Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) majoring in Human-Centred Computing

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)?

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:

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 Understanding Individual Behaviour and Cognition	Course code PSYC1001	Units 6
Course name Object-Oriented Programming	Course code COMP1005	Units 6
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 System Design	Course code COMP2024	Units 6
Course name Agile Development and User Experience	Course code INFO2006	Units 6
Course name Statistics for Human Factors	Course code STAT2006	Units 6
Course name Advanced HCI	Course code COMP3012	Units 6
Course name Immersive Technologies	Course code COMP3013	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 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

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

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: