Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) / Arts

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) / Arts at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) combines technical innovation with creative and critical thinking. Designed for students who want to master computing systems while exploring their interests in humanities or social sciences, this degree offers the perfect balance of analytical problem-solving and cultural insight.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Students build a solid foundation in computing and programming through core courses like “Computing 1A,” “Computing 1B,” and “Discrete Mathematics.” Alongside, they explore their chosen Arts major—whether it’s Media, International Relations, or Psychology—developing strong writing, communication, and research skills. This year emphasizes logical thinking, creativity, and adaptability, setting the stage for interdisciplinary learning.

Year 2:
The focus shifts to developing more advanced computing skills in areas like Data Structures and Algorithms, Systems Programming, and Database Systems. Arts courses become more specialized, encouraging students to deepen their expertise in their chosen field. Through practical projects and analytical coursework, students learn to connect technical solutions with human and social contexts.

Year 3:
Students engage in complex systems design and application development with courses such as Software Engineering Fundamentals and Operating Systems. The Arts component may include a capstone research project or advanced electives that refine analytical and critical perspectives. This year helps students integrate their computational expertise with creative, ethical, and societal awareness.

Year 4:
The final year brings together both disciplines through collaborative and research-based projects like the Computer Science Project. Students also complete their Arts major capstone, applying their combined skills to real-world challenges. By graduation, they’re prepared to pursue diverse roles that value both technical excellence and a deep understanding of human behaviour and culture.


Focus Areas:
Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Software Engineering, Human-Computer Interaction, Cybersecurity, Digital Media, Linguistics, Psychology, Politics, Philosophy

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates gain strong programming and analytical skills, the ability to design efficient and ethical computing solutions, and the capacity to communicate ideas effectively across disciplines. They learn to approach problems creatively, bridging technology with social and cultural understanding.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The Computer Science component is accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS), ensuring it meets national and international professional standards.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
UNSW is ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2025) and is consistently recognised for graduate employability, placing #1 in Australia for Employer Reputation according to QS Graduate Employability Rankings.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Choosing the Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) means stepping into an education that’s hands-on, innovative, and built for the future. From your very first year, you’ll do much more than just attend lectures — you’ll be coding, experimenting with hardware, and designing systems that make a real impact. Within UNSW’s renowned School of Computer Science and Engineering, you’ll have access to world-class labs, research centres, and industry projects that connect learning directly to practice.

Here’s how experiential learning comes to life in this program:

  • Team-based capstone projects: In your final year, you’ll collaborate with other students to design, build and evaluate a real-world software system — the perfect way to apply everything you’ve learned and experience what it’s like to work as a professional developer.

  • The ChallENG Program: This initiative gives you the chance to join multidisciplinary, industry-led projects that tackle real challenges — earning academic credit while gaining practical experience.

  • Access to cutting-edge labs and research: You’ll explore specialised areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, embedded systems, software engineering and human-computer interaction — all connected to UNSW’s world-leading research in these fields.

  • Use of professional tools and platforms: From programming languages and algorithms to operating systems and networks, you’ll be working with the same technologies used by industry professionals.

  • Work-Integrated and Research-Integrated Learning: Whether through internships or research placements, UNSW’s strong industry and research connections mean you can put your knowledge into practice in real settings.

  • A vibrant computing community: Join student clubs and societies, collaborate on projects, and network with industry professionals — all while developing teamwork and leadership skills that will set you apart.

With these opportunities, you won’t just study computer science — you’ll live it. This degree is ideal if you’re excited about coding, problem-solving, and innovation, and want a university experience that prepares you for the real world from day one.

Progression & Future Opportunities

If you choose to study the Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) / Arts at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), you’re positioning yourself for a future full of opportunity. UNSW graduates are known for their strong employability — many go on to build successful careers as software engineers, cybersecurity specialists, or systems architects, thriving across sectors like technology, government, finance, and consulting.


Future Progression & Opportunities

Graduates commonly move into roles such as:

  • Software Engineer / Developer

  • Cybersecurity Consultant / Analyst

  • Systems Analyst or Information Systems Manager

  • Database Administrator or Data Architect


Why this degree is a smart choice

University support and experience:
UNSW provides outstanding career support through its Careers & Employment service, which connects you to internships, mentoring programs, and employer networks. You’ll also have access to Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and Research Integrated Learning (RIL) experiences — meaning you’ll apply your technical and creative skills to real-world projects while you study. This practical experience not only enhances your confidence but also gives you a competitive edge in the job market.

Strong employment outcomes:
UNSW graduates consistently rank among the most employable in Australia. Recent data show that undergraduates earn a median salary of around AUD $70,000 within six months of graduation, rising to about AUD $88,000 after three years. In addition, about 84% of UNSW undergraduates are employed full-time shortly after completing their studies — a figure that surpasses the national average.

Industry connections:
UNSW’s School of Computer Science and Engineering maintains close partnerships with industry leaders such as Data61, driving innovation in areas like artificial intelligence, programming languages, and service-oriented computing. Many graduates go on to work for global companies like Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and leading start-ups across Australia and beyond.

Global recognition and accreditation:
The Computer Science program at UNSW is professionally accredited and highly respected worldwide. The School is ranked #1 in Australia for fields such as algorithms and artificial intelligence — ensuring that your qualification carries international credibility and value.

Graduate-ready skills:
By the time you complete your degree, you’ll have developed a strong foundation in both theory (data structures, algorithms, systems) and practice (team projects, real-world challenges). These skills align directly with the growing STEM job market, which is expanding nearly 20% faster than other sectors in Australia.


Further Academic Progression

After completing your Bachelor’s degree, you’ll have the option to continue your studies through postgraduate pathways such as a Master of Information Technology, Master of Cybersecurity, Master of Data Science, or Master of Artificial Intelligence. These programs allow you to deepen your expertise, step into senior or specialised roles, and enhance your global career mobility.

Program Key Stats

$54,000
$9,000
$ 215
Rolling


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

AAA
3.3
33
81

N/A
N/A
6.5
90

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Software Engineer
  • Data Analyst
  • Web Developer
  • UX/UI Designer
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Game Developer
  • Systems Analyst
  • Artificial Intelligence Specialist
  • Digital Artist
  • Multimedia Designer
  • IT Project Manager
  • App Developer
  • Network Administrator
  • Technical Writer
  • Data Scientist

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