The MBC information booklet - RMIT University

Chapter 1: Introduction
2
Students who have not had an undergraduate computing background or have not done
a complete computer science degree with a strong, hands-on practical orientation are
advised to consider the Master of Technology (IT) (MC062) program. Similarly,
students who have completed a computing qualification which is not also practically
software development focused should consider an advanced version of the Master of
Technology (IT) program.
1.3 Prior Learning and Advanced Standing
1.3.1 Honours
Degrees
1.3.2 Graduate
Diplomas
1.3.3 How to apply
for Advanced
Standing
Applicants are expected to have completed
• an undergraduate Computer Science degree, or
• a Computer Science and Engineering degree, or
• a software-oriented graduate diploma.
Courses assume an excellent practical knowledge of C / Java programming in a Unix
environment and familiarity with Object Oriented Principles. Students must achieve
proficiency in these before commencing. Students may wish to undertake short courses
or single courses from the Graduate Diploma in Software Development program prior to
enrolling in the MAppSci (IT) program if they need a refresher/bridging program. See
http://www.rmit.edu.au/csit/gd055.
Advanced Standing is available for:
1 students who have completed a recognised four year honours degree and
2 some post-graduate diplomas.
Advanced standing excludes Stage A and Stage B courses from the Graduate Diploma
in Software Development program. See “Articulation, Exemptions and Advanced
Standing” on page 72 for further details.
Students will be credited for approved postgraduate level courses undertaken in the
honours program.
No credit for the Honours thesis is available. Students must undertake a new thesis and
topic.
In general, students who wish to complete their Masters degree in 1.5 years full time, or
3 years part time would be advised to enrol in the Masters program directly rather than
undertaking honours and then switching to Masters. Students who switch from honours
to the Masters program will take at least 6 months full time longer to complete the
Masters program.
Advanced standing depends on the individual courses taken in the Graduate Diploma.
Many Graduate Diplomas offer undergraduate level courses, and these will not be
credited towards this Masters program. However, if the courses taken are at
postgraduate level then students may see the Program Advisor for advanced standing.
(See “Articulation, Exemptions and Advanced Standing” on page 72.)
Students are advised that it is educationally and vocationally preferable to study a full
complement of courses rather than seek exemptions, where possible.
Students should make an appointment to see the program-coordinator after enrolment.
Students should attend the appointment with:
• an official transcript from the previous program, including syllabi and exams if
possible, and
• a single course exemption form, which is available from the Faculty Administration
office on level 9 of Building 10.
See “Articulation, Exemptions and Advanced Standing” on page 72.
Advanced Standing will not be processed during enrolment. There is no rush to process
advanced standing, and this process can be completed in week 1 of a semester.