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  4. Entry and participation requirements

Master of Software Engineering (MC-SOFTENG) // Entry and participation requirements

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Entry requirements

To be considered for entry into this course, applicants must:

  • Have completed a bachelor degree (AQF7) in any discipline with a weighted average mark (WAM) of 65%, or equivalent.

   And

  • Have completed below prerequisite subject(s):
    • At least 25 points of any tertiary-level Mathematics, and
    • At least 25 points of any tertiary-level Computer Programming.

Weighted Average Mark (WAM) and subject-specific criteria are based on the University of Melbourne’s grading standards and subjects. If studies are from elsewhere, we’ll assess the grades and subjects against University of Melbourne equivalents. This means that the final WAM may be adjusted depending on the previous institution's accreditation, subject grading, and pass marks.

All degree levels referenced align with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), the national policy guide for regulated qualifications in Australian education and training. Applications will be assessed against these standards.

English language requirement

Applicants must satisfy the University's English language requirements. Level 1 English scores are required for this course.

Selection methodology

When assessing and, where relevant, ranking applications, the Selection Committee will consider:

  • Prior academic performance
  • Relevance of previous study.

The Selection Committee may seek further information to clarify any aspect of an application in accordance with the Selection and Admission Policy.

Meeting the minimum entry and English language requirements does not guarantee selection.

Advanced standing information

Applicants with the following may be awarded up to 100 points of credit:

  • A bachelor degree (AQF7) from the University of Melbourne, majoring in Computing and Software Systems with a weighted average mark of 65% or equivalent. 

Or

  • A Bachelor of Engineering (AQF7), or equivalent as recognised by the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, in a cognate (relevant) discipline with a weighted average mark (WAM) of 65% or equivalent. 

Cognate (relevant) disciplines include: Information Technology, Computer Science, Computing, Computer Science and Technology, Advanced Computing.

Available credit for other University of Melbourne graduates and graduates of other universities is normally evaluated on a case-by-case basis, but the Academic Board may approve standard credit arrangements for specified entry pathways.

Pathway information

Graduate Degree Packages for School Leavers

The University of Melbourne offers Graduate Degree Packages for this course to high-achieving school leavers, allowing them to secure places (Commonwealth Supported Places for domestic students or international fee places) provided they meet certain requirements. For details on eligibility criteria and how to apply, please [check here].

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

The Master of Software Engineering welcomes applications from students with disabilities. It is University and degree policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student’s participation in the degree.

The Master of Software Engineering requires all students to enrol in subjects where they will require:

  • The ability to comprehend complex science, technology and engineering related information;
  • The ability to clearly and independently communicate a knowledge and application of science, technology and engineering principles and practices during assessment tasks; and,
  • The ability to actively and safely contribute to computer laboratory base project activities in team settings.

Students must possess behavioural and social attributes that enable them to participate in a complex learning environment. Students are required to take responsibility for their own participation and learning. They also contribute to the learning of other students in collaborative learning environments, demonstrating interpersonal skills and an understanding of the needs of other students. Assessment may include the outcomes of tasks completed in collaboration with other students.

There may be additional inherent academic requirements for some subjects, and these requirements are listed within the description of the requirements for each of these subjects.

Students who feel their disability will impact on meeting this requirement are encouraged to discuss this matter with the relevant Subject Coordinator and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Last updated: 19 January 2026