Graduate Certificate in Computer Science

Get tech savvy

Computer science is central to developments across almost every industry. Computer science and IT expertise is a huge asset in the changing landscapes of the modern world.

What will you do?

This six-month program is suited to students with limited prior experience in computer science. You will:

  • learn to navigate computer software and hardware
  • practise algorithm programming
  • gain advanced problem-solving skills
  • apply your learning to complex computing challenges.

JAVA and C + + are the primary programming languages used in this program. If you’re unfamiliar with object-oriented programming and computer organisation, enrol in Foundations of Computer Science in your first semester of study. Please note that if you are required to take Foundations of Computer Science you will need to study this program part-time which will affect the duration of your program.

Where could it take you?

You’ll graduate prepared to pursue computer science roles in all sorts of industries—from entertainment and networking to science, software engineering and defence. The graduate certificate also acts as an exit point if you’re not interested in completing the full graduate diploma or master degree.


  • Ranked #50 in the world for computer science and engineering^
  • Home to the world-leading Australian Institute for Machine Learning
  • Undertake a major research project supervised by world-class academic staff

^ARWU, 2022

Entry Requirements

Please note: For programs including placements and/or study-related activities in settings where COVID-19 vaccination is mandatory, it is an inherent requirement that all students be fully vaccinated prior to undertaking the placement and/or study-related activity.
From 30 June 2023, in accordance with Australian government requirements, the University will be returning to face-to-face teaching for all students where it is safe and practical to do so. For students with circumstances where it would not be practical or safe to travel to Australia, exemptions may apply. Students are encouraged to regularly check Study in 2023 and International Student Covid-19 FAQ for information and updates.

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant admissions information for this program.
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Domestic applicants

SATAC Code 3GC017, 3GC517
Deferment Yes - 2 year
Intake February and July
Selection Criteria
Graduate entry

Higher Education Study A completed Bachelors degree in a field other than Computer Science with a minimum GPA of 4.5.

Fees and Scholarships

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant fees and scholarships information for this program.
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Domestic applicants

Indicative annual tuition fees
Australian Full-fee place: $17,750

Where the standard duration of the program is less than one year the full cost of the program is displayed.

Scholarships

These scholarships, as well as many others funded by industry and non-profit organisations, are available to potential and currently enrolled students.

Find a Scholarship.

Careers

Career Readiness

While the graduate certificate alone may not be a sufficient qualification for a career specifically focused on information technology, it will provide a solid grounding in the application of information technology in other disciplines and industry.

The University of Adelaide Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry.

Graduate Attributes

The objective of this program is to produce graduates with specific attributes as outlined in University of Adelaide Graduate Attributes.
  1. Deep discipline knowledge and intellectual breadth
  2. Creative and critical thinking, and problem solving
  3. Teamwork and communication skills
  4. Professionalism and leadership readiness
  5. Intercultural and ethical competency
  6. Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural competency
  7. Digital capabilities
  8. Self-awareness and emotional intelligence

Potential careers

Internet - Web Programmer, Software Engineer, Computer Programmer, Systems Support, Database Coordinator, Multimedia / Web Designer, IT Manager, Scientist, Systems Programmer, Information and Communications Technologist, Computer Scientist

Degree Structure

This is a 12 unit program. Students may elect to start in semester 1 or 2.

Students unfamiliar with object oriented programming and a basic knowledge of computer organisation should enrol in Foundations of Computer Science and Algorithm and Data Structure Analysis in their first semester of study.

Please note: SACE Stage 2 Mathematical Studies is assumed knowledge.

Academic Program Rules

The Calendar is a comprehensive handbook of the University's academic program rules.

Graduate Certificate in Computer Science

Related Degrees

Further Study

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.

Last updated: Friday, 3 Mar 2023