Bachelor of Computer Science
This degree is part of the Year 12 Subject Spotlight Early Offer Program
Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (80 units). Find out more about fees
Admission to our undergraduate degree programs usually requires successful completion of a senior secondary school qualification similar to the Higher School Certificate (HSC), the highest educational award in New South Wales schools.
Currently enrolled, continuing students looking for the previous version of this program should refer back to the: Bachelor of Computer Science (pre 2017)
Program handbook
Description
Computer science spans a wide range of areas including complex problem solving, artificial intelligence, robotics and machine learning, embedded systems, computer networks and distributed systems, computer graphics, web applications, bioinformatics and data security. Computer scientists perform challenging programming tasks and supervise other programmers, and devise new ways to use computers and develop effective solutions for computing problems.
Program learning outcomes
On successful completion of the program students will have:
- Knowledge of basic science and computer science fundamentals
- Understanding of entrepreneurship, the need for and process of innovation, as well as the need and capacity for lifelong learning
- In-depth technical competence in the discipline of computer science
- An ability to carry out problem analysis, requirements capture, problem formulation and integrated software development for the solution of a problem
- Capacity to continue developing relevant knowledge, skills and expertise in computer science throughout their careers
- An ability to communicate effectively with other computer scientists, software engineers, other professional disciplines, managers and the community generally
- An ability to undertake and coordinate large computer science projects and to identify problems and their formulation and solution
- An ability to function effectively as an individual, as a team member in multidisciplinary and multicultural teams and as a leader/manager with the capacity to assist and encourage those under their direction
- Understanding of the social, cultural, global and business opportunities of the professional computer scientist as well as understanding of the need for and principles of sustainability and adaptability
- Understanding of and commitment to professional and ethical responsibilities
Details
| Information correct as at | 26 Feb 2021 2:42 pm | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program code | 40103 | |||
| AQF level | Level 7 Bachelor Degree | |||
| Locations and UAC codes | ||||
| Mode of delivery |
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| Duration |
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| Selection Rank |
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| Assumed knowledge | HSC Mathematics (Band 5 or above) or equivalent. | |||
| Recommended studies | HSC Mathematics Extension 1 (Band E1 or above). | |||
| Term type | Semesters | |||
| Fees |
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| Relevant University rules and policies |
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| CRICOS Code | 001604G |
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Admission information
Admission requirements
Admission to this program is available to Australian students, residents and international students. Admission information for Australian students and residents is available online here. Admission information for international students can be found here. During the admission process, adjustment factors may be applied to your Selection Rank. Please visit our website to see if you are eligible.
Enrolling in mathematics - Maths placement test
Your degree includes either compulsory or optional courses in maths. To maximise your likelihood of academic success, it is recommended that you select the course which matches your existing knowledge and understanding of maths concepts.
Answer a few questions now to find out what mathematics you should enrol in.
Minimum English language proficiency requirements
All Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University’s English proficiency requirement. Further information regarding English language proficiency requirements can be found at the English Language Proficiency for Admission Policy here.
Credit transfer
If you wish to apply for credit for studies completed at another institution, or if you are changing programs within the University and wish to transfer your credit to the new program, visit the University's credit website for more information on applying for credit.
Professional recognition
Australian Computer Society
The Bachelor of Computer Science is accredited by the Australian Computer Society.
Academic requirements for program completion
Total units required
240 units
Program duration
3 years full-time or part-time equivalent up to 8 years maximum.
International students studying this program on campus are required to enrol full time to comply with their student visa requirements and complete their study in the standard minimum program duration. International students requiring enrolment advice should review the program plan corresponding to the semester and year of commencement and can contact their Program Advisor at ProgramAdvice@newcastle.edu.au
Program requirements
The Bachelor of Computer Science is a three year program, students are required to complete 240 units.
Students can choose one of four majors: Software Development, Computer Systems and Robotics and Cyber Security.
- The Software Development major consists of 170 units of core courses, 30 units of compulsory courses, 30 units of directed courses and 10 units of electives
- The Computer Systems and Robotics major consists of 170 units of core courses, 50 units of compulsory courses, 10 units of directed courses and 10 units of electives.
- The Cyber Security major consists of 170 units of core courses, 40 units of compulsory courses, 20 units of directed courses and 10 units of electives.
- The Data Science major consists of 170 units of core courses, 50 units of compulsory courses, 10 units of directed courses and 10 units of electives.
No more than 100 units can be at 1000 level; and at least 40 units must be taken at each level from the 2000 level and above for this program.
Electives
Electives gives students the opportunity to broaden their skills and knowledge in their own or another engineering discipline; or specialise in areas such as business, maths or science; or undertake study overseas. Please be aware of the 120 unit maximum for 1000 level courses in your program when selecting your electives.
Additional Information
- Students wishing to undertake this program on a part-time basis are advised to contact the Program Convenor or Academic Program Advisor (ProgramAdvice@newcastle.edu.au) for advice on optimum selection of courses for part-time enrolment.
- Please note that if you undertake courses that are not in your approved program, you will be liable for additional fees for those courses. This is in addition to the fees associated with your normal program of study.
Program plans
Download a program plan for further details on what you will study. Please refer to the program plan for the year that you commenced or transitioned into this program.
- 2017-2019 All Majors 383.1 KB
- 2020-2021 Semester 1 Program Plan Computer Systems and Robotics Major 200.2 KB
- 2020-2021 Semester 1 Program Plan Cyber Security Major 199.5 KB
- 2020-2021 Semester 1 Program Plan Data Science Major 201.3 KB
- 2020-2021 Semester 1 Program Plan Software Development Major 199.0 KB
- 2020-2021 Semester 2 Program Plan Computer Systems and Robotics Major 200.3 KB
- 2020-2021 Semester 2 Program Plan Cyber Security Major 199.5 KB
- 2020-2021 Semester 2 Program Plan Data Science Major 201.5 KB
- 2020-2021 Semester 2 Program Plan Software Development Major 199.3 KB
Additional documents
- Transition Arrangements 2021 92.4 KB
Transition arrangements
As programs are regularly reviewed and updated, some students may experience changes to their program of study during the course of their enrolment, which may require transition arrangements. Students affected by changes to their program are advised to review documentation contained in the "Additional Documents" section, in the first instance. Any further questions should be directed to the Program Convenor or Academic Program Advisor (ProgramAdvice@newcastle.edu.au).
Program structure
Students are advised to read their program handbook information in conjunction with the program plans for course sequence/enrolment advice. Please refer to the Program Plan for the year that you commenced, or transitioned into, this program - Program Plans are available above.
Advanced course filters
Courses that are currently unavailable are hidden by default. You can show them by adjusting the advanced course filters above, or clicking the 'show all' links below each section.
Core Courses
Complete all the following core courses. | |||
| Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| COMP1010 | Computing Fundamentals |
| 10 units |
| COMP1140 | Database and Information Management |
| 10 units |
| MATH1110 | Mathematics for Engineering, Science and Technology 1 |
| 10 units |
| MATH1510 | Discrete Mathematics |
| 10 units |
| SENG1050 | Web Technologies |
| 10 units |
| SENG1110 | Object Oriented Programming |
| 10 units |
| SENG1120 | Data Structures |
| 10 units |
| COMP2230 | Algorithms |
| 10 units |
| COMP2240 | Operating Systems |
| 10 units |
| COMP2270 | Theory of Computation |
| 10 units |
| SENG2130 | Systems Analysis and Design |
| 10 units |
| SENG2250 | System and Network Security |
| 10 units |
| SENG2260 | Human-Computer Interaction |
| 10 units |
| COMP3851A | Computer Science and Information Technology Work Integrated Learning Part A |
| 10 units |
| COMP3851B | Computer Science and Information Technology Work Integrated Learning Part B |
| 10 units |
| ELEC3500 | Telecommunication Networks |
| 10 units |
| INFT3800 | Professional Practice in IT |
| 10 units |
Computer Systems and Robotics Major
| Compulsory Courses | |||
Complete the following compulsory courses for the Computer Systems and Robotics Major. | |||
| Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| ELEC1710 | Digital and Computer Electronics 1 |
| 10 units |
| MATH1120 | Mathematics for Engineering, Science and Technology 2 |
| 10 units |
| ELEC2720 | Introduction to Embedded Computing |
| 10 units |
| COMP3290 | Compiler Design |
| 10 units |
| COMP3330 | Machine Intelligence |
| 10 units |
| Directed Courses | |||
Choose 10 units from the following directed courses for the Computer Systems and Robotics Major. | |||
| Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| SENG2200 | Programming Languages and Paradigms |
| 10 units |
| COMP3320 | Computer Graphics |
| 10 units |
| COMP3350 | Advanced Database |
| 10 units |
Software Development Major
| Compulsory Courses | |||
Complete the following compulsory courses for the Software Development Major. | |||
| Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| SENG2200 | Programming Languages and Paradigms |
| 10 units |
| INFT3100 | Project Management |
| 10 units |
| SENG3320 | Software Verification and Validation |
| 10 units |
| Directed Courses | |||
Choose 30 units from the following directed courses for the Software Development Major. | |||
| Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| INFT2150 | Business Analysis |
| 10 units |
| SENG2050 | Web Engineering |
| 10 units |
| COMP3260 | Data Security |
| 10 units |
| COMP3320 | Computer Graphics |
| 10 units |
| COMP3350 | Advanced Database |
| 10 units |
| INFT3950 | Games Design |
| 10 units |
| INFT3960 | Games Production |
| 10 units |
Cyber Security Major
| Compulsory Courses | |||
Complete 40 units of compulsory courses for the Cyber Security Major. | |||
| Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| INFT2031 | Systems and Network Administration |
| 10 units |
| COMP3260 | Data Security |
| 10 units |
| COMP3500 | Security Attacks: Analysis and Mitigation Strategies |
| 10 units |
| COMP3600 | Security Standards and Practices in Industry |
| 10 units |
| Directed Courses | |||
Choose 20 units from the following directed courses for the Cyber Security Major. | |||
| Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| INFT2051 | Mobile Application Programming |
| 10 units |
| COMP3330 | Machine Intelligence |
| 10 units |
| COMP3340 | Data Mining |
| 10 units |
| COMP3350 | Advanced Database |
| 10 units |
| INFT3050 | Web Programming |
| 10 units |
| INFT3100 | Project Management |
| 10 units |
| SENG3320 | Software Verification and Validation |
| 10 units |
| SENG4430 | Software Quality |
| 10 units |
Data Science Major
| Compulsory Courses | |||
Complete the following compulsory courses to meet the requirements of this major. | |||
| Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| MATH1120 | Mathematics for Engineering, Science and Technology 2 |
| 10 units |
| STAT1070 | Statistics for the Sciences |
| 10 units |
| COMP3330 | Machine Intelligence |
| 10 units |
| COMP3340 | Data Mining |
| 10 units |
| COMP3350 | Advanced Database |
| 10 units |
| Directed Courses | |||
Choose 10 units from the following directed courses. | |||
| Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENGG1003 | Introduction to Procedural Programming |
| 10 units |
| MATH2340 | Linearity and Continuity 1 |
| 10 units |
| SENG2050 | Web Engineering |
| 10 units |
| COMP3260 | Data Security |
| 10 units |
Electives
Complete 10 units of electives to fulfil the requirements of the program. Electives can be used to extend and complement your core studies with more courses in the same field of study, or from areas that might be of interest to you. Electives can be chosen from all courses available at the University that do not have any other conditions (such as a course requisite) applied to them. | 10 units |
Honours
Available as an additional year to meritorious students. Please contact the Program Convenor or Academic Program Advisor (ProgramAdvice@newcastle.edu.au) for further information.
Additional information
All students can access free academic skills and support provided by Academic Learning Support through the Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can draw on the assistance and support provided by the Indigenous Student Support and Development service through the Wollotuka Institute.
International students
All International Students enrolled in the program will be provided with an orientation to familiarise them with the rules, expectations, facilities and services offered by the University. Please visit our International Students website to find out more about the support services available to international students.
Additional support
AccessAbility provides advice and reasonable adjustments to Students with a medical or health condition or disability. If you require adjustments to undertake your program, contact the Student Support Advisors - AccessAbility before semester or early in the semester. They will work with the Faculty or School to ensure that this happens in a timely manner.
Please note: All students must fulfil the inherent requirements of the programs and courses they are undertaking. While reasonable adjustments can be made, these adjustments cannot compromise academic integrity. It is the student's responsibility to check all the requirements of courses, and consider the effects of any medical condition or disability on their ability to complete course requirements. More information is available online.