Get hands-on in our state-of-the-art engineering facilities
Industry-linked projects from your first year
Designed in accordance to Engineers Australia and the Australian Computer Society accreditation requirements
Key facts
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2023 close 25 June 2023
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course overview
Create the smart software and systems of the future by studying Deakin’s Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours). This course arms you with the skills needed to build disruptive technologies that create change, making you a sought-after expert ready to solve tomorrow’s business problems through creative computing solutions. Explore a broad range of exciting study areas, including robotics, algorithms, programming and software architecture, and apply your skills in world-class facilities.
You will have access to Deakin’s $1.2 million Robotics and Internet of Things (RIoT) Lab, where you will acquire specialist skills in robotics, cyber-physical systems and the Internet of Things. Gain practical experience and learn how to work successfully in a team with project-based learning activities and contribute to real-world projects alongside professional engineers during 450 hours of industry placement.
Want to be at the forefront of robotics, computing and smart technologies?
Rapid advancement in sensing hardware, computers and smart devices has created a growing demand for software engineers who can develop complex software systems for the modern world. From Mars rovers to smart homes and cities, robotic surgery and precision agriculture, software engineers combine software systems and embedded hardware to create solutions for the future that fill a vital role in the development of smart and innovative technologies. Deakin’s Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours) prepares you to take advantage of this demand. You will develop specialised skills in robotics, cyber-physical systems and the Internet-of-Things (IoT), all while getting hands-on with the latest software engineering tools that allow you to push beyond the limitations of traditional technologies.
Your ideas and creativity will flourish in our state-of-the-art facilities. You will have a range of devices, robotics and drones on hand in our RIoT Lab. You will work alongside hardware designers and app developers to drive the development of computing solutions that interact with people, environments and other technologies.
The Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute (A2I2) provides innovative products, technologies and solutions for industry across all sectors. As a software engineering student, you will have the opportunity to interact and work with professional software engineers and data scientists on campus as part of your degree.
Through practical experience in the RIoT Lab, a strong focus on project-based learning at A2I2 and exciting internship opportunities, you will benefit from constant exposure to real-world software engineering situations. So, whether your dream role involves developing drones, creating smart devices or pioneering AI innovations, you will graduate with the industry skills needed to thrive.
Read MoreCourse information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours)
- Year
2023 course information
- VTAC code
1400510341 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400610341 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)- Deakin code
- S464
- CRICOS code?
- 092212D Burwood (Melbourne)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Approval status
This course is approved by the University under the Higher Education Standards Framework.
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 8.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours), students must attain 32 credit points, which must include the following:
- Twenty-two (22) credit points of core units
- Software Engineering capstone units (2 credit points)
- Software Engineering Research Training capstone units (4 credit points)
- and one of:
- A minor sequence (4 credit points), or
- 4 open elective units (4 credit points)
- Completion of STP050 Academic Integrity (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- Completion of SIT010 Safety Induction Program (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- Completion of STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- A maximum of 10 credit points at Level 1
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements. Click here for more information.
Core
Year 1 - Trimester 1
Year 1 - Trimester 2
Year 2 - Trimester 1
Year 2 - Trimester 2
Year 3 - Trimester 1
Plus one (1) elective or minor unit (one credit point)
Plus one (1) of the following:
Software Engineering capstone option 1:
OR
One (1) elective or minor unit (one credit point)
Year 3 - Trimester 2
Plus one (1) of the following:
Software Engineering capstone option 1:
Plus one (1) elective or minor unit (one credit point)
OR
Software Engineering capstone option 2:
Year 4 - Trimester 1
Plus one (1) elective or minor unit (one credit point)
Year 4 - Trimester 2
Plus one (1) elective or minor unit (one credit point, level 2 or higher)
Plus two (2) credit points from the following Research Training capstone options:
OR
^ offered in trimester 1, trimester 2, trimester 3
+ Students must have completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit) and SIT223 Professional Practice in IT.
~ Note: Students are recommended to undertake SIT374 and SIT378 in consecutive trimesters. Students should seek advice from the unit chair if they are unable to complete SIT374 and SIT378 consecutively.
* Entry to SIT746 is subject to specific unit entry requirements.
@ Please note that all students must complete their SEL703 placement. Students that complete SIT344 and an elective as their capstone option will still be required to complete another placement in SEL703.
Electives
Select from a range of elective units offered across many courses. In some cases you may even be able to choose elective units from a completely different discipline area (subject to meeting unit requirements).
Minor sequences
Refer to the details of each minor sequence for availability.
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Online
Trimester 2 - July
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Online
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Additional course information
Student Equipment Purchases
The learning experiences and assessment activities within this course require that students have access to a range of technologies beyond a desktop computer or laptop. Access to high cost specialist equipment, such as robots, is provided. Students will be required to purchase minor equipment, such as small single board computers, microcontrollers and sensors, which will be used within a range of units in this course. This equipment is also usable by the student beyond their studies. Equipment requirements and details of suppliers will be provided on a per-unit basis. The indicative cost of this equipment for this course is AUD$500.Course duration - additional information
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Participation requirements
In order to satisfy course accreditation requirements, as specified and administered by Engineers Australia, all online enrolled students are required to participate in Campus learning activities equivalent to a minimum duration of one full academic week for every trimester of effective full time study in order to ensure that graduates possess and have demonstrated the minimum necessary knowledge and skill base, engineering application abilities, and professional skills, values and attitudes at successful completion of the course to be sufficiently prepared to enter professional engineering practice.
Online enrolled students are required to attend campus mode conducted activities during the corresponding Intensive Week in a trimester. Attendance at campus mode activities is linked to assessment requirements within the Engineering programmes, failure to attend will result in not meeting the hurdle requirement of the respective assessment. Thus, a fail grade shall be awarded for the respective affected unit(s) for that particular trimester.
International students: Please note that due to Australian Government regulations, student visas to enter Australia cannot be issued to students who enrol in Deakin online. To participate in the mandatory campus based scheduled sessions during the trimester intensive week, it is suggested that you apply for a tourist visa to enter Australia. Please be advised that Deakin University cannot guarantee that you will be granted a tourist visa by the Australian Government.
International students studying online may not be granted a visitor visa to complete mandatory components of the course at a campus.
Placement can occur at any time, including during the standard holiday breaks listed here: https://www.deakin.edu.au/courses/key-dates.
Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Work experience
Through SEL703 Professional Practice, you’ll gain industry experience by completing at least 30 to 60 days of practical work experience in an engineering workplace with assessment tasks designed to develop and enhance your understanding of the engineering profession, professional practice and continuing professional development, possible career outcomes, and the opportunity to establish valuable professional networks.
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Entry requirements
Current or recent Year 12
If you are currently studying Year 12 or completed Year 12 in the previous two years and have not attempted higher education or VET/Polytechnic study since, your selection is based on the following.
VCE Prerequisite subjects
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics.
ATAR
This course uses the ATAR as part of its selection consideration.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Higher education study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of higher education after secondary schooling, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics; or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
VET study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your secondary education and subsequent academic records as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics; or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago or did not finish Year 12, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics; or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Selection adjustments
Subject adjustment
A study score of 30 in any English, Maths: Mathematical Methods, Maths: Specialist Mathematics, Physics or Systems Engineering equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 10 points.
Access and equity
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the Recognition of Prior Learning System which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose to study as each unit has its own costs. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking the first year of this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of Prior Learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for that course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year.
You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the Handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
Applications for Trimester 1, 2024 open in August. Each year, thousands of students prepare for uni with the help of Deakin support services. We offer a huge range of support, including one-on-one consultations, webinars, online resources and events throughout the year.
Direct applications are open for applicants who are not currently in Year 12, including:
- recent Year 12 students who completed secondary education in the past two years
- applicants with work and life experience
- applicants with TAFE study
- applicants with higher education study.
Please note: If you’re applying for more than one course, you need to apply through VTAC.
Entry pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours) with our pathways finder.
Contact information
Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services and how we can help you further your career.
- Call us: 1800 693 888 Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm
- Live Chat: Mon–Thurs, 8am–7pm, Fri 8am–5pm
- Submit an online enquiry
- Help hub find common and trending questions and answers
Careers
Want a degree that’s more than just a qualification? Our industry connections, world-class facilities and practical approach to learning are just some of the reasons why Deakin students graduate confident and ready to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.
Career outcomes
Graduates will be equipped to find employment in diverse areas of software engineering. You’ll be able to develop and implement state-of-the-art smart devices, systems and applications for industries including transport, health, agriculture and manufacturing.
You may pursue a career as a software engineer, software developer, programmer, embedded systems developer, robotics programmer or systems architect. Software engineers also work in specialist research roles; with experience, your career can move into project management and business development, in roles such as CIO and CTO, from start-ups to multinational corporations.
Professional recognition
This course has been designed in accordance to Engineers Australia’s and the Australian Computer Society’s professional accreditation requirements. Deakin has been awarded accreditation for the Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours) with the Australian Computer Society (ACS). Deakin's Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours) is also provisionally accredited with Engineers Australia (EA).
Course learning outcomes
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Develop a broad, coherent knowledge of the software engineering discipline, with detailed knowledge of the application of software engineering principles and approaches. Use knowledge, skills, tools and methodologies for professional software engineering practice. Design software components, systems and computing processes to meet application requirements, within realistic economic, environmental, social, political, legal and ethical constraints. |
| Communication | Communicate in a professional context to inform, motivate and effect change, and to drive sustainable innovation, utilising a range of verbal, graphical and written methods, recognising the needs of diverse audiences. |
| Digital literacy | Utilise a range of digital technologies and information sources to discover, analyse, evaluate, select, process and disseminate both technical and non-technical information. |
| Critical thinking | Evaluate information and evidence, applying critical and analytical thinking and reasoning, technical skills, personal judgement and values, in decision processes. |
| Problem solving | Apply theoretical constructs and skills and critical analysis to real-world and ill-defined problems and develop innovative computing solutions. |
| Self-management | Apply knowledge and skills to new situations in professional practice and/or further learning in the field of software engineering with adaptability, autonomy, responsibility and personal accountability for actions as a practitioner and a learner. Apply understanding of reflective practice and self-critique skills within broad parameters to plan for their own future continuing professional development. |
| Teamwork | Contribute effectively as a skilled and knowledgeable individual to the processes and output of a work unit or team. Work collaboratively in multi-disciplinary teams, employing effective communication, self- and team-management skills to achieve shared goals. |
| Global citizenship | Apply professional and ethical standards and accountability for own learning to in the development, design, construction and management of localised computing solutions. |
Approved by Faculty Board 2 June 2022
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Footnotes
*Ranked ‘well above world standard’ for manufacturing engineering and ‘above world standard’ for engineering and materials engineering. Source: Excellence in Research for Australia's (ERA) research evaluation framework 2018
#ARWU Rankings 2022