Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours) (CRICOS course code 081819G) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This AQF Level 8 program is designed for international students seeking a career in software engineering, combining advanced technical skills with professional practice. Located at the Mawson Lakes Campus in Adelaide, South Australia, the course prepares graduates for roles in software development, systems engineering, and IT project management. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00121B), it meets the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500), ensuring international students can study in Australia with full legal protections under the ESOS Act.
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The Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours) at University of South Australia (UniSA) is a four-year plus one month program that integrates software engineering principles with honours-level research. As a CRICOS-registered course (code 081819G), it is listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students, giving international students confidence in the quality and legitimacy of this qualification. The program is delivered at UniSA's Mawson Lakes Campus, a modern facility with dedicated engineering labs and computing resources. Students benefit from a curriculum that covers software design, algorithms, data structures, and project management, culminating in an honours thesis or research project. This degree is ideal for those aiming to become chartered engineers or pursue advanced studies. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is among the many accredited programs available to international students.
This course falls under the field of education 0201 - Computer Science, specifically 020100 - Computer Science (n.f.d.). At the Bachelor Honours Degree level (AQF Level 8), students engage with advanced concepts in software engineering, including requirement analysis, system design, testing, and maintenance. Core learning outcomes typically include proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Java, C++), software development methodologies (e.g., Agile, DevOps), and professional ethics. The honours component adds research training, enabling students to investigate emerging topics like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or cloud computing. While specific syllabi are set by UniSA, graduates generally develop strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for the IT industry. Practical projects and team-based assignments mirror real-world scenarios, preparing students for the demands of the software engineering profession.
The program spans 4 years 1 month (approximately 211 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is conducted entirely in English, and the course is a single qualification (not a dual award). Full-time study is typically required for international students to maintain their visa conditions, with classes held on campus at Mawson Lakes. The academic year comprises two semesters plus optional summer terms. Students are expected to commit around 40 hours per week to study, including lectures, tutorials, and independent work. This duration aligns with AQF guidelines for a Bachelor Honours Degree, providing depth in both coursework and research.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$157,600, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$157,600. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (including rent, groceries, and transport), and the Student visa application charge are not included. Indicatively, international students in Adelaide should budget approximately A$21,000 to A$26,000 per year for living costs. Always confirm current fees on the University of South Australia's official website at www.unisa.edu.au before applying.
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 6.0 to 6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent English test). Prior academic qualifications must be equivalent to an Australian Year 12 senior secondary certificate of education, with strong performance in mathematics and science subjects. Some programs may require a background in computing or information technology. Foundation studies or pathway programs may be available through UniSA College or other partners; check UniSA's website for specific prerequisites. Note that entry requirements are set by the institution and may vary. For detailed advice, consult the provider's international admissions page.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 26 weeks, equating to approximately 390 total hours (hours per week not specified on CRICOS). This work-integrated learning (WIL) typically involves an industry placement, internship, or project-based experience within a real software engineering environment. Students apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems, gain professional references, and develop workplace skills. WIL placements are arranged or supported by UniSA's Career Services, and may be local or interstate. Participation is usually assessed and graded, contributing to the honours grade. This experience enhances employability and is a key feature of the program.
The only delivery location recorded on the CRICOS register is the University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus in Mawson Lakes, South Australia. Mawson Lakes is a northern suburb of Adelaide, approximately 12 km from the city centre. Adelaide is known for its affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a single person around A$250–A$350, plus budget for groceries and public transport. The campus is well-served by bus and train lines, providing easy access to Adelaide's central business district. South Australia is home to several CRICOS-registered institutions, including the University of Adelaide and Flinders University, offering a range of study options for international students.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa permits full-time study and allows work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act protects your rights, including tuition fee refunds in certain situations. For visa-specific advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au.
South Australia offers a unique lifestyle for international students. Adelaide, the capital, is a safe, multicultural city with a low cost of living compared to the eastern capitals. The student community is vibrant, with over 40,000 international students enrolled across the state's universities. Public transport is efficient, and the city boasts numerous cafes, cultural festivals, and nature attractions like the Barossa Valley and Kangaroo Island. When choosing a Bachelor of Software Engineering, consider that Adelaide's growing tech sector includes opportunities with companies like Microsoft, Google, and local startups. However, ensure the program's focus aligns with your career goals. Research the provider's industry connections and graduate outcomes before committing.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours) at University of South Australia (UniSA):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Bachelor Honours Degree), field (0201 Computer Science), and location (South Australia). Confirm the provider's CRICOS registration (00121B) and course code (081819G).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit UniSA's international admissions page at www.unisa.edu.au. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.0-6.5), and any additional documents requested. Check application deadlines (usually October for Semester 1 start).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, UniSA will issue a CoE. Use this to submit your visa application online, including proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Processing times vary, so apply early.
For personalized guidance, contact a registered migration agent. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections.
Start your application today — visit UniSA's website or use HeadStart Academy to compare similar courses.
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Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of South Australia (UniSA). 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.