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Bachelor of Computer Science

This program provides a solid foundation for computer science study in computer theory, software design, development, and applications. Accredited with the Australian Computer Society at a professional level, you’ll graduate ready to address real-world challenges and innovative solutions.

Bachelor of Computer Science

Duration

Full Time: 3 Years

Next Start Date

01 March 2027

19 July 2027

Closing Date

Campuses^
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Parramatta South UAC 723999 Penrith UAC 724000
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Domestic Student Fees
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Indicative annual fee from $11,885

Additional Information

Program Code: 3506

CRICOS Code: 041105G

Invent the future, not just your career

Technology is changing how we live, work and solve some of the world's biggest challenges. In Western's Bachelor of Computer Science, you'll learn how to create the technologies behind that change - from developing software and AI solutions to building intelligent systems, exploring cyber security and working with cloud technologies.

This three-year degree gives you the flexibility to shape your studies around your interests. You can deepen your knowledge through majors such as AI or Cyber Security, or broaden your skills through electives across the University.

Build the foundations
Start with a strong foundation in programming, algorithms and data structures, developing the technical skills needed to create and understand modern computing systems.

Create technology that solves real problems
Apply your knowledge through practical projects where you can develop software, AI applications, intelligent systems and other technology solutions.

Learn through industry experience
Work on authentic industry challenges and collaborate with industry partners, building practical experience, professional networks and a portfolio before you graduate. The School specifically identifies industry projects as a key part of its student experience.

Explore emerging technologies
Get hands-on experience with areas including AI, machine learning, cloud computing, cyber security, virtual reality and advanced computing.

Connect your degree to your future
Develop skills aligned with careers in software development, AI, cyber security, data and cloud technologies, while gaining qualifications aligned with recognised professional standards.

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As an Adobe Creative Campus, Western Sydney University gives all students complimentary access to the Adobe Creative Cloud, so you can level up your digital skills with FREE access to the Adobe Creative Cloud apps. It's like your very own innovation toolkit, where technology meets creativity!

Adobe Creative Cloud is a comprehensive suite of software tools and services which provide a one-stop platform for professionals and enthusiasts in various creative fields, offering a wide range of applications for graphic design, video editing, web development, photography, and more!

We provide a supportive learning environment with the goal to help students succeed both academically and professionally. Be a part of a community of like-minded individuals with the opportunity to join clubs such as the Robotics Club or Creators Club, an extracurricular activity with industry collaboration.

Through strategic partnerships with industry leaders, students gain hands-on experience in real-world innovation – with opportunities for internships, mentorship, and capstone projects linked to Western Sydney International Airport and its technology partner, DXC Technology.

This program is accredited with the Australian Computer Society (ACS) at Professional Level.

Throughout the degree, you'll have opportunities to develop software, explore artificial intelligence, work with emerging technologies and solve industry-inspired problems through practical projects. You'll build your technical skills alongside a portfolio of work that can help you enter the technology industry with greater confidence.

Gain hands-on experience in specialist technology environments, including CISCO labs, AWS environments, VR and immersive technology spaces and collaborative project areas. You'll use these environments to develop, test and apply your skills in computing, software development and emerging technologies.

Go beyond today's technology and explore the systems shaping the future of computing. Through Western's research environment, you can gain exposure to areas including artificial intelligence, robotics, immersive technology and advanced computing, including work connected to the International Centre for Neuromorphic Systems (ICNS) and DeepSouth.

Apply your skills to real-world projects and industry challenges while you're studying. Industry-connected learning, internships and collaborative projects can help you build practical experience, develop professional networks and graduate with a portfolio that demonstrates what you can do.

Western Sydney University is the chosen educational partner for Western Sydney International Airport, working with technology partner DXC Technology. This creates opportunities to connect your studies with the technology and innovation shaping one of Western Sydney's major future developments.

What you can expect to study

The program structure is outlined in our handbook. Here you can view all of the subjects you will be studying.

B Advanced Science

You can choose from the following majors:

This major aims to develop graduates with sound skills in the discipline of programming. The focus is on programming at the level of system calls to the underlying operating system and many of the units use the industry standard language for systems programming, namely C/C++, as the vehicle of instruction.

There is a strong emphasis on the development of highly efficient and reliable code that can provide support services for higher level application oriented programs, as well as the development of programs suitable for systems administration and management. Practical work utilises the Unix environment. This major is appropriate where a career in systems programming or systems administration is planned, or where the student wishes to develop advanced systems programming skills.

This major is only available to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Computer Science and Bachelor of Computer Science Advanced. This major aims to develop graduates with sound skills in the discipline of networked computer systems. Recent advances in computer and telecommunications networked systems, particularly those based on TCP/IP, have increased the importance of network technologies in the discipline of computer science.

This major covers a wide range of topics including computer communication network concepts and protocols, multimedia systems, Internet standards and technologies, network security, wireless and mobile computing, and distributed systems. The candidates are also introduced to some of the relevant current key research issues of the field.

The Cyber Security major aims to develop graduates with sound skills in the discipline of information systems security. Today, the widespread use of networked systems means protecting these systems from various attacks is more important than ever. Cyber Security is an essential aspect of today’s information systems.

This major covers fundamental information security knowledge and security protocols from basic cryptography algorithms to their applications in computer systems and networked systems. Students will learn fundamental security concepts, practical implementation of the security application programs as well as ethical hacking techniques to protect cyber security.

Advanced development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics has resulted in increased AI applications in many industries as well as our everyday life. This major aims to introduce students to the foundations of AI as well as its modern practical applications.

The major delivers solid knowledge, skills, techniques and practical applications in robotic programming, problem solving, expert systems, logic reasoning, knowledge representation, data visualization, data mining and machine learning. The objective of this major is to equip the students with AI capabilities that are in high demand in many aspects of modern industries and modern living.

The Technology Entrepreneurship major is focused on guiding students through all stages of turning their innovative idea into a start-up company. In an entrepreneurial ecosystem, you will learn the knowledge and techniques for opportunity discovery, impact analysis, customer analysis, strategic team-building and leadership, the psychology and ethics of the start-up, funding modelling and financial analysis, growth and exit strategies.

We will be helping you with defining your idea, forming a team around it, building a prototype, developing a pitch for investors and running a start-up company.

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of this degree, you can look forward to a broad range of exciting career opportunities in different sectors and industries. Below are some examples of the possible careers you can pursue with this degree:

Graduates may work as:

  • Software Engineer
  • Software Developer
  • Full Stack Developer
  • Data Engineer
  • AI Engineer
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Application Developer
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Alumni

"After my gap year, I did some research on the Bachelor of Computer Science in various universities and settled on Western Sydney University.

University has been challenging but a worthwhile experience. I would say the highlight of my experience at Western Sydney University is definitely a final year capstone project with Western Sydney International Airport.

In terms of the specific career such as Cyber Security, I became interested while studying Ethical Hacking as one of my electives - this only grew when Australia had its largest data breaches."

— Fernando Hernandez, Bachelor of Computer Science

B Psychological and Social Sciences

Entry requirements for domestic students

Applicants who have undertaken studies overseas may have to provide proof of proficiency in English. Local applicants who are applying through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) will find details of minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof on the UAC website. Local applicants applying directly to the University should also use the information provided on the UAC website. Find out more here.

Admission

  • Assumed Knowledge: HSC Mathematics and any two units of HSC English.

Please consult the handbook for more information.

B Psychological and Social Sciences

Entry requirements for international students

**Please note, if this course lists a part-time option, this is not available to International Students on a Student Visa.

Please consult the handbook for more information regarding entry requirements for this course.

You can read more about international academic entry requirements here.

Indicative annual fee

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A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is one that is subsidised by the Commonwealth and applicable only to Domestic students. This means that the Australian Government pays part of your fees towards your program, therefore reducing your program fees, and the remaining amount is paid by you, this is considered your Student Contribution.

The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.

As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.

To work out how much your Student Contribution will be before you study, you will first need to find out the Student Contribution band your subjects fit into based on their general discipline area.

You can then calculate your student contributions to work out the total amount of your contribution.

The Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) is a range of loans introduced by the Australian Government from 2005 to provide fee payment assistance to eligible students. Loans are for Australian citizens studying in Australia or overseas. Permanent residents who hold a humanitarian visa are also eligible if studying in Australia.

If eligible you may be able to defer all or part of your Student Contribution through the HECS-HELP loan program. You may also be eligible for OS-HELP if undertaking studies overseas.

New Zealand citizens and holders of an Australian permanent resident visa (other than an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) are generally not entitled to HECS-HELP assistance. If you are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident your Student Contribution amount must be paid in full by the census date.

However, the Australian Government has passed new legislation that changes the way some New Zealand citizens, who hold a Special Category Visa (SCV), studying in Australia will pay their fees. More information is available on the Changes to fees for New Zealand Citizens webpage.

Find out more about HECS-HELP

Find out more about OS-HELP

Apply as a Domestic Student

If you are a domestic student, you can apply through our Western Application system which is free of charge.

Domestic students are:

  • Australian Citizens
  • New Zealand Citizens
  • Australian permanent residents
  • Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders

Scholarships

Western Sydney University recognises and rewards students who demonstrate community engagement, outstanding academic ability and superior leadership skills. Donor-funded scholarships are also available, providing support for students based on both academic achievements and equity considerations. There are also scholarships available for specific degrees. 

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The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.

As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.

Apply as an International Student

If you are an international student, you can apply for free through our international student application system or through an agent representative.

International students are:

  • Not an Australian citizen;
  • Not a New Zealand citizen; and
  • Not a permanent resident of Australia.

If you are an international student completing the Australian HSC, IB or NCEA, apply direct via UAC International.

Admission to Western Sydney University is on the basis of meeting minimum academic and English language requirements. For more information about tuition fees and other costs, visit the Fees and Costs page.

Scholarships

When you apply to Western, you’re automatically assessed for a Scholarship, no additional application required! We’re offering multi-year scholarships (for up to 3 years) valued at $6,000 or $3,000 and even 50% off tuition fees. Scholarships are awarded on academic merit.

B Education (Early Childhood)

FAQs

We've gathered common questions to provide you with quick, clear answers about this program. Whether you're exploring admission requirements, details about the degree or career prospects, you'll find valuable insights here. If you need more information, our support team is ready to assist you on your journey to Western. You can find their details below.

Computer Science focuses on creating and developing software, algorithms and computing systems. Information Technology is generally focused on implementing, managing and supporting technology solutions within organisations. If you want to build technology, Computer Science is typically the better fit.

Computer Science focuses on designing and building software, applications and intelligent systems. Cyber Security focuses on protecting systems, networks and data from cyber threats. Computer Science graduates often create technology, while Cyber Security professionals focus on defending it.

No. The degree is designed for students with little or no programming experience. You'll start with the fundamentals before progressing to more advanced software development and computing concepts.

You'll develop programming skills across a range of languages and technologies throughout the degree. This includes C/C++ for systems programming, with opportunities to work with other programming languages such as Java and Python and technologies depending on your subjects, electives and chosen major.

Your studies will also expose you to areas such as software development, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, data science, networking and cyber security, giving you opportunities to apply programming skills to real-world technology challenges.

You'll develop skills in:

  • Software development
  • Programming
  • Problem solving
  • rtificial intelligence
  • Cloud computing
  • Data analysis
  • System design
  • Team collaboration

These capabilities are valued across a wide range of industries.

Computer science graduates work across:

  • Technology companies
  • Financial services
  • Healthcare
  • Government
  • Telecommunications
  • Consulting
  • Startups
  • Research organisations

Digital technology skills are increasingly required across almost every sector of the economy.

Yes. Students have opportunities to explore emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing and advanced software development through elective studies and project work.

Throughout the degree, you'll develop software applications, solve real-world computing problems, collaborate on team projects and build solutions that demonstrate your technical and professional capabilities.

Yes. Graduates may continue into postgraduate studies in computer science, artificial intelligence, data science, software engineering, cyber security and related disciplines.

Computer science underpins many of the world's fastest-growing industries. Demand for software developers, AI specialists, cloud professionals and data experts continues to grow as organisations accelerate digital transformation.

Students may participate in industry projects, internships, guest lectures, networking events and collaborative learning experiences that help develop professional skills and industry connections.

If you want to build software and applications, develop AI systems, create mobile apps and cloud computing study Computer Science.

If you want to protect systems from attack, investigate cybercrime, understand online behaviour and work in digital forensics study Cyber Security and Behaviour.

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Want to know more?

We're here to provide clarity.

If you're uncertain about your study journey, enquire about our program today and gain the confidence to move forward.

Australian students
1300 668 370

International students
+61 2 9852 5499

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Kingswood campus

OTHER STUDY OPTIONS

Bachelor of Information Systems

Full Time: 3 Years

Bachelor of Data Science

Full Time: 3 Years (Available Part Time)*

Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology (ICT)

Full Time: 3 Years

The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.

As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.