Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)

This is a prestigious program of coursework and research in computer science for high achieving students who have completed a relevant undergraduate degree. You will undertake research methodology training and carry out an independent research project on your selected topic, working closely with a supervisor who will provide you with individual guidance and academic counselling. The course offers a pathway to higher level research in computer science.

These course outcomes are aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework level 8, the Bologna Cycle 1 and Monash Graduate AttributesAustralian Qualifications Framework level 8, the Bologna Cycle 1 and Monash Graduate Attributes (http://www.monash.edu.au/pubs/handbooks/alignmentofoutcomes.html).

Upon successful completion of this course it is expected that graduates should be able to:

1. demonstrate a knowledge of a range of specialised topics in computer science including historical, cultural, social, legal and ethical issues inherent in research applicable to the discipline of computer science
2. plan, conduct and manage an independent research project
3. evaluate and select research methodologies appropriate to computer science, and demonstrate their uses and limitations
4. critically analyse research literature
5. analyse, synthesise and evaluate factors in a research project
6. document and communicate research results, and the methods used, orally and in a written report
7. undertake independent learning and apply analytical thinking

This course consists of a combination of coursework and research. In the coursework component you will develop advanced theoretical and/or technical knowledge of computer science and research methodologies appropriate to your field. In the research component you will plan and execute a research project under the individual guidance of an academic supervisor.

This course comprises 48 points: Part A: Coursework (24 points) and Part B: Research (24 points)

Units are 6 points unless otherwise indicated.

Part A. Coursework (24 points)

Students complete:

• FIT4005 Research methods in information technology

One unit (6 points) from the following:

• FIT4009 Advanced topics in intelligent systems
• FIT4010 Advanced topics in algorithms and discrete structures
• FIT4012 Advanced topics in computational science

Two elective units (12 points) from those remaining in b) above or the following:*

• level 4 or Level 5 units approved by the faculty honours coordinator (this elective list may change from time to time and vary by campus)
• with permission from thesis supervisor and honours coordinator approved directed studies under the reading unit FIT4008 in selected topics.

* A maximum of one unit (6 points) may be selected from units offered by other faculties with the approval of the honours coordinator. Suitable units can be identified using the browse units tool in the Handbook.

Part B. Research (24 points)

Students complete:

• FIT4441 Honours thesis part 1
• FIT4442 Honours thesis part 2
• FIT4443 Honours thesis part 3
• FIT4444 Honours thesis final

Satisfactory completion of this course may provide credit toward a Monash Masters by coursework degree and will provide the preparation necessary to undertake a Masters by research degree or a Doctorate (PhD) degree.