Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) / Fine Arts

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) / Fine Arts at the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) is a distinctive double degree that blends creative expression with cutting-edge technology. It’s perfect for students who want to merge their artistic vision with digital innovation—whether that’s in game design, digital media, visual arts, or interactive technologies. You’ll gain both the technical depth of computing and the conceptual breadth of fine arts, preparing you for a future where creativity meets computation.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Students begin by building strong foundations in both disciplines. In Computer Science, you’ll study core courses such as Programming Fundamentals, Data Structures and Algorithms, and Introduction to Computer Systems, learning to think logically and code efficiently. Alongside, Fine Arts courses like Studio Art Fundamentals and Contemporary Visual Arts Practice encourage exploration across drawing, painting, and digital media. This year focuses on developing both analytical and creative problem-solving skills.

Year 2:
As you progress, you’ll delve deeper into computing concepts and creative experimentation. Computer Science subjects such as Database Systems and Software Engineering Fundamentals introduce design thinking and system development, while Fine Arts studios expand into Digital Imaging and Experimental Media, allowing you to merge visual arts with technology-driven processes. You’ll start to see the intersection of code, design, and visual storytelling in your work.

Year 3:
This year focuses on advanced technical mastery and personal artistic development. In Computer Science, you’ll explore topics like Artificial Intelligence and Computer Networks, gaining insight into the systems powering modern digital platforms. In Fine Arts, you’ll pursue Studio Practice Projects that refine your artistic style and conceptual awareness. The balance between structured programming and creative exploration becomes more dynamic as you prepare for integrated projects.

Year 4:
The final year is dedicated to synthesis and specialization. Through a Computer Science Project or Capstone Design Project, you’ll apply your technical expertise to a real-world challenge—often collaborating across disciplines. In Fine Arts, the Honours Studio Project or Exhibition Practice unit allows you to produce a professional body of work for public display. By graduation, you’ll have both a strong technical portfolio and a compelling artistic identity.


Focus Areas:
Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, Digital Media, Studio Art, Visual Communication, Human-Computer Interaction, Creative Coding

Learning Outcomes:
Students graduate with the ability to design and develop complex computing systems, express ideas visually and conceptually, and integrate technology with artistic practice. They gain critical thinking, technical programming, and creative problem-solving skills suited to the evolving digital world.

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

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
UNSW ranks among the Top 20 universities worldwide for Computer Science and Information Systems (QS 2025) and is consistently placed in Australia’s top 3 for graduate employability. Its strong industry connections and creative arts reputation make this program a launchpad for innovative, future-focused careers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Great choice! Let’s talk about how you’ll gain real, hands-on experience in the Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) / Fine Arts at the University of New South Wales (UNSW).

From the very beginning, you’ll be learning by doing — developing both your technical and creative abilities in studios, labs, and collaborative projects. You won’t just study theory; you’ll apply it in practical, real-world contexts. Supported by cutting-edge workshops, digital media tools, and computer graphics systems, you’ll explore how technology and creativity intersect. The two degrees are deeply connected, so you’ll have opportunities to work on projects that merge coding, media, and art — preparing you for the diverse worlds of tech and creative industries. And with UNSW’s strong focus on industry connections and professional development, you’ll graduate ready to take on real-world challenges.

Here’s a closer look at the kinds of experiential learning opportunities you’ll enjoy:

Access to specialist creative studios and labs
You’ll have access to professional-grade studios, editing suites, sound labs, and performance or exhibition spaces — perfect for bringing your creative ideas to life.

High-tech computing and research facilities
The School of Computer Science and Engineering offers world-class facilities and research spaces in areas such as artificial intelligence, algorithms, and embedded systems — all of which enrich your learning experience.

Collaborative, project-based learning
Many courses are built around teamwork and problem-solving. You’ll collaborate across disciplines — combining art, design, and computing — to develop creative, innovative projects that reflect real-world practice.

Industry engagement and professional development
Throughout your studies, you’ll connect with industry professionals and potential employers. Whether through networking, workshops, or internships, you’ll gain insight into how your skills translate into professional opportunities.

Flexible specialisations linking both degrees
You’ll tailor your studies to your interests — choosing from computer science areas like AI, security engineering, or embedded systems, and Fine Arts areas such as Animation & Moving Image or Visual Arts. This flexibility ensures your practical work reflects your passions.

Creative media production environments
On the Fine Arts side, you’ll experiment with technologies like motion-capture, 3D visualisation, digital imaging, and green-screen setups — giving you hands-on experience with the same tools used in professional creative industries.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Progression & Future Opportunities

Why this degree sets you up for success
The Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) / Fine Arts at UNSW blends strong technical knowledge with creative practice — giving you a rare mix of analytical skill and artistic vision. Graduates are well placed for exciting careers in areas like software engineering, game development, digital security, animation, and media arts.


Support to help you get there
UNSW’s dedicated Careers & Employment team helps students build professional experience through internships, work-integrated learning, and alumni connections. Within the School of Art & Design, you’ll also have the chance to take part in studio internships, exhibitions, and industry-led creative projects.

Through the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, you’ll gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge research, industry partnerships, and opportunities to connect with major technology companies while you study.


Employment outcomes and salary insights
UNSW graduates consistently achieve some of the strongest outcomes in Australia. Bachelor’s degree graduates report a median salary of around AUD $70,000 within six months of finishing their studies — the highest among the Go8 universities.
Within three years of graduation, that median salary typically rises to about AUD $88,000, reflecting both demand and strong career progression.


Real industry connections
UNSW’s computer science graduates have gone on to work with leading global and local companies including Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Cisco, Atlassian, and Canva.
In Fine Arts, students often collaborate on industry-driven projects, showcase their work through creative studios and exhibitions, and gain real-world exposure through UNSW’s partnerships with artists and media organisations.


Accreditation and recognition
The Computer Science component is delivered by UNSW’s School of Computer Science and Engineering, ranked #1 in Australia for research strength across areas like algorithms, artificial intelligence, databases, and embedded systems.

By completing this four-year double degree, you’ll graduate with two full qualifications — one in Computer Science and one in Fine Arts — giving you both creative breadth and technical depth.


Career pathways after graduation
Your combined skill set opens doors to roles such as:

  • Software Engineer or Developer

  • Game Developer or Visual Effects & Animation Specialist

  • Digital Security Specialist or Database Administrator

  • Art Director, Media Arts Practitioner, or Digital Communications Specialist


Further academic progression
If you’re keen to continue your studies, UNSW offers excellent postgraduate options such as a Master of Computer Science (specialising in AI, cybersecurity or data science), a Master of Fine Arts or Media Practice, or even a PhD in creative technologies or computational media. The program’s strong academic reputation and professional accreditation mean you’ll also be well prepared for honours or advanced research pathways.

Program Key Stats

$55,000
$8,000
$ 215
Rolling


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

AAA
3.3
33
81

N/A
N/A
6.5
90

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Software Developer
  • Data Analyst
  • Web Designer
  • Game Developer
  • UX/UI Designer
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Digital Artist
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Visual Effects (VFX) Specialist
  • Mobile App Developer
  • Animator
  • Multimedia Designer
  • Systems Analyst
  • Creative Technologist
  • AI Visual Designer

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