Key facts
Domestic students course information.
Guaranteed ATAR: 72.55
Entry is based on recent secondary (ATAR), higher education (GPA), VET study, or work experience.
Entry is based on Australian Year 12 equivalence. English language requirements must also be met.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- 005909C
| Start Dates and Campus | Trimester 1 – February 2024 | Trimester 2 – June 2024 | Trimester 3 – October 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Offered | Offered | Offered |
| Armidale Campus | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
| Sydney Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
| Online | Offered | Offered | Offered |
| Armidale Campus | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
| Sydney Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
Course information
Download course brochure
Computers and technology are entrenched in our rapidly changing society, so knowledge and skills in these areas are highly sought after by employers. Our Bachelor of Computer Science will give you the strong programming, technical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills that are in demand in a wide range of industries and careers.
Our degree is particularly designed with software development and computational science roles in mind, but with the in-built flexibility to choose how you structure your study to suit your interests and aspirations. You can study online, as well as on campus.
Whether you’re pivoting in your career, enhancing your skills, or just starting out, our Bachelor of Computer Science will help you adapt and thrive in any modern workplace.
Why study the Bachelor of Computer Science with UNE?
Our Bachelor of Computer Science includes a core of subjects that will give you a solid programming, mathematical, and software engineering background. From these units you will learn multiple programming languages, as well as the leading collaborative tools and practices that software teams use to design, develop and deliver software that solves problems for their users.
You will also participate in a team project where you will have the opportunity to develop solutions to real-world computing problems, drawn from industry and community organisations.
You can choose to study either one, or both, of two majors:
- Software Development - You will study topics including artificial intelligence, functional programming, development for the modern web, mobile development, and interaction design.
- Data Science - You will learn topics that are relevant to applying computing to science. This includes statistical machine learning, distributed computing, and computational science.
If you elect to take a single major you can complete your degree with your choice of additional units from within the Bachelor of Computer Science, or from other degrees, depending on your interests and career aspirations.
You also have the option to participate in our overseas exchange program, which will give you the opportunity to study at one of our international partner universities for one trimester, and have it count towards your degree.
What makes our course different?
Our graduates are perfectly placed to succeed in a broad range of careers through their understanding of computer science. You will have the opportunity to:
- Build a solid foundation in critical thinking, communication, problem solving, resilience, flexibility, perseverance and research skills — skills in high demand by a wide range of employers.
- Structure your degree to focus purely on the areas of software development and data science by taking both majors. Alternatively, you can study a single major, allowing you to choose from a wide range of elective units from areas as diverse as business, biology, communications, psychology, or broader maths and science topics, to name just a few, giving you the flexibility to tailor your degree to meet your career goals.
- Choose to study when it suits you. The degree is available online, allowing you to fit study around your busy lifestyle, not the other way around, no matter where you are in the world. Or join us on campus and take advantage of our small staff-student ratio and supportive environment.
- Expand your theoretical knowledge and practical experience, and hone your problem solving and analytical skills to future proof your career in today’s fast-paced ICT environment.
- Work in a small team on a capstone research project with an industry client to develop an ICT solution to a real-world issue. This is one of a number of opportunities you will have to work collaboratively throughout your studies.
We’re highly rated – year after year, students award UNE 5-star ratings in The Good Universities Guide for Overall Experience and Student Support, so when you study with us, you know you are in good hands.
Study online
Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.
Study on campus
Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.
* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.
Entry requirements
Select the option that best describes you.
If you are an international applicant who wants to study on campus in Australia:
You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.
To meet the entry requirements for this course you must have completed, at minimum, an Australian Year 12 qualification or overseas equivalent.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
You can check your overseas qualifications in our Admission Country List and Qualifications table. If you can't find your qualifications in this list, simply submit your application and UNE's International Admissions team will assess them for you.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 1 unit of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of HSC Mathematics Extension 1 (or equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
On-Campus study
If you would like to study full-time in Australia at one of UNE's campuses, you will need to have a visa that allows you to study. For most international students this visa will need to be a Student Visa. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has further information about visa eligibility and conditions.
If you are an international applicant who wants to study online (overseas or in Australia):
You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.
To meet the entry requirements for this course you must have completed, at minimum, an Australian Year 12 qualification or overseas equivalent.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
You can check your overseas qualifications in our Admission Country List and Qualifications table. If you can't find your qualifications in this list, simply submit your application and UNE's International Admissions team will assess them for you.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 1 unit of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of HSC Mathematics Extension 1 (or equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
Online study in your own country
If you would like to study online with UNE while you reside outside of Australia you do not need a Student Visa. If your course requires you to visit Australia to attend any mandatory study requirements, you would need to explore Visitor Visa options for a short-term stay.
Online study in Australia
If you would like to study online with UNE while you are residing in Australia, you will need to hold a visa (other than a Student Visa) that allows you to study. If you are unsure if your visa allows you to study, you can check with UNE's International Admissions team. If you hold a Student Visa you cannot study completely online; you must be enrolled as an on-campus student (although you can study a limited number of online units).
Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:
- Any supporting documents related to your admission pathway. For example, if you apply based on previous study, upload evidence of your study so we can assess eligibility.
- Proof of identity and citizenship. This can be a certified/notarised copy of the photo page of your passport, or another form of official photo identification that lists your full personal details including name and date of birth; for example, a foreign government identity card.
- Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. If you have completed a UNE-approved formal English test within the last two years, you must provide a copy of the test results with your application. Please see UNE’s English Language Requirements above for further information.
Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.
Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.
Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for the following units:
- COSC301 Special Topics in Computing
- COSC320 Information Technology Project
> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing
Select the option that best describes your experience.
You are currently studying Year 12 (school or TAFE) or have done so within the past 2 years.
If you are admitted on the basis of your ATAR, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
There are two ATAR-related adjustments that can be applied to increase your rank when applying for this course. You can receive a maximum of five points in addition to your ATAR result. It is possible to be considered for either the UNE ATAR Adjustment Scheme OR the Educational Access Scheme, but not both.
UNE ATAR Adjustment Scheme
UNE automatically offers an additional five points of adjustment factors to the ATAR of eligible applicants from regional, rural and remote locations without the need for an application.
> Learn more about the UNE ATAR Adjustment Scheme
Education Adjustment Scheme (EAS)
UNE acknowledges and provides consideration for applicants who have experienced an educational disadvantage. If you are planning to study on campus you can seek consideration for this scheme when applying for this course.
> Learn more about EAS
UNE Early Entry Program
Early Entry is open to all Year 12 applicants and relies on your school’s assessment of your attributes and suitability for study. You can apply early, receive an offer and secure a place with UNE, even before your scores are released.
> Learn more about the UNE Early Entry Program
UAC Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS)
This scheme provides eligible Year 12 applicants who have applied via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) the opportunity to receive early offers of undergraduate admission to UNE based on their school ratings and Year 11 results.
> Learn more about SRS
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 1 unit of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of HSC Mathematics Extension 1 (or equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
You have studied at UNE or other higher education institutions, completed or otherwise.
You can apply for this course if you have undertaken any of the following qualifications with an appropriate Grade Point Average (GPA):
- Undergraduate Certificates
- Diplomas
- Advanced Diplomas/Associate degrees
- Bachelor degrees
- Postgraduate degrees
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 1 unit of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of HSC Mathematics Extension 1 (or equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
You have undertaken VET study through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), e.g. TAFE.
You can apply for this course if you have undertaken VET studies. When assessing your application, we will look at the following factors:
- Level and type of qualification (Certificate IV or above)
- Graded or ungraded (competency-based)
- Complete or incomplete.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 1 unit of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of HSC Mathematics Extension 1 (or equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
You left high school more than two years ago or did not finish Year 12.
You can apply for this course on the basis of work and/or life experience via at least one of the following methods:
Professional Experience
If you have completed at least one year of paid professional experience, we can assess you for admission on this basis. Simply provide a resume and a Statement of Service from your employer/s in your application.
> Find out more about applying based on professional experience
> Learn about our Statement of Service requirements
Mature Age Special Entry
Tell us more about your work and life experience, demonstrating why you believe you will be successful in the course you are applying for. Simply complete the form and upload it in your application.
> Download the Mature Age Special Entry form (PDF)
Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)
The STAT is a test that assesses a range of competencies considered important for successful tertiary study. UNE accepts the multiple-choice component provided you have completed it within the three years prior to course commencement.
> Visit ACER for more information
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
Pathways Enabling Course
This is a free (fees exempt) and 100% online course designed to help you prepare for university. It will provide you with all the skills needed to undertake undergraduate study.
> Learn more about the Pathways Enabling Course
TRACKS (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants)
TRACKS is a preparation course run by the UNE Oorala Aboriginal Centre. Over two trimesters you will experience what university study is about and learn in a supported environment. Be part of a community of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples who share your goals and interests.
> Learn more about TRACKS
Internal Selection Program (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants)
This program is designed for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples who have professional work or community experience, or any formal VET qualifications, e.g. TAFE study.
> Learn more about the Internal Selection Program
Pathways into Science
There is more than one way to study the course of your dreams at UNE. Find out more about Pathways into Science at UNE.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 1 unit of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of HSC Mathematics Extension 1 (or equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:
- Any supporting documents related to your admission pathway. For example, if you apply based on previous study, upload evidence of your study so we can assess eligibility.
- If you are applying through Mature Age Special Entry, you will need to include a completed Mature Age Special Entry form in your online application. Learn more about Mature Age Special Entry.
- If you are applying based on professional experience you will need to provide a resume and a Statement of Service from your employer/s on company letterhead. Learn about our Statement of Service requirements.
Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.
Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.
Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for the following units:
- COSC301 Special Topics in Computing
- COSC320 Information Technology Project
> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing
Course structure
Students will complete Core Units; OPTION 1; One Major and 42 credit points of elective units OR OPTION 2; One Major, one Minor and 18 credit points of elective units OR OPTION 3; Two Majors.To qualify for the award a candidate must pass units to the value of 144 credit points comprising not more than 60 credit points at 100-level and either (at least 36 credit points from 300-level COSC units) or (STAT330 plus at least 30 credit points from 300-level COSC units).
60 credit points
Complete the following units:- Discrete Mathematics (AMTH140) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to Programming and the UNIX Environment (COSC110) – 6 credit points
- Object Oriented Programming (COSC120) – 6 credit points
- Fundamentals of Cybersecurity and Privacy (COSC130) – 6 credit points
- Database Management Systems (COSC210) – 6 credit points
- Software Development Studio 2 (COSC220) – 6 credit points
- Data Structures and Algorithms (COSC230) – 6 credit points
- Operating Systems (COSC240) – 6 credit points
- Software Project Management (COSC310) – 6 credit points
- Information Technology Project (COSC320) – 6 credit points
NOTE; Students completing two Majors may replace overlapping units in one major with units from another major or minor within the course, with at least 18 credit points at 300 level or above are taken in each major.
18 credit points
Complete the following units:- Calculus and Linear Algebra 1 (MTHS120) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to Statistical Modelling (STAT100) – 6 credit points
- Statistical Modelling and Experimental Design (STAT210) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 6 cp from the following units:- Data Science Studio 1 (COSC102) – 6 credit points
- Calculus and Linear Algebra 2 (MTHS130) – 6 credit points
18 credit points
Complete 18 cps from the following units:- Parallel and Distributed Computing (COSC330) – 6 credit points
- Artificial Intelligence (COSC350) – 6 credit points
- Algorithms in Machine Learning (COSC380) – 6 credit points
- Advanced Statistical Modelling (STAT320) – 6 credit points
- Statistical Learning (STAT330) – 6 credit points
36 credit points
Complete 36 credit points with at least 24 credit points at 300-level the following units:
- Software Development Studio 1 (COSC101) – 6 credit points
- Functional and Reactive Programming (COSC250) – 6 credit points
- Web Programming (COSC260) – 6 credit points
- Parallel and Distributed Computing (COSC330) – 6 credit points
- Computer Networks and Network Security (COSC340) – 6 credit points
- Artificial Intelligence (COSC350) – 6 credit points
- Advanced Web Programming (COSC360) – 6 credit points
- User Experience and Interaction Design (COSC370) – 6 credit points
- Cloud Security (COSC484) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 6 cps from the following units:- Quantitative Skills with Applications (MTHS110) – 6 credit points
- Calculus and Linear Algebra 1 (MTHS120) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to Statistical Modelling (STAT100) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete the following units;- Data Science Studio 1 (COSC102) – 6 credit points
- Calculus and Linear Algebra 1 (MTHS120) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 6 cp from the following units:- Calculus and Linear Algebra 2 (MTHS130) – 6 credit points
- Number Theory (PMTH338) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to Statistical Modelling (STAT100) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 12 cps from the following units:- Computer Networks and Network Security (COSC340) – 6 credit points
- Artificial Intelligence (COSC350) – 6 credit points
- Management Information Systems (COSC372) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 12 cps from the following units:- Cryptography (COSC481) – 6 credit points
- Ethical Hacking (COSC482) – 6 credit points
- Cybersecurity Risk and Project Management (COSC483) – 6 credit points
- Cloud Security (COSC484) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
Students completing one Major and one Minor complete 24 credit points from either minor:24 credit points
Complete 24 cps from the following units:- Introduction to Quantitative Skills (MTHS100) – 6 credit points
- Quantitative Skills with Applications (MTHS110) – 6 credit points
- Computational Thinking (ICT100) – 6 credit points
- From Logic to Data Processing (ICT101) – 6 credit points
- Communication for Business (MM105) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
Complete 24 cps from the following units:- Calculus and Linear Algebra 1 (MTHS120) – 6 credit points
- Calculus and Linear Algebra 2 (MTHS130) – 6 credit points
- Probability and Simulation (MATH260) – 6 credit points
- Computational Mathematics (AMTH250) – 6 credit points
- Mathematical Methods in the Sciences (AMTH246) – 6 credit points
- Multivariable Calculus (PMTH212) – 6 credit points
- Algorithms in Machine Learning (COSC380) – 6 credit points
- Digital Technology Survival Skills (SCI310) – 6 credit points
Complete 0 to 42 credit points
OPTION 1; One Major and 42 credit points of elective units OR
OPTION 2; One Major, one Minor and 18 credit points of elective units.
Elective Units can be selected from any unit offered by the University subject to candidates meeting overall course requirements and prerequisite and timetabling requirements for individual units.
See UNE Handbook for more details. The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course plans, exit awards, intensive schools, and work placement requirements.
Fees and scholarships
How much will it cost?
Estimated fees for your first year of study in this course are:
| Fee type | Cost |
|---|---|
| International | $33,829* |
| Commonwealth Supported Place | $7,796* |
| Estimated amenities fee per year if studying full-time | $351 |
*Annual course fees only cover the cost of tuition. They do not include other expenses associated with university study such as text books, accommodation and living expenses. If you are successful in gaining admission to study at UNE, the Offer of Admission will list the exact tuition fees you need to pay for your course. Fees quoted cover full-time tuition for two full-time trimesters only. For more information, please see fees and costs.
What are the course fee payment options?
A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a government subsidised place in a university course. The government pays part of your tuition fees, and you pay the remainder.
If you have a CSP in either an undergraduate or postgraduate (coursework) degree, you may be eligible for a HECS-HELP Loan, which allows you to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.
UNE scholarships are open for all to apply and offer financial help while you are studying. There are scholarships for students with high academic achievement, from rural areas, studying specific degrees, in disadvantaged groups, experiencing financial hardship, who excel at sport or want to live in a UNE residential college.
UNE scholarship applications are free and confidential. You may apply for more than one scholarship.
Scholarships
UNE offers bursaries and scholarships that can help you with the costs of studying and living in Australia.
The UNE International Bursary reduces the published annual tuition fees for international students by up to 20%. These bursaries are available for international students commencing coursework studies at UNE in 2024. View detailed Bursary information.
UNE also offers a number of substantial research scholarships to postgraduate students studying research-based degrees.
Your career
When you graduate with a Bachelor of Computer Science you will have the skillset you need to step into a variety of career pathways across a range of industries. They include:
- software designer and developer
- web and mobile developer
- scientific technology consultant
- database administrator
- multimedia programmer
- systems analyst.
The Bachelor of Computer Science (Data Science major), Bachelor of Computer Science (Software Development major) and Bachelor of Computer Science (Software Development/Data Science double major) have been granted Professional Level accreditation by the Australian Computer Society and, through the Seoul Accord, are recognised in other countries. Graduates are eligible to become a member of the Australian Computer Society, and after 3 years of suitable professional ICT experience, will be eligible to apply for recognition as a Certified Professional (CP).
Course outcomes
- design, develop, test, and deliver computer programs to solve complex problems, both individually and as part of a collaborative development team;
- apply modern software engineering tools, skills, and practices to create, analyse, and evolve software systems;
- investigate and analyse new application areas, including understanding the needs of users and stakeholders, in order to design creative and appropriate solutions;
- apply abstraction, mathematics, and theoretical principles to the design of computer programs;
- communicate and collaborate effectively with others;
- apply appropriate methods to manage and monitor software development projects;
- apply ethical considerations, professionalism, and reflection to software development, with due consideration for impacts on others and society; and
- demonstrate well-developed knowledge and critical analytical skills in at least one disciplinary area, with an ability to extend knowledge and analytical skills into other disciplinary areas.
- Knowledge of a Discipline
Graduates have a coherent knowledge of the principles, concepts, techniques, and skills that are fundamental to computer science and information technology. They are able to apply this knowledge to create technology that solves real world problems. They have a global perspective on the impact of computing on daily life, now and into the future. Knowledge and skills in computer science and information technology are taught, assessed and practised in all core units within the course. The foundations of algorithms and programming are taught in first-year units with more advanced and specialised knowledge and skills being taught in the second and third units.
- Communication Skills
Graduates are able to communicate ideas and information clearly and coherently, to technical and non-technical audiences, using a range of media. Communication skills are taught, practised and assessed in many units within the course. Students experience working in distributed teams, presenting their work, and critiquing the work of other students and other groups. In their final year, students are required to complete a group project, which requires students to demonstrate a professional level of communication skills with the project client as well as other group members.
- Problem Solving
Graduates are able to identify and formulate problems, and design, create, and analyse solutions, individually and as part of collaborative teams. They are able to apply critical thinking, cognitive skills, creative skills, and judgement with intellectual independence. All units teach and assess problem-solving skills. These include skills in design thinking, algorithm design, system design, software engineering, debugging, and project management.
- Information Literacy
Graduates demonstrate the capacity to critically evaluate the sources, values and validity of information and use information in critical and creative thinking. All units in the course require students to find and critically evaluate information from a variety of sources. This is practised and assessed throughout the course.
- Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility
Graduates demonstrate understanding and practice of the highest standards of ethical behaviour associated with their discipline or profession including an appreciation of their own ethical responsibilities towards colleagues, research subjects, the wider community and the environment. Reflection on social responsibility and professional practice in software development is embedded in the course content. Units require students to reflect on social implications of information technology such as social networking, malicious software, identity theft and security measures.
- Lifelong Learning
Graduates demonstrate the creative and analytical skills to learn and adapt to new techniques, concepts, technologies, and situations as their field continues to evolve and develop. They are able to generate new technology and solutions, and to analyse and appraise developments made by others. They take responsibility and accountability for their learning and professional practice. Students are provided with fundamental skills that enable them to supplement their knowledge and adapt to the use of new software development environments, technologies and tools. This is taught and practised by providing core skills and exposing students to a variety of programming languages, tools, processes, environments and specialised systems.
- Independence and Collaboration
Graduates are able to apply their skills and knowledge individually and as part of collaborative teams. They are able to work with intellectual independence, and to collaborate with technical and non-technical colleagues and customers. Working in a group environment is an essential component of the course and of the professional practice of software development. A number of the core units in the course require students to work in groups and provide guidance and assessment on group work. The final year project, which involves the planning, design and implementation of a large software system by a team of students, provides graduates with a capstone experience.
A five-star experience
Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience
Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience
QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience
QILT Student Experience Survey
Five Stars for
Teaching Quality
UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
A five-star experience
Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience
Good Universities Guide 2007-2024 No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience
QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience
QILT Student Experience Survey Five Stars for
Teaching Quality
UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024 Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian University.
As an international student you can take advantage of flexible online study from overseas or while you are studying in Australia on a visa other than a student visa. You can’t study fully online on a Student Visa.
To study online from overseas you need to consider that you may need to travel to Australia to attend a UNE campus for some mandatory intensive schools.
Studying on Campus
Whether you are an undergraduate student coming to study in Australia for the first time, a PhD student coming to live here with your family, or you only need short-stay accommodation whilst in Armidale for Intensive Schools, we have the perfect accommodation option for you.
Stay connected
Register your interest and we'll keep you updated
Why study with us?
My degree had given me experience in programming, technology project management, data analytics, and expanded my research knowledge.
Why study with us?
It only requires determination, passion and open-mindedness to study at UNE. It’s a university of great opportunities, resources and support.
How to apply
Preparing to apply
You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.
The kind of documents you need will depend on:
- Your preferred course/s
- Your personal circumstances
Preparing to apply
You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.
The kind of documents you need will depend on:
- Your preferred course/s
- Your personal circumstances
Important Dates
Different application methods and courses can have different closing dates. To find your correct application method click the Apply Now button below. Please check the appropriate application website for opening and closing dates.
If you are applying online direct to UNE please see below for application dates.
| Intake | Application Closing Date | Trimester Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | 16 February 2024 | 26 February 2024 |
| Trimester 2 | 14 June 2024 | 24 June 2024 |
| Trimester 3 | 11 October 2024 | 21 October 2024 |
Important Notice for Prospective Students
For accurate, up-to-date details on entry requirements, course structure, and other essential information, please consult the UNE Student Handbook before applying or enrolling. The Handbook provides comprehensive guidance to assist in your decision-making process. We apologise for any inconvenience.
