Bachelor of Information Technology (Co-Op)

Information technology is fast-paced, challenging and dynamic, specialists in the field are sought after in nearly every business or organisation, nationally and internationally.  The global spread of information technologies has created a worldwide need for skilled professionals to design, develop and implement computer-based systems. The Bachelor of Information Technology (Co-op) at CQUniversity has been developed to place you in the IT industry with the necessary skills and knowledge for a long-term and successful career.

This program provides you with a comprehensive framework in a variety of key areas of IT and computer-based systems and includes two six month paid work placements where you will be given real-world experience.  These placements will provide you with hands-on experience in the industry and the opportunity to develop a network of relevant contacts, improving your future employment prospects. The work placement component of this program gives you an opportunity to put your learning into practice while experiencing different workplace cultures.

Within this program you have the choice to specialise in either application development or network services. This provides you with the opportunity to explore all aspects of IT and its uses and provides you with the knowledge and skills to operate a variety of key IT and computer-based systems. The choice of six elective subjects selected from the Faculty of Arts, Business, Informatics and Education provides the opportunity to increase your versatility and allows you to tailor your studies to your chosen career goal. 

The program can be completed in three years, making it a quicker and cheaper option than many other universities, and enables you to fast-track your career.

You may choose to exit the degree earlier after completing a set number of courses, this will provide you with an Associate Degree of Information Technology.

What am I studying?

Emerging changes and advances in global technology have led to a more connected world where people can share information, photos and conversations simply and quickly. Information technology, information systems and multimedia have paved the way in enabling all of this to occur. Retrieving, processing, receiving, transmitting, protecting and storing information are all elements of information technology. 

The study of information technology and information systems are aligned, however there are differences within the two areas. Information technology is a combination of tools, processes and methodologies that are used to collect, process and present information. Information systems focuses on the use of technology and how it can assist with the organisation of people through the use of databases, networks and the Internet, and personal computers.

The term multimedia is used to describe the integrated presentation of text, graphics, sound and images, including digital video via computer-based media. Multimedia includes the study of animation and games for mobile devices, web design, digital video, and audio production. Students who study multimedia are able to create and apply digital content for communication, education and entertainment.

A career in information technology (IT) industry, either working in information technology, information systems, or multimedia is fast-paced, challenging and dynamic. Information technology and information systems specialists are sought after in nearly every business or organisation and in a range of employment fields.  Job opportunities exist in Internet/web development, network/communication technology, programming, video gaming, data entry, systems analyst, database management, multimedia, data communications expert, software developer, computer technician or security officer. Multimedia graduates work in the areas of publishing, advertising, communications, internet and database development, media design, games and gaming and animation.

Why Study Information Technology at CQUniversity

CQUniversity’s Information Technology (IT) programs recognise the impact of IT on all aspects of our day-to-day lives.  We offer a wide range of study options leading to traditional IT qualifications, as well as specialist areas such as aviation technology and multimedia studies.

All of our programs are flexible, with most programs offering you the choice to study either full-time or part-time and either on-campus or by distance education. This means you can individually tailor your learning to suit your personal and professional needs.

At CQUniversity, we provide just the right mix of theory and practical experience to ensure that you graduate work ready, making you attractive to employers and helping to widen your career options.  In some of our programs you will also be given the opportunity to pursue paid work placements where you can earn while you learn.

Unlike most other IT programs, our focus extends beyond teaching just the technical aspects but focuses on delivering a unique personal approach to teaching.  Every program is delivered by our supportive lecturers and staff who offer industry-relevant and real-work experience, from areas such as IT specialists, programmers and graphic designers.

Each of our programs is monitored and upgraded to ensure they stay current, are at the leading edge of new developments, and in line with the latest industry practices.  We also have a host of new IT projects coming online, so there has never been a better time to enjoy the benefits that CQUniversity offers and boost your prospects for a successful career in IT.

Career Opportunities

On completing a Bachelor of Information Technology (Co-op), you will be qualified for a number of different career areas in both the public and private sectors, including:

• Analyst Programmer
• Chief Information Officer
• Computer Systems Auditor
• Database Administrator
• Enterprise Architect
• Security Analyst
• IT Project Manager
• Computer programmer
• Application programmer
• Systems analyst
• Systems administrator

Work Intergrated Learning

The Bachelor of Information Technology (Co-op) provides a distinguished bachelors degree in IT that enables you to acquire valuable experience through a paid, supervised, industry placement. You will normally undertake industry placement following the successful completion of two years (4 terms) of study.  Industry placements are typically of six months duration.

Program Structure

You are required to complete 24 courses (144 units of credit):

• eight compulsory courses;
• two industry placement courses;
• one major (seven courses including a 12 credit point capstone course); and
• six electives

Majors include:

- Network Security

- Application Development

-  Business Analysis

Course Information

For example courses you could study as part of the Bachelor of Information Technology (Co-Op) program please click here.

As CQUniversity is committed to providing quality, up-to-date and relevant education, please note courses are refreshed regularly and may not be an exact indication of course availability for your study. Please call 13CQUni 13 27 86 if you have specific questions regarding course information regarding your specific application.

Professional Recognition

This program has been accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) – professional level. For personal eligibility for membership, refer to the ACS website at www.acs.org.au

Please note: the ACS accredits each campus individually so you should check the current status of accreditation for newly established locations.