Fast-track your tech career with the right degree

At a moment when work is changing faster than at any time in recent memory, people are looking at the job market and realising the rules have changed. Careers that seemed stable a decade ago are shifting. And everywhere you look, there’s talk of artificial intelligence, data science, and the digital transformation reshaping industries. 

If you’re looking to enter the tech industry, the question isn’t just whether to study – it’s what to study, and which degree will genuinely prepare you for the jobs of tomorrow.

The skills gap

AI literacy is now the most in-demand skill Australian employers seek, according to LinkedIn, with eight in 10 employers more likely to hire someone comfortable with AI tools than someone with more experience but less AI proficiency. On top of that, technical and strategic AI roles top the list of Australia’s fastest growing jobs.

Beyond artificial intelligence, tech employers are looking for graduates with strong foundations in software development, data analytics, programming, cloud computing, and emerging technologies like machine learning, digital twins and quantum computing.

But technical skills alone aren’t enough. The industry needs professionals who understand cybersecurity, digital trust, and the ethical design of technology – people who can address complex challenges and lead responsibly.

The time challenge

One barrier for aspiring tech professionals is time.

The traditional pathway – a bachelor’s degree followed by a separate master’s qualification – typically takes five years or more of fulltime study. In a field moving this rapidly, that can feel painfully long.

The good news is that there are faster options. For example, ACU offers a Bachelor of Computer Science/Master of Data Science. As a vertical double-degree, students can complete both qualifications in just four years, shaving a whole year off the traditional timeline and giving graduates competitive edge.

But duration is just one factor. When choosing a degree, there are several key things to consider.

Industry alignment and real-world involvement

The degree should be designed in collaboration with industry, ensuring what you learn reflects what tech employers actually need – including the emerging technologies shaping the future, not just yesterday’s tools.

You also want practical, real-world experience. Look for capstone projects, industry placements or research opportunities that apply your learning to genuine challenges.

ACU’s program addresses this issue directly. Created in collaboration with industry, and supported by partnerships with leading tech firms including AWS, Microsoft, Palo Alto Networks and Data#3, the Bachelor of Computer Science/Master of Data Science gives graduates the skills to solve real-world challenges effectively.

The curriculum covers advanced technical skills in emerging technologies, with a strong emphasis on ethics. Through partnerships with AWS, Microsoft and other industry leaders, students gain exposure to the tools and platforms used in the field.

Plus, the program is led by academics at the forefront of responsible innovation, machine learning, and cybersecurity. It’s a rare combination of high-impact teaching, applied research, and industry alignment.

Ethics in action

In today’s world, ethical leadership is an underrated attribute. As AI and data science become more powerful, understanding responsible innovation, leadership and data governance is essential.

ACU’s mission centres on the dignity of the human person and the common good, ensuring every degree – regardless of subject – has respect, inclusivity and ethical practice woven throughout teaching. This ethical foundation is embedded in ACU’s double degree and brought to life in practical application.

Data science is already playing a key role in addressing global challenges – from tracking global carbon emissions to supporting cutting-edge medical research.

ACU’s program puts this problem-solving capacity into practice. In the final year of the double degree, students complete a two-part capstone project with a research or industry-aligned focus.   

Drawing on the knowledge and skills developed throughout their studies, students integrate technical, analytical and ethical perspectives to define a problem, formulate appropriate methodologies, and prepare a structured plan for project implementation.

This prepares graduates to hit the ground running when they enter the workforce, thriving in high-growth roles across the global tech landscape.

Best of all, students don’t need advanced mathematics or prior coding experience – the program is designed to build skills from the ground up.

The world of tech is moving fast. Are you ready to move with it?