Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology (Network Design and Security) (CRICOS course code 073785B) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 3 years. This AQF Level 7 program focuses on information systems with a specialist pathway in network design and security, equipping graduates with skills to plan, implement, and secure modern IT networks. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00111D), it is open to international students seeking a high-quality education in Melbourne. Swinburne University of Technology, a government-funded institution, delivers this program at its Hawthorn Campus in Hawthorn, Victoria — a vibrant suburb minutes from Melbourne's CBD. Whether you aim to become a network architect, security analyst, or IT consultant, this degree provides the technical foundation and industry connections to launch your career in Australia's growing ICT sector. HeadStart Academy offers this detailed guide to help you understand the course structure, fees, entry requirements, and visa pathways so you can make an informed decision.
The Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology (Network Design and Security) (CRICOS 073785B) is a three-year full-time undergraduate degree offered by Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D). Classified under the field of education 020307 Decision Support Systems, this program combines core ICT principles with specialised knowledge in network design, cybersecurity, and data communication. Graduates will be prepared to design secure network infrastructures, manage IT projects, and respond to emerging cyber threats. The course is delivered entirely in English at Swinburne's Hawthorn Campus, located in Melbourne's inner east. As an AQF Level 7 qualification, it meets the standard for bachelor degrees in Australia and qualifies graduates for professional roles or further postgraduate study. Swinburne is known for strong industry partnerships, work-integrated learning opportunities, and graduate employment outcomes. This course code appears on the official CRICOS register (April 2026) as a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component.
This degree falls within the broad field of Information Technology (02) and specifically the Information Systems (0203) sub-field with a focus on Decision Support Systems (020307). At the bachelor level, you can expect to study a blend of theoretical concepts and practical applications. Core subjects typically cover database management, systems analysis, programming fundamentals, and network technologies. The network design and security specialisation adds advanced topics such as network routing and switching, wireless networks, network security, cryptography, and ethical hacking. You'll also develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and project management skills. While HeadStart Academy cannot provide a detailed syllabus, the CRICOS registration confirms the course meets Australian quality standards. Swinburne's website offers current subject outlines and learning outcomes. Practical components may include lab sessions, simulations, and team-based projects. Graduates emerge with a strong understanding of how to design secure, efficient networks that support organisational decision-making.
According to the CRICOS register, the Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology (Network Design and Security) has a duration of 3 years (156 weeks). It is delivered full-time in English at the Hawthorn Campus of Swinburne University of Technology. This is a single qualification — no dual degree or combined diploma is offered. The program does not include a foundation studies component. The standard study load is four units per semester over six semesters (plus typical holiday breaks). International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. Swinburne may offer flexible study arrangements, but the CRICOS registration reflects the standard full-time duration. Part-time study is generally not available for international students on a student visa unless under special circumstances. Always confirm current study mode options directly with Swinburne University.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$0 per year as listed on the CRICOS register, and non-tuition fees are A$0, resulting in an estimated total of A$73,000. However, these figures are highly unusual — the CRICOS register may not reflect actual fees; it typically shows indicative amounts. In practice, Swinburne's tuition for this degree for international students is considerably higher; the A$73,000 estimated total is likely a miscalculation or placeholder. For accurate, up-to-date fees, you must visit the Swinburne University international student website (www.swinburne.edu.au/international). Please note: course fees shown are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change — always confirm directly with the provider before applying. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — approximately A$600–A$800 per year for single cover; living expenses in Melbourne (indicative weekly costs: rent A$200–A$400, groceries A$80–A$150, transport A$40–A$60); and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Consider these when budgeting your total study costs.
International applicants typically need to meet both academic and English language requirements. The general English requirement for this course is IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (exact scores vary by provider; check Swinburne's current policy). Equivalent scores from TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English may be accepted. Academic requirements usually include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent (e.g., international high school diploma) with satisfactory results, or completion of a recognised foundation program. Swinburne also accepts some vocational qualifications. For applicants who do not meet the direct entry standards, Swinburne offers pathway programs such as the Diploma of Information Technology or Foundation Studies — those programs themselves are CRICOS-registered and can lead into this bachelor degree. Note: this specific degree does not include a foundation studies component as part of its registration, but you can apply to a separate pathway. Always verify current entry requirements directly with Swinburne University, as they can change without notice. A registered education agent can also assist with the application process.
The CRICOS register indicates no work component for this course. This means the program does not include a mandatory internship, work placement, or professional experience as a graduation requirement. However, Swinburne is known for its strong industry engagement and may offer optional work-integrated learning opportunities such as professional placements, industry-linked projects, or the option to apply for a one-year professional placement (which would extend the duration). These optional placements are not part of the CRICOS registration for this course but may be available. International students on a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. For guidance on work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs. Always confirm with Swinburne whether any practical experience is included or recommended.
This course is delivered at Swinburne University of Technology's Hawthorn Campus, located at John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122. Hawthorn is a suburb in Melbourne's inner east, approximately 6 km from the Melbourne CBD. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains (Hawthorn Station on the Lilydale/Belgrave line), trams (routes 16, 72, 75), and buses. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with over 200,000 international students and more than 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Living costs in Melbourne are among the highest in Australia — budget around A$25,000–A$30,000 per year for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. The Hawthorn area offers a mix of student housing, restaurants, and shops. The campus itself features modern teaching facilities, libraries, and student support services. Being in Melbourne, you have access to a vibrant cultural scene, strong job market for IT graduates, and connections to the National Broadband Network and cybersecurity industry hubs.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for the Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, OSHC, and dependents (if any), and meeting health and character requirements. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, attend classes, and make satisfactory progress. Student work rights permit up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. You must hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects your rights: providers must meet quality standards, offer refunds under certain conditions, and you have access to a tuition protection service if your provider fails. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For visa applications, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. Always check the current visa subclass requirements on the Australian Government's website before applying.
Applying for the Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology (Network Design and Security) at Swinburne University of Technology involves three key steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy or the official CRICOS website to verify that Swinburne University (CRICOS 00111D) and this course (073785B) are registered. Compare other network design and security courses across different providers and cities to find your best fit.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Visit Swinburne's international admissions page (www.swinburne.edu.au/international) to check entry requirements, English test scores needed, and application deadlines. Submit your online application with supporting documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy, etc.). Some applicants may need to attend an interview or submit a portfolio.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** — If your application is successful, Swinburne will issue a CoE, which you need for your student visa application. Lodge your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs, paying the visa application charge and attaching your CoE, OSHC confirmation, financial evidence, and GTE statement. Visa processing times vary — apply early.
Ready to study network design and security in Melbourne? Check the latest fees and entry requirements on Swinburne's website, then start your application process with confidence knowing all information is backed by the official CRICOS register. HeadStart Academy helps you find and compare CRICOS-registered courses — explore more options today.
Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology (Network Design and Security) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.