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5 pathways to a
future-focused IT career
5 pathways to a
future-focused IT career
5 pathways to a
future-focused IT career
For a secure career, specialise in a field that will remain crucial for generations to come – like information technology (IT), a sector that drives innovation, transforms industries and plays a vital role in economic growth. And choose a university that ranks highly according to engineering and technology graduate starting salaries, like Charles Darwin University (CDU), ranked #3 in Australia for postgraduate learner engagement in computing and information technology (Good Universities Guide 2024).
The five-star Australian university for employment outcomes offers a range of IT programmes that are just as dynamic as they are impactful. Accredited by the Australian Computer Society, each is renowned for its industry engagement, hands-on learning approach and alignment with the latest industry trends and technologies.
“We incorporate real-world applications and interdisciplinary learning into our curricula development by using various teaching methods, including problem-solving, problem-based learning and project-based learning,” explains Dr. Bharanidharan Shanmugam, CISSP Coordinator. CISSP stands for Certified Information Systems Security Professional. “This approach helps students to develop a deeper understanding of the world around them and to see how different subjects are interconnected.”
State-of-the-art facilities and resources enhance the learning experience. From technology and software in IT labs to dedicated learning spaces, these create a cutting-edge environment that’s ideal for integrated learning and hands-on work.
Postgraduate students get to put knowledge into practice off campus too. “All master’s students gain valuable experience working on real projects with leading companies, enhancing their resumes and employability,” says Dr. Shanmugam.
“By equipping students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience, CDU graduates are well-positioned to contribute to the industry's continued growth and development.”
Master of Data Science
Accredited by the Australia Computer Society, the Master of Data Science programme equips students with the technical and analytical skills essential for managing and extracting meaningful insights from large datasets. Core units cover a wide range of data science concepts; however, the programme also offers options for specialisation. This enables students to dive deeper into their interests. Options currently include Business Analytics, Introduction to Biostatistics, IT Service Management, and Business Statistics.
Duration: Two years full-time
Locations: CDU Sydney or Casuarina campus
CRICOS code: SDASC2
Master of Information Technology (Artificial Intelligence)
Designed for students both with and without a background in computer science, information technology, information systems or equivalent, the Master of Information Technology (Artificial Intelligence) offers a comprehensive curriculum that explores the profound impact of AI in the contemporary world. It encompasses both theoretical and practical aspects, providing a well-rounded education that prepares students to navigate the complexities of AI. Another distinctive feature is the choice to undertake a professional experience or IT thesis.
Duration: Two years full-time
Locations: CDU Sydney or Casuarina campus
CRICOS code: SITAI1
Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security)
The Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security) aims to enrich and expand the skill set of individuals within the field of cyber security -- irrespective of their existing academic background. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that goes deep into the intricacies of cyber security and its implications. Compulsory core units include Software Now, Operating Systems and Applications, Network Engineering Applications, Database Concepts, Network Security Engineering, and other topical subjects. For the capstone component, the course lets students choose between a Practice Experience or a Research Project.
Duration: Two years full-time
Locations: CDU Sydney or Casuarina campus
CRICOS code: SITCS2
Master of Information Technology (Information Systems)
The Master of Information Technology (Information Systems) is a comprehensive programme designed to enhance the skill set and advance the careers of individuals within the field of information systems. Through a series of core units and elective options, students gain expertise in key areas such as software, database concepts, project management, and the principles governing information systems. This holistic approach equips graduates with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of information systems and drive innovation.
Duration: Two years full-time
Locations: CDU Sydney or Casuarina campus
CRICOS code: SITIS3
Master of Information Technology (Software Engineering)
Designed for upskillers and reskillers, the Master of Information Technology (Software Engineering) engages students in coursework and project work that explores the dynamic landscape of this critical field. It combines theoretical foundations with practical activities, providing students with a holistic understanding of software engineering concepts and methodologies. Key subjects include Database Concepts, Machine Learning: Advancements and Applications, Principles of Software Systems, Software Engineering Practice, Discrete Structures, and more.
Duration: Two years full-time
Locations: Casuarina campus
CRICOS code: SITSE1
Master of Data Science
Accredited by the Australia Computer Society, the Master of Data Science programme equips students with the technical and analytical skills essential for managing and extracting meaningful insights from large datasets. Core units cover a wide range of data science concepts; however, the programme also offers options for specialisation. This enables students to dive deeper into their interests. Options currently include Business Analytics, Introduction to Biostatistics, IT Service Management, and Business Statistics.
Duration: Two years full-time
Locations: CDU Sydney or Casuarina campus
CRICOS code: SDASC2
Master of Information Technology (Artificial Intelligence)
Designed for students both with and without a background in computer science, information technology, information systems or equivalent, the Master of Information Technology (Artificial Intelligence) offers a comprehensive curriculum that explores the profound impact of AI in the contemporary world. It encompasses both theoretical and practical aspects, providing a well-rounded education that prepares students to navigate the complexities of AI. Another distinctive feature is the choice to undertake a professional experience or IT thesis.
Duration: Two years full-time
Locations: CDU Sydney or Casuarina campus
CRICOS code: SITAI1
Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security)
The Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security) aims to enrich and expand the skill set of individuals within the field of cyber security -- irrespective of their existing academic background. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that goes deep into the intricacies of cyber security and its implications. Compulsory core units include Software Now, Operating Systems and Applications, Network Engineering Applications, Database Concepts, Network Security Engineering, and other topical subjects. For the capstone component, the course lets students choose between a Practice Experience or a Research Project.
Duration: Two years full-time
Locations: CDU Sydney or Casuarina campus
CRICOS code: SITCS2
Master of Information Technology (Information Systems)
The Master of Information Technology (Information Systems) is a comprehensive programme designed to enhance the skill set and advance the careers of individuals within the field of information systems. Through a series of core units and elective options, students gain expertise in key areas such as software, database concepts, project management, and the principles governing information systems. This holistic approach equips graduates with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of information systems and drive innovation.
Duration: Two years full-time
Locations: CDU Sydney or Casuarina campus
CRICOS code: SITIS3
Master of Information Technology (Software Engineering)
Designed for upskillers and reskillers, the Master of Information Technology (Software Engineering) engages students in coursework and project work that explores the dynamic landscape of this critical field. It combines theoretical foundations with practical activities, providing students with a holistic understanding of software engineering concepts and methodologies. Key subjects include Database Concepts, Machine Learning: Advancements and Applications, Principles of Software Systems, Software Engineering Practice, Discrete Structures, and more.
Duration: Two years full-time
Locations: Casuarina campus
CRICOS code: SITSE1
“CDU boasts some of the most advanced IT facilities and resources I've seen. Their labs are equipped with the latest software and hardware catered specifically for data science studies. One distinctive feature is their dedicated collaborative workspaces, which encourage students to team up on projects, fostering a culture of teamwork and shared knowledge. Additionally, CDU has partnerships with several tech companies, granting students access to exclusive software, tools, and learning resources that aren't easily available elsewhere. This commitment to providing top-notch IT resources ensures that students like me are always at the forefront of technological advancements in the field.”
Sadaf Mehedi Chayon from Bangladesh, Master of Data Science student
Well-rounded education, happy students
“We’ve been taught to work with Cisco Packet Tracer, VMware and Kali Linux. We’ve even experimented with programming languages like Python. For our professional growth, CDU also helped us enrol for the Australian Computer Society membership — I felt so lucky to be selected. Indeed, our professors are always around to support us and help us take advantage of the opportunities around us. For example, I would not have been able to land a job in my second semester as a service desk analyst if it were not for the Careers Centre, which helped me build my resume, write my cover letter and prepare for my interviews.”
Digita Shrestha from Nepal,
Master of Information Technology graduate
Study at CDU, prepare for the future
The impact of CDU's forward-thinking programmes becomes even clearer against the backdrop of Australia's strong, growing tech industry. According to the latest forecast by Gartner, Inc., IT spending in Australia is anticipated to surpass 133 billion Australian dollars in 2024, marking a 7.8% increase from 2023.
Notably, software spending is poised to lead the expansion, with an expected increase of 12.8% in 2024. This shows Australia's focus on software development, innovation, and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, positioning the country as a key player in the global IT landscape.
As Australia's tech sector booms, CDU's Faculty of Science and Technology will continue shaping the future IT workforce. Industry engagement through initiatives like the CDU Industry Engagement and Advisory Board ensures its five pathways evolve with industry needs, producing graduates who are both skilled and prepared for just about anything.
A future-proof education awaits at Charles Darwin University
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