Design

Technology

Master of Software Engineering (Artificial Intelligence, Advanced)

CRICOS 099353A

What is a Master of Software Engineering in Artificial Intelligence, Advanced?

A Master of Software Engineering (Artificial Intelligence, Advanced) is for experienced software engineers looking to significantly deepen their knowledge and pursue specialist careers in the field of AI. It covers advanced software engineering techniques, challenging the foundational principles of the discipline and exploring the boundaries of software design.

While the course is founded on strong traditional and cutting-edge software engineering know-how, such as programming, maths and statistical knowledge, you’ll also investigate ethics, social responsibility and cognitive psychology throughout your studies. The Master of Software Engineering (Artificial Intelligence, Advanced) is tailored to your unique needs and creative challenges. You’ll have the opportunity to investigate advanced software engineering techniques, challenge the foundational principles of your chosen discipline and explore the boundaries of software design. Under the expert guidance of one-on-one professional mentors and our industry-leading faculty, you’ll identify and solve complex artificial intelligence software engineering problems.

Master and combine cognitive, technical and creative skills.
Investigate advanced software engineering techniques.
Explore and question the foundational principles of your field.
Master data science, machine learning and deep learning skills.
Push the boundaries of software design in search of game-changing advances.

IBM Academic Initiative Partner

Our courses are developed in collaboration with IBM, providing access to select software, courseware and key student resources.

Download course guide Start online application

Study mode

Online, On campus, Blended

Campus locations*

Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Online

Student

Domestic

International

Course duration

2 years full time

Start date

05 Jun 2023

18 Sep 2023

View all key dates

Fees

View fees

This is an AQF Level 9 course delivered by Torrens University Australia Ltd.

*For more details on international student study options.

Learn more about our information technology courses and find out what a study experience with Torrens University could be like for you.

Career opportunities

We’ve designed this course to address the needs of a rapidly evolving field. On graduation, you’ll be a global leader in AI, equipped to take on the most challenging projects, manage and inspire teams, and make a major contribution to your industry.

Potential career paths

Machine Learning Engineer
Average salary: $122,000 - $195,000
Software Engineer
Average salary: $100,000 - $160,000
Systems Architect
Average salary: $115,000 - $151,000
Software Developer
Average salary: $95,000 - $140,000

Learn more about careers in Design
Learn more about careers in Technology

Subjects and units

This course comprises of seven core subjects, four specialisation subjects and two elective subjects.

Each subject involves 10 hours of study per week, comprising three hours of facilitated study and seven hours self-directed study.

Capstone project: six hours facilitated study and 14 hours self-directed study per week.

Major project (Advanced): 12 hours facilitated study and 28 hours self-directed study per week.

Year 1
Year 2
Electives

Requirements

Complete seven core subjects. Additionally, you’re required to select one elective from the electives tab.

Core subjects

Software Engineering Principles | SEP401

In this subject students are introduced to the current Software Engineering standards and processes, with the aim of enabling them to analyse, design, and implement software projects that follow certain quality measures at every stage of the Software Development Life Cycle. The subject covers requirements engineering, modelling and design of software, software architecture, verification and validation of software systems, and other topics that are related to software engineering practices.
Human Centred Design | HCD402

This subject helps students explore several important fields of general inquiry pertaining to significant intellectual issues related to human beings so they can view everyday problems and formulate solutions in new ways. Broadly, the subject covers the theory of knowledge, human cognition, ethical and moral values, analysis of human history, critical analysis, appreciation of literature and arts and social interaction among human beings through a technological context. Human Centred Design is to give students an appreciation of the factors that influence human behaviour and interactions so that they can apply specialised skills to help solve problems that affect diverse societies.
Secure by Design | SBD403

This subject covers topics involving integration of the entire development lifecycle of IT systems in a secure environment through secure design methodologies, software development models, architecture design and industry Secure by Design standards like OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project). Students learn how to build adequate security into systems to maintain integrity and safety of the functionality of IT systems while being exposed to cyber threats.
Software Development Management | SDM404

In this subject the students are introduced to the main project management principles and modern software project management practices. During the subject, the different methods for managing and optimising the software development process are discussed along with the different techniques for performing each phase of the software development life cycle.
Mathematical Foundations of Artificial Intelligence | MFA501

The purpose of this subject is to provide a solid mathematical background that students will encounter in studies of Artificial Intelligence, specifically in sub-areas such as machine learning, natural language processing, speech recognition, and computer vision. This subject will cover topics including linear algebra (equations, functions and graphs), differentiation and optimisation, vectors and matrices, statistics and probabilities. Thorough understanding of these mathematical concepts is necessary for understanding the inner workings of the algorithms in Artificial Intelligence.
Research Methodologies | REM502

This subject introduces students to a framework for developing good scholarly inquiry skills and fundamental knowledge needed to make rational decisions about research strategies. Students will be presented with research strategies to critically investigate exemplar studies and examine the connection between a research question with appropriate research design and methodology. On completion of this subject, students should be able to develop researchable questions, and write research proposals and literature reviews. They will have a critical understanding of the strengths and limitations of the quantitative, qualitative and mixed method approaches to research. They will also learn about the ethical principles of research, challenges in getting approval and the approval processes.
Intelligence Systems | ISY503

This subject aims to give a broad introduction of intelligent systems, that is, how technologically advanced machines perceive and respond to the world around them. Discussion will focus on how Artificial Intelligence (AI) concepts and classifications are used to design intelligent systems. Overview of AI topics such as representation, reasoning, search methods, intelligent agents, learning, uncertainties and probabilities, perception and action, and communication are presented. It also includes discussions of AI classifications such as Machine Learning, Robotic, Natural Language Processing, Speech Recognition, Expert Systems, Computer Vision, and how they are used to make intelligent systems. This subject also enables students to understand the particular ethical issues that AI presents and how it can be used to benefit society.

Requirements

Complete four core subjects. Additionally, you’re required to select one elective from the electives tab.

Core subjects

Machine Learning | MLN601

This subject is designed to give a graduate-level student an in-depth understanding of the methodologies, technologies, mathematics and algorithms currently used in machine learning. Students will learn the theory behind a range of machine learning tools and practice applying the tools to different applications. It covers topics such as classification, linear models, learning theory, generative models, graphical models and learning paradigm. This subject covers theoretical concepts such as inductive bias, the PAC learning framework, Bayesian learning methods, margin-based learning, and Occam’s Razor. Students are given short programming assignments that include hands-on experiments using machine learning algorithms and methods.
Deep Learning | DLE602

This subject introduces the basics of deep learning and how to build neural networks. Students are presented with different methods and applications to different AI sub-areas such as natural language processing, speech recognition, and computer vision. The subject begins with the introduction of simple neural networks such as multi-layer perceptron, and to more complicated concepts such as recurrent neural networks, convolutional networks, and long short-term networks.
Technology - Work Integrated Learning | TWL604

This subject is designed to provide students an opportunity to pursue a significant project in a professional environment related to their specialisation. This enables students to develop skills that enhance their prospects of gaining meaningful employment and build their career for the future.

Work integrated learning broadens the students’ learning environment while they are studying and allows them to see first-hand how their learnings in their degree translates in practice, as well as how ‘real world’ practice relates to what they are learning at University.

Students enrolled in Masters (Advanced) have an opportunity to avail one of the three options below simultaneously for this subject and “Advanced Technology – Work Integrated Learning”.

There are three options available to students:

Option 1: Industry Placement
Students are offered the opportunity to work within a technology company as an intern or volunteer at a technology non-profit organisation. It encourages students to build long-term relationships with the tech industry and provides an opportunity for them to work with and learn from people who may end up becoming colleagues, managers or mentors. It also provides a context in which to enhance their communication skills and work collaboratively in a professional arena. Students will undertake a series of industry-led tasks that are relevant to their field of study in order to understand the key concepts of working in and managing a professional technology team with emphasis placed on the operation of the environment.

Option 2: Industry Live Brief
Industry live brief, also known as an industry project engages students in an activity where the parameters of success are set by the client. Academic staff and industry provide supervision for students, while industry provides, mentorship in addition. Numerous technology firms have ideas and opportunities they would like to explore and prototype; this is where students or student teams connect with industry to achieve scale with minimal risk. An understanding of research methodologies appropriate to professional practice and the documentation of personal creative investigation is explored. Students also further investigate and examine entrepreneurial and commercial opportunities through collaborative work practice. The subject fosters a cross-specialisation perspective and draws on both specialised and common software engineering practices. Students are required to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team that includes industry representatives to conduct research, analyse and define project parameters and deliver innovative solutions that expand the notion of an industry live brief.

Options 3: Capstone
Students execute, finalise and present their self-initiated project exhibiting a sophisticated understanding of software engineering, whilst addressing the university ethos. Central to the project will be evidence of critical analysis and reflexive and reflective practice, social engagement, in addition to the use of refined visual language in its execution with particular industry relevancy for which their project is intended. Students draw upon the philosophical, practical, methodological, theoretical and technical tools they have gathered over the duration of the degree to complete a successful project. Students are mentored through this research project by an industry supervisor with complementary practice-based research expertise. Projects must pertain to the field of software engineering and in particular to their specialisation.

Students are required to work independently or as part of a collaborative team in order to conduct research, analyse and define project parameters and deliver innovative solutions.
Advanced Technology - Work Integrated Learning | ATW606

This subject builds upon Technology – Work Integrated Learning enabling students to further develop and apply strategic processes, creative tools & research for innovation in the field of software engineering. It extends the opportunity to pursue the significant project in a professional environment in an area related to their specialisation enabling students to develop skills that enhance their prospects of gaining meaningful employment and build their career for the future.

They continue with the same option as chosen previously:

Option 1: Industry Placement
Students are offered the opportunity to work within a technology company as an intern or volunteer at a technology non-profit organisation. It encourages students to build long-term relationships with the tech industry and provides an opportunity for them to work with and learn from people who may end up becoming colleagues, managers or mentors. It also provides a context in which to enhance their communication skills and work collaboratively in a professional arena. Students will undertake a series of industry-led tasks that are relevant to their field of study in order to understand the key concepts of working in and managing a professional technology team with emphasis placed on the operation of the environment.

Option 2: Industry Live Brief
Industry live brief, also known as an industry project engages students in an activity where the parameters of success are set by the client. Academic staff and industry provide supervision for students, while industry provides, mentorship in addition. Numerous technology firms have ideas and opportunities they would like to explore and prototype; this is where students or student teams connect with industry to achieve scale with minimal risk. An understanding of research methodologies appropriate to professional practice and the documentation of personal creative investigation is explored. Students also further investigate and examine entrepreneurial and commercial opportunities through collaborative work practice. The subject fosters a cross-specialisation perspective and draws on both specialised and common software engineering practices.Students are required to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team that includes industry representatives to conduct research, analyse and define project parameters and deliver innovative solutions that expand the notion of an industry live brief.

Options 3: Capstone
Students execute, finalise and present their self-initiated project exhibiting a sophisticated understanding of software engineering, whilst addressing the university ethos. Central to the project will be evidence of critical analysis, reflexive and reflective practice and social engagement, in addition to the use of refined visual language in its execution with particular industry relevancy for which their project is intended. Students draw upon the philosophical, practical, methodological, theoretical and technical tools they have gathered over the duration of the degree to complete a successful project. Students are mentored through this research project by an industry supervisor with complementary practice-based research expertise. Projects must pertain to the field of software engineering and in particular to their specialisation.

Students are required to work independently or as part of a collaborative team in order to conduct research, analyse and define project parameters and deliver innovative solutions.

Requirements

Choose two electives.

Elective subjects

Cloud Computing Fundamentals | CCF501

This subject gives students a fundamental understanding of Cloud Computing. They are able to understand how the cloud computing infrastructure has evolved from the traditional IT infrastructure and what business advantages it brings. Students will also learn the different Cloud Segments and Cloud Deployment models and the key players in the market. The subject also provides a knowledge of Cloud Services and Cloud Security to the students.
DevOps Tools | DOT503

The subject aims to describe, demonstrate and associate design, implementation, and management phases of DevOps deployment pipelines and toolchains that establish connections with continuous integration, delivery, testing and deployment. Core areas include organisations responding to market changes, reduction of risks and lowering of costs while releasing quality solutions. Understanding of quality performance prioritisation in a DevOps pipeline for various employee teams to effectively focus on vision is covered. Execution pipelines are discussed along with the processes, metrics, APls and cultural considerations for Continuous Development.
User Experience Design | DID602A

This subject develops conceptual and practical knowledge and skills in experience design for interactive and online media. Students will use common experience design research methods to analyse audience and content requirements. Students will work through concept development, prototyping, validation and testing phases to improve and refine a user experience design in relation to the requirements of a specific client brief. Throughout students will develop their knowledge and skillset in terms of creating usable and user- centred interactive design experiences.
Design Identity | DSGN6026

This subject introduces students to philosophical and theoretical lenses for interpreting the various contexts of reception within which their designs will be encountered, engaged with, experienced or consumed. Design Identity, focuses specifically on ‘the connections of text as a stimulus to design approaches and understanding but more importantly on new ways of seeing. In this subject students engage with texts that are, or have been, influential in shaping ways in which designers and design theory engages the worlds that designed things enter into and subsequently re-define. A range of differing texts, including theoretical, literary and designed texts, and texts utilizing different media, are introduced and explored.
Design Context | DSGN6027

This subject provides a suite of cross disciplinary, practice based topics for designers in the areas of, time, space, motion and interaction. Designers will explore conceptual challenges and questions of visual expression in the quest to develop useful, usable and resonant designs for good. This will include understanding and articulating ‘user experience’, the role of design in humanizing information, the aesthetic and conceptual dynamics of effective communication, branding and communication within the international industry landscape.
Design Futures | DSGN6028

This subject introduces designers to research methodologies as a basis for identifying problems which can be the catalyst to bring about change. Students gain skills in the analysis of research data using grounded theory and phenomenography, in addition to visual research methods used as a foundation for creative and design solutions inherent in cross-disciplinary creative practice.

By means of reflection, analysis and contextualising an identified culture—their own or others— and by drawing on its philosophies, typical behaviours and patterns, designers explore, elicit and assess problems to instigate creative group projects. The design practices foster understanding of, and connection with, the contexts that designed things participate in, enrich and often transform. The additional emphasis is on problem identification that informs and leads to enhanced futures based on successful creative outcomes.
Cybersecurity Principles and Organisational Practice | CPO442

This subject introduces students to cybersecurity principles with a focus on the human factors involved and their consequences on business operations. IT risk management, security strategies and governance will be explored to protect both end-users and business operations. Students will plan, develop and communicate a cybersecurity strategy for an enterprise with consideration of human behaviours, system requirements and operational assurance.
Software Fortress and Web Protection | SFW541

Software Fortress and Web protection introduces students to the tools and methodologies to secure software and web applications against external threats and internal risks. Important topics will be explored, such as advanced risk management in software systems, development of resilient systems to safeguard data and applications, and sustained protection of users and data against emerging cybersecurity attacks. Upon successful completion of this subject, students have the skills and knowledge needed to develop sustainable and dependable software and web systems according to the industry standards.
Business Environment | MGT501

This subject introduces the student to the foundations of business. The focus of this subject is on providing fundamental concepts and context for students to enrich their mastery in subsequent studies while developing as a reflective practitioner. Students will examine the functional operations of business and the environments in which it operates. This may include analysing the economic, social, political, legal, technological and ethical influences on contemporary businesses. Students will also examine the viewpoints of internal and external stakeholders.
Business Communications | MGT502

This subject introduces students to the concepts of business communications and transferrable academic skills. This subject presents an analysis of the types of communication processes, which occur in the internal and external business environment, including an examination of the theoretical underpinnings of communication in business. Emphasis is placed on writing skills, reports and presentations and on using technology to communicate. The subject introduces students to research skills, information literacy, critical analysis, and writing and language techniques. The aims of this subject are to provide knowledge and skills needed for success in Higher Education, to help students manage their own success and to assist them in reaching their academic potential.
Management, People and Teams | MGT600

This subject introduces you to how organisational behaviour, politics, dynamics and environments impact on the role and legitimacy of management. Constraints that managers and emerging leaders face in developing strategies to leverage advantages and overcome barriers in organisations and projects will be explored. You will identify, analyse and make effective decisions to resolve people-related issues, lead and manage change, facilitate employee development, performance and sustain effective teams in complex and diverse global operating environments.
Dynamic Leadership | MGT601

Leadership in modern organisations is a way of thinking and behaving. It is not necessarily a position in a hierarchy. Leadership is a process of energising, influencing and motivating others: up, down, sideways and diagonally. Becoming an effective leader requires self-awareness, self-management and a strong set of interpersonal communication skills, a set of capabilities that are often described as Emotional Intelligence (EQ). In addition, effective leaders think and act strategically, they build a climate for creativity and innovation, and are culturally sensitive and comfortable with ambiguity. This subject focuses on developing your leadership capability and not leadership as a theoretical concept that applies to other people. It helps you explore your own leadership development and self-image, using the techniques of reflective research and supported by a mentoring partner. It guides you through the preparation of plan for your continued leadership and professional development that is consistent with your personal values, anchored by the academic literature and enables you to be authentic, confident and resilient in leading productive work places for the future. Dynamic Leadership provides learning at the cognitive or intellectual level and at the affective or emotional level. It develops explicit knowledge of leadership (know-what) and the often-neglected tacit knowledge (know-how).
Business Decision Analytics | MGT602

Today's decisions have to be made quickly, individually and in groups, with what often appears to be ambiguous or too much data. How does one select, observe and distil the most pertinent data sets to make decisions that will positively impact tomorrow's firms and communities? This subject engages students in the nuances of data collection, how to filter data and how to use it most effectively in decision-making. The subject develops the student's qualitative and quantitative research skills, and digital literacy.
Systems Thinking | MGT603

This subject builds on systems theory and introduces you to a holistic view of the organisation, and the broader ecosystem it operates in. Apply Systems Thinking to optimise operations, improve competitive advantage, and address change. You will use several Systems Thinking tools to diagnose and propose innovative solutions to contemporary business issues.
Principles of Project Management | PROJ6000

This subject introduces you to the practice of contemporary project management and its relevance in industry. You will be introduced to fundamental concepts of project management, project definition and project delivery methods. Contemporary project management methodologies will be examined in the context of industry best practice. An overview of industry standard tools and techniques required to manage projects successfully throughout a project life cycle will be provided. This includes industry terminology and the rationale behind the commencement of a project.
Project Planning and Budgeting | PROJ6002

Understanding the relationships between operational factors and projects is a core skill to be effective in the project management landscape. This subject focuses on an in-depth understanding in project planning and budgeting. The project planning emphasises developing effective management plans for scope, time, cost, resources and quality to deliver successful projects. You will critically analyse and apply appropriate tools, techniques, processes and methods to create different plans and effectively communicate them to diverse groups of stakeholders.
Organisational Behaviour and People Management | PROJ6006

One role of the project manager is to lead teams in complex and diverse organisational settings while concurrently communicating with all stakeholders. In this course, students examine how to support and motivate team members to perform to the best of their ability, producing quality results within the required time and cost limits, and how individual and group behaviour impacts organisational effectiveness. Students learn ways to design projects to support organisational goals and how to build and engage organisational capital (intellectual, human, physical, financial, and structural). They also assess communications management as a tool to manage internal and external relationships with stakeholders, partners, vendors, and customers.

International students must not enrol in more than one-third (33%) of online subjects over their course, and must study at least one face-to-face subject each study period. Please note that due to COVID-19, authorities have provided exceptions to the usual face-to-face learning requirements until 30 June 2023 only. For more information, visit Study in Australia.

International students on a student visa are required to study full time (i.e. must complete a minimum of 1.0 EFTSL of study per year). For the latest information on study locations, please check the entry requirements flyer.

Industry partners and work placements

The big difference at Torrens University Australia is that you’ll start working in the design industry from day one – gaining valuable experience, learning from industry professionals and making industry connections.

Complete an industry brief or internship

Engage with industry throughout your course as you complete an industry brief or internship, providing experience in the field you’re pursuing your dream career in.

Entry details

Domestic
International

Fees

Check the domestic course fee schedule for the cost of your course.

FEE-HELP

Eligible Australian students may choose to defer some, or all, of their tuition fees through FEE-HELP, a loan scheme repaid through the tax system based on income.

Learn more about fees and FEE-HELP

Scholarships

If you are truly passionate about Design and Creative Technology, we want to hear from you. We have a variety of Design and Creative Technology scholarships on offer to assist you in becoming a key part of the Design and Creative Technology industry:

Admission criteria

Before you begin your course application, check that you meet the requirements listed below.

AQF Level 7 (Bachelor degree) or above from an Australian University in a relevant field of study

OR Work life experience demonstrating the ability to undertake study at the required level.

View full course admission information

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have already completed a qualification you may be able to credit this against your degree with us, even if it’s from another institution. This is called Recognition of Prior Learning. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.

Learn more about study pathways

Fees

Check the international course fee schedule for the cost of your course. Onshore international students requiring a student visa should choose campus-based / blended options.

Fee payment

Course fees can be paid across three study periods. Each instalment to be paid before the beginning of the academic stage census date.

Scholarships

We want you to have the best possible chance to succeed, which is why we offer a range of financial scholarships to support our international students during their study journey.

Admission criteria

Before you begin your course application to study as an international student, check that you meet the requirements below.

Australian bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of study or equivalent and

Academic IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) or equivalent

OR alternative entry requirement may be available. Contact the International Admissions team for more information.

View full course admission information

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

Learn more about study pathways

Frequently asked questions

What are Torrens University Australia’s ATAR requirements for domestic students?

Torrens University Australia no longer considers ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) as our primary entry requirement. We have removed ATAR as the key admissions criteria for applicants aiming to study at Torrens University Australia. We strongly believed an alternative to the ATAR system should be found, which more broadly assesses students, especially when soft skills are emerging as important employability attributes. So, students with a recent secondary school education are now considered for admission if they have a Year 12 (Australian secondary school) certificate. Exceptions may apply to some courses.
What if  I don’t meet the entry criteria for a degree?

Torrens University Australia has a range of application pathways to help you gain entry into our degrees based on different criteria.

To find out more, visit Study Pathways or contact our Future Student Advisors.
Am I eligible for FEE-HELP?
If you are a domestic student attending university or an approved higher education provider, you can get a FEE-HELP loan to pay all or part of your tuition fees.

You are eligible for FEE-HELP assistance for a unit of study (i.e. subject) if you:

Undertake study with an approved provider.

Meet the citizenship and residency requirements:

An Australian citizen or a New Zealand Special Category Visa holder who meets the long-term residency criteria and who will undertake, in Australia, at least one unit of study contributing to your course; OR

A permanent humanitarian visa holder who will be a resident in Australia for the duration of your unit; OR

Are a permanent visa holder who is undertaking bridging study for overseas-trained professionals, and will be a resident in Australia for the duration of the study.

Enrolled in an eligible unit of study by the census date for the unit.

Have not exceeded the FEE-HELP limit.

For full details, visit the Australian Government website Study Assist.

If you are still unsure, please contact our Future Student Advisors who can talk you through the information.

Can I get course credit for previous experience?

Yes, course credit is available for most courses upon application and academic approval (excluding Higher Degree by Research programs). 

If you have already completed a qualification or have relevant work experience, you may be eligible for credit towards your course. This credit can take the form of credit transfer, block credit or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Review our Course Credits page or chat to our Future Student Advisors.
What are Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer (CT)? How do I apply?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that recognises experience, previous study and qualifications, and other forms of informal and non-formal learning, to determine if you meet course requirements.

If you have relevant qualifications or experience, you may be eligible for credit towards your course and a reduction in tuition costs.

Please speak to our Future Student Advisors to discuss your prior learning experiences.

For more information, please visit Course credits.
How do I apply for a scholarship?

Torrens University has a wide range of scholarship options to support new, returning, international and Australian students. They all include a reduction in tuition fees, and some scholarships include a mentoring component with our industry partners.

Domestic students

When you speak to our Future Student Advisors, let them know you wish to be considered for a scholarship in your application form. They will show you how to apply for a scholarship.

International students

Please contact your Education Agent for further information. Alternatively, you can call us on 1300 575 803 or by email.

For more details, explore our range of scholarships.

View all FAQs

Master of Software Engineering (Artificial Intelligence, Advanced)