) in a cognate discipline with a minimum 65% average*.
ORSuccessful completion of the UNSW Graduate Certificate in Computing (7543), OR UNSW Graduate Diploma in Information Technology (5546) with a 65% average.
Cognate disciplines |
||
|
|
|
Students with a non-cognate background:
- Graduate Certificate in Information Technology/Master of IT pathway.
Admissions requires the following:
· A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) in any discipline with a minimum 65% average*.
Successful applicants will be offered entry to the Master of Information Technology via the Graduate Certificate in Information Technology/Master of Information Technology pathway. Students can articulate to the Master of Information Technology after passing 18 UOC of foundational courses. The total study duration is the same as the entry point for students with a cognate background (2 years/ 96 UoC). There is no separate application required for this pathway, applicants with non-cognate backgrounds must apply for the Master of Information Technology to be considered for this entry as a packaged offer.
- Graduate Certificate in Computing
Admissions requires the following:
· A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) in any discipline with a minimum 65% average*.
After successful completion of four courses students have two options: Graduate from the Graduate Certificate; OR Prior to graduation, apply to articulate to the Graduate Diploma or Master of Information Technology with credit for the completed courses.
Students should pay careful attention when selecting their Graduate Certificate courses to ensure that they align with the requirements for the major of their preference if they intend on articulating into the Graduate Diploma or Master of Information Technology.
The Graduate Certificate in Computing can not be packaged with the Master of Information Technology, if you intend on articulating into the Master of Information Technology a separate application will be required on the completion of the Graduate Certificate program.
*Qualifications from non-211 Chinese Universities will require a 70% average
Recognition of Prior Learning (Credit Transfer)
UNSW recognises that many students have professional experience or relevant previous studies. If you have worked in a relevant industry or have relevant previous study experience, you may be eligible for credit points that would enable you to complete your Master of Information Technology in as little as one year, or another accelerated option listed below dependent on your previous study and experience.
-
A 4 year Bachelor Degree with honours (AQF Level 8 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.
Cognate disciplines
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Software Engineering
- Computer Engineering
-
A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) from any institution in a Cognate discipline.
Cognate disciplines
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Software Engineering
- Computer Engineering
Admission pathways
5543 Information Technology, 7543 Computing
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
Check the specific English language requirements for this program
Program structure
The UNSW Master of Information Technology is a two-year program designed for students who want an IT qualification. Whether you have a background in computing or a related area or no or minimal computing background, this program is open to you.
The Master of Information Technology will give you a broad-based IT education through a range of core courses and more specialised knowledge in up to two areas. You’ll graduate career-ready with the ability to work in a range of exciting positions in the IT industry.
At the end of your degree, you can complete a capstone or research-based project.
Full program structure
Degree structures can vary depending on your specialisation, the number of courses you choose and timetabling. To give you an indication of what your program may look like, here is an example below.
In your first year, you'll study a range of core courses to learn the fundamentals of Information Technology to feed into the rest of your degree. Core courses include:
Principles of Programming
Data Structures & Algorithms
Database Systems
Computer Networks & Applications
Project Management
You’ll also start taking courses from your selected specialisations.
In your second year, you’ll undertake the remaining courses from your selected specialisations. These courses will be complemented by a range of computing and non-computing electives.
At the end of your degree, you have the choice to complete either:
- an Information Technology Project where you’ll work in teams to define, implement and evaluate a real-world software system
- a substantial two part research project under the supervision of an academic staff member.
Future careers
Graduate from UNSW’s Master of Information Technology degree, and you’ll be highly employable, thanks to our strong external partnerships and extensive international alum networks. These connections include valuable industry experience with small start-ups and large companies such as Accenture and the Australian Government Department of Defence.
Similarly, the Cybersecurity major which you can take as part of your Master of Information Technology, will provide you with the skills necessary to have a successful career in a more specialised role. You’ll build crucial knowledge in one of the world’s fastest growing fields and learn how to maintain business-critical cybersecurity strategies within a number of organisations.
At UNSW, you can tailor this degree to suit your passions, purpose and career ambitions. You’ll have the valuable knowledge and skills to work in sought-after roles such as:
- Systems Analyst
- Information Systems Manager
- IT Security Manager
- IT Security Consultant
- IT Project Manager
- Software Architect
- Software Developer
- Cybersecurity Engineer
Potential careers
- Information Technology (IT)
- Information Systems (IS)
- Cybersecurity Specialist
- Data Scientist
- Network Engineer
- Software Engineer
- UI/UX Designer
- Systems Administration
Accreditation
This degree is accredited by the Australian Computer Society.
Double degrees
Set yourself apart by combining your Master of Information Technology with broad business skills in our Master of Information Technology/Master of Commerce dual master’s degree.
The program was designed in direct response to both industry and student demand for marrying greater technical skills with business and managerial acumen.
You'll learn the foundational skills and knowledge that will enable you to present and apply technical solutions across business environments and empower you to take on a more impactful role – both managerial and technical – in both the IT and business industries.
Gain access to a strong pool of career opportunities with the broad expertise to pursue cutting edge solutions and maximise social impact, whatever your chosen field.
How to apply
Applications must be submitted through our Apply Online portal. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term. Some high-demand programs and Faculties with limited places may have an earlier application deadline or commencement date. Find out more.
Ready to start your application?
For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term. For more information visit our international applicant information page.
UNSW has a quota system, that ensures the faculty's enrolment is maintained at a level that maximises the quality of the teaching and learning experience at UNSW. Please be aware this is a high volume program and UNSW reserves the right to amend the application and acceptance deadline in order the keep within those limits.
Ready to start your application?
Fees & Scholarships
$9,000*
$18,500*
All places within this degree are Commonwealth supported. This means that if you receive an offer from UNSW Sydney as a domestic student, you will have a substantial proportion of your fees subsidised by the Australian government. Start your application today with our guide on how to apply.
Commonwealth Study Assistance such as Ausstudy, and Youth Allowance is available for some Masters degrees. For the most up-to-date information and list of degrees visit UNSW Current Student Financial Support.
*The indicative Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) fees are an estimate based on the relevant student contribution band/s for a Commonwealth Supported Place undertaking a standard full-time load of 48 units of credit per year (1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load/1 EFTSL). To find out more about Commonwealth Supported Places visit Postgraduate Commonwealth Support.
Indicative fees are a guide only and have been calculated based on the typical enrolment patterns of students undertaking the degree/program. The indicative fee listed here is an estimate for tuition only and excludes non-tuition fees and charges. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year of enrolment, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (48 units of credit (UOC) per year).
You should not rely on indicative fees as fee increases are assessed when required and may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Actual fees are calculated on enrolment. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.
Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.
Scholarships
At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
Featured scholarship
The UNSW Women in Engineering Research Scholarship was established to assist women of high academic achievement with an interest in a research and/or an academic career in engineering. UNSW Engineering offers two Women in Engineering Top-up Scholarships every semester.
QS World University Rankings, 2025.
AFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.
#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.
I love that everything in the world is being engineered by somebody.
