What It’s Like Studying a Bachelor of Information Technology at RMIT University

Do you have a particular interest in technology or computing? Want to work in the next generation of AI advancements and software developments? Then, a Bachelor of Information Technology at RMIT could open you to many possibilities for work and broad study. 

We are going to break down exactly what this degree is like. This article will give you everything you want to know, from what you can expect on campus, to how your classes will be formatted.

Keep reading to explore!  

What is a Bachelor of Information Technology at RMIT?

Core Units and Specialisations

How to Get into a Bachelor of Information Technology at RMIT

What’s the Teaching Format?

What’s the Faculty and Culture Like?

What is a Bachelor of Information Technology at RMIT?

A Bachelor of Information Technology (IT) at RMIT is a degree that provides students with essential skills for the technology industry. You will be learning how to work with complex pieces of equipment and data to solve and troubleshoot issues. 

You’ll also be learning practical skills, which enable a client-based approach in the workforce. These skills will be taught by experienced staff, using cutting edge equipment. Students work with peers to create IT solutions that are innovative and successful. 

This really is an all-round degree for students who have a great interest in tech. It will open you up to a broad variety of career options and make you knowledgeable across the sector.

Career Paths 

After finishing a Bachelor of IT, you will be ready to take on work in a variety of different roles. Of course, specific careers depend on your major and what you are most interested in. 

Some career paths include: 

• Systems analyst
• Business analyst
• Analyst programmer
• Application programmer
• Software tester
• Database administrator
• Systems administrator
• Web developer

Whatever role you end up moving into, a degree in IT will set you up for flexibility and the unique ability to solve a wide range of technological issues throughout your workplace.

Check out other careers you could end up in with an IT degree here!

Core Units and Specialisations

This degree is one where all students start with core, foundational courses before branching into their own areas of study. Students will often begin in large and structured classes, then moving into their specialisations.

As such, most of the core courses in this degree are taken in the first year of study. 

Your degree will comprise of core units, your specialisation, a minor if you wish to have one and electives. Let’s jump into those core units!

First Year 

• Building IT Systems: This course gives students a hands-on introduction to IT that will help you explore and develop technologies. You will look at a wide range of tech, including mobile devices and robotic fish! 
• Introduction to Information Technology: This subject will take students through all the basics of Information Technology. You will learn how to apply knowledge in diverse contexts, problem solve and communicate computer science issues. 
• Introduction to Programming: You’ll gain knowledge on the vital skills of programming. Students learn how to use computers to problem solve across varied disciplines.
• User-centred Design: This course teaches students about the needs of end-users, focussing on developing interactive systems that benefit those who consume them. You will learn about accessibility for interfaces and how to design great platforms. 
• Introduction to Computer Systems: Get ready to learn about different components that can support a company’s IT structure. You will become knowledgeable about hardware and software, and how they integrate in different systems. 
• Web Programming: In this course, you’ll be introduced to concepts of the web, including principles and tools used to develop applications. You will understand Internet technology and protocols. 
• Practical Database Concepts: This subject teaches students about different database technologies and their effect on the use of computers. You’ll learn about database design and implementation. You’ll also use structured query language to manipulate data and perform a variety of tasks.  

Second Year 

• Professional Computing Practice: This subject introduces students to computing ethics and law. It will take you through various things you need to know when entering the workforce. You’ll learn about issues including information privacy, computer crime and online identity. 
• Security in Computing and Information Technology: In this course, you will learn about the technical aspects for security for IT that is used in a variety of applications. 
• Software Engineering Fundamentals for IT: This is a practical subject in which students will undertake software development projects. You’ll be supported to learn about engineering principles, patterns and tools. The class aims to provide an immersive experience to students. 

Third Year 

• Software Engineering Project Management: In this course, you will be introduced to the basic principles of how to manage software projects. You’ll get experience in understanding how the industry works and will enter the IT world well-equipped. 

In your final year of study, after all core subjects, specialisations, minors and electives are completed, you will take on a Capstone subject. This is a final, practical display of all you have learnt throughout your degree. It’s often used to help students find employment! 

What are the Specialisations?

In this degree, students pick IT specialisations to explore further. Your classes will then be a combination of general subjects, electives and whatever specialisation you choose. 

Specialisations includes: 

• Web and Mobile Computing: Develop interfaces, communications protocol and back end systems for clients.
• Security and Cloud Computing: Learn how to protect corporations and government tech from hacking. 
• Data Management: Be equipped with the skills to work on large pools of data, stored and generated online. 
• Software Systems Development: Focus on modern tools and processes to develop software quickly and efficiently.
• Artificial Intelligence: Learn about automation for a variety of tech, including self-driving cars and healthcare bots. 
• Systems Administration: Learn how to configure and troubleshoot common systems that are used to automate administration. 

As we have mentioned, this is a flexible degree. Students studying a Bachelor of IT at RMIT also have the option to study a variety of minors. These will compliment your learning and prepare you for varied work after uni. 

Areas in which you can minor include: 

• Accounting 
• Basic economics and finance 
• Marketing 
• Entrepreneurship
• Logistics 
• Management 
• International business 
• CISCO systems 
• Business IT
• Information technology 

Internships and Placements 

This degree doesn’t offer specific internships or placements and you are able to graduate without one. However, there are opportunities to learn in the industry while studying. 

RMIT offers Work Integrated Learning (WIL), in which students are placed in industry-style scenarios while studying. This can happen in a variety of ways. Some students are offered a placement directly through WIL. In other scenarios, organisations may offer a project for your class to work on. 

To get ready for WIL, students will also write a resume and complete any course prerequisites (this varies depending on the specific class in which you take on WIL). This means that students get a great opportunity to experience different industry skills and work together. 

Some students also source their own internships, which can be taken on for additional experience though do not add to your degree. 

How to Get into a Bachelor of Information Technology at RMIT

The ATAR for guaranteed entry into this degree is 65.05. 

To get into a Bachelor of IT at RMIT, students need to have completed Year 12 or equivalent. You will also need to have achieved a score of at least 30 in EAL or 25 in English other than EAL (or the equivalent in your state). Students are also required to have achieved at least 20 in any Maths course. 

Alternate Pathways

If you are keen on this degree but didn’t get the right marks, don’t stress. There are some ways that you can gain entry. 

The Equity Access Scheme (EAS) considers academic disadvantages that students may have experienced throughout their study. Those who are approved can have bonus points added to their ATAR. 

There are several different forms of the EAS. The two most common ones are the Special Entry Access Scheme, which considers circumstances that could have affected your studies, and Schools Network Access Program. This entry scheme works with designated secondary schools to prioritise enrolment of their students.

It’s also worth checking out the Indigenous Access Program and Regional Adjustments that are available.

Scholarships 

RMIT offers a number of scholarships open to IT students. There’s a variety of application points, including disadvantage, excellent academic performance and cultural background. 

One scholarship you may want to consider is the George Alexander Foundation Scholarship. This is open to students who are in at least the second year of their degree and have demonstrated academic merit. Students will also have been active in their community and demonstrated leadership potential. This scholarship offers $8000 a year for two years, so is a great way to have a significant portion of your studies paid off. 

What’s the Teaching Format?

Teaching at RMIT occurs in semesters. You will take classes of various sizes that blend the different facets of your degree. 

Class Structure

Lectures 

Lectures are when all students for a subject are given the theory needed to understand what they are learning. It is generally presented by one lecturer, either online or face-to-face.

These classes, with typically 100 students in attendance, provide an overview of the course content. They are an opportunity to orient yourself within a specific subject. 

Tutorials

In these smaller, interactive classes of about 25 students, students get to dig a bit deeper into what they are learning. Tutors usually try to round off any information missing from the lecture, and close the subject in such a way that students really understand what they are learning.

These compulsory classes are also a time to bounce off classmates and get deeper into topics of interest. You can ask detailed questions of your tutor and follow up on tasks. 

Pracs

These small classes, of around 10 students, are where practical application of course content comes in. Students often work in groups to experiment and develop different ideas based on what they have learnt.

In some courses, pracs are very hands-on. At other times, they are more theoretical and based on expanding knowledge. 

How much time is spent in class?

Students complete four subjects a semester, which take roughly three hours each. Therefore, you will have 12 hours of class a week. You’ll also need time to complete other work! 

What are assessments like? 

Assessments in this degree can be very varied depending on the subject! 

There will usually be three assessments per subject. The first two of these are likely to be assignments that are completed at home. They may involve designing things, writing papers on what you are learning or producing summaries.

The final assessment will be something that synthesises what you have learnt throughout the course. This is often a presentation or small test. 

Skills Learnt in this Degree

You will learn many skills studying IT at RMIT, including: 

• Teamwork
• Clear communication 
• Knowledge of different IT areas
• Multitasking 
• Time management 

Because this is a diverse degree, you will be dipping your toe in many facets of IT. This will provide you with the skills to have a well-rounded approach after you graduate! 

Students also work in groups a lot, creating an opportunity for teamwork and communication skills to develop. Because this course has a large workload, you’ll also become a skilled multitasker and be able to manage your time well! 

What’s the Faculty and Culture Like?

RMIT boasts a welcoming IT culture, with students and staff ready to make connections and help others. 

The students are a fairly tight-knit cohort and it is easy to make friends who you can contact outside of university.

In regards to staff, you will be learning from some of the best in the business, who are ready to work with you and improve your university life. They are generally accessible and very willing to answer any questions you may have. 

Societies 

RMIT Information Technology has several societies attached to it, which you can get involved in. 

The biggest society where you may find a home is the RMIT Computer Science and Information Technology Society (CSIT). This is a large, friendly group that you can join to enhance your uni experience.

Students can get involved in fun activities like board games and drinks. You may also be invited to networking and career events to get your professional life kick-started. 

The Society for Women in Information Technology (SWITCH) is a place for female students to get together and share study experiences. There are great social events like drinks and trivia. You’ll also find networking events and industry exposure through SWITCH. 

There are many other societies available at RMIT which target specific students’ interests and abilities. You can find them here! 

Accessibility at RMIT

RMIT is a university that wants to see all kinds of students thrive. The university offers assistive technology for online work, which is available to any student that needs it. 

If you have accessibility concerns, you can get in touch with the Equitable Learning Services. Staff from this service will then meet individually with students to create a learning plan tailored to your needs. This plan will be shared with teachers to offer ongoing support. 

Mentoring 

There are several mentoring programs available to RMIT students. The most significant is Career Mentoring, which is offered in several different formats. You can receive specialist training and insights from someone in your chosen industry. This can happen in a group or one-on-one setting. 

Faculties also offer their own peer mentoring, which students can get involved with to gain assistance for specific subjects. 

You now know everything there is to know about a Bachelor of Information Technology at RMIT! This is an innovative degree and is a great one to consider — do your research and find what is right for you! 

Lucinda Garbutt-Young hopes to one day be writing for a big-shot newspaper… or maybe just for a friendly magazine in the arts sector. Right now, she is enjoying studying a Bachelor of Public Communication (Public Relations and Journalism) at UTS while she writes on the side. She also loves making coffees for people in her job as a barista, and loves nothing more than a sun shower.