Faculty of Engineering

Table of Contents

1. School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
2. Bachelor of Engineering (electrical, computer and software engineering) BE(IT) or BE
    2.1. Introduction
    2.2. BE(IT) or BE (electrical, computer or software engineering)
3. Bachelor of Computer Science (BCS)
    3.1. Bachelor of Computer Science course structure
    3.2. Bachelor of Computer Science (Bioinformatics stream)
    3.3. Bachelor of Computer Science and Bachelor of Laws (BCS/LLB)
        3.3.1. BCS requirements
        3.3.2. LLB requirements
        3.3.3. Recommended course structure
    3.4. Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) (BCS Hons)
        3.4.1. Overview
        3.4.2. Admission requirements
        3.4.3. Honours coordinator
        3.4.4. Duration and commencement of course
        3.4.5. Assessment
            3.4.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
            3.4.5.2. Components of assessment
            3.4.5.3. Advanced coursework subjects
            3.4.5.4. Research project
        3.4.6. Further information
    3.5. Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)/Bachelor of Computer Science (BE/BCS)
4. Bachelor of Engineering (electrical, computer, software) BE(IT) or BE combined courses
    4.1. Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Engineering (computer, electrical, software) BA/BE(IT) or BA/BE
    4.2. Bachelor of Engineering/ Bachelor of Commerce (computer, electrical, software) BE(IT)/BCom or BE/BCom
    4.3. Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Engineering (computer, electrical, software) LLB/BE(IT) or LLB/BE
    4.4. Timetabling of combined degrees
    4.5. Combined degree course structures with electrical, computer and software engineering
    4.6. Accelerated program for a major in computer science in the BSc component of the Bachelor of Engineering (computer or electrical)/ Bachelor of Science (BE(IT)/BSc) or (BSc/BE).
    4.7. Accelerated program for a major in mathematics in the BSc component of the Bachelor of Engineering (computer, electrical, software)/Bachelor of Science (BE(IT)/BSc) or (BSc/BE)
    4.8. Accelerated program for students majoring in physics in the BSc component of the Bachelor of Engineering(IT)/Bachelor of Science (BE(IT)/BSc) or (BSc/BE)
Subject Lists
    Subjects in courses of the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science


1. School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

The School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science has responsibility for the three IT streams of the four-year Bachelor of Engineering degree: the electrical engineering stream, the computer engineering stream and the software engineering stream as detailed in Bachelor of Engineering (electrical, computer and software engineering) BE(IT) or BE.

Each of these streams of the BE and BE(IT) can be combined with degrees in arts, commerce, law and science as detailed in Bachelor of Engineering (electrical, computer, software) BE(IT) or BE combined courses.

The school also offers a three-year Bachelor of Computer Science degree which includes an optional fourth year leading to the degree BCS (Honours) as detailed in Bachelor of Computer Science (BCS).

The Bachelor of Computer Science degree is also available as a combined degree with mechanical engineering, BE/BCS (Mechatronics), see Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)/Bachelor of Computer Science (BE/BCS) and in the BCS/LLB see Bachelor of Computer Science and Bachelor of Laws (BCS/LLB)

2. Bachelor of Engineering (electrical, computer and software engineering) BE(IT) or BE

2.1. Introduction

The BE and BE(IT) courses in the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science offer three distinct streams of the BE degree: electrical engineering, computer engineering and software engineering. The three streams have most first-year subjects in common, and with the appropriate selection of subjects it is possible to defer the choice of stream until the commencement of second year, and in some cases, until the middle of second year. Each of the three streams may be taken in the combined degrees BE/BA, BE(IT)/BA (with an arts major in any department in the Faculty of Arts); BE/BCom, BE(IT)/BCom (with a commerce major in any department in the Faculty of Economics and Commerce); BE/LLB, BE(IT)/LLB; and BSc/BE, BE(IT)/BSc (with a major in any department in the Faculty of Science, with the majority of students undertaking a major in computer science, physics or mathematics, however students in the software engineering stream of the BE or BE(IT) are not permitted to take a computer science major in the BSc). Computer science as a Science Faculty major may be combined with a BE in chemical, civil, environmental, mechanical or manufacturing through the BE/BSc degree program.

2.2. BE(IT) or BE (electrical, computer or software engineering)

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 faculty reserves the right to modify course structures in order to eliminate the conflicts. Students will be advised during the enrolment period of the semester if the recommended courses need to be varied. Where the courses include elective subjects these should be chosen so that timetable clashes are avoided. In particular, students in combined degrees should plan their courses so that the subjects chosen in the other faculty do not clash with those recommended for the engineering component.

First year (computer, electrical, software engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-102 Digital Systems 1: Fundamentals12.5
 433-151 Introduction to Programming (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-171 Introduction to Programming12.5
 620-121 Mathematics A (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-141 Mathematics A12.5
 640-121 Physics A (Adv)12.5
 or 
 640-141 Physics A12.5
Semester 2
 431-103 Electrical Circuits12.5
 433-152 Algorithmic Problem Solving (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-172 Algorithmic Problem Solving12.5
 620-123 Applied Mathematics (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-143 Applied Mathematics12.5
 640-122 Physics B (Adv)12.5
 or 
 640-142 Physics B12.5

The subject 640-121 Physics A (Advanced) or 640-141 Physics A is optional in the software engineering stream, and students not wishing to retain electrical engineering as a choice may replace it.

Second year (computer engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-201 Engineering Analysis A12.5
 431-204 Digital Systems 2: System Design12.5
 431-210 Circuit Analysis12.5
 433-252 Software Engineering Principles & Tools12.5
Semester 2
 431-202 Engineering Analysis B12.5
 431-222 Electronic Devices and Circuits12.5
 431-221 Fundamentals of Signals and Systems12.5
 433-253 Algorithms and Data Structures12.5
Third year (computer engineering)
 431-328 Digital Systems 3: Circuits and Systems12.5
 431-330 Design Laboratory12.5
 433-254 Software Design12.5
 433-313 Computer Design12.5
 431-325 Stochastic Signals and Systems12.5
 or 
 620-201 Probability12.5
 Elective subjects37.5

Computer engineering students are required to complete 431-325 Stochastic Signals and Systems (or alternatively 620-201 Probability) and 431-327 Communication Systems in their third year if they wish to take 400-level electrical engineering optional subjects in their fourth year of study. These subjects are prerequisites for many of the 400-level electrical engineering elective subjects.

Elective subjects may be used for additional electrical engineering or computer science subjects. However, at least 25 points of non-technical subjects must be completed during the degree.

Fourth year (computer engineering)
 431-400 Project Work (or 433-464 Project Work) 
 431-467 Digital Systems 4: High Speed Systems12.5
 433-332 Operating Systems12.5
 433-353 Networks and Communications12.5
 Elective subjects37.5

Elective subjects may be taken from electrical engineering electives, 300-level and 400-level computer science subjects and subjects offered by other departments.

Computer Engineering students choosing the elective subjects are reminded they must include 25 points from management or non-technical subjects. The selection of elective subjects may be restricted by timetable and prerequisite requirements.

Second year (electrical engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-201 Engineering Analysis A12.5
 431-204 Digital Systems 2: System Design12.5
 431-210 Circuit Analysis12.5
 Elective12.5
Semester 2
 431-202 Engineering Analysis B12.5
 431-221 Fundamentals of Signals and Systems12.5
 431-222 Electronic Devices and Circuits12.5
 Elective12.5

Elective subjects may be used for additional electrical engineering or computer science subjects. However, at least 25 points of non-technical subjects must be completed during the degree.

Third year (electrical engineering)
 431-325 Stochastic Signals and Systems12.5
 or 
 620-201 Probability12.5
 431-327 Communication Systems12.5
 431-330 Design Laboratory12.5
 At least three subjects chosen from: 
 431-324 System Modelling and Control12.5
 431-326 Electronic System Design12.5
 431-328 Digital Systems 3: Circuits and Systems12.5
 431-329 Electromagnetics12.5
 640-381 Principles and Applications of Sensors12.5
 Elective subjects25

Elective subjects may be used for additional electrical engineering or computer science subjects. However, at least 25 points of non-technical subjects must be completed during the degree.

Fourth year (electrical engineering)
 431-400 Project Work25
 At least four units from fourth-year electrical engineering electives50
 Elective subjects25

Elective subjects may be taken from fourth-year electrical engineering electives, 300-level and 400-level computer science subjects and subjects offered from other departments.

Electrical engineering students choosing the elective subjects are reminded that they must include 25 points from management or non-technical subjects. The selection of elective subjects may be restricted by timetable and prerequisite requirements.

Second year (software engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-201 Engineering Analysis A12.5
 431-204 Digital Systems 2: System Design12.5
 433-252 Software Engineering Principles & Tools12.5
 433-253 Algorithms and Data Structures12.5
Semester 2
 431-202 Engineering Analysis B12.5
 433-254 Software Design12.5
 433-255 Logic and Computation12.5
 Elective12.5

Elective subjects may be used for additional electrical engineering or computer science subjects, or for subjects from other departments.

The subject 431-204 Digital Systems 2: System Design may be replaced by 433-313 Computer Design, taken in third year.

Third year (software engineering)
 433-340 Software Engineering Project25
 433-341 Software Engineering Process & Practice12.5
 433-343 Professional Issues in Computing12.5
 Two elective computer science 300-level subjects25
 Elective subjects25

Within the 62.5 points of computer science electives in third and fourth years, students must complete at least four of 433-332, 433-342, 433-351, 433-353, 433-371, 433-441. Subject 615-335 Distributed Systems may also be taken as a CSSE option. Other elective subjects may be used for additional computer science or electrical engineering subjects, or for subjects in other departments.

Fourth year (software engineering)
 433-440 Advanced Software Engineering Project25
 433-443 Software Project Management12.5
 Three electives chosen from 300-level or 400-level computer science subjects37.5
 Elective subjects25

Within the 62.5 points of computer science electives in third and fourth years, students must complete at least four of 433-332, 433-342, 433-351, 433-353, 433-371and 433-441. Subject 615-335 Distributed Systems may also be taken as a CSSE option. The selection of elective subjects may be restricted by timetable and prerequisite requirements.

Electrical engineering electives
(these electives will not all be offered every year)Semester
 431-451 Project Mgt & Product Commercialisation1
 431-460 Digital Communications1
 431-461 Digital Signal Processing1
 431-462 Communication Networks1
 431-468 Biomedical Engineering1
 431-463 Directed Study 4.11
 431-464 Digital Control and Identification2
 431-465 Wireless Communication2
 431-466 Photonic Devices and Systems2
 431-467 Digital Systems 4: High Speed Systems2
 431-469 Multimedia Signal Processing2
 431-470 Directed Study 4.22
Computer science electives
300-level (these electives will not all be offered every year)Semester
 433-303 Artificial Intelligence2
 433-313 Computer Design2
 433-330 Theory of Computation1
 433-332 Operating Systems1
 433-341 Software Engineering Process & Practice1
 433-342 Software Engineering Methods2
 433-343 Professional Issues in Computing1
 433-351 Database Systems1
 433-353 Networks and Communications1, repeat 2
 433-361 Programming Language Implementation2
 433-371 Interactive System Design2
 433-380 Graphics and Computation1
 433-385 Modelling, Analysis and Visualisation2
 433-398 Directed Study 3A1, repeat 2, Summer
 433-399 Directed Study 3B1, repeat 2, Summer
400-level (these electives will not all be offered every year)
 433-441 System Modelling and AnalysisNot Offered
 433-443 Software Project Management1
 433-448 Applied Cryptography and Coding1
 433-460 Human Language Technology2
 433-470 Functional Programming1
 433-471 Logic Programming2
 433-475 High Performance Database Systems1
 433-476 Algorithms for Constrained SearchNot Offered
 433-480 Computer Vision and Image ProcessingNot Offered
 433-481 Knowledge Representation and Reasoning1
 433-496 Directed Study 4A1, repeat 2
 433-497 Directed Study 4B1, repeat 2, Summer
 433-498 Advanced Topic in Computer Science1, repeat 2

Enrolment in directed study subjects must be approved by the department.

3. Bachelor of Computer Science (BCS)

The course aims to develop skilled computer scientists with the technical knowledge to develop well-designed and robust computer-based solutions to a range of problems in business and industry. Studies include computer science (including introduction to computer programming, algorithms and problem solving, software development) and mathematics. Electives may be chosen from a wide variety of other disciplines including digital electronics and information systems. Subjects in later years include artificial intelligence, software engineering, computer networks, operating systems, graphics and computer design.

Computer science graduates work in government, the manufacturing industry, the information industry, commerce and education. Some graduates spend their time on software development and systems support and remain in a mostly technical environment. Others move to a mixture of consulting and advice-giving roles which place more emphasis on talking to others about the use of the technology. In all types of work environments, whether with small companies or large, success in employment involves a mixture of technical expertise and strong communication skills. The knowledge and qualifications gained will enable you to work in any country.

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 faculty reserves the right to modify course structures in order to eliminate the conflicts. Students will be advised during the enrolment period of the semester if the recommended courses need to be varied. Where the courses include elective subjects these should be chosen so that timetable clashes are avoided. In particular, students in combined degrees should plan their courses so that the subjects chosen in the other faculty do not clash with those recommended for the engineering component.

3.1. Bachelor of Computer Science course structure

Students in the Bachelor of Computer Science are required to take the following subjects:

First year
Semester 1Points
 431-102 Digital Systems 1: Fundamentals12.5
 433-151 Introduction to Programming (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-171 Introduction to Programming12.5
 620-1xx mathematics subject12.5
 Elective12.5
Semester 2
 433-152 Algorithmic Problem Solving (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-172 Algorithmic Problem Solving12.5
 620-1xx mathematics subject12.5
 Electives25

The subject 431-102 Digital Systems 1: Fundamentals may be taken in second year, swapping an additional elective into first year.

The subjects listed as 620-1xx represent 25 points of 100-level mathematics and statistics. The recommended combination of subjects for students who have completed both Mathematical Methods 3/4 and Specialist Mathematics 3/4 in Year 12 is 620-141 Mathematics A and 620-143 Applied Mathematics, or the corresponding pair of advanced subjects. The recommended combination of subjects for students who have completed Mathematical Methods 3/4 but not Specialist Mathematics 3/4 is 620-161 Introductory Mathematics and 620-140 Intermediate Mathematics.

Second year
Semester 1Points
 433-252 Software Engineering Principles & Tools12.5
 433-253 Algorithms and Data Structures12.5
 Electives25
Semester 2
 433-254 Software Design12.5
 433-255 Logic and Computation12.5
 Electives25

Students considering extending their study by enrolling in the BCS (Honours) degree should note that study of mathematics or statistics at the second year level is strongly recommended.

Third year
Semester 1Points
 433-343 Professional Issues in Computing12.5
 300-level computer science subjects37.5
Semester 2
 300-level computer science subjects37.5
 Elective12.5

The 75 points listed as computer science subjects may be any 300-level subjects taught by the department except for 433-340 Software Engineering Project and 433-344 Legal Issues in Computing. Subject 615-335 Distributed Systems may also be taken as an option within the 75 points of computer science subjects.

Students in the BCS are required to complete at least 12.5 points of non-technical studies from outside the Department of Computer Science. To satisfy non-technical study requirements, students may take suitable subjects from any department in the University prepared to accept their enrolment, subject to prerequisite and timetabling constraints. Subjects that meet the requirements include the management subjects offered in the Faculty of Engineering and in the Faculty of Economics and Commerce, and subjects from the Faculty of Arts. Students are especially encouraged to consider subjects where the study and assessment requirements include written and oral presentation components.

Within the BCS, students are entitled to complete 25 points from departments which are not budget departments of the Faculty of Science or the Faculty of Engineering. Students who wish to include additional subjects from departments which are not budget departments of the Faculty of Science or the Faculty of Engineering can do so within the BCS, with approval from the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, up to a total of 62.5 points. Normally, approval would not be given for students to undertake more than 25 of the 62.5 points at 100-level. Students in the BCS may not take more than 62.5 points of studies from outside the Faculties of Science and Engineering.

At most 125 points of the 300 points in a BCS degree may be at 100 level.

3.2. Bachelor of Computer Science (Bioinformatics stream)

First year
Semester 1Points
 433-151 Introduction to Programming (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-171 Introduction to Programming12.5
 620-1xx mathematics subject12.5
 610-141 Chemistry*12.5
 Elective (600-141 Biology of Cells and Organisms is recommended)12.5
Semester 2
 433-152 Algorithmic Problem Solving (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-172 Algorithmic Problem Solving12.5
 620-1xx mathematics subject12.5
 610-142 Chemistry*12.5
 Elective (non-technical if not taken in semester 1)12.5

* The chemistry sequence of 610-141 and 610-142 is available to students who have completed VCE chemistry. Students who have not completed VCE chemistry will be required to take 610-171 followed by 610-141 and 610-142 over summer. Some students who are required to take 610-171 may be granted exemption from 610-141. Students intending to undertake chemistry 610-142 upon successful completion of 610-171 must achieve a high level in the examination component of chemistry 610-171 in order to meet prerequisites for later-year chemistry or biochemistry subjects.

Students enrolled on a HECS basis who are required to pursue the sequences 610-171 followed by 610-141 and 610-142 may enrol in 610-142 in the Summer Semester on a HECS basis.

Local and international students enrolled on a full-fee basis who are required to pursue the sequences 610-171 followed by 610-141 and 610-142 note that the normal pro rata fee will apply for each subject.

Second year
Semester 1Points
 431-102 Digital Systems 1: Fundamentals12.5
 433-252 Software Engineering Principles & Tools12.5
 433-253 Algorithms and Data Structures12.5
 521-211 Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Part A12.5
Semester 2
 433-254 Software Design12.5
 433-255 Logic and Computation12.5
 521-212 Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Part B12.5
 521-2xx Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Elective12.5
Third year
Semester 1Points
 433-343 Professional Issues in Computing12.5
 433-3xx (300-level computer science subjects)25
 521-301 Protein Structure, Design & Engineering12.5
Semester 2
 433-303 Artificial Intelligence12.5
 433-351 Database Systems12.5
 433-3xx Computer Science elective12.5
 521-3xx Biochemistry subject to be approved12.5

Recommended 300-level computer science electives include 433-371 Interactive System Design, 433-353 Networks and Communications, 433-380 Graphics and Computation and 433-385 Modelling Analysis and Visualisation.

Students who fulfil the faculty requirements for overloading may be interested in the subjects 521-303 Molecular and Cell Biology and 521-307 Biomolecular Structure and Bioinformatics.

3.3. Bachelor of Computer Science and Bachelor of Laws (BCS/LLB)

3.3.1. BCS requirements

To be awarded the BCS in the combined BCS/LLB degree program, students must have completed a total of 200 points not counted towards their LLB degree, including:

3.3.2. LLB requirements

To be awarded the LLB in the combined BCS/LLB degree program, students must have completed a total of 300 points not counted towards their BCS degree, including:

3.3.3. Recommended course structure

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 faculty reserves the right to modify course structures in order to eliminate the conflicts. Students will be advised during the enrolment period of the semester if the recommended courses need to be varied. Where the courses include elective subjects these should be chosen so that timetable clashes are avoided. In particular, students in combined degrees should plan their courses so that the subjects chosen in the other faculty do not clash with those recommended for the engineering component.

First year
Year longPoints
 730-104 Torts and the Process Of Law25
Semester 1
 433-151 Introduction to Programming (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-171 Introduction to Programming12.5
 620-1xx mathematics subject12.5
 730-105 History and Philosophy of Law I12.5
Semester 2
 433-152 Algorithmic Problem Solving (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-172 Algorithmic Problem Solving12.5
 620-1xx mathematics subject12.5
 730-115 History and Philosophy of Law II12.5
Second year
Year longPoints
 730-260 Criminal Law and Procedure25
 730-202 Contracts25
Semester 1
 431-102 Digital Systems 1: Fundamentals12.5
 433-252 Software Engineering Principles & Tools12.5
Semester 2
 433-253 Algorithms and Data Structures12.5
 433-255 Logic and Computation12.5
Third year
Year longPoints
 730-301 Constitutional and Adminstrative Law25
 730-304 Property25
Semester 1
 433-254 Software Design12.5
 730-462 Equity and Trusts12.5
Semester 2
 Computer science electives25
Fourth year
Semester 1Points
 Computer science electives25
 433-344 Legal Issues in Computing12.5
 730-441 Copyright and Patent Law12.5
Semester 2
 Computer science electives25
 730-335 Trade Marks and Unfair Competition12.5
 Law elective12.5
Fifth year
Semester 1Points
 Law electives50
Semester 2
 Law electives50

Note: There is considerable flexibility within the fourth and fifth years of study, and students seeking combinations of electives offered only in particular semesters will be able to rearrange subjects as required. The skeleton presented here is intended to be indicative rather than prescriptive.

3.4. Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) (BCS Hons)

Students who wish to consolidate their knowledge of computer science and who have achieved an honours grade average in their third-year studies should consider completing the BCS (Honours) year. This involves completing a substantial research project and advanced coursework. Completion of the honours year serves both as a preparation for postgraduate study and as an opportunity to strengthen practical skills before seeking employment.

3.4.1. Overview

The BCS (Honours) program is designed to:

3.4.2. Admission requirements

To enter the BCS (Honours), students must have:

Students should also note that study of mathematics or statistics at the second-year level is strongly recommended.

Students from other institutions and other backgrounds should contact the honours coordinator to determine their eligibility for entry to the BCS (Honours) degree.

3.4.3. Honours coordinator

The honours coordinator is Dr Linda Stern

3.4.4. Duration and commencement of course

The BCS (Honours) program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, commencing in either late February or mid July each year. The program requires one year of full-time study, or two years of part-time study.

3.4.5. Assessment

3.4.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in the BCS (Honours) must pass at least 100 points of approved subjects, including 433-401 Computer Science Research Project, and must have a weighted average mark (calculated over the best 100 points of such approved subjects, but always including 433-401 Computer Science Research Project) of at least 65 per cent.

Students enrolled the BCS (Honours) are also expected to have a satisfactory level of attendance at departmental seminars.

Students will be advised of hurdle requirements for the individual coursework subjects at the commencement of each subject.

3.4.5.2. Components of assessment

The BCS (Honours) program comprises a research project subject and five advanced coursework subjects. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

The final honours grade is the weighted average mark over the 100 points included in these two components. Students who complete more than 62.5 points of advanced coursework will have their final honours grade calculated as their weighted average mark over the 100 points of study obtained by including their best 62.5 points of advanced coursework.

3.4.5.3. Advanced coursework subjects

The following 400-level subjects are offered to students enrolled in the BCS (Honours) degree:

400-level computer science subjects
 433-441 System Modelling and AnalysisNot Offered
 433-443 Software Project Management1
 433-448 Applied Cryptography and Coding1
 433-460 Human Language Technology2
 433-470 Functional Programming1
 433-471 Logic Programming2
 433-475 High Performance Database Systems1
 433-476 Algorithms for Constrained SearchNot Offered
 433-480 Computer Vision and Image ProcessingNot Offered
 433-481 Knowledge Representation and Reasoning1
 433-498 Advanced Topic in Computer Science1, repeat 2

Students may enrol in one 300-level subject in computer science as part of their coursework component, and as many as two of the following 600-level postgraduate subjects taught by the department:

For details of these subjects, see the Faculty of Engineering Postgraduate Handbook, contact the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, or visit the departmental web site at http://www.cs.mu.oz.au/.

Students should note that in any given year the department may choose not to offer one or more of the pool of 400- and 600-level subjects. Students are advised to make contact with the department late in the previous year to determine if particular subjects will be available.

Students are reminded that to be awarded a BCS (Honours) degree they must complete at least 100 points of approved subjects including an honours project, and must obtain a weighted average over those subjects of at least 65 per cent.

3.4.5.4. Research project

In addition to the advanced coursework, students must complete a total of 37.5 points of enrolment in the subject 433-401 Computer Science Research Project. In any given semester this subject may be weighted as 12.5, 25.0, or 37.5 points, depending upon the other subjects being undertaken in that semester and whether the student is full or part time. A CNT mark (continuing) will be assigned to this subject until an aggregate of 37.5 points of enrolment in it has been reached.

The honours Computer Science Research Project subject assessment comprises a research report (thesis) of up to 40 pages (20 000 words) and an oral presentation not exceeding 30 minutes.

3.4.6. Further information

If you require further information about the BCS (Honours) program contact:

Dr Linda Stern tel: +61 3 8344 9169

3.5. Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)/Bachelor of Computer Science (BE/BCS)

For details of this five-year degree see Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)/Bachelor of Computer Science (BE/BCS).

4. Bachelor of Engineering (electrical, computer, software) BE(IT) or BE combined courses

The BE(IT) and BE in computer, electrical and software engineering can be combined with a number of degrees from other faculties. Students in these combined programs typically take a mixture of subjects from both faculties during each year of the combined program. Standard templates, to be completed by the addition of the subject choices from the other faculty, appear below, see Combined degree course structures with electrical, computer and software engineering.

4.1. Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Engineering (computer, electrical, software) BA/BE(IT) or BA/BE

The combined BA/BE(IT) and BA/BE course in engineering (computer, electrical or software engineering) and arts, must satisfy the following requirements:

Typical course plans for the three engineering streams of this combined degree appear below, see Combined degree course structures with electrical, computer and software engineering.

4.2. Bachelor of Engineering/ Bachelor of Commerce (computer, electrical, software) BE(IT)/BCom or BE/BCom

The combined BE(IT)/BCom and BE/BCom course in engineering (computer, electrical or software engineering) and commerce, must satisfy the following requirements:

Typical course plans for the three engineering streams of this combined degree appear below, see Combined degree course structures with electrical, computer and software engineering.

4.3. Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Engineering (computer, electrical, software) LLB/BE(IT) or LLB/BE

The combined LLB/BE(IT) and LLB/BE course in computer, electrical or software engineering and law, must satisfy the following requirements:

Typical course plans for the three engineering streams of this combined degree appear below see Combined degree course structures with electrical, computer and software engineering.

4.4. Timetabling of combined degrees

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 faculty reserves the right to modify course structures in order to eliminate the conflicts. Students will be advised during the enrolment period of the semester if the recommended courses need to be varied. Where the courses include elective subjects these should be chosen so that timetable clashes are avoided. In particular, students in combined degrees should plan their courses so that the subjects chosen in the other faculty do not clash with those recommended for the engineering component.

4.5. Combined degree course structures with electrical, computer and software engineering

First year (combined degrees in arts, commerce, law, with computer, electrical, software engineering)
Semester 1Points
 433-151 Introduction to Programming (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-171 Introduction to Programming12.5
 620-121 Mathematics A (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-141 Mathematics A12.5
 Subjects from other degree as required25
Semester 2
 620-123 Applied Mathematics (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-143 Applied Mathematics12.5
 431-103 Electrical Circuits12.5
 Subjects from other degree as required25
Second year (computer, electrical, software engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-102 Digital Systems 1: Fundamentals12.5
 Subjects from other degree as required37.5
Semester 2
 433-152 Algorithmic Problem Solving (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-172 Algorithmic Problem Solving12.5
 Subjects from other degree as required37.5
Third year (computer and electrical engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-201 Engineering Analysis A12.5
 431-204 Digital Systems 2: System Design12.5
 431-210 Circuit Analysis12.5
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Semester 2
 431-202 Engineering Analysis B12.5
 431-221 Fundamentals of Signals and Systems12.5
 431-222 Electronic Devices and Circuits12.5
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Fourth year (computer engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-330 Design Laboratory12.5
 433-252 Software Engineering Principles & Tools12.5
 433-253 Algorithms and Data Structures12.5
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Semester 2
 431-328 Digital Systems 3: Circuits and Systems12.5
 433-254 Software Design12.5
 433-313 Computer Design12.5
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Fifth year (computer engineering)
Year longPoints
 431-400 Project Work 1or 433-464 Project Work25
Semester 1
 431-325 Stochastic Signals and Systems12.5
 or 
 620-201 Probability12.5
 433-332 Operating Systems12.5
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Semester 2
 431-467 Digital Systems 4: High Speed Systems12.5
 433-353 Networks and Communications12.5
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Fourth year (electrical engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-325 Stochastic Signals and Systems12.5
 or 
 620-201 Probability12.5
 Electrical engineering 300-level electives25
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Semester 2
 431-327 Communication Systems12.5
 431-330 Design Laboratory12.5
 Electrical engineering 300-level elective12.5
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Fifth year (electrical engineering)
Year longPoints
 431-400 Project Work225
Semester 1
 Electrical engineering 400-level electives25
 Subjects from other degree as required12.5
Semester 2
 Electrical engineering 400-level electives25
 Subjects from other degree as required12.5
Third year (software engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-204 Digital Systems 2: System Design12.5
 433-252 Software Engineering Principles & Tools12.5
 433-253 Algorithms and Data Structures12.5
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Semester 2
 431-201 Engineering Analysis A12.5
 433-254 Software Design12.5
 433-255 Logic and Computation12.5
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Fourth year (software engineering)
Year longPoints
 433-340 Software Engineering Project25
Semester 1
 433-341 Software Engineering Process & Practice12.5
 433-343 Professional Issues in Computing12.5
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Semester 2
 CSSE 300-level electives25
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Fifth year (software engineering)
Year longPoints
 433-440 Advanced Software Engineering Project25
Semester 1
 433-443 Software Project Management12.5
 CSSE 300-level and 400-level electives12.5
 Subject from other degree as required12.5
Semester 2
 CSSE 300-level and 400-level electives25
 Subject from other degree as required12.5

The 62.5 points labelled CSSE electives must be selected, subject to prerequisites being satisfied, from the 300-level, 400-level and (with the approval of the department) masters-level subjects offered by the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering and must include at least 50 points selected from: 433-332 Operating Systems, 433-342 Software Engineering Methods, 433-351 Database Systems, 433-353 Networks and Communications, 433-371 Interactive System Design, 433-441 System Modelling and Analysis. Subject 615-335 Distributed Systems may also be taken as a CSSE option.

Sixth year (LLB/BE(IT) or LLB/BE with computer, electrical and software engineering)
 Law subjects to complete the requirements of the LLB degree.100

4.6. Accelerated program for a major in computer science in the BSc component of the Bachelor of Engineering (computer or electrical)/ Bachelor of Science (BE(IT)/BSc) or (BSc/BE).

Students commencing in the BE(IT)/BSc program in 2003 and those enrolled in the BSc/BE prior to 2003, planning to undertake a science major in computer science, should take this accelerated sequence of subjects in order to maximise their choice of computer or electrical engineering electives in their final two years of study.

First year (computer, electrical engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-102 Digital Systems 1: Fundamentals12.5
 433-151 Introduction to Programming (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-171 Introduction to Programming12.5
 620-121 Mathematics A (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-141 Mathematics A12.5
 640-121 Physics A (Adv)12.5
 or 
 640-141 Physics A12.5
Semester 2
 431-103 Electrical Circuits12.5
 433-152 Algorithmic Problem Solving (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-172 Algorithmic Problem Solving12.5
 620-123 Applied Mathematics (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-143 Applied Mathematics12.5
 640-122 Physics B (Adv)12.5
 or 
 640-142 Physics B12.5
Second year (computer, electrical engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-204 Digital Systems 2: System Design12.5
 431-210 Circuit Analysis12.5
 433-252 Software Engineering Principles & Tools12.5
 620-122 Mathematics B (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-142 Mathematics B12.5
Semester 2
 431-221 Fundamentals of Signals and Systems12.5
 431-222 Electronic Devices and Circuits12.5
 433-253 Algorithms and Data Structures12.5
 620-232 Mathematical Methods12.5
Third year (computer engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-325 Stochastic Signals and Systems12.5
 or 
 620-201 Probability12.5
 431-326 Electronic System Design12.5
 433-254 Software Design12.5
 620-231 Vector Analysis12.5
Semester 2
 431-327 Communication Systems12.5
 431-328 Digital Systems 3: Circuits and Systems12.5
 431-330 Design Laboratory12.5
 433-255 Logic and Computation12.5
Fourth year (computer engineering)
 CSSE 300-level subjects, including 433-313, 433-332 and 433-353.100

Note: To ensure breadth, students in the computer engineering stream taking a computer science major for the BSc are required to complete 431-326 Electronic System Design and 431-327 Communication Systems. Students are also expected to complete 25 points of non-technical electives as part of their final year

Third year (electrical engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-325 Stochastic Signals and Systems12.5
 or 
 620-201 Probability12.5
 Electrical engineering elective12.5
 433-254 Software Design12.5
 620-231 Vector Analysis12.5
Semester 2
 431-327 Communication Systems12.5
 431-330 Design Laboratory12.5
 Electrical engineering elective12.5
 433-255 Logic and Computation12.5
Fourth year (electrical engineering)
 CSSE 300-level subjects87.5
 Electrical engineering elective12.5
Fifth year (computer, electrical engineering)
 Subjects as for the final year of the single computer or electrical BE(IT) program, including 25 points of non-technical electives.100

Students taking the combined course in computer science with computer engineering should note that they are required to enrol in 431-400 Project Work, to ensure breadth in the combined degree.

4.7. Accelerated program for a major in mathematics in the BSc component of the Bachelor of Engineering (computer, electrical, software)/Bachelor of Science (BE(IT)/BSc) or (BSc/BE)

Students commencing in the BE(IT)/BSc program in 2003 and those students enrolled in the BSc/BE prior to 2003 who are planning to take a science major in mathematics, should take this accelerated sequence of subjects in order to maximise their choice of computer, electrical or software engineering electives in their final two years of study.

First year (computer, electrical, software engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-102 Digital Systems 1: Fundamentals12.5
 433-151 Introduction to Programming (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-171 Introduction to Programming12.5
 620-121 Mathematics A (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-141 Mathematics A12.5
 640-121 Physics A (Adv)12.5
 or 
 640-141 Physics A12.5
Semester 2
 431-103 Electrical Circuits12.5
 433-152 Algorithmic Problem Solving (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-172 Algorithmic Problem Solving12.5
 620-123 Applied Mathematics (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-143 Applied Mathematics12.5
 640-122 Physics B (Adv)12.5
 or 
 640-142 Physics B12.5
Second year (computer engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-204 Digital Systems 2: System Design12.5
 431-210 Circuit Analysis12.5
 620-122 Mathematics B (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-142 Mathematics B12.5
 620-231 Vector Analysis12.5
Semester 2
 431-221 Fundamentals of Signals and Systems12.5
 431-222 Electronic Devices and Circuits12.5
 433-252 Software Engineering Principles & Tools12.5
 620-232 Mathematical Methods12.5
Third year (computer engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-325 Stochastic Signals and Systems12.5
 or 
 620-201 Probability12.5
 433-253 Algorithms and Data Structures12.5
 433-254 Software Design12.5
 620-2xx mathematics subject12.5
Semester 2
 431-328 Digital Systems 3: Circuits and Systems12.5
 431-330 Design Laboratory12.5
 433-313 Computer Design12.5
 620-2xx mathematics subject12.5
Fourth year (computer engineering)
 Science subjects100
Fifth year (computer engineering)
Year longPoints
 431-400 Project Work25
 or 
 433-464 Project Work25
Semester 1
 433-332 Operating Systems12.5
 433-353 Networks and Communications12.5
 Non-technical elective12.5
Semester 2
 431-467 Digital Systems 4: High Speed Systems12.5
 Non-technical elective12.5
 Elective12.5
Second year (electrical engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-204 Digital Systems 2: System Design12.5
 431-210 Circuit Analysis12.5
 620-122 Mathematics B (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-142 Mathematics B12.5
 620-231 Vector Analysis12.5
Semester 2
 431-221 Fundamentals of Signals and Systems12.5
 431-222 Electronic Devices and Circuits12.5
 620-232 Mathematical Methods12.5
 Non-technical subject12.5
Third year (electrical engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-3xx third year electrical engineering electives25
 431-325 Stochastic Signals and Systems12.5
 or 
 620-201 Probability12.5
 620-2xx mathematics subject12.5
Semester 2
 431-327 Communication Systems12.5
 431-330 Design Laboratory12.5
 431-3xx third year electrical engineering elective12.5
 620-2xx mathematics subject12.5
Fourth year (electrical engineering)
 Science subjects100
Fifth year (electrical engineering)
Year longPoints
 431-400 Project Work25
Semester 1
 431-4xx fourth year electrical engineering electives25
 Non-technical elective12.5
Semester 2
 431-4xx fourth year electrical engineering electives37.5
Second year (software engineering)
Semester 1Points
 620-122 Mathematics B (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-142 Mathematics B12.5
 431-204 Digital Systems 2: System Design12.5
 433-252 Software Engineering Principles & Tools12.5
 433-253 Algorithms and Data Structures12.5
Semester 2
 620-231 Vector Analysis12.5
 620-232 Mathematical Methods12.5
 433-254 Software Design12.5
 433-255 Logic and Computation12.5
Third year (software engineering)
Year longPoints
 433-340 Software Engineering Project25
Semester 1
 433-341 Software Engineering Process & Practice12.5
 433-343 Professional Issues in Computing12.5
 620-2xx mathematics subject12.5
Semester 2
 433-3xx third year software engineering subjects25
 620-2xx mathematics subject12.5
Fourth year (software engineering)
 Science subjects100
Fifth year (software engineering)
Year longPoints
 433-440 Advanced Software Engineering Project25
Semester 1
 433-443 Software Project Management12.5
 CSSE 300-level or 400-level elective12.5
 Elective12.5
Semester 2
 CSSE 300-level and 400-level electives25
 Elective12.5

The 62.5 points labelled CSSE electives must be selected, subject to prerequisites being satisfied, from the 300-level, 400-level and (with the approval of the Department) masters-level subjects offered by the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering and must include at least 50 points selected from: 433-332 Operating Systems, 433-342 Software Engineering Methods, 433-351 Database Systems, 433-353 Networks and Communications, 433-371 Interactive System Design, 433-441 System Modelling and Analysis. Subject 615-335 Distributed Systems may also be taken as a CSSE option.

4.8. Accelerated program for students majoring in physics in the BSc component of the Bachelor of Engineering(IT)/Bachelor of Science (BE(IT)/BSc) or (BSc/BE)

Students commencing in the BE(IT)/BSc program in 2003 and those enrolled in the BSc/BE prior to 2003 who are planning to take a science major in physics, should seek course advice from the Faculty of Science, Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering and the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at these web sites:

http://www.cs.mu.oz.au/courseadvice

http://www.ee.mu.oz.au/courses/advice/advice 2003

First year (computer, electrical engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-102 Digital Systems 1: Fundamentals12.5
 433-151 Introduction to Programming (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-171 Introduction to Programming12.5
 620-121 Mathematics A (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-141 Mathematics A12.5
 640-121 Physics A (Adv)12.5
 or 
 640-141 Physics A12.5
Semester 2
 431-103 Electrical Circuits12.5
 620-122 Mathematics B (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-142 Mathematics B12.5
 620-123 Applied Mathematics (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-143 Applied Mathematics12.5
 640-122 Physics B (Adv)12.5
 or 
 640-142 Physics B12.5
First year (software engineering)
Semester 1Points
 431-102 Digital Systems 1: Fundamentals12.5
 433-151 Introduction to Programming (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-171 Introduction to Programming12.5
 620-121 Mathematics A (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-141 Mathematics A12.5
 640-121 Physics A (Adv)12.5
 or 
 640-141 Physics A12.5
Semester 2
 431-103 Electrical Circuits12.5
 433-152 Algorithmic Problem Solving (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 433-172 Algorithmic Problem Solving12.5
 620-123 Applied Mathematics (Advanced)12.5
 or 
 620-143 Applied Mathematics12.5
 640-122 Physics B (Adv)12.5
 or 
 640-142 Physics B12.5

Details of later years of the BE(IT)/BSc or BSc(Physics)/BE (computer, electrical, software) combined degree program are available from the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering or the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering.

Students wishing to take science majors other than the ones listed above should contact the Faculty of Science, Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering and the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering for course planning advice.

Students must plan their course so that the subjects chosen in the other faculty do not clash with those recommended for the engineering component.

Subjects in courses of the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

145-126 Effective Communication for Engineering
316-101 Introductory Macroeconomics
316-102 Introductory Microeconomics
316-130 Quantitative Methods 1
431-101 Fundamentals of Electrical Engineering
431-102 Digital Systems 1: Fundamentals
431-103 Electrical Circuits
431-201 Engineering Analysis A
431-202 Engineering Analysis B
431-204 Digital Systems 2: System Design
431-210 Circuit Analysis
431-221 Fundamentals of Signals and Systems
431-222 Electronic Devices and Circuits
431-225 Engineering Analysis A (old)
431-226 Engineering Analysis B (old)
431-324 System Modelling and Control
431-325 Stochastic Signals and Systems
431-326 Electronic System Design
431-327 Communication Systems
431-328 Digital Systems 3: Circuits and Systems
431-329 Electromagnetics
431-330 Design Laboratory
431-400 Project Work
431-401 Project Work Extended
431-451 Project Mgt & Product Commercialisation
431-460 Digital Communications
431-461 Digital Signal Processing
431-462 Communication Networks
431-463 Directed Study 4.1
431-464 Digital Control and Identification
431-465 Wireless Communication
431-466 Photonic Devices and Systems
431-467 Digital Systems 4: High Speed Systems
431-468 Biomedical Engineering
431-469 Multimedia Signal Processing
431-470 Directed Study 4.2
431-480 Project Work
431-490 Project Work (Extended)
433-142 Computing Fundamentals B
433-151 Introduction to Programming (Advanced)
433-152 Algorithmic Problem Solving (Advanced)
433-171 Introduction to Programming
433-172 Algorithmic Problem Solving
433-252 Software Engineering Principles & Tools
433-253 Algorithms and Data Structures
433-254 Software Design
433-255 Logic and Computation
433-258 Database Systems for Engineers
433-303 Artificial Intelligence
433-313 Computer Design
433-330 Theory of Computation
433-332 Operating Systems
433-340 Software Engineering Project
433-341 Software Engineering Process & Practice
433-342 Software Engineering Methods
433-343 Professional Issues in Computing
433-344 Legal Issues in Computing
433-351 Database Systems
433-353 Networks and Communications
433-361 Programming Language Implementation
433-371 Interactive System Design
433-380 Graphics and Computation
433-385 Modelling, Analysis and Visualisation
433-398 Directed Study 3A
433-399 Directed Study 3B
433-401 Computer Science Research Project
433-440 Advanced Software Engineering Project
433-441 System Modelling and Analysis
433-443 Software Project Management
433-448 Applied Cryptography and Coding
433-460 Human Language Technology
433-464 Project Work
433-465 Mechatronics Project
433-470 Functional Programming
433-471 Logic Programming
433-475 High Performance Database Systems
433-476 Algorithms for Constrained Search
433-480 Computer Vision and Image Processing
433-481 Knowledge Representation and Reasoning
433-496 Directed Study 4A
433-497 Directed Study 4B
433-498 Advanced Topic in Computer Science
620-121 Mathematics A (Advanced)
620-122 Mathematics B (Advanced)
620-123 Applied Mathematics (Advanced)
620-141 Mathematics A
620-142 Mathematics B
620-143 Applied Mathematics
620-201 Probability
620-231 Vector Analysis
620-232 Mathematical Methods
620-252 Analysis
620-331 Applied Partial Differential Equations
620-332 Integral Transforms & Asymptotics
640-121 Physics A (Adv)
640-122 Physics B (Adv)
640-141 Physics A
640-142 Physics B
640-223 Quantum Mechanics & Thermal Physics(Adv)
640-243 Quantum Mechanics & Thermal Physics
640-381 Principles and Applications of Sensors
730-104 Torts and the Process Of Law
730-105 History and Philosophy of Law I
730-115 History and Philosophy of Law II
730-202 Contracts
730-335 Trade Marks and Unfair Competition


1. The project subject may be taken over two semesters, or as a 25-point load in a single semester. Students with an H2A or better average may replace the 25-point project and two of the elective subjects by a 50-point project subject
2. The project subject may be taken over two semesters, or as a 25-point load in a single semester. Students with an H2A or better average may replace the 25-point project and two of the elective subjects by a 50-point project subject.

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