Bachelor of Advanced Computing and Bachelor of Science

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Sydney

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Advanced Computing and Bachelor of Science at the University of Sydney is designed for ambitious students who want to combine deep technical expertise in computing with scientific exploration and problem-solving. This double degree equips you with the knowledge to innovate across fields such as data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and computational biology, preparing you to tackle complex global challenges through technology and research.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Your first year builds a solid foundation in both computing and science. You’ll study core subjects such as Introduction to Programming, Discrete Mathematics for Computing, and Data Science, alongside fundamental science units like Chemistry 1A or Biology 1A depending on your chosen major. This stage focuses on developing computational thinking and analytical problem-solving skills essential for both disciplines.

Year 2:
In your second year, you’ll deepen your technical expertise through units such as Software Design and Construction and Algorithms and Complexity, while continuing your science studies with intermediate units in your chosen major, such as Molecular Biology and Genetics or Statistical Methods. This year strengthens your ability to connect computing concepts with scientific applications through practical and project-based learning.

Year 3:
By the third year, you’ll advance into specialised computing areas like Systems Programming, Database Systems, and Artificial Intelligence, while progressing to senior science units that align with your interests — for example, Environmental Modelling or Advanced Physics. You’ll gain valuable hands-on experience through labs, group projects, and research-led teaching.

Year 4:
Your final year focuses on integration and innovation. You’ll complete an Advanced Computing Project or Industry Placement, applying your technical knowledge to real-world challenges. At the same time, you’ll take advanced electives in both computing and science, tailoring your studies to areas like Cybersecurity, Machine Learning, or Computational Data Analysis, preparing you for leadership or research careers.

Focus Areas:
Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Software Development, Computational Modelling, Bioinformatics, Scientific Computing.

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will develop advanced technical and analytical skills, mastery in software design and algorithmic thinking, and the ability to apply computational methods to complex scientific and societal problems. They will emerge as adaptable professionals capable of leading innovation across technology and science sectors.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
This degree is accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS), ensuring it meets professional standards in computing and information technology.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
The University of Sydney is ranked among the top 50 universities globally (QS World University Rankings 2025) and is recognised as 1st in Australia for graduate employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2025) — highlighting the strong career outcomes for its computing and science graduates.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

When you choose the Bachelor of Advanced Computing and Bachelor of Science at The University of Sydney, you’re not just studying computing and science — you’re doing them. This double degree puts you right in the middle of hands-on projects, modern labs, and collaborative environments that mirror the real world. From your very first semesters, you’ll be coding, analysing data, and working on projects that build both your technical and teamwork skills. The program is designed so that your practical experience grows alongside a strong theoretical foundation.

Here are some of the key experiential learning opportunities you’ll find in the program:

Capstone project experience: In your final year, you’ll take on a 12-week team project that tackles a real-world challenge in areas such as software development, data science, machine learning, or cybersecurity. It’s your chance to apply everything you’ve learned to an authentic industry-style problem.
Hands-on classes and labs: You’ll take part in interactive lab sessions and tutorials focused on programming, software development, information management, and intermediate computing — so you’re constantly putting theory into practice.
Specialised computing pathways: You can tailor your studies by choosing from specialisations like Computer Science, Information Systems, Software Development, or Computational Data Science. This flexibility means you’ll be developing practical expertise in the areas that truly interest you.
Flexible science majors: On the science side, you can major in one or two areas from over 50 disciplines — spanning biological, physical, chemical, and mathematical sciences — allowing you to apply your computing skills within the scientific fields you care about most.
Industry and research connections: The program offers pathways to internships, industry placements, and research projects through the University’s strong links with leading organisations and labs, helping you gain experience that stands out to employers.
Access to top facilities: You’ll have dedicated computing labs, access to cloud servers and datasets for projects, and opportunities to collaborate with academic researchers — all giving you the tools and environment to design, test, and build real systems.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Future Progression & Opportunities

University support and career services:
At the University of Sydney, you’ll be supported every step of the way through the dedicated Employability and Careers Centre. They offer tailored career counselling, workshops, networking events, and direct links to employers — helping you explore different career paths and build a strong professional profile before you even graduate.

You’ll also have the chance to earn credit through practical experience. For example, students can complete a 95-hour internship in a range of settings — from government departments to NGOs and private companies — giving you a real taste of the workplace and helping you build valuable industry connections.

Employment outcomes and salary insights:
Sydney graduates are highly sought after. In one graduate outcomes survey, about 72.9% of undergraduates were employed full-time within four months of finishing their degree. The University of Sydney is ranked #1 in Australia and #4 globally for graduate employability — a reflection of its strong ties to industry and the high calibre of its programs.

When it comes to salaries, computing and IT graduates from the University often start their careers earning around AUD 76,000 per year, with rapid growth potential as they move into specialised or senior roles.

Industry partnerships and real-world experience:
Throughout your degree, you’ll be part of a learning environment closely linked with leading companies and organisations. The University partners with top employers such as Adobe, Airbus, Deloitte, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Qantas, and Singapore Airlines.

Within the computing component, you’ll engage in hands-on, industry-connected experiences — from capstone projects and internships to entrepreneurial initiatives like the SPARK program, which helps you turn innovative ideas into real start-ups.

Accreditation and global recognition:
The computing program is accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) and recognised under the Seoul Accord, meaning your qualification is internationally respected. Whether you choose to work in Australia or abroad, your degree will open doors across the global tech industry.

Career outcomes:
Graduates from this double degree are ready to take on roles such as software engineer, IT consultant, data analyst, systems architect, cybersecurity specialist, and more. You’ll graduate with both the technical expertise and the problem-solving mindset that employers around the world are looking for.

Further academic progression:
If you decide to continue your studies, you can pursue an honours year (based on achieving the required grades) in the Bachelor of Advanced Computing. From there, you might advance into postgraduate pathways such as a Master of Data Science, Master of Artificial Intelligence, or other specialised master’s programs.

With your strong computing foundation and exposure to industry during your degree, you’ll be well-positioned for careers in research, innovation, leadership, or advanced technical roles — shaping the technologies and solutions of the future.