Security & Computing
Undergraduate Security & Computing brochure
(PDF, 2.1mb)
Security & Computing
Recognised as a leader in cyber security research, our Security and Computing courses offer an extensive range of majors and units across a variety of fascinating subjects.
Flexible courses and world‑class technology, combined with our Work Integrated Learning program, which is supported by close industry links, provide ECU students with endless possibilities within Australia, as well as internationally.
Smartphone application protecting lives
A team of Security & Computing students have developed a new app which transforms a smartphone into an emergency beacon at the push of a button.
Developed in conjunction with the WA Police Air Wing, it utilises the GPS found in most smartphones and transmits a person's exact location to search and rescue services, potentially making it easier to find lost bushwalkers or those at sea.
Their impressive work saw them take home the Tertiary Student Project Award at the 2012 WA Information Technology and Telecommunications Awards (WAiTTA).
World-class Facilities
Our computer and security science labs have the latest equipment and facilities for the conduct of traditional computer science and IT degrees.
Several specialist labs can also be found for networking, games programming and simulation, computer security and digital forensics.
ECU Security and Computing Students Receive a Free Netbook
We are committed to ensuring all Security and Computing students have access to the latest technologies so they can reach their potential within their chosen course.
This is why, if you enrol as a full‑time student, you are eligible to receive a free Netbook computer to use in your first year of study. And, if you continue with your degree, it will be yours to keep for free.
A Head Start through Work Integrated Learning
The Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program provides high achieving students in most courses with work placement opportunities within local industry.
ECU partners up students who have excelled in their studies, with State and Local Governments, major financial institutions and local industries, to ensure they are entering the workforce as smoothly as possible and with a solid foundation from which they can launch their career.
"My real-world skills allow me to make unreal computer games!"
"The course has allowed me to gain exceptional programming skills and the kind of inside-knowledge essential to finding employment in the field. Being at a uni that encourages industry collaboration also means you meet inspirational industry people - people who can help you get ahead in computer science. This is a great opportunity for us, as we're able to apply for positions and do the 'ground work' while we're still studying. What really excites me is that this degree could take me anywhere in the world."
Nicolas Garel
Computer Science graduate
ECU's secau Security Research Centre
ECU's secau Security and Research Centre is recognised as an Australian Computer Society (ACS) Centre of Expertise (COE).
The Centre allows students in the broad security discipline to participate in cross‑disciplinary research projects within various study areas, including engineering, information and computer science, psychology, and law and justice. This collaboration increases the likelihood of discovering and tackling the key security questions that lie ahead, and encourages students to take a broader, more open‑minded perspective to security issues.
Mobile phone foetal heart monitor developed by ECU researchers
A successful trial at a Perth hospital has provided hope for on-the-go, mobile heart monitoring for pregnant women living in regional areas of Australia.Developed by ECU Security and Computing researchers, the system allows doctors to monitor the heart rate of unborn babies through the use of an inexpensive portable monitor that connects to the microphone jack of the expectant mother's mobile phone. The heartbeat is displayed on the phone and the information is then automatically sent to a midwife or doctor via email for evaluation.
ECU researcher wins award for Terrorism research
Dr Simon O'Rourke, terrorism researcher from secau, ECU's Security Research Centre, has received national recognition, winning the 2011 Australian Institute of Professional Intelligence Officers (AIPIO) Publications Award and having his research published in the prestigious peer-reviewed journal.
His paper explored the challenges experienced by law enforcement agencies in the face of ever-changing terrorism tactics and highlights that few agencies are currently geared to deal with the sheer scope of an event involving sustained multiple attacks by trained terrorists.
"My ECU IT qualification will allow me to take my career further.
"I had a choice, either continue along my career path at the same speed, or give myself a boost with a relevant qualification. I'm grateful I chose the second path, because here I am at ECU, living and learning in a vibrant, diverse and supportive environment! Staff are always available to talk to, and are incredibly encouraging. When my doctorate is complete, I plan to return to Thailand and pass on my new-found knowledge and enthusiasm, in my role as an academic."
Yuwanuch Gulatee
Doctor of Information Technology student