Masters Qualifying Program in Information Technology (Accelerated) (CRICOS course code 112941A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 21 weeks. This program is designed for international students who need to bridge academic or English language gaps before progressing to a Master of Information Technology. It's an intensive pathway that builds foundational knowledge in information systems and prepares you for postgraduate study in Australia. By completing this qualifying program, you'll meet the entry requirements for Macquarie University's IT masters. The course is taught in English at Macquarie's Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde in Sydney, NSW. As a CRICOS-registered course, it guarantees ESOS Act protections and student visa eligibility. Whether you're looking to upgrade your qualifications or change fields, this accelerated option lets you start your IT career faster. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with data sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026).
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Masters Qualifying Program in Information Technology (Accelerated) (CRICOS course code 112941A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 21 weeks. It falls under the field of education 020399 Information Systems, n.e.c., providing foundational knowledge in information technology and systems. This program is specifically designed to prepare international students for entry into a Master of Information Technology at Macquarie University. It's an accelerated pathway, meaning you can complete the qualifying program in just 21 weeks rather than a full year. The course is taught in English and does not include any mandatory work component. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international education and allows you to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Macquarie University is a government-funded institution with CRICOS provider code 00002J, ensuring quality education and student support services.
The Masters Qualifying Program in Information Technology (Accelerated) focuses on information systems (field 0203), covering topics such as database concepts, programming fundamentals, systems analysis, and IT project management. At this Non AQF Award level, you'll develop the academic skills and discipline-specific knowledge required for postgraduate study. The curriculum is designed to bridge any gaps in your prior qualifications or English proficiency, ensuring you can succeed in a master's program. You'll engage in lectures, tutorials, and practical assignments that build critical thinking and technical abilities. While this page doesn't detail specific units, you can expect a rigorous introduction to IT concepts and academic writing. For a full syllabus, refer to Macquarie University's official website.
The course runs for 21 weeks, as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is an accelerated full-time program, meaning you'll complete a standard qualifying course in a shorter time frame. Instruction is entirely in English, and the program leads to a single qualification (no dual awards). As a Non AQF Award, it's not a degree but a pathway program designed to prepare you for master's-level study. Macquarie University may offer flexible study modes; check with the provider for current delivery methods.
According to the CRICOS register as at April 2026, the indicative tuition fee for this course is A$14,100. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$14,100. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. International students in Australia typically need to budget for health insurance (OSHC) of around A$500–$700 per year, living costs of approximately A$21,041 per year (as per Department of Home Affairs), and the visa application fee of A$710. Always confirm current fees directly with Macquarie University, as they are subject to change.
Entry requirements vary by provider, but for this qualifying program you generally need: English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall (depending on the course level), completion of a bachelor's degree or equivalent in any discipline, and academic transcripts. Some applicants may need to provide evidence of prior study in IT. Macquarie University may also consider work experience. Foundation studies or other pathway options are not applicable here as this is itself a pathway program. Always check the official entry requirements on Macquarie University's website or contact their admissions office.
No work component is included in this course. It does not require you to complete an internship, placement, or work experience as part of the program. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help you gain local experience and support your living costs.
This course is delivered at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde – Macquarie University, NSW. The campus is located in Sydney's north-west, approximately 15 km from the city centre. Sydney is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The city has a vibrant international student community, with affordable public transport including trains, buses, and the metro. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; indicative weekly expenses include rent (A$300–$500), groceries (A$80–$120), and transport (A$30–$50). The campus is easily accessible via the Macquarie University railway station and bus routes.
To study this CRICOS-registered course, you'll need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus any additional time for travel or winding up. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire period. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. The visa also requires you to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity requirements include evidence of funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC. For visa application details, consult the Department of Home Affairs website or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Masters Qualifying Program in Information Technology (Accelerated) at Macquarie University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS register to verify Macquarie University's registration (CRICOS 00002J) and confirm the course details.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Macquarie University's website, check the entry requirements, and submit your application along with academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and other supporting documents. Pay attention to application deadlines.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Macquarie will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare for the GTE interview, arrange OSHC, and prove financial capacity.
If you're an international student with a non-IT background who wants to pursue a Master of Information Technology in Australia but doesn't yet meet the academic or English requirements, this accelerated qualifying program is an excellent pathway. It's also suitable if you need a short, focused program to transition into IT. However, consider whether 21 weeks of intensive study fits your schedule and budget. Sydney offers a dynamic tech industry and student life, but living costs are high. Weigh the upfront cost of A$14,100 against the long-term benefits of a postgraduate degree. Always confirm with Macquarie University that this program leads to the specific master's you want. For personalised advice, consult an education agent or the provider directly.
Ready to start your IT pathway? Explore more courses or contact Macquarie University directly. Check out other CRICOS-registered IT programs on HeadStart Academy.
Masters Qualifying Program in Information Technology (Accelerated) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie University (Macquarie). 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.