There are lots of things to consider when choosing a university course that's right for you.
Your IT questions answered
Answers to many common questions
The process of choosing a university degree can be daunting. There are multiple courses to choose from, with different majors plus options to add an internship or overseas study placement.
To help you on your way, we've covered the top questions from other students across the year.
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What is the Bachelor of IT Co-operative Scholarship?
The Bachelor of IT Co-operative Scholarship is the flagship IT course at UTS. It is a 3-year fast-tracked program to prepare you for roles in technology management. Scholars receive $49,500 (2018) over three years. This is a demanding program, and the payment is to reduce the need for a part-time job which could distract from study.
The course includes two internships with leading employers in the industry, many of whom offer ongoing employment to students.
How is the BIT scholarship different to similar programs at other universities?
The BIT is unique as it’s a three-year fast-tracked program, while other similar scholarships are longer in duration. The UTS program covers a jam-packed program with two six-month internships and boasts a 100% employment rate.
How many places are available in the BIT?
This varies from year to year as it depends on the number of industry sponsors. It can range from 30-40 from year to year which determines the number of students who are accepted.
What is the difference between the Bachelor of IT, Bachelor of Science in IT and Bachelor of Science in Games Development?
The one thing in common between the three degrees is that all students complete the same core IT subjects. This ensures students have a strong foundation in the fundamentals of IT before specialising in your chosen major.
The Bachelor of IT Co-operative Scholarship (BIT) is a 3-year fast-tracked degree, paying students $49,500 (2018) over three years and includes two internships in industry. It attracts high achieving students who are keen to pursue an IT leadership role. The BIT combines business and technical subjects, with an opportunity to take a sub-major in a particular area of interest. The BIT boasts a 100% employment rate with many students securing employment before they graduate.
BIT applications are open until the end of August, and selected students will be invited to interview.
The Bachelor of Science in IT (BScIT) is a 4-year degree and includes more flexibility in subject choice. Students also take one internship over the course of their study for approximately 9 months. Major options include Business Information Systems Management, Data Analytics, Enterprise Systems Development, Interaction Design, and Networking and Cyber Security.
The Bachelor of Science in Games Development builds a skill set that’s necessary for a career in gaming. Complete subjects in web systems, interactive media, programming, networking, database management, design and special effects. Students can also choose an IT sub-major or electives from another faculty. This 3-year degree does not include an internship.
How is the Bachelor of Computing Science (Hons) different to other IT degrees?
The Bachelor of Computing Science (Honours) is an advanced, highly technical IT degree that’s underpinned by maths and programming. The Honours component includes a research-based program working independently on a research project that’s supervised by an academic. Graduates from this degree are equipped to pursue a career in research, data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning and many more.
What happens if I don’t get the Selection Rank?
Your ATAR isn’t the only determining factor to entry into UTS. There are additional adjustment factors given to students who complete relevant HSC subjects. This scheme can add up to five additional bonus points.
You can also complete the IT Questionnaire to demonstrate your strong motivation to study engineering or IT. If you fall short of the Selection Rank by 1-3 points, we will still consider your application.
There are other options.
TAFE and UTS College are also pathway options which you can take to get to UTS.
What are the prerequisite HSC subjects for IT?
We recommend you take certain subjects for the HSC, including Mathematics Extension 1 and English (Advanced). These subjects will help you in your studies; however, they are not required.
Information Process & Technology and Software Design & Development are not assumed. They are covered in core IT subjects and throughout the degree.
All first-year engineering students complete a maths exam to assess if they need extra maths support. Support is provided through additional maths classes as well as peer-to-peer support. These programs are available to all students throughout their degree.
What if I haven’t studied IT or software in high school?
Don’t worry, we don’t assume that you have completed Software Design & Development in school. These subjects are covered in core and major subjects throughout your degree.
Of course it’s a plus if you have completed this subject for the HSC, attended code camp, or developed software programs in your spare time. You will apply your knowledge of programming subjects and increasingly develop your capabilities over the duration of the program.
I want to pursue a career in Cyber Security, which program should I choose?
If you want to start your career in Cyber Security, then the Bachelor of Science in IT (with or without the Diploma in IT Professional Practice), majoring in Networking and Cyber Security is the right choice for you. This major gives you the necessary knowledge and skills in network design and application development and includes network and system security.
You should also sign up for the Cyber Security society to meet other like-minded students and take part in exclusive workshops and study help sessions.
Why is the Selection Rank for Games Development higher than any other university?
The Bachelor of Science in Games Development is a popular course due to the subject choice, availability of sub-majors, facilities available and experts delivering the program. However, places are limited due to the space in the games lab. This demand v supply relationship drives up the ATAR for the program.
Can I change my mind and move to another major/degree?
Yes. If you change your mind, you can apply for a course transfer within UTS. You will receive credit for completed subjects that are shared between courses and start in your new program in the next available session.
