Master of Computing (Advanced) in Computational Foundations The Australian National University (ANU), Australia

The Master of Computing (Advanced) is a premier postgraduate computing degree for students who want to develop their knowledge and skills by studying advanced computing courses and undertaking research in one of the many sub-fields of computing in which the ANU School of Computing has world-leading expertise. The 2 year full time (or equivalent part-time) program targets students who wish to enter industry in an R&D or leadership role, enhance their existing computing knowledge or can be used as a pathway to a PhD. The degree is accredited by the Australian Computer Society.

Master of Computing (Advanced) graduates will deepen their existing knowledge and understanding of professional software development and computing practices. Students have the opportunity to participate in many cutting-edge courses and, depending upon their background and interests, are likely to choose to specialise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer systems and architecture, human-centred design, software development, data science or theoretical computer science. The program culminates in a capstone individual research project requiring students to complete a substantial research thesis.

Learning Outcomes

• Professionally apply systematic computing approaches to address complex, multi-disciplinary real-world computing problems in a variety of domains.
• Synthesise and proficiently apply advanced, integrated technical knowledge from their specialisation and other elective areas of study and the underpinning sciences and computational methods.
• Identify and critically evaluate current developments and emerging trends within their specialization and other elective areas of study.
• Understand the contextual factors that influence professional computing practice, and identify the potential societal, ethical, and environmental impact of computing activities.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, other computing professionals and the broader community by employing a range of communication media and tools.
• Engage in independent investigation, critical reflection and lifelong learning to continue to practice at the forefront of the discipline.
• Work effectively and proactively within cross-cultural, multi-disciplinary teams, demonstrating autonomy, ethical conduct, expert judgement, adaptability and responsibility to achieve computing outcomes at a high standard.
• Demonstrate through completion of a substantial computing research project an understanding and application of research methodology and scientific writing.

Specialisation: Computational Foundations
The Computational Foundations specialisation is available in the two year full-time (or equivalent part-time) Master of Computing and Master of Computing (Advanced). In these degrees, students will be exposed to best practice in computing and cutting edge courses of relevance to computing practitioners. Additionally, students with this specialisation will have in-depth knowledge and skills in the concepts, techniques and methods in the area of theoretical computer science and computation.