Diploma of

Computer
Science
Program Structure
& Course Outlines
Program Structure
• The Diploma of Computer Science comprises 8 courses taken over three terms of full-time
study. Students must complete 48 Units of Credit (UOC). Each course is 6 UOC.
• DPCA1001, DPCA1002 and DPCA1003 are all one course delivered over 1- 3 terms:
• Pre-requisites must be satisfied before selecting any course within the program.
• A core course is one that must be satisfactorily completed to meet the requirements of the
program. An elective course is one which must be completed to satisfactorily complete the
program and, if relevant, specialisation.
• Students will study a mix of core course and prescribed electives depending on your
specialisation

Diploma of Computer Science Sample Program

Course Suggested Pre-requisites/
Course Title UoC
Code Enrolment Term Co-requisites
DPCA1001 Communication and 4 1
Academic Literacy 1
DPMA1013 Mathematics 1A 6 1
DPCP1091 Introduction to 6 1 or 2
Programming
DPCA1002 Communication and 1 2 DPCA1001
Academic Literacy 2 Communication and
Academic Literacy 1 (Pre-
requisite)
DPMA1014 Mathematics 1B 6 2 DPMA1013 Mathematics
1A (Pre-requisite)
DPCA1003 Communication and 1 3 DPCA1002
Academic Literacy 3 Communication and
Academic Literacy (Pre-
requisite)
DPCP1092 Computer System 6 2 or 3 DPCP1091 Introduction
Fundamentals to Programming (Pre-
requisite)
DPCS1093 Software Engineering 2 2 or 3 DPCP1091 Introduction
Fundamentals to Programming (Pre-
requisite)
Course Suggested Pre-requisites/
Course Title UoC
Code Enrolment Term Co-requisites
CHOOSE 2 OF THE FOLLOWING ELECTIVE COURSES:
DPEG1071 Introduction to 6 2 or 3 DPMA1013 Mathematics
Engineering Design 1A (Co-requisite)
and Innovation
DPBA1051 OR DPPH1021 Physics 1A
Molecules, Cells and (Pre-requisite)
Gene OR
DPBA1052
Applied Biomolecular
Science
DPPH1021 OR
Physics 1A
DPBH1022 OR
Physics 1B
Course Outlines
Course Outline Quick Links

DPMA1013 Mathematics 1A

DPMA1014 Mathematics 1B

DPCP1091 Introduction to Programming

DPCP1092 Computer Systems Fundamentals

DPCP1093 Software Engineering Fundamentals

DPPH1021 Physics 1A

DPPH1023 Higher Physics 1A

DPEG1071 Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation

DPBA1051 Molecules, Cells and Genes

DPBA1052 Applied Biomolecular Sciences

DPPH1022 Physics 1B

DPPH1024 Higher Physics 1B

DPCA1001-3 Communication and Academic Literacy

DPMA1013 Mathematics 1A

Course Description

This course will provide you with a good working knowledge of Calculus and Linear Algebra and
will show you how these topics can be applied in interdisciplinary contexts. You will see analytical
thinking and problem-solving demonstrated in lectures, and you will have an opportunity to develop
your analytical thinking and problem-solving skills in tutorial classes. This course will enhance your
ability to solve problems using logical arguments and techniques, which are generic skills that can
be applied in multidisciplinary work. The course will also engage you in independent and reflective
learning through your homework problems and the Maple computing package. You are
encouraged to develop your communication skills through active participation in tutorials, and by
writing clear, logical arguments when solving problems.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO1: State definitions as specified in the syllabus.

CLO2: State and prove appropriate theorems.

CLO3: Explain how a theorem relates to specific examples.

CLO4: Apply the concepts and techniques of the syllabus to solve appropriate problems.

CLO5: Prove specific and general results given specified assumptions.

CLO6: Use mathematical and other terminology appropriately to communicate information and
understanding.

No. timetabled hours per No. personal study Total workload

week hours per week hours per week
7 hours (2 x 2hrs lectures, 2 x 1.5 hrs 7 hours 14 hours
tutorials)
Topics included in the Course

Algebra

1 Introduction to Vectors
2 Vector Geometry
3 Complex Numbers
4 Linear Equations and Matrices
5 Matrices

Calculus

1 Sets, inequalities and functions

2 Limits
3 Properties of continuous functions
4 Differentiable functions
5 The mean value theorem and applications
6 Inverse functions
7 Curve sketching
8 Integration
9 Logarithms and exponentials
10 Hyperbolic functions

Computing

1 Getting Started – Maple

2 The Basics- Arithmetic operations; Brackets; Constants and variables
3 Functions
4 Basic Calculus
5 Collections of Expressions
6 Complex Numbers and Equations
7 Plotting
8 Linear Algebra
Assessment Tasks

Cross-reference
Type When assessed Weighting to learning
outcomes
1. Class tests Year 1, Term 1, Weeks 24% CLO1-6
5, 6, 10, 11
Two Algebra and two
Calculus tests, each
covering 2-3 topics and of
35 mins duration.

2. Mobius online tutorials Year 1, Term 1, 12% CLO1-6

Weekly
Each covers 4 sets of
questions on Algebra /
Calculus and one question
on Maple, an unlimited
number of attempts within 2
weeks, best 8 scores of the
11 quizzes count.

3. Maple laboratory test Year 1, Term 1, Week 4% CLO4, CLO6

12
Testing knowledge/use of
Maple, 40 min.

4. Assignment Year 1, Term 1, 10% CLO1-6

released in Week 6
Testing Math's writing skills
and due in Week 10
through detailed
explanations to 3 different
questions, typeset using
Equation Editor.

5. Final Exam Year 1, Term 1, Exam 50% CLO1-6

Period
Duration of 2.5h, split into an
Algebra and Calculus part.
DPMA1014 Mathematics 1B

Course Description

This course will provide you with a good working knowledge of Calculus and Linear Algebra, and it
will show you how these topics can be applied in interdisciplinary contexts. The illustrative
examples used in lectures and the problem-based tutorial classes will help you to further develop
and improve your analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. Based on logical arguments and
specific techniques, these problem-solving skills are generic and can be applied in multidisciplinary
work. The course will also encourage you to develop your communication skills through active
participation in tutorials, and by writing clear, logical arguments when solving problems.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO1: State definitions as specified in the syllabus.

CLO2: State and prove appropriate theorems.

CLO3: Explain how a theorem relates to specific examples.

CLO4: Apply the concepts and techniques of the syllabus to solve appropriate problems.

CLO5: Prove specific and general results given specified assumptions.

CLO6: Use mathematical and other terminology appropriately to communicate information and
understanding.

No. timetabled hours per No. personal study Total workload

week hours per week hours per week
7 hours (2 x 2hrs lectures, 2x 1.5 hrs 7 hours 14 hours
tutorials)
Topics included in the Course

Algebra

1 Vector spaces
2 Linear Transformations
3 Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors
4 Probability and Statistics

Calculus

1 Functions of several variables

2 Integration techniques
3 Ordinary differential equations
4 Taylor series
5 Application of integration

Computing

1 Application of integration
2 Further calculus
3 Further linear algebra
4 Geometry
5 Programming in Maple

Assessment Tasks

Cross-reference
Type When assessed Weighting to learning
outcomes
1. Class tests Year 1, Term 2, Weeks 24% CLO1-6
5, 6, 10, 11
Two Algebra and two
Calculus tests, each
covering 1-2 topics and of
35 mins duration.
Assessment Tasks

2. Mobius online tutorials Year 1, Term 2, 12% CLO1-6

Weekly
Each covers 4 questions on
Algebra/Calculus and one
question on Maple, an
unlimited number of
attempts within 2 weeks,
best 8 scores of the 12
quizzes count.

3. Maple laboratory test Year 1, Term 2, Week 4% CLO4, CLO6

12
Testing knowledge/use of
Maple, 40 min.

4. Assignment Year 1, Term 2, 10% CLO1-6

released in Week 6
Testing Math's writing skills
and due in Week 10
through detailed
explanations to 3 different
questions, typeset using
Equation Editor.

5. Final Exam Year 1, Term 2, Exam 50% CLO1-6

Period
Duration of 2.5h, split into an
Algebra and Calculus part.
DPCP1091 Introduction to Programming

Course Description

This course introduces students to the basics of programming. Topics covered include
fundamental programming concepts, the C programming language and use of a C compiler,
programming style, program design and organization concepts, program testing and debugging.
The course does not assume any previous programming experience. The course aims for students
to become proficient in programming using a high-level language, C. By the end of the course,
students should be able to construct C programs to solve problems.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO1: Understand the core syntax & semantics of the C programming language including types, I/O,
arrays, functions, pointers, structs, file manipulation and dynamic memory allocation.

CLO2: Given a problem, solve it by proficiently constructing (designing, testing, debugging) a secure,
reliable, and correct C program.

CLO3: Understand & employ fundamental data structures including stacks, queues and linked lists.

CLO4: Use Linux and Unix-like operating systems to develop and test software.

No. timetabled hours No. personal study Total workload hours

per week hours per week per week
8 hours (1 x 2hrs lectures, 2 x 8 hours 16 hours
1hr lectures, 1x 1 hr tutorials, 1
x 2hrs lab, 1 x 1hr lab)
Topics included in the Course

Unit 1: Introduction to course/Linux/C; data types; variables, simple I/O, expressions, If Statements

Unit 2: Structs, Loops and Code Style

Unit 3: Functions and Arrays

Unit 4: Memory and Pointers

Unit 5: Debugging, Strings, Character functions and multi-file projects

Unit 6: Dynamic memory allocation and extra C (for loops, pre/post increment, multi-file
compilation), Linked Lists

Unit 7: Abstract Data Types, including stacks and queues

Unit 8: Recursion including recursion with linked lists

Assessment Tasks

Cross-reference
Type When assessed Weighting to learning
outcomes
1. Programming assignment Week 4 to week 7 15% CLO1-2, CLO4
(Arrays)

2. Programming assignment Week 7 to week 12 25% CLO1-4

(Linked data structures)

3. Lab exercises (The best 10 Throughout the 10% CLO1-4

out of 11 will be taken) semester every week

4. Weekly Tests (The best 6 out Week 4 to week 11 10% CLO1-4

of 7 will be taken)

5. Final Exam Exam period of the 40% CLO1-4

relevant term
DPCP1092 Computer Systems Fundamentals

Course Description

This course provides a programmer's view on how a computer system executes programs,
manipulates data and communicates. It enables students to become effective programmers in
dealing with issues of performance, portability, and robustness.
This course aims to give students an overview of the structure and behaviour of modern computer
systems and to provide a foundation for later courses on operating systems, computer
architecture and compilers, where a deeper understanding of systems-level issues is required.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:

CLO1: Describe the layers of architecture in modern computer systems from hardware device levels
upwards.

CLO2: Describe the principles of memory management and explain the workings of a system with
virtual memory management.

CLO3: Explain how the major components of a CPU work together, including how data (including
instructions) is represented in a computer.

CLO4: Design, implement and analyse small programs at the assembly/machine level.

CLO5: Describe the relationship between high-level procedural languages (e.g., C) and
assembly/machine language in the conventional machine layer, including how a compiled program is
executed in a classical von Neumann machine.

CLO6: Explain how input/output operations are implemented, and describe some basic I/O devices.

CLO7: Describe the components comprising and the services offered by an operating system.

CLO8: Implement simple programs involving communication and concurrency.

No. timetabled hours No. personal study Total workload hours
per week hours per week per week

8 hours (2 hrs + 2x1 hr lectures, 8 hours 16 hours

2x 1 hr tutorials, 2 hrs lab)

Topics included in the Course

Unit 1: Bit manipulation

Unit 2: Data representation

Unit 3: Instruction set architecture and MIPS assembly programming

Unit 4: Systems Calls

Unit 5: File Systems

Unit 6: Processes and Signals

Unit 7: Virtual Memory

Unit 8: Parallelism, concurrency, synchronisation, coordination, communication

Assessment Tasks

Cross-reference
Type When assessed Weighting to learning
outcomes
1. Weekly tests Weeks 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10% CLO1-8
10, and 11 of the
term

2. Assignment 1 (MIPS) Weeks 4 - 8 9% CLO4

3. Assignment 2 (C Weeks 8 - 12 11% CLO2, CLO5, CLO8

Programming)
4. Labs Weekly throughout 10% CLO1-5, CLO8
term

5. Final Exam Exam Period of the 60% CLO1-8

relevant term
Students must get >=40% in
the exam to pass, otherwise,
a UF will be given for the
course.
DPCP1093 Software Engineering
Fundamentals

Course Description

This course teaches students about software engineering principles via exposure to the important
practice of building correct products in effectively functioning teams.
You will be exposed to agile software practices, team collaboration and effective communication
through implementing a group project based on agile software methodologies that requires you to
analyse, design, build and deploy a web-based application. This course is typically taken soon after
completing DPCP1151, but could be delayed and taken later. It provides essential background for
the teamwork and project management required in many later courses.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO1: Demonstrate effective use of applying software development to build full-stack end-user
applications.

CLO2: Demonstrate effective use of static testing, dynamic testing, and user testing to validate and
verify software systems.

CLO3: Understand key characteristics of a functioning team in terms of understanding professional

expectations, maintaining healthy relationships, and managing conflict.

CLO4: Demonstrate an ability to analyse complex software systems in terms of their data model,
state model, and more.

CLO5: Understand the software engineering life cycle in the context of modern and iterative software
development practices in order to elicit requirements, design systems thoughtfully, and implement
software correctly.

CLO6: Demonstrate an understanding of how to use version control, continuous integration, and
deployment tooling to sustainably integrate code from multiple parties.
No. timetabled hours No. personal study Total workload hours
per week hours per week per week
8 Hours (1 x 2hrs lectures, 2 x 8 16
1hr lectures, 1x 1 hr tutorials, 1
x hrs lab, 1 x 1hr lab)

Topics included in the Course

Unit 1: Javascript

Unit 2: Version control using git

Unit 3: Teamwork and Agile

Unit 4: Requirements, use cases, user stories and validation

Unit 5: Testing and correctness, verification, coverage

Unit 6: Package management, continuous integration, deployment

Unit 7: Designing for maintainability, conceptual modelling, software complexity

Unit 8: Full stack development, data interchange, http servers, authentication and authorisation
Assessment Tasks

When Cross-reference to
Type Weighting
assessed learning outcomes
Assessment 1:
Lab questions over 8 labs each worth Weeks 2 to 8 10% CLO1-2, 4-6
1.25%

Assessment 2:
Major Project – Agile software
delivery, with each milestone
encompassing all the SLDC activities

Milestone 1: Getting started with Weeks 4 7%

teamwork, git and prototypes
Milestone 2: Basic functionality and Week 7 17.5%
testing CLO1-6

Milestone 3: Creating a web-server, Week 9 24.5%

requirements addition, testing
Milestone 4: Requirements change, Week 12 21%
testing and deployment

Assessment 3:
Exam Period of
Final Exam – short answer questions 20% CLO1-2, 4-6
relevant term
and programming exercises
DPPH1021 Physics 1A

Course Description

This course builds on elementary knowledge of physics (Year 12 physics or equivalent). It

introduces mechanics, thermal physics, waves, and the techniques of analysis and problem-solving
in the physical world. Students will develop their ability to use mathematics and fundamental
physical concepts to solve problems related to the world around them. It is a calculus-based
course where concepts and principles are learned in context, by example, and then developed
through practice solving problems. Throughout the course, the skills of problem-solving are refined
by learning when and how to apply different principles of physics, mathematics and other relevant
tools. Students are encouraged to develop their communication skills through active participation
in tutorials and laboratory exercises. This course is examined at two levels, with DPPH1021 being
the lower and DPPH1023 being the higher of the two levels.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO1: Analyse motion in two dimensions using vectors. Apply Newton’s laws of motion to objects
undergoing uniform translational or rotational acceleration.

CLO2: Analyse problems involving friction and the forces and deformations described by Hooke's
law.

CLO3: Explain the difference between kinetic and potential energy and use the law of conservation of
energy and the work-energy theorem to solve mechanics problems.

CLO4: Apply the conservation laws of momentum and energy to solve mechanics problems,
including problems involving collisions, extended objects and their centers of mass.

CLO5: Apply the law of universal gravitation in combination with other laws covered in this course to
describe, predict and explain the motion of satellites, planets, stars and galaxies.

CLO6: Explain how energy conservation is related to the first law of thermodynamics. Apply the first
law to solve problems.
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO7: Recognise and solve problems relating to different thermodynamic processes, including
adiabatic, isothermal, isobaric and isovolumetric processes. For cyclic processes, calculate changes
in internal energy, work done and heat transferred in cycles.

CLO8: Describe different heat transfer mechanisms and calculate the amount of heat transferred in
different processes.

CLO9: Identify physical systems that can be understood using models of simple harmonic oscillation
and write down equations to describe this motion.

CLO10: Write down and solve equations describing wave motion, and use these equations to explain
physical phenomena such as (but not limited to) standing waves and interference.

CLO11: Recognise that physics is an experimental science, plan and conduct experiments and
analyse the outcomes, and include reliable estimates of uncertainties in measurements.

No. timetabled hours per No. personal study Total workload

week hours per week hours per week
8 hours (3 x 1hr lectures, 2 x 1 hr tutorials, 8 hours 16 hours
1 hr workshop, 2 hrs Lab (8 labs total))

Topics included in the Course

Mechanics

1 Motion along a straight

2 Vectors
3 Motion in two and three dimensions
4 Force and motion
5 Work and energy
6 Centre of mass and linear
7 Rotation and torque
8 Gravitation
Thermal Physics

1 Temperature
2 Kinetic theory of gases
3 Heat and the first law of

Waves

1 Oscillations
2 Wave motion
3 Sound waves

Assessment Tasks

Cross-reference to
Type When assessed Weighting
learning outcomes
1. Term Test 1 Week 8 10% CLO1-11

Covers all of the Mechanics.

2. Term Test 2 Week 13 10% CLO1-11

Covers all of Thermal

Physics and Oscillations.

3. Online Quizzes Starting week 2; 10% CLO1-11

approximately
6 quizzes each with an
every 2 weeks
unlimited number of
attempts, and the best score
counts.

4. Laboratory Work Starting week 3; 20% CLO11

approximately
8 laboratory exercises.
every week.

5. Final Exam Exam period of the 50% CLO1-11

relevant term
DPPH1023 Higher Physics 1A

Course Description

This course builds on elementary knowledge of physics (Year 12 physics or equivalent). It gives an
introduction to mechanics, thermal physics, waves, and the techniques of analysis and problem-
solving in the physical world. Students will develop their ability to use mathematics and
fundamental physical concepts to solve problems related to the world around them. It is a
calculus-based course where concepts and principles are learned in context, by example, and then
developed through practice solving problems. Throughout the course, the skills of problem-solving
are refined by learning when and how to apply different principles of physics, mathematics and
other relevant tools. Students are encouraged to develop their communication skills through active
participation in tutorials and laboratory exercises. This course is examined at two levels, with
DPPH1021 being the lower and DPPH1023 being the higher of the two levels.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO1: Analyse motion in two dimensions using vectors. Apply Newton’s laws of motion to objects
undergoing uniform translational or rotational acceleration.

CLO2: Analyse problems involving friction and the forces and deformations described by Hooke's
law.

CLO3: Explain the difference between kinetic and potential energy and use the law of conservation of
energy and the work-energy theorem to solve mechanics problems.

CLO4: Apply the conservation laws of momentum and energy to solve mechanics problems,
including problems involving collisions, extended objects and their centers of mass.

CLO5: Apply the law of universal gravitation in combination with other laws covered in this course to
describe, predict and explain the motion of satellites, planets, stars and galaxies.

CLO6: Explain how energy conservation is related to the first law of thermodynamics. Apply the first
law to solve problems.
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO7: Recognise and solve problems relating to different thermodynamic processes, including
adiabatic, isothermal, isobaric and isovolumetric processes. For cyclic processes, calculate changes
in internal energy, work done and heat transferred in cycles.

CLO8: Describe different heat transfer mechanisms and calculate the amount of heat transferred in
different processes.

CLO9: Identify physical systems that can be understood using models of simple harmonic oscillation
and write down equations to describe this motion.

CLO10: Write down and solve equations describing wave motion, and use these equations to explain
physical phenomena such as (but not limited to) standing waves and interference.

CLO11: Recognise that physics is an experimental science, plan and conduct experiments and
analyse the outcomes, and include reliable estimates of uncertainties in measurements.

No. personal study Total workload

No. timetabled hours per week
hours per week hours per week
8 hours (3 x 1hr lectures, 2 x 1 hr tutorials, 8 hours 16 hours
1 hr workshop, 2 hrs Lab (8 labs total))

Topics included in the Course

Mechanics

1 Motion along a straight

2 Vectors
3 Motion in two and three dimensions
4 Force and motion
5 Work and energy
6 Centre of mass and linear
7 Rotation and torque
8 Gravitation
Thermal Physics

1 Temperature
2 Kinetic theory of gases
3 Heat and the first law of

Waves

1 Oscillations
2 Wave motion
3 Sound waves

Assessment Tasks

Cross-reference
Type When assessed Weighting to learning
outcomes
1. Term Test 1 Week 8 10% CLO1-11

Covers all of Mechanics.

2. Term Test 2 Week 13 10% CLO1-11

Covers all of Thermal

Physics and Oscillations.

3. Online Quizzes Starting week 2; 10% CLO1-11

approximately every 2
6 quizzes each with an weeks
unlimited number of
attempts, and the best score
counts.

4. Laboratory Practical’s Starting week 3; 20% CLO11

approximately every
8 laboratory exercises. week.

5. Final Exam Exam period of the 50% CLO1-11

relevant term
DPEG1071 Introduction to Engineering
Design and Innovation

Course Description

In this course, students will experience one of the major things that engineers do: designing and
building creative solutions to problems. They will learn to think the way that engineers think,
coming up with good solutions to problems despite being limited by budget, time and resources,
the requirement to also meet environmental and social objectives and of course the limitations of
the laws of physics. This will help them to appreciate the central ideas of engineering design as an
on-time, on-budget and fit-for-purpose solution to a poorly specified, open-ended problem. They
will be assigned to a team to work over twelve weeks to solve a practical problem. The projects on
offer change from year to year. In doing all this they will start to build key skills for engineers that
will be called upon repeatedly in their academic and professional lives, including concept
development, critical thinking and evaluation skills, clear communication, research and information
literacy skills and the skills involved in successfully functioning within a team environment to
complete a given task.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO1: Demonstrate an understanding of the process of engineering design and the use of design
methods for defining an open-ended design problem; generating alternative and innovative
conceptual solutions; and evaluating these solutions.

CLO2: Understand the dynamics of collaborative teams and how to work effectively within a team to
accomplish tasks within given deadlines.

CLO3: Understand the basic elements of project management and be able to plan and schedule work
activities following standard practice.

CLO4: Be able to convey your thoughts and ideas effectively in an engineering design report.

CLO5: Become familiar with the tangible elements of design within a specific engineering discipline:
demonstrate the effective use of the tools, equipment, and materials of the specific discipline; and
recognize some basic engineering materials, devices and mechanisms which form the “building
blocks” of much of the world’s machinery, circuitry, and engineering systems in general.
No. timetabled hours No. personal study Total workload hours
per week hours per week per week
7 hours (2 x 2hrs lectures, 1x 7 hours 14 hours
1hr tutorials, 1 x 2hrs Lab)

Topics included in the Course

The Engineering Design Process

1 Problem Statement
2 Pairwise Comparison Chart
3 Conceptual Design
4 Brainstorming Methods
5 Morph Chart
6 Concept Evaluation Methods

Project Management

1 Project Management
2 Risk Management
3 Technical drawings
4 Oral Presentations

Design Reports

1 Nodal Analysis
2 Super-node Concept
3 Mesh Analysis
4 Super-mesh Concept

Technical lectures

1 Introduction to Electronics
2 Diodes
3 Transistors
4 DC Motors, Electric Drive Circuits and Op Amps
5 Arduino Introduction
6 Sensors and Filtering Circuits
Assessment Tasks

When Cross-reference to
Type Weighting
assessed learning outcomes
1. Impromptu Design Writing Task Week 1 of the 5% CLO1-5
term
(Individual assessment, 400 words, 40
mins)

2. Problem Statement Presentation Week 3 of the 5% CLO1-3

term
(Individual assessment, 2 mins, 50:50
evaluated by Tutor and Peers)

3. Concept Generation Presentation Week 5 of the 5% CLO1-3

term
(Group assessment, 15 mins, 50:50
evaluated by Tutor and Peers)

4. Concept Generation Writing Task Week 6 of the 5% CLO3-4

term
(Individual assessment, 1 page)

5. Design Journal Week 6 and 10% CLO3-4

11 of the
(Individual assessment, Via OneNote)
term

6. Design Proposal Week 8 of the 10% CLO1-4

term
(Group assessment, 10 pages)

7. Compliance Testing Week 9 of the 10% CLO1-5

term
(Group assessment, Initial
Performance check of design
prototypes)

8. Final Testing Week 12 of 20% CLO1-5

the term
(Group assessment, Final Performance
check of design prototypes)

9. Final Design Report Week 12 of 30% CLO1-4

the term
(Group 9% & Individual 21%)

10. Team Evaluation Week 7 and ± 25% CLO2

12 of the
(Used to moderate students’ final
term
marks and pick up non-cooperative
team members)
DPBA1051 Molecules, Cells and Genes

Course Description

This course aims to introduce students to the basic concepts of modern biology, with particular
emphasis on cell structure, function and genetics. The chemistry of life is examined, with
emphasis on how living things construct and break down macromolecules. How the genetic code
controls these processes depends to a great extent on the structure and function of cell
components, and cell biology is a major component of the course. The final topic is genetics - how
the genetic code is inherited and how it can be modified. In the process of understanding these
concepts, the student will also develop skills in scientific thinking and critical analysis.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO1: Effectively communicate scientific findings to different audiences using different methods.

CLO2: Identify different types of cells, their structures and functions, and compare and contrast
them.

CLO3: Outline the processes for energy generation in cells, including the structure and roles of
proteins, carbohydrates and lipids.

CLO4: Describe the structures of genetic material, the processes involved in cell division and gene
expression, and how these relate to inheritance.

No. timetabled hours No. personal study Total workload hours

per week hours per week per week
7 Hours (3 x 1hr lectures, 2 x 7 hours 14 hours
1hr tutorials, 3hrs lab for 7
weeks of term)
Topics included in the Course

Thinking like a scientist

1 Scientific literature
2 Science communication
3 Experimental design

Cell biology and architecture

1 Properties of water and life

2 Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
3 Cell structure and function
4 Cell integrity and the plasma membrane
Nutrient and ion transport

Metabolism

1 Macromolecules: Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids

2 Metabolic concepts: Catabolism, anabolism, enzymes, redox reactions
3 Cellular respiration and fermentation: Extracting energy from food
Photosynthesis: Synthesising food from energy

Genetics

1 DNA replication
2 Cell division and reproduction
3 Polymerase Chain Reaction
4 Gene expression: transcription, translation and regulation
5 Mutation
6 Mendel’s laws of heredity
7 Mechanisms of inheritance
8 Population genetics
Assessment Tasks

When Cross-reference to
Type Weighting
assessed learning outcomes
1. Online quizzes
Five quizzes comprising
multiple choice, drag and drop
and fill-in-the-blanks style
questions. Weeks 2, 4, 6, 8,
and 10 of the 5% CLO2-4
Topics include prokaryotic term.
and eukaryotic cell structure;
osmosis and diffusion;
photosynthesis; mitosis and
meiosis; DNA replication).

2. Science communication
project
Group project on an advanced
biology topic chosen by the
students. Consists of 4
components:
Literature review
Individual task; review of
literature on group topic; 2000
words limit; 15%.
Group proposal
Group-written submission of CLO1-4
Weeks 7, 9 and
ideas on the design, biological 40%
12 of the term.
content and feasibility of
group presentation; max. two
A4 pages; 5%.
Group presentation
6-10 min group presentation
on the chosen topic; format
optional e.g., video,
PowerPoint, web page etc;
15%.
Group portfolio
Group submission; Written
record of group meetings; 5%.
Assessment Tasks

3. Mid-term exam
40 multiple choice questions;
Week 6 of the
50 min duration; covers 15% CLO1-3
term
content from weeks 1-5 of the
term.

4. Final Exam
30 x 1-mark multiple choice
questions + 14 x 5-mark short Exam Period of
40% CLO1-4
answer questions; 2.5 hrs relevant term
duration. Covers all course
content.
DPBA1052 Applied Biomolecular Sciences

Course Description

This course provides an overview of the application of molecular and cellular biology to the fields
of medicine, plant and animal science, and food, marine and environmental sciences. It draws
comparisons between contemporary and conventional technologies through the introduction of
traditional and recombinant genetics, microbiology, biochemistry and fermentation engineering in
the context of their contribution to the industrial application of biological systems.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO1: Understand the fundamental principles of the industrial implementation of bioprocesses,
including the professional and ethical issues associated with the commercial development of
biotechnological processes.

CLO2: Pose questions, design experiments and interpret the resultant experimental data with respect
to the literature.

CLO3: Identify inconsistencies in scientific thought and writing through a thorough understanding of
the relevant literature and the correct use of references to support arguments and hypotheses.

CLO4: Appreciate the interdisciplinary and rapidly changing nature of biotechnology and the
importance of teamwork in both scientific discovery and the development of biotechnological
processes.

CLO5: Communicate scientific ideas and discoveries in biotechnology, to the industrial, scientific and
general communities, using the written and spoken word as well as electronic media.

CLO6: For the practical component, exemplify the industrial nature of biotechnology in support of the
lecture component. In part, this will be accomplished by developing good laboratory skills, such as
the ability to work safely and effectively in a laboratory, to utilise relevant equipment, and to make
use of protocols, manuals and safe operating procedures.
No. timetabled hours No. personal study Total workload hours
per week hours per week per week

6 hours (2 x 1hr lectures, 2 x 1 6 hours 12 hours

hr tutorials, 3hrs lab for 8 weeks
of term)

Topics included in the Course

Cell structure, biochemistry and metabolism

1 Eukaryotic cell structure and function

2 Bacterial cell structure
3 Microbial energetics

Microbial growth and bioenergetics

1 Microbial growth
2 Bioprocesses: growing cells on industrial scales
3 Microbial diversity and novel methods of cell culture
4 Metabolism and Enzymes
5 Microbial nutrient cycling and global impact

Genetics and genetic engineering

1 Understanding DNA, RNA, and proteins from a biological perspective

2 Conventional genetics and mutation
3 Recombinant DNA technology and the principles of cloning
4 Genomics and bioinformatics
Frontiers in biotechnological research and industrial applications

1 Biofuels
2 Clinical genomics
3 Medical mycology and biotechnology
4 Bioremediation
5 Brewing and fermented beverages
6 Industrial enzymes
7 Astrobiology
8 The commercialisation of scientific discoveries
9 Vaccines

Laboratory skills

1 Microbiological techniques: culturing, phenotyping and quantification

2 Spectrophotometry and serial dilutions
3 Experimental design
4 PCR and gel electrophoresis
5 Genetic modification techniques
6 Lab safety
Assessment Tasks

When Cross-reference to
Type Weighting
assessed learning outcomes
1. Lab quizzes Weeks 3-6, 8-11 4% CLO1-2, CLO4, CLO6
Eight short multiple-choice of the term
quizzes based on weekly lab
topics.

2. Lab discussions Weeks 3-6, 8-11 8% CLO1-6

of the term
Student contribution to eight 15
min group discussions on
weekly lab topics.

3. Literature review Week 8 of the 15% CLO1-5

2000-3000 words review of term
scientific literature.

Topic: Discovery and

application of industrial
enzymes for use in the
production of biofuels

4. Experimental design report Week 12 of the 8% CLO1-6

term
Group written report.

Topic: design an experimental

protocol to produce biofuel
from amylase extracted from a
thermophilic bacterial species;
approx. 6 A4 pages.

5. Mid-term exam Week 6 of the 20% CLO1-4, CLO6

term
40 multiple choice questions;
50 min duration; covers content
from weeks 1-5 of the term.

6. Final Exam Exam period of 45% CLO1-6

the relevant term
100 multiple choice questions;
2.5 hours duration. Covers all
course content.
DPPH1022 Physics 1B

Course Description

This course builds on the physics learnt in Physics/Higher Physics 1A to further develop an
understanding of the mathematical description of the laws of nature. It gives an introduction to
electromagnetism, physical optics, quantum physics, and the techniques of analysis and problem-
solving in the physical world. Students will develop their ability to use mathematics and
fundamental physical concepts to solve problems related to the world around them. It is a
calculus-based course where concepts and principles are learned in context, by example, and then
developed through practice solving problems. Throughout the course, the skills of problem-solving
are refined by learning when and how to apply different principles of physics, mathematics and
other relevant tools. Students are encouraged to develop their communication skills through active
participation in tutorials and laboratory exercises. This course is examined at two levels, with
DPPH1022 being the lower and DPPH1024 being the higher of the two levels.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO1: Use Coulomb’s law and Gauss’s law to calculate electric fields for configurations of charges,
use these electric fields to calculate electric potentials. Compare and contrast electric fields to
gravitational fields covered in Physics/Higher Physics 1A.

CLO2: Be able to state the definition of capacitance and use this definition with equations for electric
field and voltages to calculate the capacitance of different geometries.

CLO3: Calculate the electrostatic and magnetic fields produced by moving charges in a variety of
configurations using the Laws of Biot-Savart and Ampère. Relate electric and magnetic fields using
Faraday’s law; use this to calculate induced currents and voltages.

CLO4: Use equations to describe and explain the properties of electromagnetic waves (such as
wavelength, frequency, intensity, power and radiation pressure) and relate these to electric and
magnetic fields and the speed of light.

CLO5: Use equations and diagrams to solve advanced problems about electromagnetic waves
related to polarisation, interference and diffraction.
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO6: Discuss and explain (qualitatively and quantitatively) the key observations and events that led
to the development of quantum mechanics.

CLO7: Relate emission and absorption spectra to the energy change of electrons between states in
an atom, calculate the energy levels of electrons in Hydrogen-like atoms, and relate this to quantum
mechanical laws.

CLO8: Describe and explain the physics relating to modern devices and technologies including
semiconductors, transistors, LEDs and solar cells.

CLO9: Recognise that physics is an experimental science, plan and conduct experiments and analyse
the outcomes, and include reliable estimates of uncertainties in measurements.

No. personal study Total workload

No. timetabled hours per week
hours per week hours per week
8 hours (3 x 1hr lectures, 2 x 1 hr tutorials, 8 hours 16 hours
1 hr workshop, 2 hrs Lab (8 labs total))

Topics included in the Course

Electricity and Magnetism

1 Coulomb’s law
2 Electric fields
3 Gauss’s law
4 Electric potential
5 Capacitance
6 Magnetic fields
7 Magnetic fields due to currents
8 Induction and inductance

Physical Optics

1 Electromagnetic waves
2 Interference
3 Diffractions
Introductory Quantum Physics and Solid State Physics

1 Photons and matter waves

2 Conduction and electricity in solids

Assessment Tasks

Cross-
reference to
Type When assessed Weighting
learning
outcomes
1. Term Test 1 Week 13 10% CLO1-9

Covers all of Electricity and

Magnetism.

2. Term Test 2 Starting week 2; 10% CLO1-9

approximately every 2
Covers all of Physical Optics
weeks
Introductory Quantum
Physics and Solid State
Physics.

3. Online Quizzes Starting week 3; 20% CLO9

approximately every week.
6 quizzes each with an
unlimited number of
attempts, and the best score
counts.

4. Laboratory Practical’s Exam period of the 50% CLO1-9

relevant term
8 laboratory exercises.

5. Final Exam Week 13 10% CLO1-9

DPPH1024 Higher Physics 1B

Course Description

This course builds on the physics learnt in Physics/Higher Physics 1A to further develop an
understanding of the mathematical description of the laws of nature. It gives an introduction to
electromagnetism, physical optics, quantum physics, and the techniques of analysis and problem-
solving in the physical world. Students will develop their ability to use mathematics and
fundamental physical concepts to solve problems related to the world around them. It is a
calculus-based course where concepts and principles are learned in context, by example, and then
developed through practice solving problems. Throughout the course, the skills of problem-solving
are refined by learning when and how to apply different principles of physics, mathematics and
other relevant tools. Students are encouraged to develop their communication skills through active
participation in tutorials and laboratory exercises. This course is examined at two levels, with
DPPH1022 being the lower and DPPH1024 being the higher of the two levels.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO1: Use Coulomb’s law and Gauss’s law to calculate electric fields for configurations of charges,
use these electric fields to calculate electric potentials. Compare and contrast electric fields to
gravitational fields covered in Physics/Higher Physics 1A.

CLO2: Be able to state the definition of capacitance and use this definition with equations for electric
field and voltages to calculate the capacitance of different geometries.

CLO3: Calculate the electrostatic and magnetic fields produced by moving charges in a variety of
configurations using the Laws of Biot-Savart and Ampère. Relate electric and magnetic fields using
Faraday’s law; use this to calculate induced currents and voltages.

CLO4: Use equations to describe and explain the properties of electromagnetic waves (such as
wavelength, frequency, intensity, power and radiation pressure) and relate these to electric and
magnetic fields and the speed of light.

CLO5: Use equations and diagrams to solve advanced problems about electromagnetic waves
related to polarisation, interference and diffraction.
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO6: Discuss and explain (qualitatively and quantitatively) the key observations and events that led
to the development of quantum mechanics.

CLO7: Relate emission and absorption spectra to the energy change of electrons between states in
an atom, calculate the energy levels of electrons in Hydrogen-like atoms, and relate this to quantum
mechanical laws.

CLO8: Describe and explain the physics relating to modern devices and technologies including
semiconductors, transistors, LEDs and solar cells.

CLO9: Recognise that physics is an experimental science, plan and conduct experiments and analyse
the outcomes, and include reliable estimates of uncertainties in measurements.

No. personal study Total workload

No. timetabled hours per week
hours per week hours per week

8 hours (3 x 1hr lectures, 2 x 1 hr tutorials, 8 hours 16 hours

1 hr workshop, 2 hrs Lab (8 labs total))

Topics included in the Course

Electricity and Magnetism

1 Coulomb’s law
2 Electric fields
3 Gauss’s law
4 Electric potential
5 Capacitance
6 Magnetic fields
7 Magnetic fields due to currents
8 Induction and inductance
Physical Optics

1 Electromagnetic waves
2 Interference
3 Diffractions

Introductory Quantum Physics and Solid State Physics

1 Photons and matter waves

2 Conduction and electricity in solids

Assessment Tasks

Cross-reference
Type When assessed Weighting to learning
outcomes
1. Term Test 1 Week 8 10% CLO1-9

Covers all of Electricity and

Magnetism.

2. Term Test 2 Week 13 10% CLO1-9

Covers all of Physical Optics

Introductory Quantum
Physics and Solid State
Physics.

3. Online Quizzes Starting week 2; 10% CLO1-9

approximately every 2
6 quizzes each with an weeks
unlimited number of
attempts, and the best score
counts.

4. Laboratory Practical’s Starting week 3; 20% CLO9

approximately every
8 laboratory exercises. week.

5. Final Exam Exam period of the 50% CLO1-9

relevant term
DPCA1001-3 Communication and Academic
Literacy (Cal) 1, 2 & 3

Course Description

This course is designed to equip learners with the academic literacy and communication skills they
require to succeed in their tertiary studies. This course is characterised by a focus on tertiary
orientation, academic literacy, critical thinking, and learner autonomy. The study of advanced
functional language forms which promote textual coherence and cohesion at a tertiary level are
embedded. The aim of this course is to assist the process of acculturation and promote broader
engagement in campus life. It also aims to foster a deeper understanding of how word choice,
sentence structure, and the organisation of ideas can affect clarity of expression and facilitate
greater communicative and academic competence. Students learn to recognise and create texts
based on logical organisational patterns and identify expressions commonly used in academic
discourse to signal relationships between ideas. There is a strong emphasis on reflection and the
learning process. Learners are encouraged to work collaboratively and to develop effective self-
directed study skills. Course materials are based on topics and issues which reflect the variety of
disciplines students will go on to pursue as part of their future courses of study. Authentic tertiary
input and resources are used where appropriate to ensure that learning activities are relevant and
meaningful. The themes selected as the context for the learning activities reflect broad topics
which may be studied from a variety of disciplinary perspectives. The focus includes macro-
language skills, discourse management and academic literacy skills. CAL encourages collaborative
and independent work with both peers and teachers to better prepare students for the Australian
university context. Learners are engaged in practical task-oriented activities and assessment
tasks. They are encouraged to analyse ideas, evaluate claims, and search for answers to self-
generated questions. A range of academic spoken and written text types are addressed throughout
the course. Some of these texts include: academic readings, case studies, reports, critical reviews,
reflections, summaries, annotated bibliographies, short-answer responses, tutorial discussions,
presentations, simulations etc. The course, is organised in a series of skills-based modules and is
delivered in a fully online or fully face-to-face mode, using blended learning approaches. The
spread of hours across the CAL course is 48 to 144 hours dependent of English language
proficiency. Student requiring greater English language support may take the course over three
terms.
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
CLO1: Use & produce language required to operate successfully at an Australian university.

CLO2: Select, analyse and evaluate information, ideas, & academic sources.

CLO3: Clearly express ideas, organise information, & incorporate evidence.

CLO4: Produce written texts demonstrating recognised academic conventions.

CLO5: Engage in group discussions & deliver oral presentations.

CLO6: Communicate with peers & university staff in both academic & social domains.

CLO7: Demonstrate a reflective & self-directed approach to learning.

No. timetabled hours No. personal study Total workload hours

per week hours per week per week
4-8 hours per week (Term 1) Approx. 2 – 4 hours per week 6 – 12 hours per week
2 hours per week (Term 1, 2 or 3) Approx. 1 – 2 hours per week 3 – 6 hours per week
2 hours per week (Term 1, 2, or 3) Approx. 1 hours per week 3 – 6 hours per week

Topics included in the Course

Unit 1: Developing an academic style: Communicating at university + Being a critical reader.

Unit 2: Critical analysis and expressing ideas clearly: Writing for university + Presenting and
supporting claims.

Unit 3: Incorporating different perspectives: Referring to academic sources + Synthesising

information from multiple sources.

Unit 4: Negotiating and problem solving: Developing credible arguments.

Unit 5: Negotiating and problem solving: Analysing problems and evaluating responses.

Unit 6: Joining a discourse community: Investigating your field of study.

Unit 7: Joining a discourse community: Reporting on research findings.

Assessment Tasks

144 Hours – Students who

48 Hours require extra English language
support

Cross- Weighting Weighting

reference When When
Type (% of total marks (% of total marks
to learning assessed assessed
outcome for unit) for unit)

Reflection Activities: CLO1-3, 5-7 Week 3, 12, 20% Week 3, 10%

Term 1 Term 1
Reflective video, writing and
interview Week 12,
Term 2
Week 12,
Term 3

Quizzes CLO1, 3, 6-7 Week 3-12, 20% Week 4, 10%

Term 1 Term 1
Quiz 1: Listening Skills
Week 6,
Quiz 2: Reading & Writing
Term 1
Quiz 3: Academic Language
Week 7,
Quiz 4: Academic Language Term 1
Week 3,
Term 2

Seminars CLO1-7 N/A 0% Week 8, 20%

Term 1
Part 1. Critical Reading Seminar
Week 12,
Part 2. Group Seminar
Term 1
Presentation

Case Study
Students identify the core issues CLO1-4, 6-7 Week 2, 20% Week 6, 10%
and pose justifiable solutions to Term 1 Term 2
the problem

Emergency Summit CLO1-7 Week 6, 20% Week 11, 10%

Term 1 Term 2
Students assume the role of a
real-world stakeholder in an
‘Emergency Summit’ and prepare
a well-reasoned response to a
given ‘wicked problem’.
Assessment Tasks

Individual Poster CLO1, 7 Week 3, 20% Week 6, 20%

Presentation/Report Term 1 Term 3
Week 11,
Term 3

Integrated Skills Test CLO1-4 N/A 0% Exam Week, 20%

Term 3
Reading, Listening & Writing