MHMonash Hub

Units / FIT5217

FIT5217 · Natural language processing

Official Handbook

2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 5Faculty of Information Technology

Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTC

Overview

Natural language processing (NLP) stands as a cornerstone in the information age, made even more riveting with the rise of Generative AI and the introduction of models like LLM. NLP not only supports artificial intelligence in grasping intricate language nuances but also heralds a range of innovative applications. This unit delves into the fundamental principles of NLP, covering essential techniques for analyzing language syntax and meaning. We will also explore the neural network underpinnings of contemporary language models in the context of important real-world problems such as Machine Translation. Furthermore, we'll delve into the theoretical and practical foundations of recent LLMs.

Offerings

CampusTeaching periodMode
ClaytonFirst semesterActivities scheduled as a mix of on-campus and online activities (BLENDED)
MalaysiaFirst semesterTeaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS)
Suzhou (SEU)Term 3Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS)

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

#AssessmentTypeWeightHurdle
1Assignment 1Artefact25%Threshold
2Assignment 2Artefact25%Threshold
3Examination (2 hours and 10 minutes)Examination50%Threshold

This unit has threshold mark hurdles. You must achieve at least 45% of the available marks in the final scheduled assessment, at least 45% in total for in-semester assessments, and an overall unit mark of 50% or more to be able to pass the unit. If you do not achieve the threshold mark, you will receive a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

prohibitions

  • ITO5217 — Natural language processing

prerequisite

  • FIT5047 — Fundamentals of artificial intelligence
  • FIT5197 — Statistical data modelling
  • FIT5201 — Machine learning
  • FIT5215 — Deep learning
  • EPM5003 — Principles of statistical inference

Joined by OR.

Learning outcomes

  1. organise core problems and applications in NLP;
  2. design systems to tackle NLP problems;
  3. Evaluation of NLP models from utility & ethics, and safety perspectives.
  4. assess various recent approaches to NLP.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled online and face to face learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated reading and preparation for scheduled teaching activities. Clayton campus - no Lab in week 1.

ActivityDuration
Seminars24 hours
Laboratories22 hours
Lectures24 hours

Ask about FIT5217

Answered from the Handbook fields above — no AI, no guessing. Every answer links back to the source.

Community discussions about FIT5217

Community

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.

No discussions yet

Be the first to share what this unit was actually like.

Monash HubAn independent student platform

Monash Hub is an independent student information platform and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Monash University. Always confirm enrolment, graduation, visa and academic policy decisions through the Monash website, Handbook, Moodle or WES.