Create the technology of the future. Computer scientists design, develop, and analyse the software and hardware used to solve a range of problems facing society. While IT specialists work with existing technology to solve a problem, computer scientists are at the forefront of building new technology from the ground-up.
With increased technology adoption driving transformation in virtually every sector – from agriculture to healthcare, education and manufacturing – the demand for highly skilled computer scientists has never been greater (Tech Council of Australia, 2023).
Our Bachelor of Computer Science will equip you with a solid foundation in computer science skills. You’ll also acquire strong understanding of the ethical and legal dimensions of the evolving tech landscape – preparing you well for a dynamic career in a wide range of industries.
Our Bachelor of Computer Science provides you with a solid base of essential computer science knowledge and skills.
The broad focus of this degree means you’ll study a mix of courses covering artificial intelligence, algorithms, data management, programming languages, security, computer architecture, and more
You’ll also have the option to specialise with a major in either artificial intelligence and machine learning, human-centred computing, or programming languages. Or you may prefer to complete a general major, learning a little bit of everything.
In addition, you’ll sharpen your professional skills with courses in communication, as well as group projects where you’ll work in a team to deliver a client artefact.
Individuals with computer science expertise can be found working in a wide range of fields– from software development, finance and banking, healthcare, e-commerce, video game design, defence, and manufacturing.
Build practical skills in programming, software development, computer architecture, cybersecurity and more.Explore ethical and legal aspects of technology globally.Major in Artificial Intelligence, Human-Centred Computing or Programming Languages.Understand contemporary issues and advances in the computer science field.Collaborate on a final year project, creating a client artefact.Our Bachelor of Computer Science covers core computer science knowledge, theories, principles, technical and professional skills.
In first year, you’ll study courses in problem solving and programming, IT systems, structured data, security foundations, and system requirements.
From second year, you can specialise in an area of interest with a major in either:
Or you may prefer to complete a ‘general major’ – enabling you to explore a little bit of everything.
Throughout, you’ll develop deep reasoning skills, an understanding of the limits and capabilities of computing, alongside technical and programming skills.
In your final year, you’ll sharpen your professional skills through a major project. Working in a project team, you’ll develop an artefact for a client. This might include the application of new technologies, developing proof of concept solutions or analysing current business processes to identify areas for improvement.
On completion of your studies, you’ll be eligible for professional membership with the Australian Computer Society (ACS).
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.
Did you know that you can also choose a Bachelor of Computer Science with a major in one of the following:
Complete 144 units comprising:
Complete 60 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
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 60 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | 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
|
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 name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
ICT Capstone Project 1
|
Course code
INFO3901
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
ICT Capstone Project 2
|
Course code
INFO3902
|
Units
6
|
|
|
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
|
With Australia needing an additional 600,000 people to join the tech sector by 2030, the demand for highly skilled computer scientists is only expected to rise (Tech Council of Australia, 2023). With its rigorous focus on theory, technical and professional skill development, our Bachelor of Computer Science ensures you’ll graduate career-ready with the skills industry demands.
You could develop software to help farmers more accurately determine how much water to use in different parts of their fields. Perhaps you’ll design more immersive virtual reality technology to help train future medical professionals. Or maybe you’ll devise an algorithm that enables renewable energy grids to manage energy demand and distribution more intelligently or code to coordinate the next generation driverless cars.
Computer scientists can be found working in both direct and indirect tech roles in a wide range of industries and sectors, including:
Explore a range of career opportunities including:
Tech jobs are growing twice as fast as any other industry and wages in the direct tech sector remain high and strong. The average advertised salary in the ICT industry is approximately $132k – which is 1.5 times the average salary in all other job sectors (Tech Council of Australia, 2023).
Big data analytics, climate change and environmental management technologies, and encryption and cybersecurity are expected to be the biggest drivers of future job growth (World Economic Forum, 2023).
Over 85% of organisations identify increased technology adoption will remain a key driver of business transformation in the next five years and beyond, (World Economic Forum, 2023) meaning the future in computer science is bright.
Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing at the institution in 2026.
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
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:
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.
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
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.
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:
