Master of Information Technology and Systems

The Master of Information Technology and Systems at the University of Tasmania is a two-year coursework master's for people who want to work in IT — whether you're coming from a computing background or switching into the field. You'll study core areas like programming, database design, systems analysis, networking and project management, then choose electives that let you specialise. The exact unit list changes from year to year, so check the official course page for the current structure.

How the degree is structured

Australian master's degrees are built on units of study, each worth a set number of credit points. A two-year master's typically totals 16 units (or the equivalent credit points), studied across semesters or trimesters. At UTAS you'll usually take four units per semester full-time. Most coursework master's include a capstone unit in your final year — a substantial project where you apply what you've learned to a real problem, often with an industry partner. Some programs offer a research pathway instead, which can lead to a thesis and a PhD. Work-integrated learning is common in IT degrees: placements, industry projects or internships with local organisations. The university's location in Tasmania means projects often involve small businesses, government agencies or the growing tech sector in Hobart and Launceston.

What you'll actually learn

You'll write code, design and query databases, plan IT projects, and learn how information systems fit into organisations. Group work is a big part of it — you'll collaborate on software projects, present to clients, and learn to explain technical ideas to non-technical people. By the end you should be able to take a business problem, work out what technology is needed, and build or manage the solution. The degree also covers the professional and ethical sides of IT: data privacy, security basics, and how to work in teams.

Who it suits

This master's suits two groups: people with a computing degree who want to deepen their skills or specialise, and people from other fields who want a formal qualification to move into IT. If you're already working in tech and want a credential that opens up senior roles, it fits too. The course is taught in English, and international applicants need to meet the university's English requirements — typically IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall for this kind of program. The Student visa also has its own English threshold set by the Department of Home Affairs. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and after graduating you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register. For exact units, entry requirements and semester dates, always check the official University of Tasmania page.

• Software developer or engineer — building and maintaining applications for businesses, government or startups
• Systems analyst — working out what an organisation needs from its IT and designing solutions
• Database administrator — managing and optimising data systems
• IT project manager — leading technology projects from start to finish
• Network administrator — keeping networks secure and running
• Business analyst — bridging the gap between IT and business teams
• Web developer — creating websites and web applications
• Cybersecurity analyst — protecting systems and data from threats

Australian industries that hire these roles include government (local, state and federal), banking and finance, healthcare, education, retail, mining and agriculture. Tasmania's tech sector is growing, with opportunities in Hobart and Launceston as well as interstate. Many graduates also work for IT consultancies or start their own businesses.