Bachelor of Advanced Computing and Bachelor of Science(Chemistry)

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Sydney

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Advanced Computing and Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at the University of Sydney is designed for students who want to combine cutting-edge computing skills with a strong foundation in chemical sciences. It’s a great fit if you’re interested in solving real-world problems using technology, data, and scientific knowledge, while building expertise across both disciplines.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll build core foundations in both computing and chemistry. Units like Introduction to Programming and Discrete Mathematics develop your computational thinking, while Chemistry 1A and Chemistry 1B introduce chemical principles, laboratory techniques, and scientific problem-solving.

Year 2
The second year deepens your technical and scientific understanding. You’ll study units such as Data Structures and Algorithms and Object-Oriented Programming, alongside Organic Chemistry 2A and Physical Chemistry, helping you connect computational methods with chemical systems and analysis.

Year 3
In third year, you begin specialising and applying your skills to more complex problems. Computing units like Database Systems and Software Engineering focus on building scalable systems, while chemistry subjects such as Analytical Chemistry and Biochemistry develop your ability to interpret data and understand molecular processes.

Year 4
The fourth year emphasises advanced applications and interdisciplinary learning. You may take units like Machine Learning or Artificial Intelligence, alongside Inorganic Chemistry or advanced laboratory-based chemistry units, allowing you to explore how computing can enhance scientific research and innovation.

Year 5
In your final year, you’ll consolidate your learning through capstone projects and advanced electives. Units such as Computing Capstone Project and Advanced Chemistry Project give you the chance to work on real-world problems, often combining programming, data analysis, and scientific research into one integrated project.

Focus Areas

Artificial intelligence, data science, software development, chemical analysis, computational chemistry, interdisciplinary innovation

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop strong programming and analytical skills, a deep understanding of chemical principles, and the ability to apply computational tools to solve complex scientific problems across industries.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The computing component aligns with industry expectations for IT and software development careers, while the chemistry major meets academic standards relevant to professional scientific practice and research pathways.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Sydney is consistently ranked among the top universities globally for both computer science and natural sciences, with strong graduate employability outcomes recognised in global rankings such as QS.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Sydney, this combined degree is built around learning by doing, so you’ll constantly apply your computing and chemistry knowledge in practical settings. You’ll spend time in modern chemistry laboratories developing experimental and analytical skills, while also working in collaborative computing environments where you design, build, and test real software systems. With access to advanced digital tools, research facilities, and project-based learning, you’ll graduate with hands-on experience that reflects how these fields operate in the real world:

Laboratory and research experience: Work in purpose-built chemistry laboratories using advanced instruments such as spectroscopy and chromatography equipment, gaining practical skills in chemical analysis, synthesis, and data interpretation.
Computing projects and capstones: Take part in team-based software development projects and a final-year Computing Capstone Project, where you design and deliver real-world technology solutions.
Specialised computing facilities: Access high-performance computing labs, coding environments, and dedicated spaces within the School of Computer Science for programming, data science, and artificial intelligence work.
Digital tools and software: Use industry-relevant tools such as programming languages (e.g., Python, Java), database systems, machine learning frameworks, and scientific data analysis software to support both computing and chemistry tasks.
Interdisciplinary collaboration: Engage in group assignments that combine computational methods with scientific research, helping you develop teamwork and problem-solving skills across disciplines.
Research opportunities and institutes: Benefit from access to the University’s research centres and institutes in both science and technology, where you can participate in projects or gain exposure to ongoing innovations.
Libraries and learning resources: Use specialised science and engineering libraries, digital databases, and research platforms that support both technical computing work and advanced chemistry study.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this combined degree are well positioned to move into careers that sit at the intersection of technology and science, where both analytical thinking and technical expertise are highly valued. With skills in programming, data analysis, and chemistry, you could pursue roles such as software engineer, data scientist, computational chemist, or research analyst across industries like tech, healthcare, and environmental science:

Career support services: The University of Sydney Careers Centre supports you with personalised career advice, resume and interview preparation, internship opportunities, and employer networking events, while the School of Computer Science also runs industry-focused programs and mentoring.
Employment outcomes & earning potential: Graduates in computing-related fields are among the most in-demand globally, often securing strong starting salaries, while chemistry graduates are востребованы across research, pharmaceuticals, and industrial sectors with competitive pay and long-term growth.
University–industry partnerships: The program connects you with industry through capstone projects, internships, and collaborations with leading tech companies and scientific research organisations, giving you exposure to real-world challenges before you graduate.
Accreditation & long-term value: The computing component aligns with professional standards recognised by the Australian Computer Society (ACS), while the chemistry major provides a strong academic foundation for careers in scientific research and industry.
Graduate outcomes: You’ll graduate with a versatile skill set that allows you to work across disciplines — from developing software solutions to supporting scientific innovation — making you adaptable in a rapidly evolving job market.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this program, you can choose to deepen your expertise through postgraduate study such as an Honours year in chemistry, a Master of Computer Science, Data Science, or specialised IT fields. You could also pursue research degrees (MPhil or PhD) in areas like computational chemistry, artificial intelligence, or interdisciplinary sciences, opening pathways into advanced research, academia, or leadership roles in industry.