Study Software Engineering in Australia

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The advancement of technology has become immense as we move forward every year. Smartphones, shopping apps and smart devices are evolving and are transforming the way we live. Almost every industry is relying heavily on well-built software to perform businesses more efficiently and highly-skilled software engineers play huge roles in making these transformations happen. 

With the rise of technology has spread across every industry, the software engineering degree has become one of the most in-demand fields of study for younger generations. If you are technology-oriented and willing to learn how the software is being developed and works, then this course will be the right thing for you.

What is Software Engineering?

Video Credit: Pluralsight

First, let us break down the term software and engineering for a better understanding.

Software – Software is a set of instructions or programs which enable users to perform a particular task in their computer or smart devices. Software is a common term referred to computer programmes running on devices such as PCs, smartphones, laptops, and other smart machines.

Engineering – Engineering applies scientific methods in designing and developing a product. 

Therefore, Software engineering is a branch of computer science which entails the development of computer systems software and applications software

Computer systems software – Made up of programs that include computing utilities including Antivirus, Windows Explorer, disk defragmenter, etc and operations systems such as MS Windows, macOS, iOS and Android.

Applications software – Contains user-organized applications, including web browsers such as Google Chrome, Firefox and Safari as well as database programmes such as Microsoft Access, Oracle and FileMaker.

Applying these engineering principles will enable software engineers to build personalized systems for specific industries or clients, from defining the expectations to develop new software or modify the existing one (requirement analysis) to the software process.

What does a Software Engineer do?

Software engineers apply mathematical analysis and computer science principles in developing and enhancing software to ensure that it runs effectively and efficiently. Software engineers develop various types of software such as operating systems, computer games, business apps and editing software. The responsibilities of software engineers  may include:

  • Analyzing user requirements
  • Research and design new software programs and operating systems
  • Evaluate software and systems run smoothly in computers and hardware
  • Identifying necessary modifications in existing programs
  • Monitoring software defects for system maintenance 

There are two primary types of Software Engineers, which are application Software Developers and System Software Developer.

Application Software Developers –Applications software developers create custom software for an individual client or sell commercial software for the public. They design computer applications, such as word processors and games, for consumers. 

System Software Developers –System software developers create and improve software that runs computers and technological devices such as smartphones, network routers and operating systems.

Where do Software Engineers work?

Due to such unparalleled growth in various sectors of industry. Software engineers often work in a variety of sectors which require software solutions. For example;

– Telecommunication 

– Health care

– Automobile development 

– Renewable energy

– Public sector 

– Finance 

Software engineers may pursue their career as an employee or an independent contractor. They usually work in a comfortable environment but often it is a demanding task with long hours and narrow time limits.

Skills Required to be a Software Engineer

Multitasking – Software engineers are required to perform multiple tasks at a time under a short timeline while remaining organized and managing tasks effectively. Time management is crucial for them to prioritize and manage their tasks to stay productive and efficient.

Teamwork – Software engineers usually work with other teams and departments in maintaining systems. They should be able to articulate project needs and discuss any challenges or problems among coworkers.

Computer programming and coding – Computer programming and coding is the basics of software engineering and it is crucial to learn at least one or two programming languages in order to land a job in this field. Examples of programming languages are JavaScript, Python, HTML, CSS, etc. 

Problem-solving & Critical Thinking – It is important for software engineers to have the ability in identifying the root of a problem and designing effective software as solutions. Software problems or errors could give software engineers a hard time to debug even if the error is minor. Therefore, the ability to locate software issues with logical reasoning to solve problems is crucial in this field.

Core Subjects in Software Engineering Degree

A software engineering degree usually takes 4 years to complete. Throughout the course, students will gain knowledge and practical skills in software processes, methodologies and frameworks. A work placement will enable students to expand their practical skills and gain insights into the evolving software industry. The core topics will be taught in this degree includes the following;

  • Mathematics for computing
  • Computer programming
  • Algorithms and analysis
  • System and Software design
  • Software Frameworks
  • Operating system techniques
  • Networking

General Entry Requirement for Software Engineering Degree in Australia

A-Levels

Min. CDD

UEC

An average grade of B4

International Baccalaureate (IB)

A minimum score of 25 

ATAR

A minimum score of 80.00 points

*The requirements may vary among universities, for inquiries on other entry requirements, contact Excel Education.

English Requirement for Software Engineering Degree in Australia

IELTS

A minimum of 6.5 overall and 6.0 in each band

TOEFL

85 overall:17 in Reading, Listening and Speaking and 19 in Writing

PTE

61 overall and a minimum result of 54 in each band

*The requirements may vary among universities, for inquiries on other entry requirements, contact Excel Education.

Top Universities to Study Software Engineering in Australia

1. University of Sydney

Image Credit: News.microsoft

Program

Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Software Engineering)

Intake (2021)

March & August

Duration

4 years full time

Indicative Annual Fees (2021)

AUD $50,000

2. University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

Program

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering

Intake (2021)

February & July

Duration

4 years full time

Indicative Annual Fees (2021)

AUD $48,163

3. Monash University

Image credit: usnews

Program

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Software Engineering

Intake (2021)

February & July

Duration

4 years (full time)

Indicative Annual Fees (2021)

AUD $46,000

4. RMIT University

Image Credit: RMIT University

Program

Bachelor of Software Engineering

Intake (2021)

February & July

Duration

4 years (Full-time)

Indicative Annual Fees (2021)

AUD $36,480

5. Griffith University

Image Credit: Griffith University

Program

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Software Engineering

Intake (2021)

March & July

Duration

4 years (Full-time)

Indicative Annual Fees (2021)

AUD $37,000

Contact us to find out more!

Student enquiries:

Call/Whatsapp: +60182414802

Email: info.my@exceleducation.com.au

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About the Author

Sasvin Ravi
I am a freelance content writer, writing on a weekly basis while discovering my true passion..

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