Bachelor of Advanced Computer Science (Honours)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Western Australia

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Advanced Computer Science (Honours) at The University of Western Australia (UWA) is designed for students who are passionate about technology, programming, and innovation. This degree equips you with advanced computing skills to solve real-world challenges in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science. It’s perfect for those who want to go beyond the basics and create cutting-edge digital solutions for business, research, and industry.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Your first year lays the groundwork for everything to come. You’ll learn to think like a computer scientist through foundational units such as Computational Thinking with Python (CITS1401) and Software Engineering with Java (CITS1001). You’ll also explore how data is stored, managed, and accessed through Relational Database Management (CITS1402)—essential knowledge for any computing professional.

Year 2
In second year, you’ll start building more complex skills. You’ll dive into system-level programming and algorithmic thinking through Systems Programming (CITS2002) and Data Structures and Algorithms (CITS2200). If you’re leaning towards data-focused study, you might take units like Introduction to Data Science (CITS2402) or Analysis of Observations (STAT2402) to strengthen your analytical toolkit.

Year 3
Your third year prepares you for advanced topics and professional practice. You’ll explore areas such as Algorithms, Agents and Artificial Intelligence (CITS3001) and Professional Computing (CITS3200), which focus on real-world application and ethical practice. Depending on your interests, you can also specialise with units like Machine Learning (CITS5508) or Secure Coding (CITS3007), building expertise in emerging technologies.

Year 4
In your final year, you’ll take on an independent Honours Research Project (CITS4010 / CITS4011), where you apply everything you’ve learned to tackle a substantial computing problem. You’ll also have the chance to deepen your expertise through high-level electives such as Deep Learning (CITS5017), Natural Language Processing (CITS4012), or Cloud Computing (CITS5503), depending on your chosen specialisation.

Focus Areas

Artificial Intelligence
International Cybersecurity
Computing & Data Science
Quantum Computing

Learning Outcomes

By the end of your degree, you’ll be equipped to apply advanced computing knowledge to solve real-world technological problems. You’ll develop strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to adapt and innovate in a rapidly evolving field. This degree ensures you’re not just ready for today’s tech landscape — you’re prepared to lead its future.

Professional Alignment

The majors in this program — including Artificial Intelligence and Computing & Data Science — are provisionally accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS). This recognition means your qualification is industry-relevant and professionally respected across Australia and beyond.

Reputation & Employability

UWA is ranked #1 in Western Australia and is globally recognised for excellence in computing and engineering disciplines. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, UWA continues to hold strong positions, reflecting its world-class teaching, research, and graduate outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

If you join the Bachelor of Advanced Computer Science (Honours) at The University of Western Australia (UWA), you’ll step into a learning environment where technology meets real-world experience every day. This program goes far beyond textbooks — it’s about solving real problems, working with real companies, and developing the skills that top employers are looking for. You’ll have access to modern facilities like the EZONE UWA Student Hub, and you’ll collaborate with leading researchers, industry partners, and fellow students who share your passion for innovation. By the time you graduate, you’ll have a strong portfolio of work and practical experience that truly sets you apart.

Here’s what experiential learning looks like in this program:

Work on real-world projects alongside industry partners and research teams right from the start, gaining hands-on experience that connects classroom learning with professional practice.
Use cutting-edge spaces like the EZONE UWA Student Hub — a world-class innovation and technology facility designed for collaboration, experimentation, and creativity.
Tailor your studies through majors such as Artificial Intelligence, Computing and Data Science, International Cybersecurity, or Quantum Computing — each focused on practical, technical expertise.
Learn from industry collaboration, with strong ties between the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering and major companies like IBM Australia and Immersive Technologies. This means the tools and methods you learn are aligned with what’s happening in the industry right now.
Gain hands-on technical skills by applying advanced algorithms, cloud management, data cleaning, visualisation, deep learning, system programming, and more — using the same software tools and programming environments professionals rely on.
Engage in cutting-edge research through UWA’s dedicated infrastructure and specialised research clusters, such as those exploring quantum algorithms, machine learning for physical sciences, and big-data systems.
Get involved outside the classroom with student clubs like the UWA Data Science Club, UWA Information Security Society, and Programming Competition Society — perfect for joining hackathons, coding challenges, and team-based tech projects.

At UWA, experiential learning isn’t an add-on — it’s built into every part of the program, helping you graduate ready to lead in the fast-evolving world of computer science.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this program leave UWA ready to take on advanced roles in computing, data science, artificial intelligence, or cybersecurity. They’re equipped not just with strong technical expertise, but also with the leadership and analytical skills to thrive in specialist or managerial positions. Common career paths include software engineer, data scientist, AI specialist, and cybersecurity consultant.

Future Progression & Opportunities

University support for employability
UWA’s dedicated Careers and Employability team helps students gain real-world experience through internships, industry-mentored projects, and work-integrated learning opportunities. The university’s “Graduate Career Ready” program ensures you develop professional networks and practical skills that give you an edge in the job market.

Employment prospects and salary outcomes
Nationally, STEM graduates (including those in computing and information systems) enjoy strong career outcomes, with a median full-time salary of around AUD 73,000 in 2023. At UWA, around 85% of undergraduates are employed full-time within a year of completing their degree — a strong indication of the program’s industry relevance and recognition.

Industry partnerships
UWA’s Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering maintains close ties with leading organisations such as IBM Australia, Immersive Technologies, and Main Roads WA. These collaborations allow students to work on real industry projects, connect with potential employers, and gain valuable hands-on experience.

Professional recognition
The program and its key majors — including Computing and Data Science — are provisionally accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS). This accreditation adds significant value to your qualification, ensuring professional recognition and boosting your career prospects in Australia and internationally.

Graduate skillset and degree value
On completion, you’ll hold a four-year honours-level bachelor’s degree that includes a research or dissertation component. You’ll graduate with strong problem-solving, analytical, and technical skills, ready to design, implement, or lead complex computing systems and technologies across diverse sectors.

Further Academic Progression

After completing this honours degree, you’ll have clear pathways to continue your academic journey. You could progress to a Master of Data Science, a Master of Information Technology, or even pursue a research-focused Master’s or PhD in computer science or AI. These options open doors to advanced research, leadership positions, or specialised roles in high-impact areas across academia and industry.