Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)/Computer Science

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Amplify your potential with a specialised double degree designed to prepare you for the jobs of tomorrow.

Faculty

Faculty of Science

Award

Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours), Bachelor of Science

Commencing Terms

Term 1, Term 2, Term 3

Duration (Full Time)

5 Year(s)

Overview

Take your passion and potential to new heights with an advanced double degree at a global top 20 university*. You’ll benefit from hands-on learning experiences, cutting-edge facilities and learn from world-leading academics to prepare you for the jobs of tomorrow.

In the Advanced Science (Honours) degree, you’ll gain strong foundational knowledge across key scientific fields with advanced-level subjects to challenge you academically. You’ll choose from 24 majors, including biology and biodiversity, chemistry, genetics and advanced physics. Immersive research experiences and an embedded honours year will prepare you to enter the workforce as a leader in your field.

In Computer Science, you’ll study the design, construction and use of computer systems. You’ll also have the choice to study a general Computer Science degree or specialise in your chosen area.

By combining the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) with a Bachelor of Science (Computer Science), you can gain a second degree in as little as one year additional study. This industry-aligned double degree helps you develop highly-sought after skills to open up a wider range of opportunities after graduation. With eCommerce, artificial intelligence and security engineering becoming increasingly embedded in our day-to-day lives, graduates with advanced knowledge in these areas will be invaluable assets to any organisation, government body or non-profit.

^{*QS World University Rankings 2024}

Key features

Carve out a career path based on your passions

At UNSW, you’ll be encouraged to explore the wide range of focus areas and career paths open to you.

This double degree allows you to carve out a unique skill set across the field of science, with a focus on computer-based science.As part of Advanced Science (Honours), you’ll choose from 24 majors to tailor your degree to your interests. Our flexible degree structure enables you to explore different disciplines in your first year to find the field that’s right for you. In the Computer Science degree, you’ll further refine your expertise with your choice of eight majors, from artificial intelligence to security engineering and eCommerce systems.

Whether you have your dream career in mind or you’re open to endless possibilities, we’ll help you build the degree that’s right for you.
Multiply your opportunities with a specialised double degree

Employers are always looking for candidates who stand out from the crowd. Graduating with a double degree demonstrates dedication and specialised expertise, giving you a competitive advantage in the job market.

Despite the name, a double degree doesn’t mean double the time or workload. By combining the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) and Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) into a double degree, you’ll study focused courses in each program, allowing you to complete the two degrees faster^.
Explore your career possibilities through research and work integrated learning

Bridge the gap between study and employment with our Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and Research Integrated Learning (RIL) opportunities. These experiences allow you to explore different career paths and apply your skills professionally while being guided by world-leading academics.

During your studies, you’ll collaborate with students from a range of disciplines to tackle real-world problems in project-based learning initiatives. This multidisciplinary educational approach allows you to develop essential technical and professional skills, so you thrive in your future career.

Research courses are also fundamental to this double degree. You’ll engage with authentic scientific research from year one of your Advanced Science program and have the opportunity to complete a research internship under the guidance of one of UNSW Science’s leading academics.

Why study this degree at UNSW?

As one of the world’s top 20 universities*, we’re guiding the future leaders of science and engineering in Australia and overseas.

UNSW Science has eight study areas ranked in the top 50 globally**, including psychology (#25), environmental sciences (#31) and earth and marine sciences (#36). We’re ranked 1st in Australia for research output in chemistry and physical sciences, and 2nd in Australia for research output in earth and environmental sciences.^

On top of that, UNSW’s School of Computer Science and Engineering research is ranked 1st in Australia for Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, Databases, Embedded & Real-Time Systems and Operating Systems by CS Rankings. So, you’re in good stead to test, learn and experiment alongside world-leading academics.

^{*QS World University Rankings 2024}

^{**QS World University Rankings by Subject}

^{^Nature Index Institution Outputs, 1 Dec 2019 – 30 Nov 2020}
At UNSW, we balance theoretical and hands-on learning to prepare students to confidently enter the workforce. Our career-ready approach has earned UNSW the title of ‘AFR Most Employable University’ at the 2023 Top100 Future Leaders Awards.

We've built exciting learning and research experiences into both degrees to ensure you have the tools to thrive in your future career. You can join the STEM Career Launchpad – an extra-curricular program that helps you prepare for your career, explore different STEM careers and expand your professional network.

No matter which specialisation or pathway you follow, you’ll have access to dozens of professional development opportunities and be able to leverage our 400+ industry connections and research partners to start building your own professional network.
At UNSW, you’ll join a diverse community of students, academics and professionals who are transforming ideas into impact. From peer mentoring and student support services to the 300+ clubs and societies across UNSW, you’ll connect with open-minded students whose perspectives will expand your worldview.

You’ll build up your professional identity through SciConnect – an innovative online system that helps you settle into university, track your professional development and showcase your skills to future employers. Plus, you’ll have the chance to take your studies abroad through International Student Exchange. UNSW has over 300 partner universities for students to choose from, as well as global internship opportunities like the eight-week science work placement in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Program Code

3782

CRICOS Code

088867K

Campus

Kensington

UAC Code

429361

Total Units of Credit (UOC)

240

Indicative Enrolments

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Entry requirements

2023 Lowest Selection Rank

2023 A levels

2023 IB Diploma

2023 Lowest ATAR

84.95

The 2022 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2022.

The 2022 A levels score is based on four Advanced Level (A2) subject. Entry scores are calculated from the best three or four A2 subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1. At most one Applied A Level subject may be included in the best four subjects used to calculate the aggregate.

The 2022 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2022. It is to be used as a guide only.

The 2022 Lowest ATAR is the lowest ATAR (before adjustment factors were applied) to which an offer was made. Where <5 is listed, this indicates that less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made and so the score has not been published. N/A indicates no offers were made on the basis of ATAR.
At UNSW, we are committed to ensuring prospective students have all the information they need in order to make informed decisions about their study options.

To assist you in gaining a better understanding of how Admissions works at UNSW, we have provided you with a summary of ATAR offers and the student profile.

We hope this information will help you identify the degree that is right for you.

See more

Assumed knowledge

Mathematics Advanced or Mathematics Extension 1 (depending on chosen area of study) plus one or more of Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science, Physics. For Computer Science, please refer to the relevant degree page for entry requirements.

Adjustment Factors

We offer a range of adjustment factor schemes that reward students for academic performance and extra-curricular achievements. These schemes also take into account a range of personal and educational disadvantages that may have affected your studies.

HSC Plus
This scheme rewards students who perform well in Year 12 subjects that are relevant to their preferred UNSW degree. You may be awarded up to five points.

Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EAPL)
This program recognises achievements in the areas of sport, academia, leadership and music at an elite level. You may be eligible for up to five points.

Educational Access Scheme (EAS)
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don't always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12. If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen UNSW degree.

Admission pathways

Your ATAR is not the only measure of your potential to succeed, which is why we offer a range of pathways into university. Explore your options below and get in touch with our future student advisors to discuss your path to UNSW.

Gateway Admission Pathway
This scheme is open to students in Years 11 and 12 who attend Gateway schools. It significantly adjusts the ATAR requirements for your preferred UNSW degree and provides you with an early conditional offer to UNSW.

Entry programs for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
We offer entry programs for Indigenous Australians, including the Indigenous Preparatory Programs and the Indigenous Admission Scheme (IAS). The entry pathway program you apply for will depend on the degree you want to study.

Progression requirements

Entry into the Honours program in Science is subject to academic performance and progression requirements. Students may exit the Advanced Science (Honours) program with a B Science award if they are unsuccessful in applying for entry into Honours.

English language requirements

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.

If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.

International direct entry

I studied in:

We do not accept secondary qualifications from this country. We may accept tertiary study results, please contact us for more information.

Please contact us for direct entry requirements.

Admission pathways

If you do not meet the requirements for direct entry into your chosen degree, you may be eligible for a pathway program with UNSW College. UNSW College provides alternative entry options using university-approved content so that you can start your UNSW journey with confidence. 

Progression requirements

English language requirements

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

Check the specific English language requirements for this program

Select from the options below

Which applies to you?

Program structure

The Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)/Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) is a double degree that you can complete in five years with full-time study. You’ll complete a minimum of 240 units of credit (UOC) through a combination of core courses, electives, majors and minors.

Be empowered to lead your learning with SciConnect

SciConnect is an innovative online system that's integrated across your whole science degree. It will be there to help you settle into university, track your professional development and showcase your skills to future employers. The platform focuses on connecting you with four key areas to help you get the most out of your student experience including orientation, co-curricular opportunities and communities, career development and a graduate portfolio.

SciConnect enables you to shape your university experience and supports you in showcasing your talents to potential employers with a comprehensive impression of who you are, beyond your academic transcript.

Your double degree consists of:

144 units of credit from Advanced Science (Honours), including:
- Four core courses (orientation, graduate portfolio, level one research skills and level two research experience)
- At least one Science major
- At least one Science Honours stream
- Science elective courses (if required)
96 units of credit from Computer Science, including:
- One major
- Computer Science elective courses

Full program structure

The Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)/Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) is a double degree you can complete in five years with full-time study. This degree includes an embedded honours year and follows UNSW’s 3+ academic calendar.

You’ll complete a minimum of 240 units of credit (UOC) through a combination of core courses, electives, majors and minors.

Your double degree consists of:

Advanced Science (Honours)

Four core courses (orientation, graduate portfolio, level one research skills and level two research experience) – 12 UOC
At least one Science major – 66-84 UOC
Honours Specialisation – 48 UOC
Science elective subjects (you can use these to build a recognised minor)

Study the physical conditions and physical processes within the ocean such as waves, currents and tides, its interaction with the atmosphere and its role in climate. You’ll gain an understanding of the mathematical equations that describe fluid flow and how these are used in the context of the ocean. This major also explores ocean measurement and the numerical modelling of processes at various scales.

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This major explores the laws of nature that govern the behaviour of the universe, from the smallest sub-atomic particles to the universe itself. It applies these laws to the solution of practical and theoretical problems and to the development of new technologies.

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Study the structures of the human body. This major covers:

gross anatomy (form, arrangement and function of the bones, joints, muscles and internal organs)

histology (microscopic structure of tissues and cells)

embryology (development of the embryo and fetus from conception to birth)

neuroanatomy (organisation and functions of the brain and spinal cord)

biological anthropology (applying biological principles to the study of humans and non-human primates).

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Develop technologies for analysing and interpreting genetic information. You’ll learn how to design and implement software for activities such as identifying cancer genes. This major covers the foundational disciplines of bioinformatics: biology, computing algorithms and mathematics and statistics.

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Study the science of life. Biologists explore how living organisms function, grow, evolve and relate to one another and the environment in which they live. Your study will cover:

animal behaviour, morphology and physiology

plant morphology and physiology

cell biology, evolutionary studies and genetics

marine biology.

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Explore the various biological processes used to make products and perform services. Biotechnology is used for:

the production of food

industrial chemicals

the development of improved crops and livestock for farming

environmental clean-up

forensics

the production of pharmaceuticals.

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Study the world from the ground up - from the sub-atomic, atomic and molecular to the spectacular. This major is designed for students who wish to specialise in the chemical sciences.

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Gain a broad introduction to the science of the Earth's climate system. You’ll gain an understanding of the fundamentals of atmospheric science, oceanography and chemistry. You’ll also have the option of focusing your studies in areas such as climate and vegetation, hydrology, biology, biogeochemistry or environmental and resource management.

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Explore the science of nature and the evolution of our planet. This major covers everything from the structure of natural crystals and formation of fossils to the powerful forces that drive earthquakes and volcanoes.

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Explore how various organisms including mammals, invertebrates, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, plants and microbes interact with one another and with their environment.

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In humans and all other species, genes influence every characteristic, from appearance to behaviour to disease. This major offers a general introduction to the discipline before delving into more specialised areas including molecular genetics, human genetics, plant and microbial molecular biology and conservation biology.

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Study the Earth’s landscapes, peoples, places and environments. This major explores how natural and built environments function and change over time. Discover how these environments enhance or constrain human activity.

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This major provides an in-depth study of immunology, pathology and microbiology. It’ll prepare you to unlock better treatments and prevention strategies for immune-related illnesses. This major is particularly beneficial for students who want to pursue a career in the health sciences.

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Explore all aspects of the marine environment, from biology to geology and the many sciences in between. This major can be studied with an emphasis on biology, earth sciences, climatology or oceanography.

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Everything we use is made of materials, yet only a handful of these materials occur naturally. The rest have been microscopically engineered originally by nature, but increasingly by materials scientists and engineers. This major is the foundation for creating high-performance components and devices from metals, ceramics, polymers and composites for use in society.

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Mathematics underpins all corners of science and technology and is a vibrant and fascinating field of study. Mathematics specialisations can be broadly categorised into the following:

Pure mathematics is the study of concepts that transcend specific applications.

Applied mathematics develops models for the social, economic and natural sciences to make sense of scientific phenomena and solve technical/industrial problems.

Statistics can also be studied within a mathematics major or as a stand-alone major.

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Study the smallest forms of life: bacteria, viruses, archaea, fungi and protozoa. These fascinating organisms cause disease in humans, animals and plants and spoil our food. On the positive side, they also turn the biological wheels on Earth and are responsible for the sustainability of life.

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Explore molecular structures, the processes of cellular life and their roles in the function, reproduction and development of living organisms. Cell biology studies the basic unit of life, the cell, including:

cell anatomy

cell division

cell processes such as cell respiration and cell death.

Molecular biology is a marriage of biochemistry, microbiology and cell biology.

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Study the biological and behavioural aspects of the nervous system. The nervous system includes the:

central nervous system (brain and spinal cord)

peripheral nervous system (nerves in limbs, muscles and organs).

This major is based on the neuroscience courses offered by the School of Psychology and UNSW’s Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology Departments.

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Examine how and why diseases develop, what happens to our bodies when we’re ill and the effects of diseases. Pathology involves the study of diseases, such as infections and cancers, at the genetic, molecular, cellular and organ levels.

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Explore the effect that drugs have on living tissues and the normal body functions of humans and animals. This major looks at the efficacy of drugs, the ability of the body to metabolise them and the toxicology/side effects of drugs.

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This major is all about what makes human bodies work. Explore how the organs function, how humans grow and develop, how humans sustain bodily functions and what happens to these processes during disease and ageing.

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Study human behaviour and mental processes. Psychology is a broad field that includes:

brain-behaviour relationships

the processes of perceiving, learning, memory and thinking

the assessment of abilities and attitudes

the origins of personality and emotional states

the nature and effects of social interactions with other people.

This major is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) and when combined with honours, it satisfies the minimum requirement for provisional registration. It acts as the first step in the six-year pathway to becoming a registered psychologist.

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This major provides comprehensive training in:

probability and stochastic processes

statistical inference and modelling

modern statistical computing methods.

Third-year electives allow you to further develop your statistical capabilities according to your own interests.

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You must complete 144 UOC to meet the core requirements for the Advanced Science (Honours) program. If your chosen courses are less than 144 UOC, you are required to complete additional Science elective courses to meet the 144 UOC requirement.

Computer Science

One Computer Science major – 96 UOC
Level 1 electives – up to 60 UOC

Computer Science majors

Computer Science
Computer Science (Database Systems)
Computer Science (eCommerce Systems)
Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)
Computer Science (Programming Languages)
Computer Science (Computer Networks)
Computer Science (Embedded Systems)
Computer Science (Security Engineering)

Depending on the chosen combination of Advanced Science and Computer Science majors, there may be varying amounts of overlapping courses. When a student meets all the requirements for both degrees in less than 240 UOC, students must complete additional elective courses to bring the total to 240 UOC. Those electives must be taken from the Faculty of Engineering and/or the Faculty of Science.

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Future careers

Studying Advanced Science and Computer Science in tandem opens up a wide range of career opportunities. Your specialised knowledge and advanced research, analytical and critical thinking skills will become invaluable assets you can apply across almost any sector.

In Australia, graduates with STEM qualifications are spread across a variety of industries, including professional, scientific and technical services, education, public administration and safety, manufacturing and healthcare. The demand for science and technology skills is only growing, making this double degree a powerful way to future-proof your career.

The Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) will prepare you to lead the next wave of scientific discovery. You’ll find opportunities to continue your research in universities and government institutes, influence public policy or support health and environmental-related non-profits. Alternatively, you might pursue a career in the private sector, driving innovation in everything from pharmaceuticals and biotechnology to data analytics and science communication.

Combined with Computer Science, you’ll gain a rich understanding of computer systems, programming languages and their applications. As technology is so embedded in our lives, this specialist knowledge is crucial to business across all industries, from finance and consulting to government and healthcare.

How to apply

Applications for undergraduate study from domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders and New Zealand citizens) are processed by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).

Visit the Apply section of the UAC website and you can nominate up to five degrees in order of preference, with the first being your most desired degree and university.

On-time applications for admission usually close at the end of September each year for Term 1 admission. Late applications can be submitted, but a late fee will apply. For study starting in Term 1, the majority of offers are made in December and January. Visit the UAC website for key dates for admission outside of Term 1.

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For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.

Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For more information visit our international applicant information page.

*If you are an international student studying an Australian qualification, go to the Universities Admission Centre (UAC) for application and UAC key dates. Note: If you are under 18 years of age, you need to make special arrangements. Read more.

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Fees & Scholarships

2023 Indicative First Year Full Fee

$8,300*

Commonwealth Supported Place multiple Student Contribution Bands may apply for this double degree. See single degrees for the applicable fee bands.*The student contribution for a Commonwealth Supported Place is an indication only of the amount payable in Year 1 based on a standard full-time load of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL). The actual student contribution you will be liable for depends on your individual program of study and the calendar year in which you enrol. Actual fees are calculated upon enrolment. Student contribution amounts are subject to annual review by the University and may increase each year during your studies (subject to caps determined by the Australian Government), effective at the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only other fees and charges are not included.

2023 Indicative First Year Fee

$48,220*

*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).

Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.

Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.

Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.

Scholarships

At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.