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Programming Principles unit (ZAT113)

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Location: Online

ZAT113 Programming Principles requires students have their own computer with administrator rights so they can download the latest version of Python. They also need MS Word and MS PowerPoint; and be able to download and install Python libraries as required.

Introduction

This unit introduces the principles of software design and development from initial concept to working solution. You’ll begin by learning how to analyse and define a problem, applying needs analysis and project scoping methodologies to solve real-world challenges. This will provide a crucial foundation before you learn to design and build programs using the versatile Python language.

Through a series of hands-on, authentic projects, you’ll apply industry best practices in areas such as:

  • software planning and design
  • core programming concepts including data structures, logic, and control flow
  • best practices in coding and documentation
  • project evaluation.

By the end of this unit, you’ll have the foundational skills to manage a software development project from initial concept to a working solution.

Summary

Unit name Programming Principles
Unit code ZAT113
Credit points 12.5
College/School University College
Discipline Pathways
Coordinator Ms Fiona Brodribb
Available as an elective? Yes
Delivered By University of Tasmania
Level Introductory

Sustainable Development Goals

The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.

Availability

Location Study period Attendance options Available to
Online Semester 1 This unit is available through off-campus delivery Available to International Students Available to Domestic Students
Online Semester 2 This unit is available through off-campus delivery Available to International Students Available to Domestic Students
  • Key:
  • This unit is available through on-campus delivery On-campus
  • This unit is available through off-campus delivery Off-Campus
  • Available to International Students International students
  • Available to Domestic Students Domestic students
Note

Please check that your computer meets the minimum System Requirements if you are attending via Distance/Off-Campus.

Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.

Key Dates

Study Period Start date Census date WW date End date
Semester 2 5/7/2026 27/7/2026 30/8/2026 24/10/2026
Semester 1 22/2/2026 16/3/2026 19/4/2026 13/6/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

  • Design software solutions that apply fundamental programming principles to solve real-world problems.
  • Apply programming methodologies to create programs that meet specific requirements.
  • Communicate and document ideas and solutions for software projects using professional standards.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of the project development process.

Fee Information

Field of Education Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 Domestic Full Fee 4
020103 $1,192.00 $1,192.00 not applicable $2,919.00
  • Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
  • HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility3
  • FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4

1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Mutual Exclusions

You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:

ZAE104|ZAT103

Teaching

Teaching Pattern

Two-hour weekly online tutorials (weeks 1-12)

AssessmentProject Scoping and Design Presentation (20%)|Programming Portfolio (35%)|Integrated Development Project (45%)
TimetableView the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required

Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

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