Why Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)?
Programming languages are the hidden systems behind our everyday technologies. They offer endless possibilities for innovation and problem-solving.
Programming languages are sets of instructions that tell computers how to perform specific tasks. Discover how to build software systems of varying complexities and different purposes at Adelaide University.
Explore how to create everything from web pages to complex AI systems. Learn the theoretical and mathematical concepts that unlock solutions to modern problems. Become an expert coder guided by industry-informed and advanced research practices. Embracing programming languages means embracing the ability to shape the digital world around us. Look further than just writing code – translate human imagination into technological reality.
Overview
The Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) majoring in Programming Languages will not only expand your knowledge but also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. You won’t just learn how to become an expert coder, you’ll gain insights into effective programming languages and reliable software systems that will build Australia’s future.
You will unlock what is currently trending in the tech world, and how industry is responding. You’ll also develop software that tackles any expected challenges. An industry-focused project in third year prepares you to make connections with important leaders in the field. Your thesis project offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into an area that fascinates you, potentially contributing new insights to the world of tech, either in industry or research.
Graduate from Adelaide University ready to take your place as a computing professional. Showcase your skills in coding and craft reliable software systems to some of the world’s largest innovators in technology.
Key features
Broaden your knowledge in key computer science theories. - Gain a deep understanding of programming language differences and similarities.
- Develop innovative algorithms to tackle societal issues.
- Build a comprehensive understanding of the limits and strengths of computing technology.
- Connect with industry through a major research project.
- Develop advanced research and technical expertise in an intensive Honours year.
What you'll learn
Learn a common first year among our suite of computer science degrees, building your skillset in fundamental practices before starting your major in second year. Then, you’ll focus on languages models, programming paradigms and advanced language concepts. You’ll gain confidence in tackling challenges when building code and crafting unique solutions.
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.
Our expert academics will guide you on best practices to grasp concepts of programming new and existing languages by practising writing code in dedicated computer labs.
A third-year industry-based project will see you working in partnership with an Adelaide University partner to create an innovative artefact in response to a real-world problem. Working in a small group will mean you develop valuable teamwork and communication skills – beneficial to your future career.
In your culminating Honours year, you’ll hone your research skills in a computer science thesis on a topic of your choice. You’ll also work collaboratively with mentors and researchers to address a complex, open-ended question in the field. Additionally, you'll have the flexibility to select specialised Honours electives that align with the latest research advancements in programming languages and related fields.
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
Ethical and Legal Challenges in Technology
|
Course code
COMP2022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Discrete Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Systems
|
Course code
COMP2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Software Development Practice
|
Course code
COMP2021
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Professional Communication and Teamwork
|
Course code
INFO2032
|
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
Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP2017
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Grand Challenges
|
Course code
COMP2040
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Theory of Computation and Formal Verification
|
Course code
COMP2003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Programming Paradigms
|
Course code
COMP2015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP3008
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Programming Language Concepts
|
Course code
COMP3009
|
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
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
Programming Paradigms
|
Course code
COMP2015
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Ethical and Legal Challenges in Technology
|
Course code
COMP2022
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP3008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Programming Language Concepts
|
Course code
COMP3009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Discrete Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1006
|
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
Ethical and Legal Challenges in Technology
|
Course code
COMP2022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Discrete Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Systems
|
Course code
COMP2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Software Development Practice
|
Course code
COMP2021
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Professional Communication and Teamwork
|
Course code
INFO2032
|
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
Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP2017
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Grand Challenges
|
Course code
COMP2040
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Theory of Computation and Formal Verification
|
Course code
COMP2003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Programming Paradigms
|
Course code
COMP2015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP3008
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Programming Language Concepts
|
Course code
COMP3009
|
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
Ethical and Legal Challenges in Technology
|
Course code
COMP2022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Discrete Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Systems
|
Course code
COMP2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Software Development Practice
|
Course code
COMP2021
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Professional Communication and Teamwork
|
Course code
INFO2032
|
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
Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP2017
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Grand Challenges
|
Course code
COMP2040
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Theory of Computation and Formal Verification
|
Course code
COMP2003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Programming Paradigms
|
Course code
COMP2015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP3008
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Programming Language Concepts
|
Course code
COMP3009
|
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
Ethical and Legal Challenges in Technology
|
Course code
COMP2022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Discrete Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Systems
|
Course code
COMP2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Software Development Practice
|
Course code
COMP2021
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Professional Communication and Teamwork
|
Course code
INFO2032
|
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
Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP2017
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Grand Challenges
|
Course code
COMP2040
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Theory of Computation and Formal Verification
|
Course code
COMP2003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Programming Paradigms
|
Course code
COMP2015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms
|
Course code
COMP3008
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Programming Language Concepts
|
Course code
COMP3009
|
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
The field of computer science is dynamic, with specialisations such as programming languages emerging as technology evolves. Careers span a range of industries, not exclusive to tech, such as healthcare, retail, manufacturing and finance. You’ll be valued by future-focused companies including leaders such as Amazon, IBM and Google.
You might leverage your creativity and innovative skills to create exciting online experiences for organisations and the community. You could solve complex challenges for global businesses by specialising in remote operating systems. Or perhaps you’ll even start a company, focusing on the next phase of groundbreaking video game play.
Careers to explore also include:
- Software engineer
- Software developer
- Frontend/backend developer
- Researcher in language design
- API developer.
Industry trends
There is a significant demand for programmers in Australia, with skilled technology workers among the top 10 most in-demand jobs in the country (Australian Government, 2024). There’s a trend towards specialisation in specific programming languages and frameworks, with high demand for expertise in languages like Python, JavaScript and Java. As well as these, employers are increasingly valuing coders who possess soft skills like communication, problem-solving and project management. Learn these and more in your Adelaide University computer science degree, equipping yourself with a diverse skillset and opportunities for a strong career.
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.
