Master of Software Systems Engineering

The Master of Software Systems Engineering (MSSE) allows graduates of computer science to study current computer science and software engineering topics at an advanced level. The course allows considerable flexibility and students select their own program from the available subjects. The technological skills presented in the MSSE are in high demand throughout the computing industry. The course covers a wide range of subjects enabling students to choose areas a variety of specialisations, for example:

• Artificial Intelligence: understanding and building intelligent systems
• Information Management: database and information retrieval systems and associated technologies for the management of data
• Software Engineering: modern software engineering principles and methodologies

The Master of Software Systems Engineering is designed to:

• Provide a solid foundation for students who want to develop their career in the broad field of computing
• Provide a thorough understanding of key areas of computer science
• Provide an introduction to research skills in a selected area
• Improve computer related oral and written communication skills

THE COURSE STRUCTURE BELOW ONLY APPLIES TO RE-ENROLLING STUDENTS WHO COMMENCED THEIR STUDIES PRIOR TO 2012.

• All students must pass SWEN90003 IT Project Management.
• Students may take either seven subjects of 12.5 points each or five subjects of 12.5 points plus a small research project of 25 points (COMP90030 Minor Research Project). The research project involves an investigation and preparation of a substantial written report under the supervision of an academic staff member. Enrolment in this subject requires the approval of the course coordinator
• Students must complete a minimum of six subjects at graduate level, including SWEN90003 IT Project Management, from those taught by the Department.
• Special permission is required from the course coordinator to undertake a ISYS or SINF subject

The recommended or standard course structures are listed below. When setting the timetable every effort will be made to avoid clashes between the times of classes associated with these sets of subjects. Students should be aware however, that if it proves to be impossible to achieve a timetable without clashes in these sets of subjects, the School reserves the right to modify course structures in order to eliminate the conflicts. Where the courses include elective subjects these should be chosen so that timetable clashes are avoided.

SWEN90003 IT Project Management is compulsory

Students should note that not all subjects are offered every year.

In addition to these subjects, students may with the approval of the course coordinator take up to two of the following subjects from the Master of Telecommunications Engineering:

There is no further entry into this course.

Academic Requirements

Academic entry requirements are either:

• A four year degree with a substantial computing content with an average final year mark of at least 70% (University of Melbourne equivalent), or
• A four year degree in a related discipline together with considerable industry experience in the field of computing or software engineering, or
• Consideration will also be given to applicants with a three year degree in a computing-related discipline or equivalent and who have completed the Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Computer Science) at the University of Melbourne with a mark of 75% or higher.

Computer Background

An applicant's computing background should include solid programming experience as well as a good knowledge of:

• Data structures and algorithms for sorting, searching and graph manipulation
• Software development principles and tools
• Software design including object-oriented design

An applicant's computing background should also include good knowledge of several specialised areas, such as: artificial intelligence; computability and logic; operating systems; databases; human-computer interaction; computer networks; compilers; computer graphics and software engineering.

An applicant must have studied mathematics or statistics at the equivalent of a second year University level

Language Requirements

Please check the University English language requirements

The Melbourne School of Engineering's English Language alternative may affect the duration and cost of your course

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

The MSSE delivers on the University graduate attributes

The program is accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS)

• Ability to undertake problem identification, formulation, and solution
• Ability to utilise a systems approach to complex problems and to design and operational performance
• Capacity for creativity and innovation
• Ability to manage information and documentation