Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)

Undergraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City, Mawson Lakes

Duration

4 year(s) full-time

Program code

HCOMP

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$50,800

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

SACE Stage 2 Mathematical Methods (or equivalent).

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115686J

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program in an undergraduate diploma (AQF level 5) or higher.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Requirement	Score
Australia	ATAR	80
Bangladesh	Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.90
China	Gaokao	70%
China	Maple Leaf Education Systems World School Program	73%
Global	International Baccalaureate	28
Hong Kong	Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	18
India	CBSE and CISCE	80
India	State Board Examinations	90
Indonesia	SMA III	80%
Kenya	Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia	Matrikulasi	3.00
Malaysia	Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	3.00
Malaysia	United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	19
Nepal	National Examinations Board (NEB)	3.21
Phillippines	High School Diploma (Grade 12) (Academic Track) K12	88%
Singapore	Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	9
Sri Lanka	GCE A Levels	10
Taiwan	GSAT %	70%
Thailand	Matayom 6	3.60
UK / Global	GCE Advanced Levels	9
UK / Global	NCUK	9
USA / Global	Advanced Placement (AP)	9
USA / Global	America College Test (ACT)	24
USA / Global	Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)	1170
Vietnam	Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thôxwng (Vietnamese Year 12)	8.3

Why Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)?

Balance computer science theory with practical application. Create the technology of tomorrow.

Focusing on the theoretical aspects of computing and software development, computer scientists implement and manage computer systems for large networks and organisations.

A promising future for Australia is driven by technological innovation and advancements in AI, machine learning and languages. Learn how to analyse data, protect against cyber threats and design applications fit for the future.

Gain the skills to play a crucial role in addressing complex computing challenges. Be prepared for a promising career in the evolving technology landscape with a degree from Adelaide University.

Overview

The Bachelor of Computer Science equips you with a strong foundation in essential knowledge and skills in the field of computer science.

Our degree has a broad focus, meaning you’ll study diverse courses including security, mathematics, language models, data structures, operating systems and cybersecurity.

You can choose to study the general major and learn a mix of courses, or specialise in either artificial intelligence and machine learning, human-centred computing or programming languages. Industry-linked projects and courses in communication and group collaboration also provide valuable real-world experience and networking opportunities.

As an Honours student, you’ll develop a deeper and more specialised understanding of computer science topics. A fourth year thesis will give you transferable research skills and serve as a pathway to further postgraduate studies including a PhD.

Distinguish yourself in the job market and gain a competitive edge with Adelaide University. Graduates with computer science expertise can look forward to career opportunities in a range of fields from software development to healthcare, banking and defence.

Key features

Gain a deep understanding of algorithms, data structures and software development practices.
Explore the ethical and legal challenges in technology.
Gain proficiency in programming languages and their foundations.
Collaborate in small groups on a research or industry project.
Develop advanced research and technical expertise in an intensive Honours year.
Explore majors in Artificial Intelligence, Human-Centred Computing or Programming Languages.

What you'll learn

The Bachelor of Computer Science covers core computer science knowledge including theories, principles, software development, technical and professional skills.

You’ll start your studies by developing a solid foundation in IT and computing courses such as problem solving and programming, IT systems, structured data and system requirements.

In second year, you can choose a major to specialise in or complete a general major.

You’ll be able to complete the majority of your first year common courses and second year courses at either our Adelaide City or Mawson Lakes Campus with some potential cross-campus study required. Throughout your degree, you’ll gain access to cutting-edge facilities across both campus locations to enhance your overall learning experience.

Through a variety of approaches to learning, you’ll develop essential critical thinking, creative thinking and problem-solving skills. As an Honours student, you’ll also be able to choose from a range of specialised electives based on areas of interest.

In third year, you’ll focus on completing a major project. In a small project team, you’ll work on an artefact for an Adelaide University client.

In your fourth and final Honours year, you’ll hone your research skills to complete an open-ended computer science thesis. You'll devise a topic and work independently and collaboratively with academics and researchers.

Once complete, you’ll be eligible to apply for professional membership with the Australian Computer Society (ACS).

Assessments tasks may include case studies, critical analysis, essays, exams, programming exercises, presentations and tests.

Majors

The Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) is also available with majors in the following:

What courses you'll study

Complete 192 units comprising:

60 units for all Core courses, and
Either:
96 to 102 units for one Major from Major, or
102 units for all Discipline courses, and
12 to 24 units from Work integrated learning, and
12 to 18 units for Electives

Complete 60 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Problem Solving and Programming	Course code COMP1002	Units 6
Course name Structured Data	Course code COMP1003	Units 6
Course name Computing Innovations in the Modern World	Course code COMP1015	Units 6
Course name Information Technology Systems	Course code INFO1012	Units 6
Course name System Requirements	Course code INFO1013	Units 6
Course name Security Foundations	Course code INFO1016	Units 6
Course name Foundations in Mathematics	Course code MATH1000	Units 6
Course name Data Structures and Algorithms	Course code COMP2017	Units 6
Course name Software Development Practice	Course code COMP2021	Units 6
Course name Professional Communication and Teamwork	Course code INFO2032	Units 6

Complete 102 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Object-Oriented Programming	Course code COMP1005	Units 6
Course name Discrete Mathematics	Course code MATH1006	Units 6
Course name Computer Systems	Course code COMP2000	Units 6
Course name Language Models, Translation and Execution	Course code COMP2001	Units 6
Course name Operating Systems	Course code COMP2002	Units 6
Course name Theory of Computation and Formal Verification	Course code COMP2003	Units 6
Course name Distributed and Decentralised Computing	Course code COMP2004	Units 6
Course name Ethical and Legal Challenges in Technology	Course code COMP2022	Units 6
Course name Cyber Security Application	Course code INFO2007	Units 6
Course name Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms	Course code COMP3008	Units 6
Course name Large Language Models and Knowledge Representation	Course code COMP4001	Units 6
Course name Distributed Ledger and Contractual Execution Languages	Course code COMP4002	Units 6
Course name Database Theory and Models	Course code COMP4003	Units 6
Course name Computer Science Thesis A	Course code COMP4800	Units 6
Course name Computer Science Thesis B	Course code COMP4801	Units 6
Course name Computer Science Thesis C	Course code COMP4802	Units 6
Course name Quantitative Methods	Course code MATH4048	Units 6

Complete one Major from the following:

Major name
	Major Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
	Major Human-Centred Computing
	Major Programming Languages

Complete 12 to 24 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Intensive Computing Project	Course code COMP3900	Units 12
Course name ICT Internship 1	Course code COMP4901	Units 6
Course name ICT Internship 2	Course code COMP4902	Units 12
Course name ICT Internship 3	Course code COMP4903	Units 18
Course name ICT Internship 4	Course code COMP4904	Units 24

Complete 12 to 18 units comprising:

0 to 12 units from Free electives, and
6 to 12 units from Program electives

	Course code	Units
Course name Grand Challenges	Course code COMP2027	Units 6
Course name Current Research Directions in Interactive and Virtual Environments	Course code COMP4005	Units 6
Course name Research Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence	Course code COMP4006	Units 6

Career outcomes

As a graduate, you’ll possess the skills to secure employment in a range of areas that develop future-focused technology. Your advanced knowledge will ensure you're equipped for a variety of careers in the field.

These can include:

Integration developer
Back-end/front-end developer
Cloud engineer
Digital policy advisor
Technical project manager
Language designer
Data scientist.

You might develop simulation software that can predict climate change impacts for urban planning and conservation efforts. You could apply computer science principles to bioinformatics and analyse genetic data to aid in important scientific gene discoveries. Or maybe you’ll work in digital forensics, alongside law enforcement, investigating digital crimes, analysing electronic evidence and intercepting cyber-criminal activities.

Your specialist skills will be highly valued in some of the world’s largest tech organisations such as IBM, Amazon and Atlassian, as well as in small-medium scale businesses where support is required. These skills are also important in sectors that incorporate tech roles into their daily practices such as agriculture, energy, marketing and finance.

Industry trends

An increase in investment into Australia’s tech ecosystem means the IT industry is showing significant, continued growth and success – with an estimation to be worth approximately A$167 billion in 2024 (Austrade, 2024 ). This can be attributed to trends such as digital transformation, emerging technologies and government initiatives.

A high demand for skilled workers, coupled with increased shortages, means you will graduate ready to step into the workforce. Take advantage of competitive salaries and increased adoption of technology in the businesses of tomorrow by studying with Adelaide University today.

Accreditation

Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: