Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) / Science (Computer Science)

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

Program Overview

This double degree combines engineering problem-solving with advanced computing, giving you both practical engineering skills and deep technical knowledge in computer science. It is ideal for students who want flexibility to work across industries like software, robotics, artificial intelligence, or systems engineering while building strong foundations in mathematics, algorithms, and hardware.

Curriculum structure

Year 1

You begin with a strong foundation in engineering and computing principles, developing your understanding of mathematics, physics, and programming. Core subjects such as Engineering Design, Computing Fundamentals, and Mathematics for Engineers help you build analytical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for both disciplines.

Year 2

In the second year, you start specialising further into computing and engineering systems. You will study modules such as Data Structures and Algorithms, Digital Systems, and Software Engineering Fundamentals, focusing on how software and hardware interact and how efficient systems are designed.

Year 3

This year emphasises deeper technical knowledge and real-world application. You will engage with subjects like Operating Systems, Computer Architecture, and Embedded Systems, working on projects that simulate industry challenges and strengthen your ability to design scalable and reliable systems.

Year 4

You will advance into complex engineering and computing domains, applying your knowledge through Engineering Design Projects and advanced electives. This stage enhances your ability to solve multidisciplinary problems, integrating engineering innovation with computing solutions.

Year 5

The final year focuses on professional practice and specialisation. You will complete a capstone project and advanced computer science electives, refining your expertise in areas such as artificial intelligence, systems design, or software development, while preparing for industry or research pathways.

Focus areas (in a string):

Computer systems design, algorithms and data structures, embedded systems, software engineering, operating systems, hardware–software integration

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, ability to design and develop integrated computer systems, proficiency in programming and system architecture, capability to apply engineering principles to real-world challenges

Professional alignment (accreditation):

Accredited by Engineers Australia and recognised under the Washington Accord, enabling global recognition as a professional engineer

Reputation (employability rankings):

UNSW is ranked among the top universities globally for Engineering and Technology (QS rankings) and is known for strong industry links and graduate employability, with its Computer Science and Engineering school being one of the largest and highest ranked in Australia

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

When you step into this degree at UNSW, you’re signing up for far more than lectures and exams — you’re entering a learning environment where your skills are tested in real settings and your confidence grows through doing. From early on, you’ll be applying engineering and computing principles to tangible problems, working on projects that mirror what employers value most. You’ll also spend dedicated time in the field gaining hands-on experience that bridges classroom learning with industry practice. That mix of academic depth and practical exposure equips you to graduate ready to contribute from day one in your future career.

Here are the key hands-on experiences this program offers:

60 days of Industrial Training, where you work in professional environments to apply your technical knowledge and develop workplace skills ahead of graduation.
ChallENG Program participation, a structured, multidisciplinary project-based learning initiative that connects you with academics and industry partners on real engineering challenges.
Project work embedded in your coursework, including design and research projects that help you practise problem-solving in engineering and computing contexts.
Opportunities to engage with industry partners like Atlassian, Google, Microsoft and others through project work and industry-linked learning experiences.
Student societies and co-curricular activities related to engineering and computing that allow you to build practical soft skills, teamwork experience and leadership capabilities outside of class.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Computer Science at UNSW Sydney puts you in a really strong position for whatever direction you want to take next. It’s a degree that employers know and trust, and it prepares you to be flexible, confident, and genuinely useful in fast-moving industries. UNSW computer science graduates commonly move into roles like Software Engineer, Systems Architect, Cybersecurity Specialist, or Technical Consultant — and many start working with major companies even before they graduate. Employers value the way UNSW combines rigorous engineering problem-solving with hands-on, modern computing skills, which is why graduates are in demand across tech, finance, consulting, and government.

Here’s what that looks like in real terms for you:

• Support that goes beyond the classroom: UNSW gives you access to career coaching, employer networking events, internship opportunities, and work-integrated learning experiences. These aren’t add-ons — they’re designed to help you understand the job market, build confidence, and connect with real employers while you’re still studying.

• Industry experience built into the degree: Through initiatives like ChallENG and compulsory industrial training, you’ll work on real technical problems with real organisations. Students regularly collaborate with companies such as Google, Microsoft, Atlassian, Honeywell, WiseTech and CommBank, gaining experience that employers instantly recognise and respect.

• A graduate reputation that opens doors: UNSW consistently ranks as one of Australia’s top universities for graduate employability. This means you’ll be graduating with a degree that carries weight — and you’ll be surrounded by peers who are landing meaningful roles soon after finishing, which strengthens your own professional network.

• Professional accreditation that matters: The degree is accredited by Engineers Australia and recognised by the Australian Computer Society. That gives your qualification credibility not just in Australia, but internationally, and supports long-term career mobility.

Thinking about what comes next academically?
If you decide you want to go further, UNSW makes that transition feel natural. Many students build on their bachelor’s with Honours research, specialised Master’s degrees in areas like Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science or Software Systems, or even a PhD. With UNSW’s strong research culture and supportive academic community, you can explore emerging fields like machine learning or human-computer interaction while developing a standout portfolio. Whether your goal is advanced industry roles or an academic career, you’ll be guided and supported every step of the way.