Master's Degree Computer Science Full Time

Master of Philosophy, School of Computing

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

114815B

CRICOS provider code

00120C

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$113,760 total

Per year

A$56,880/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in the School of Computing at the Australian National University offers graduates an opportunity to engage in advanced research within the field of computer science, in Australia's leading research environment. Over two years of full-time study, students undertake a substantial independent research project under the supervision of academic experts, developing a thesis that offers original contributions to computing or information technology. This intensive research focus is supported by coursework units that deepen theoretical knowledge and research methodologies relevant to the discipline.

Australian MPhil programmes are structured around the completion of required credit points from designated units of study, primarily research units, with some coursework for disciplinary breadth and research skills development. Most students are expected to produce a written thesis, which is examined by experts in the field. Contact hours and milestone reviews ensure steady progress, and students may have opportunities for work-integrated learning by collaborating with industry partners, research centres, or government agencies in Canberra.

Key skills developed include advanced research methods, critical thinking, academic writing, and specialised knowledge in computer science topics such as algorithms, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or data science. Students also gain practical experience in project design, collaboration, and communication tailored for academia and the tech industry. This course is suited for graduates with strong computing backgrounds who wish to pursue research careers or progress to a doctoral (PhD) programme.

International students are required to evidence English proficiency (IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall or approved equivalents), and work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight apply while enrolled. Graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. For the most up-to-date programme structure and entry requirements, applicants should always confirm details on the official university page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Academic researcher or research assistant in universities and research institutes
Data scientist or machine learning specialist in technology companies
Software developer or systems architect in the ICT sector
Cybersecurity analyst or consultant with Australian government agencies
Technical project manager in defence, public, or private sectors
Further study towards a PhD in computer science

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Philosophy, School of Computing at Australian National University?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$113,760 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher or research assistant in universities and research institutesData scientist or machine learning specialist in technology companiesSoftware developer or systems architect in the ICT sectorCybersecurity analyst or consultant with Australian government agenciesTe...

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