Why Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)?
Create technologies that seamlessly integrate into our lives.
Human-centred computing goes beyond traditional interactions and considers social, cultural, personal and cognitive factors in system design. Learn how to evaluate and address user needs while creating flexible and dynamic systems.
Our degree teaches you how to design natural interactions and user interfaces, while ensuring accessibility. Focus on where these technologies are integrated such as in healthcare, education and social media.
Improve the usability and effectiveness of computing systems while enhancing the human experience. Enhance human capabilities rather than replacing them. Bridge the gap between computing systems and humans with Adelaide University’s Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) majoring in Human-Centred Computing.
Overview
Focus on creating technology that is intuitive, accessible, and centred around human needs and capabilities in our Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) majoring in Human-Centred Computing. Expand your knowledge and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills highly valued in a range of industries. Go beyond human-computer interaction and consider the wider influence between humans and technology.
Take a more holistic approach to creating computer systems that are centred around human needs and experiences. Benefit from the opportunity to work alongside researchers at the Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments (arcIVE). Collaborate with industry leaders in a capstone project, exploring real-world challenges and potential career paths. Acquire advanced skills to take your cutting-edge research capabilities further. Learn to optimise large-scale interactive systems, while creating immersive environments.
Graduate ready to shape the future of human-computer interaction. Incorporate a human authenticity to building innovation software and addressing global challenges. By focusing on human-centered approaches and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, you'll be well-positioned to create software that meets user needs.
Key features
Explore the link between humans and software. - Work with world leaders in the design and implementation of human-centered software solutions.
- Address ethical concerns in technology design and implementation.
- Undertake testing and evaluation in both lab and real-world settings.
- Collaborate with industry and present solutions to global challenges.
- Develop advanced research and technical expertise in an intensive Honours year.
What you'll learn
In your first year, you’ll develop a solid grounding in the theory and mathematics behind computer science principles. You’ll use these to solve current and future societal challenges. Gain advanced analytical and critical thinking skills to grasp the ethical boundaries of contemporary technologies. Enhance your abilities to navigate complex technological landscapes and prepare for diverse careers.
You’ll be able to complete majority of 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.
Your human-centred computing major will explore the concept of making computer systems easier to use. Dive into human cognition and how it can be applied to computer system design. You’ll also apply extended realities technologies to build immersive environments.
Collaborating in a team in third year, you’ll undertake an industry project, applying your skills and knowledge to a real-world problem. In your final Honours year, you’ll craft a computer science thesis on a topic that aligns with your passion. This will sharpen your abilities to tackle complex challenges in the field. You’ll also have the opportunity to choose from a range of specialised Honours electives that cover specific topics related to your major.
Once complete, you’ll be eligible for professional membership with the Australian Computer Society (ACS).
Majors
The Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) is also available with majors in the following:
What courses you'll study
Complete 192 units comprising:
- 114 units for all Core courses, and
- Either:
- 54 units for one Major from Major, or
- 54 units for all Discipline courses, and
- 12 to 24 units from Work integrated learning, and
- 0 to 12 units for Electives
Complete 114 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | 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
Object-Oriented Programming
|
Course code
COMP1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Computing Innovations in the Modern World
|
Course code
COMP1015
|
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
Grand Challenges
|
Course code
COMP2040
|
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
Professional Communication and Teamwork
|
Course code
INFO2032
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1000
|
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
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
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
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Object-Oriented Programming
|
Course code
COMP1005
|
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
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Statistics for Human Factors
|
Course code
STAT2006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Understanding Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Interactive Systems Design
|
Course code
COMP2024
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Software Development Practice
|
Course code
COMP2021
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Agile Development and User Experience
|
Course code
INFO2006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Human-Computer Interaction
|
Course code
COMP2023
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP2017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Professional Communication and Teamwork
|
Course code
INFO2032
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Grand Challenges
|
Course code
COMP2040
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Technologies
|
Course code
COMP3013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced HCI
|
Course code
COMP3012
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Human-Centred AI
|
Course code
COMP2013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Accessible, Inclusive and Ethical Design
|
Course code
COMP2014
|
Units
6
|
| Year 4 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Database Theory and Models
|
Course code
COMP4003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Science Thesis A
|
Course code
COMP4800
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Quantitative Methods
|
Course code
MATH4048
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
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
Computer Science Thesis B
|
Course code
COMP4801
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Science Thesis C
|
Course code
COMP4802
|
Units
6
|
Complete 54 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Human-Centred AI
|
Course code
COMP2013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Accessible, Inclusive and Ethical Design
|
Course code
COMP2014
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human-Computer Interaction
|
Course code
COMP2023
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interactive Systems Design
|
Course code
COMP2024
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced HCI
|
Course code
COMP3012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Immersive Technologies
|
Course code
COMP3013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Agile Development and User Experience
|
Course code
INFO2006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Understanding Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Statistics for Human Factors
|
Course code
STAT2006
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
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
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Object-Oriented Programming
|
Course code
COMP1005
|
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
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Statistics for Human Factors
|
Course code
STAT2006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Understanding Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Interactive Systems Design
|
Course code
COMP2024
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Software Development Practice
|
Course code
COMP2021
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Agile Development and User Experience
|
Course code
INFO2006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Human-Computer Interaction
|
Course code
COMP2023
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP2017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Professional Communication and Teamwork
|
Course code
INFO2032
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Grand Challenges
|
Course code
COMP2040
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Technologies
|
Course code
COMP3013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced HCI
|
Course code
COMP3012
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Human-Centred AI
|
Course code
COMP2013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Accessible, Inclusive and Ethical Design
|
Course code
COMP2014
|
Units
6
|
| Year 4 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Database Theory and Models
|
Course code
COMP4003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Science Thesis A
|
Course code
COMP4800
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Quantitative Methods
|
Course code
MATH4048
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
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
Computer Science Thesis B
|
Course code
COMP4801
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Science Thesis C
|
Course code
COMP4802
|
Units
6
|
Complete 12 to 24 units from the following:
| Course name | 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
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
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
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Object-Oriented Programming
|
Course code
COMP1005
|
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
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Statistics for Human Factors
|
Course code
STAT2006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Understanding Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Interactive Systems Design
|
Course code
COMP2024
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Software Development Practice
|
Course code
COMP2021
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Agile Development and User Experience
|
Course code
INFO2006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Human-Computer Interaction
|
Course code
COMP2023
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP2017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Professional Communication and Teamwork
|
Course code
INFO2032
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Grand Challenges
|
Course code
COMP2040
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Technologies
|
Course code
COMP3013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced HCI
|
Course code
COMP3012
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Human-Centred AI
|
Course code
COMP2013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Accessible, Inclusive and Ethical Design
|
Course code
COMP2014
|
Units
6
|
| Year 4 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Database Theory and Models
|
Course code
COMP4003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Science Thesis A
|
Course code
COMP4800
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Quantitative Methods
|
Course code
MATH4048
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
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
Computer Science Thesis B
|
Course code
COMP4801
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Science Thesis C
|
Course code
COMP4802
|
Units
6
|
Complete 0 to 12 units comprising:
- 0 to 12 units from University-wide electives
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
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
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Object-Oriented Programming
|
Course code
COMP1005
|
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
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Statistics for Human Factors
|
Course code
STAT2006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Understanding Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Interactive Systems Design
|
Course code
COMP2024
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Software Development Practice
|
Course code
COMP2021
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Agile Development and User Experience
|
Course code
INFO2006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Human-Computer Interaction
|
Course code
COMP2023
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP2017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Professional Communication and Teamwork
|
Course code
INFO2032
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Grand Challenges
|
Course code
COMP2040
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Technologies
|
Course code
COMP3013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced HCI
|
Course code
COMP3012
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Human-Centred AI
|
Course code
COMP2013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Accessible, Inclusive and Ethical Design
|
Course code
COMP2014
|
Units
6
|
| Year 4 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Database Theory and Models
|
Course code
COMP4003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Science Thesis A
|
Course code
COMP4800
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Quantitative Methods
|
Course code
MATH4048
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
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
Computer Science Thesis B
|
Course code
COMP4801
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Science Thesis C
|
Course code
COMP4802
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
Career prospects in human-centred computing are generally strong, with growing demand across various industries. You can explore opportunities across tech companies, design agencies and research institutions, as well as other businesses who recognise the importance of user design.
You might design user-friendly interfaces for websites, apps and software for people with accessibility needs. Maybe you’ll revolutionise VR and create a metaverse where users form more human-like interactions. Perhaps you’ll design and implement AI systems that can interact naturally with human users.
Other careers include:
- Web information architect
- User interface designer
- User experience designer
- Human factors researcher.
Industry trends
As technology continues to evolve, the need for experts who make it more intuitive and accessible is likely to continue. With human-centred computing market share expected to grow to A$32 billion by 2028 (Fortune Business Insights, 2023), this suggests a positive outlook for long-term career prospects in the field.
Accreditation
This program is provisionally accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS).
Graduates are eligible for membership with the ACS and are recognised internationally through the Seoul Accord.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
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.
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:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
