Start date
February
July

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus/Online

Program Code
LHSG

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 39,400 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025

English Language Requirements
  • IELTS total [6.0]
  • IELTS reading [6.0]
  • IELTS writing [6.0]
Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
081819G

Degree overview

  • Study at SA’s number one university for graduate skills in I.T.1.
  • Enjoy excellent career prospects with the already high demand for software programming skills predicted to increase2.
  • Learn specialist Software Engineering skills required to design and build large, complex systems.
  • Benefit from contemporary curriculum informed by UniSA research in areas such as artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality and data analytics.
  • Learn specialist expertise beyond programming to develop vital skills across the full life cycle of software development.
  • Learn from dedicated, highly experienced teaching staff including leading researchers and practitioners employed in industry.
  • Benefit from our well-established partnerships with industry offering significant opportunities for placements and industry projects.
  • Experience purpose-built teaching spaces designed to facilitate collaboration and work-integrated learning.
  • Learn using the latest industry software and technology.
  • Professionally accredited by the Australian Computer Society.
  • Apply to study the software engineering degree apprenticeship program for the opportunity to earn while you learn.

1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Computing and Information Systems – Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.

2Deloitte Access Economics, ACS Australia’s Digital Pulse 2021

Snapshot

Snapshot

Fast paced and innovative, the software engineering industry has reshaped the world as we know it, creating disruptive technologies that impact society on every level. From connectivity, to e-commerce, artificial intelligence and automation, highly trained software engineers are sought after to solve the business challenges of today, and tomorrow.

Software engineers are engaged in the full life cycle of software development, from the initial planning stage, through to costing, designing, developing, testing and maintaining large and complex systems. They understand how software systems are designed and built, and require effective communication, interpersonal and problem-solving skills, as well as advanced technical knowledge. 

Professionally accredited by the Australian Computer Society, the Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours) offers a highly supportive learning environment, recognising the importance of developing the full range of skills to ensure you graduate with the knowledge and experience sought after by industry.

You will enjoy a modern, practical approach to your IT education, with significant opportunities to apply the skills learned in the classroom in real-world settings, including through a year-long project where you will develop a solution to an IT challenge faced by industry.

You will graduate highly skilled in programming, with employment opportunities available in defence primes, and IT companies and organisations that build large, complex software systems and solutions. 

On-campus teaching for this program is based at the Mawson Lakes campus. Only 20 minutes from the city centre with easy parking. The Mawson Lakes campus is also accessible by bus and train with the Mawson Lakes train station only a short walk.

New in 2024: UniSA and the Ai Group, along with industry partners and the South Australian Government, have partnered to create a degree apprenticeship to meet the fast growing demand for Software Engineers in local industry. You will study UniSA’s Software Engineering (Honours) degree over five years while having a paid position working for one of our industry partners. This unique combination of paid work and study that is co-delivered by UniSA and your host employer, allows for immersive on-the-job training ensuring that you graduate with the knowledge and skills required of a software engineer. You will earn while you learn and graduate as an experienced software engineer. Applications for this program are via direct application to the Ai Group and not through SATAC. Further information about the degree apprenticeship is available here

What you'll learn

What you Learn

During your first year of study you will gain a solid foundation in networking, database development, programming fundamentals and systems requirements and design, before focusing on your software engineering specialty that will you see you studying:

  • Operating Systems and Tool Chains
  • Design Patterns with C++
  • Agile Development and Governance
  • Cloud and Concurrent Programming
  • Secure Software Development
  • Advanced Data Structures
  • Systems Architecture

You will build expertise in Python, Java, C++, ASP.Net and Agile methodologies – highly sought-after skills in the Australian job market¹.

As part of your honours year, you will put your skills into practice with a year-long IT project. You may have the opportunity to work directly with an industry client, drawing on the technical expertise gained throughout your studies and applying professional skills in a real-world setting to produce and deliver a quality software artefact for your client.

You will enjoy access to dedicated learning hubs where you can connect and collaborate, giving you the full workplace and project experience.

An honours degree is a higher-level qualification giving you a competitive edge in the job market and preparing you for further study, including Master of Research or a PhD, should you wish to pursue a career in research.

1Deloitte Access Economics, ACS Australia’s Digital Pulse 2021

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Information Technology Fundamentals INFT 1016 4.5
Problem Solving and Programming COMP 1039 4.5
Network Fundamentals INFT 1012 4.5
Design Thinking Studio INFT 1030 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Object Oriented Programming COMP 1046 4.5
Data Driven Web Technologies INFS 1025 4.5
System Requirements and User Experience INFS 1026 4.5
System Requirements Studio INFT 1031 4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
System Design and Realisation INFS 2044 4.5
System Design Studio INFS 2045 4.5
Operating Systems and Tool Chains COMP 2035 4.5
Data Structures Essentials COMP 2012 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Agile Development and Governance INFS 2041 4.5
Project Studio INFS 2043 4.5
Web Technology INFT 2064 4.5
Data Structures Advanced INFS 2042 4.5
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Security Foundations INFS 3090 4.5
Big Data Concepts INFS 4020 4.5
Design Patterns with C++ COMP 3023 4.5
Database for the Enterprise INFS 2011 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Secure Software Development COMP 4035 4.5
Research Directions in ICT INFT 3044 4.5 Note(s): 1,3
Cloud and Concurrent Programming INFT 3043 4.5
AI and Machine Learning COMP 2019 4.5
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
IT Project 1 INFT 4030 4.5 Note(s): 2,3
System Architecture COMP 3024 4.5 Note(s): 3
Software Engineering Elective 1 4.5 Note(s): 3,4 Rule(s): 1
Computer Science COMP 3026 4.5 Note(s): 3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
IT Project 2 INFT 4023 9 Note(s): 2,3
Software Engineering Elective 2 4.5 Note(s): 3,4 Rule(s): 1
Software Engineering Elective 3 4.5 Note(s): 3,4 Rule(s): 1

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

Assessment

Your studies at UniSA will incorporate practical, professionally-focused and research-based learning. Assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

  • Interactive studio exercises 
  • Industry relevant projects 
  • Hands-on practical activities 
  • Collaborative group projects 
  • Reports and project documentation
  • Essays and assignments

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Global opportunities

Why Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours)

Why this Degree

Our researchers are leading the way in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, Industry 4.0, augmented and virtual reality, and Internet-of-Things (IoT), with their work not only informing the curriculum, but brought into the classroom through our experts, ensuring contemporary knowledge and skills are at the forefront of your education.

Throughout your program you will complete a unique series of collaborative, work-integrated courses, reinforcing the concepts learnt in the classroom in a supportive practice environment. Soft, non-technical skills are integrated into your learning to develop the qualities highly valued and sought after by industry. Topics include design thinking, system requirements, system design, agile development, and project management.

In your final year you may have the opportunity to work directly with an industry client – from brief through to project delivery – on a year-long IT Project undertaken as part of your honours year.  You will draw on the software engineering principles, practices and research methods learned throughout your studies. You will also apply professional skills such as workplace communication and stakeholder relationship management to deliver work to an industry standard and to the satisfaction of a client.

The final year project is one of numerous chances you will have to engage with industry, with placements and internships also available.

Most of our IT programs share a common first year, so choosing this degree offers a level of flexibility. Should you wish to pursue a different specialty after completing your first year, you can switch to an alternative IT program and receive credit for the courses completed.

Real-world connections

With more than 200 industry contacts, you will have a number of opportunities to gain real-world experience through projects and placements with organisations such as Adelaide Football Club, Services Australia, SAAB, DST, Forensic Science SA, Top Chop Games and Maptek.

UniSA is also home to several research centres and concentrations with world renowned links and associations that provide a dynamic teaching and research base for our students. These include:

All have world renowned links and associations that provide a dynamic teaching and research base for our students.

At UniSA you will benefit from our culture of innovation. We’re helping IT entrepreneurs and innovators turn their ideas into startup enterprises with a bright future. Through the Innovation and Collaboration Centre (ICC), the University’s startup incubator, you will have access to programs (such as Venture Catalyst), services and expertise, including:

  • Workshops
  • One-on-one mentoring
  • Office space for startups and entrepreneurs
  • Access to a global pool of expert advisers
  • Small funding stipends
  • Events to kick-start ideas and competitions like hackathons

We also host regular University-wide employee master classes and employment expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

New in 2024: UniSA and the Ai Group, along with industry partners and the South Australian Government, are partnering to create a degree apprenticeship to meet the fast growing demand for Software Engineers in local industry. You will study UniSA’s Software Engineering (Honours) degree over five years while having a paid position working for one of our industry partners. This unique combination of paid work and study that is co-delivered by UniSA and your host employer, allows for immersive on-the-job training ensuring that you graduate with the knowledge and skills required of a software engineer. You will earn while you learn and graduate as an experienced software engineer. Applications for this program are via direct application to the Ai Group and not through SATAC. Further information about the degree apprenticeship is available here.

Study at UniSA

Hear from Swetha a UniSA software engineering graduate.

UniSA Video

Career outcomes

Your career

The number of technology workers in Australia is expected to pass 1 million in 2024. By 2026, it is predicted there will be nearly 300,000 more technology workers in the Australian workforce – an average annual growth rate of 5.4%.

Skills in software and applications programming are expected to be in particularly high demand, with an additional 65,000 workers needed between 2020 and 2026¹.

There are strong employment prospects for software engineers. Graduates of this degree may wish to consider the following career options:

  • Software Engineer: employing software engineering principles and techniques to produce large quality software solutions; leading software development; researching, analysing, designing, developing and testing business appropriate solutions; collaborating with other teams to develop solutions meeting business needs for functionality, performance, scalability and reliability.
  • UX Designer: contributing to the entire software development process to ensure a seamless user experience; designing user interfaces and interactions of software applications, websites and mobile devices to ensure an enjoyable user experience.
  • Full Stack Developer: working across the full stack of front-end and back-end technology (tools, languages and frameworks) to design, develop, test and debug software solutions on a variety of devices to meet client requirements.
  • Software and Applications Programmer: working in a diverse range of programming roles designing, coding, testing and debugging software applications; interpreting customer requirements; working with a team to research, design, and implement a software solution; working with others to extend existing software functionality; producing standalone software solutions for a client.
  • Agile Developer: leads or works in an agile team developing quality software artefacts in a diverse range of contexts.
  • Web Developer: designing, developing, testing and debugging dynamic websites in order to meet client requirements. 

Career progression may see you take on roles such as:

  • Software Architect
  • IT Project Lead
  • Senior Software Engineer / Analyst / Developer
  • SCRUM Master
  • Project Manager
     

1Deloitte Access Economics, ACS Australia’s Digital Pulse 2021

Professional accreditation and recognition

This program is professionally accredited by the Australian Computer Society.

Industry facts

chart-people

The number of Professionals in Technology is expected to grow to almost 1.2 million jobs in Australia by 2027

(Australia Digital Pulse 2022)

job-listings

Software and Applications Programmers are expected to grow very strongly by 27 per cent (or 42,200 jobs) by 2026

(Labour Market Insights 2022)

How to apply

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Student services

Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

  • career advice and mentoring
  • help with student visas and health cover
  • personal counselling
  • academic counselling
  • fees and finance help
  • common rooms
  • prayer rooms
  • security officers
  • accommodation services 
  • as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Student services

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

Your study spaces

UniSA is ranked number one in South Australia for campus facilities in IT¹. During your studies you will have access to purpose-built learning spaces such as:

  • Game Development Lab
  • Software Development Lab
  • Network and Cyber Security Labs
  • IT Project Space
  • IT Development Studio
  • Mac Lab

1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2019-20 – Computing and Information Systems – Learning Resources Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.

Your study spaces

Your program director

Dr Jo Zucco

Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for Dr Jo Zucco
Portrait image for Dr Jo Zucco

Dr Jo Zucco

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

    You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

    Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

    If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

    If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

    Postgraduate study by research
    For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.

  • Is there a closing date for applications? minus-thick plus-thick

    There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

    If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.

  • What credit can I receive for previous studies? minus-thick plus-thick

    You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

    The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

    The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.

  • Can I speak to someone regarding my study options? minus-thick plus-thick

    UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

    Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

    We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.

More FAQs

What others are saying

Throughout my time at university, I’ve been lucky enough to have access to real-world work experience and many opportunities for my career. I was selected as one of ten students to represent UniSA on a fully-sponsored three-week software engineering internship in Vietnam. I also got the opportunity during my honours year to be placed in an ICT project with real clients. Overall, UniSA has provided me with all the relevant knowledge and hands-on experience I need before entering the workforce and it's given me a solid foundation for a career in software engineering.

Swetha Krishnagopal

Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours)
Graduate Software Engineer | Boeing Defence Australia

Swetha Krishnagopal.jpg

Swetha Krishnagopal

Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours)
Graduate Software Engineer | Boeing Defence Australia

My advice to anyone considering studying software engineering at UniSA would be to keep up with the work week-by-week and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your lecturers and tutors – they have all been very helpful. It was through one of my lecturers that I was offered a job as a software engineer. This opportunity was invaluable to my career development by offering me experiences that will set me apart from other graduates.

Thomas Lake

Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours)

Thomas Lake.jpg

Thomas Lake

Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours)