single degree

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering

A single four year undergraduate award offered by the ANU College of Engineering Computing & Cybernetics

AENSE
  • Length 4 year full-time
  • Minimum 192 Units
Admission requirements
  • Mode of delivery
    • In Person
  • Field of Education
    • Computer Engineering
  • Academic contact
  • Length 4 year full-time
  • Minimum 192 Units
Admission requirements
  • Mode of delivery
    • In Person
  • Field of Education
    • Computer Engineering
  • Academic contact

Program Requirements

The Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering requires completion of 192 units, of which:

A maximum of 60 units may come from completion of 1000-level courses

The 192 units must consist of:

108 units from completion of the following compulsory courses:

ENGN1211 Discovering Engineering

MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models

COMP1600 Foundations of Computing

COMP2100 Software Design Methodologies

COMP2120 Software Engineering

COMP2300 Computer Organisation and Program Execution

COMP2310 Systems, Networks and Concurrency

COMP2420 Introduction to Data Management, Analysis and Security

ENGN2300 Engineering Design 2: Systems Approaches for Design

ENGN2301 Engineering Design 3: Systems Approaches for Analysis

ENGN3100 Practical Experience (0 units)

ENGN3300 Engineering Design 4A: Systems Approaches for Management

ENGN3301 Engineering Design 4B: Systems Approaches for Operations

COMP3500 Software Engineering Project (12 units)

COMP3600 Algorithms

COMP3900 Human-Computer Interaction

COMP4130 Managing Software Quality and Process

ENGN4213 Digital Systems and Microprocessors


12 units from completion of a course from the following list:

COMP4500 Software Engineering Practice

COMP4540 Software Engineering Research Project

ENGN4300 Capstone Project

ENGN4350 Individual Project


6 units from completion of a course from the following list:

COMP1100 Programming as Problem Solving

COMP1130 Programming as Problem Solving (Advanced)


6 units from completion of a course from the following list:

COMP1110 Structured Programming

COMP1140 Structured Programming (Advanced)


6 units from completion of a course from the following list:

MATH1013 Mathematics & Applications 1

MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics & Applications 1


6 units from completion of a course from the following list:

ENGN1217 Introduction to Mechanics

ENGN1218 Introduction to Electronics

COMP2400 Relational Databases

48 units from completion of elective courses offered by ANU.


Honours

Students must formally enrol in ENGN4100 Engineering Honours at the commencement of their intended final semester.


Honours Grade Calculation

ENGN4100 Engineering Honours Grade will be used to calculate the Class of Honours and the mark. It will be calculated as the weighted average mark (WAM) of the courses listed below. The mark for each course is weighted by the units of credit (UoC) of the course, as well as a course weighting as indicated below. WAM is calculated as follows:


WAM = ( S Mark*UoC*Weighting) / (S UoC*Weighting)

Elective Study

Once you have met the program requirements of your degree, you may have enough electives to complete an additional elective majorminor or specialisation.

Study Options

Year 1 48 units ENGN1211 Discovering Engineering 6 units MATH1013 Mathematics and Applications 1 6 units OR MATH1115; COMP1100 Programming as Problem Solving 6 units OR COMP1130; MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models 6 units
COMP1600 Foundations of Computing 6 units COMP1110 Structured Programming 6 units OR COMP1140; A choice from ENGN1217, ENGN1218 and COMP2400 Elective Course 6 Units
Year 2 48 units ENGN2300 Engineering Design 2: Systems Approaches for Design 6 units COMP2420 Introduction to Data Management, Analysis and Security 6 units COMP2300 Computer Organisation and Program Execution 6 units COMP2100 Software Design Methodologies 6 units
ENGN2301 Engineering Design 3: Systems Approaches for Analysis 6 units COMP2120 Software Engineering 6 units COMP2310 Systems, Networks, and Concurrency 6 units Elective Course 6 Units
Year 3 48 units ENGN3300 Engineering Design 4A: Systems Approaches for Management 6 units COMP3500 Software Engineering Project 6 units Elective Course 6 Units Elective Course 6 Units
ENGN3301 Engineering Design 4B: Systems Approaches for Operations 6 units COMP3500 Software Engineering Project 6 units COMP3600 Algorithms 6 units Elective Course 6 Units
Year 4 48 units A choice from ENGN4300, ENGN4350, COMP4500 and COMP4540 12 units across two semesters COMP4130 Managing Software Quality and Process 6 units ENGN4213 Digital Systems and Microprocessors 6 units Elective Course 6 Units
A choice from ENGN4300, ENGN4350, COMP4500 and COMP4540 12 units across two semesters COMP3900 Human-Computer Interaction 6 units Elective Course 6 Units Elective Course 6 Units

Admission Requirements

At a minimum, all applicants must meet program-specific academic/non-academic requirements, and English language requirements. Admission to most ANU programs is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not guarantee entry into the program.

In line with the university's admissions policy and strategic plan, an assessment for admission may include competitively ranking applicants on the basis of specific academic achievement, English language proficiency and diversity factors.

The University reserves the right to alter or discontinue its programs and change admission requirements as needed.


Domestic applicants

Before applying for a program, you should review the general information about domestic undergraduate admission to ANU programs and how to apply, and the program-specific information below.

Applicants with recent secondary education are assessed on:

completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and the minimum Selection Rank (from their academic qualifications, plus any adjustment factors) requirement for this program; and

co-curricular or service requirement (applies to applicants who complete secondary education in the year prior to commencing at ANU); and

English language proficiency; and

any program-specific requirements listed below.

Applicants with higher education study are assessed on:

previous higher education studies; or secondary education results if completed less than one full-time equivalent year (1.0 FTE) of a degree; or the result from a bridging or preparatory course; and

English language proficiency; and

any program-specific requirements listed below.

Applicants with vocational education and training (VET) study are assessed on:

previously completed VET qualifications at AQF level 5 or higher (i.e. a Diploma or above); or secondary education results if the VET qualification is not completed; and

English language proficiency; and

any program-specific requirements listed below.

Applicants with work and life experience are assessed on:

ATAR or equivalent if secondary education was completed; or the Special Adult Entry Scheme (SAES); or work experience; and

English language proficiency; and

any program-specific requirements listed below.


International applicants

Applicants who complete a recognised secondary/senior secondary/post-secondary/tertiary sequence of study will be assessed on the basis of an equivalent selection rank that is calculated upon application. A list of commonly observed international qualifications and corresponding admission requirements can be found here. Applicants must also meet any program specific requirements that are listed below.


Diversity factors & English language proficiency 

As Australia's national university, ANU is global representative of Australian research and education. ANU endeavours to recruit and maintain a diverse and deliberate student cohort representative not only of Australia, but the world. In order to achieve these outcomes, competitive ranking of applicants may be adjusted to ensure access to ANU is a reality for brilliant students from countries across the globe. If required, competitive ranking may further be confirmed on the basis of demonstrating higher-level English language proficiency.

Further information is available for English Language Requirements for Admission 

ATAR:
85
International Baccalaureate:
31

Prerequisites

ACT: Mathematical Methods (Major)/Further Mathematics (Major)/Specialist Mathematics/Specialist Methods (Major)

NSW: HSC Mathematics Advanced or equivalent. More information about interstate subject equivalencies can be found here.

Adjustment Factors

Adjustment factors are additional points added to an applicant's Selection Rank (for example an applicant's ATAR). ANU offers adjustment factors based on performance and equity principles, such as for high achievement in nationally strategic senior secondary subjects and for recognition of difficult circumstances that students face in their studies. 

Selection Rank adjustments are granted in accordance with the approved schedules, and no more than 15 (maximum 5 subject/performance-based adjustment factors and maximum 10 equity-based adjustment factors) can be awarded. 

You may be considered for adjustment factors if you have:

  • applied for an eligible ANU Bachelor degree program
  • undertaken Australian Year 12 or the International Baccalaureate
  • achieved an ATAR or equivalent at or above 70
  • not previously attempted tertiary study.

Please visit the ANU Adjustment Factors website for further information.

Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)

For more information see: http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/costs-fees

Annual indicative fee for international students
$49,330.00

For further information on International Tuition Fees see: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/fees-payments/international-tuition-fees

Fee Information

All students are required to pay the Services and amenities fee (SA Fee)

The annual indicative fee provides an estimate of the program tuition fees for international students and domestic students (where applicable). The annual indicative fee for a program is based on the standard full-time enrolment load of 48 units per year (unless the program duration is less than 48 units). Fees for courses vary by discipline meaning that the fees for a program can vary depending on the courses selected. Course fees are reviewed on an annual basis and typically will increase from year to year. The tuition fees payable are dependent on the year of commencement and the courses selected and are subject to increase during the period of study.

For further information on Fees and Payment please see: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/fees-payments

Scholarships

ANU offers a wide range of scholarships to students to assist with the cost of their studies.

Eligibility to apply for ANU scholarships varies depending on the specifics of the scholarship and can be categorised by the type of student you are.  Specific scholarship application process information is included in the relevant scholarship listing.

For further information see the Scholarships website.

Software Engineering is about building effective software systems that address complex problems in a broad range of domains including transport, communications, finance, medicine, science, entertainment and the arts.


The ANU Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering has many unique characteristics, but best of all, it is built on a multidisciplinary systems approach. The adopted systems approach to software engineering not only covers the technical aspects of professional practice, innovation and research, but also the complex socio-technical context in which these activities occur. This includes approaches to dealing with uncertainty and risk, design, modern management practices, ethics and communication.

          

Students develop these skills and capabilities through a balance of theoretical study, practice in team projects with industry partners, and work experience. Students also have the opportunity to develop their innovation and entrepreneurial capabilities by working on their own start-ups with industry entrepreneurs as part of their degree.


Career Options

ANU ranks among the world's very finest universities. Our nearly 100,000 alumni include political, business, government, and academic leaders around the world.

We have graduated remarkable people from every part of our continent, our region and all walks of life.

Employment Opportunities

Work experience

As a part of your degree you will take part in 60 days of work experience to meet accreditation requirements with Engineers Australia. This provides you with the opportunity to integrate academic theory and real world practice, enhance technical and leadership skills, experience a professional setting, whilst also making valuable connections with industry.


Projects

In addition to compulsory work experience you will also undertake systems engineering projects during your coursework. In these projects you will work in teams on a given problem statement and develop the requirements and key performance indicators to guide you through the design. Your team will then proceed through a systems design process including conceptual design, sub-system requirements, and quantitative trade-off analyses, using the full range of engineering science and professional skills developed during your program.


Projects emphasise teamwork, communication skills, team and personal management and a professional approach to engineering design, all of which are highly valuable traits for an engineer.


Internships

Our industry links enable opportunities to undertake internships which allow you to gain hands-on experience in a workplace environment relevant to your area of future career interests and current academic studies.


You can also receive credit towards your program based on learning outcomes during your placement.


Other practical experience

Use your knowledge to create a positive impact on society through our Engineers Without Borders placements, participate in Humanitarian Design Summits or go on exchange to complement your students and broaden your networks at one of our partner universities around the world.


Employment opportunities

As a professional software engineer with a systems engineering background, you will bring extra value to future employers in a diverse range of professions and organisations. The skills and abilities you gain while studying at ANU are highly sought after by employers both in Australia and overseas, such as IBM, Google, Microsoft, Yahoo, Intel, Price Waterhouse Coopers, Accenture Australia, Bloomberg, National Australia Bank, Citigroup, Deloitte, Unisys and Australian Government.


Graduates find employment opportunities in a variety of roles, including but not limited to:

  • Software Engineer
  • Software Developer
  • Software Consultant
  • Software Architect
  • Programmer
  • System Analyst
  • Project Manager
  • Product Manager
  • Application Developer
  • Database Analyst
  • Network Architect

Learning Outcomes

  1. Professionally apply systematic engineering methods to design optimised and sustainable solutions to complex, multi-disciplinary real-world engineering problems.

  2. Formulate and evaluate solutions to software engineering problems by selecting and applying theoretical principles and methods from the underpinning mathematical, information and computer sciences.

  3. Proficiently apply advanced technical knowledge and appropriate tools in software engineering practices.

  4. Identify and critically evaluate current developments and emerging trends in the software engineering discipline.

  5. Understand the contextual factors that influence professional engineering practice, and identify the potential societal, ethical, and environmental impact of engineering activities.

  6. Communicate effectively with colleagues, other engineering professionals and the broader community employing a range of communication media and tools.

  7. Engage in independent research and investigation through the application of research-based knowledge and research methods, including searching, analysing and evaluating information sources within and beyond the software engineering discipline.

  8. Engage effectively in critical reflection and independent learning to continue practicing at the forefront of the software engineering discipline.

  9. Work effectively and proactively within cross-cultural, multi-disciplinary teams, demonstrating autonomy, ethical conduct, well-developed judgement, adaptability and responsibility to achieve engineering outcomes at a high standard.

Further Information

Learn more about the degrees offered at the ANU College of Engineering and Computer Science, read current student profiles to see what campus life is really like, and discover what our graduates have achieved since leaving the College - Visit the College of Engineering and Computer Science website.

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The Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering can be studied as either a single degree or a double degree combined with a number of other degrees.

Single degree

  •  This degree requires 192 units (each course is typically 6 units though some may be 12 units or higher)
  •  Typically you will study four courses per semester (total of 24 units)
  •  You have 48 units of university electives (eight courses). These courses can be used to study a computing specialisation, or a major or minor from another area of the university including Engineering.
  •   You can study a maximum of 60 units of 1000 level courses.

Double degree

  •  The Flexible Double Degree requires 144 units of courses meeting the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering requirements. You should use the Double degree tool for detailed requirements for the double degree that you are studying.
  •  Typically you will study four courses per semester (total of 24 units)
  • There are no university electives in the double degree.

Important things to keep in mind when choosing your 1000-level courses

  • When you enrol for the first time you will typically study '1000-level' courses. These courses have '1' as the first number in their course code.
  • You can study a maximum of 60 units of 1000 level courses. Additional units of 1000 level courses (beyond 60 units) cannot be counted towards this degree.
  • Note that if you are commencing in July you should follow the Second semester starter Study Options below and consider contacting StudentAdmin.CECS@anu.edu.au or attending an enrolment advice session at the university to discuss your complete study plan as you will not be able to match the full Semester 1 starter program within 4 years.  

Study Options

Semester 1 Starters

Study Options

Year 1 48 units ENGN1211 Discovering Engineering 6 units COMP1100 Programming as Problem Solving 6 units MATH1013 Mathematics and Applications 1 6 units MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models 6 units
COMP1600 Foundations of Computing 6 units COMP1110 Structured Programming 6 units One of ENGN1217 or ENGN1218 or COMP2400 Elective

Semester 2 Starters

Study Options

Year 1 48 units MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models 6 units COMP1100 Programming as Problem Solving 6 units MATH1013 Mathematics and Applications 1 6 units A choice from COMP2400, ENGN1217, ENGN1218
ENGN1211 Discovering Engineering 6 units COMP1110 Structured Programming 6 units COMP2300 Computer Organisation and Program Execution 6 units COMP2420 Introduction to Data Management, Analysis and Security 6 units

Academic Advice

  • You need to enrol in courses for both First Semester and Second Semester, note that you can change your Semester 2 courses all the way until July. 
  • You can’t study more than four courses (24 units) per semester, eight for the year. 
  • International students cannot study less than 24 units a semester (full-time) except in exceptional circumstances and with approval. 
  • Remember you can’t count more than ten 1000-level courses (60 units) towards your single degree or six 1000-level courses (36 units) towards the Engineering half of the double degree.

Advice on choice of first year programming courses

  •  You will have a choice of enrolling in COMP1100 or COMP1130, and a choice of enrolling in COMP1110 or COMP1140. The standard choices of these courses are COMP1100 and COMP1110. But if you have a strong Maths background, and/or significant programming experience, you might like to choose the advanced version of the courses COMP1130 and COMP1140. Note that if you choose COMP1130 you will be able to drop back to COMP1100 in the first 2 weeks if needed.

Advice on choice of first year mathematics courses

  • If you are not confident in your Maths ability, particularly calculus, consider taking MATH1003 as a university elective in first year and then completing MATH1013 in a following semester.  
  • The standard choice is MATH1013. Students who excel in Maths, have done the highest level of Maths available to them at school and meet the pre-requisite may choose to enrol in the advanced version MATH1115 in place of MATH1013.  

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