Study Information Technology (IT) in Australia

Looking to study information technology in Australia? Explore top courses, fees and career pathways in our comprehensive guide.

Why study information technology in Australia?

Australia has a world-class reputation for educational standards, with Australian universities ranked among the best globally. Our information technology courses are designed to meet international standards, so you’ll graduate with a qualification that you can take anywhere. 

When you study IT in Australia, you’re joining one of the world’s most dynamic and future-focused academic environments, working on the cutting edge of innovation and research. We design new courses as new technologies arise, ensuring our students are always up to date with whatever’s happening in the world of information technology.

To assist you in making a well-informed decision about studying information technology in Australia, we will explore the following topics on this page:

Top information technology courses in Australia

Here are the top IT courses that can be undertaken across Australia, with a spotlight on the offerings at RMIT University. They can help you find engaging and rewarding careers all around the world.

1. Diploma of Information Technology

A Diploma of Information Technology is a one-year undergraduate course that provides foundational IT skills such as creating mobile applications, designing web-based solutions and troubleshooting a range of issues. At RMIT, you’ll work on industry projects with real clients, gaining experience in applying theoretical knowledge.

2. Bachelor of Information Technology

A Bachelor of Information Technology is a three-year undergraduate course that covers the skills you need to solve, support, analyse, troubleshoot and design everything from websites to business applications and programming networks. At RMIT, we offer 15 different specialisations in a degree closely integrated with industry partners such as Amazon Web Services.

3. Bachelor of Computer Science

A Bachelor of Computer Science is a three-year undergraduate course that provides you with in-depth knowledge of systems infrastructure, software methods and technologies, as well as a fundamental understanding of all aspects of computer technology. At RMIT, our revolutionary programming bootcamps and studios provide you with the skills and flexibility to shape your own career path.

4. Bachelor of Cyber Security

A Bachelor of Cyber Security is a three-year undergraduate course that covers troubleshooting, analysis, design, support and general provision of cyber security solutions. At RMIT, our hands-on degree is modelled on the Australian Signals Directorate framework, which identifies the dynamic capabilities and skills needed to combat emerging cyber threats.

5. Master of Information Technology

A Master of Information Technology is a two-year postgraduate course that that builds your expertise in IT fundamentals like algorithms, analytics, data mining, cloud computing and programming, so you can keep pace with rapid technological changes. At RMIT, you’ll learn from educators and guest lecturers currently working in industry, so you’ll build professional relationships.

6. Master of Artificial Intelligence

A Master of Artificial Intelligence is a two-year postgraduate course where you learn to design and implement systems and applications in high-tech facilities, developing AI apps and platforms. At RMIT, you’ll put theory into practice in our newly developed Artificial Intelligence Lab. We have been rated above world standard for our research in the field of AI and Image Processing.

7. Master of Data Science

A Master of Data Science is a two-year postgraduate course that combines computer science with mathematical statistics and domain expertise to manage and analyse data. At RMIT, industry expertise is at the heart of this degree – and you’ll also be physically close to Melbourne’s data professionals in the central business district, where you can network at meet-ups and seminars.

English language requirements

To study design at RMIT, you’ll need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test – IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

*Please use this as a guide only. You are strongly advised to check the minimum English requirements required for your preferred course.

Career pathways

There are many diverse career opportunities open to information technology graduates, across a broad range of industries. Information technology courses provide in-demand, transferable skills, which can lead to employment in roles such as:

  • software engineer
  • network administrator
  • web developer
  • IT manager
  • data analyst
  • penetration tester
  • AI developer
  • cloud engineer.

Other factors to consider before studying abroad

Location

When thinking about the place that will be your home for the next few years, consider factors such as safety, culture, infrastructure and more. Think about how far away from home you want to live and whether you have a dream university in mind. Additionally, consider the reputation of the city among future employers. For example, Melbourne is widely recognised as Australia’s best city for students and consistently ranks among the Most Liveable Cities in the World.

Course academic requirements

Academic requirements can vary between different business courses, so it’s important to review the specific details of your preferred course before applying. For instance, the Bachelor of Information Technology degree will have different academic requirements to a Master of Data Science, due to the variations in the level of study or equivalent experience required for certain postgraduate courses.

Tuition fees

Tuition fees are also course-specific, so make sure to check the annual fees listed on your preferred course’s page. Most universities display these fees on their course pages, providing the most accurate and up-to-date information. The range of tuition fees can significantly change based on the level of study, making the course pages the most reliable source for tuition fee details.  

Cost of living

A city’s cost of living is another vital factor to consider. Manage your costs by considering factors such as accommodation options (on-campus vs off-campus), transportation expenses and potential work options while studying. In addition to everyday living expenses, remember study-related costs beyond course fees. This may include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and other fees associated with your course. Conducting thorough research will help you create a realistic budget and make informed financial decisions.

University academic rankings

When shortlisting universities, research academic rankings to gain a comprehensive view of a university’s strengths. Influential rankings such as QS World University Rankings, Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) and Times Higher Education (THE) World Rankings evaluate universities based on criteria like teaching, academic reputation, research impact, student satisfaction and employability. While rankings provide insights, they should be considered alongside other factors such as course offerings, faculty expertise and location. 

Why study information technology at RMIT?

RMIT University is ranked #10 in Australia, and in the top 200 universities globally for Computer Science and Information Systems [QS rankings by subject 2024].

Industry connections

Start building your professional network with work-integrated learning and real-world projects.

Tailored learning

RMIT’s Bootcamp2Studio teaching model begins with foundational theory before you move to hands-on, studio-style learning.

Internship options

Depending on your chosen course, you can undertake a 12-month internship that lets you hone your IT skills in real-world situations.

Book a session

Book a session

You can also book an 1-on-1 online or phone consultations with our team about your study options, entry requirements, eligibility, scholarships and much more. 

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.