The course is offered to those who have an existing tertiary qualification in computing or data processing or equivalent work experience and who wish to further their knowledge of computing. It requires the study of eight semester-length subjects. Completion of the course with a high level of achievement may be counted as completion of a masters preliminary program.
The normal entry requirement is a degree in a branch of computing. Applicants without a formal computing qualification, but with substantial industry experience, may also qualify for admission. The period of candidature is a minimum of one year of full-time study or two years part-time study.