Bachelor of Science (Computer Science)/Media Arts
Combine creativity with a problem-solving mindset.
Domestic
International
Gain a technical and creative foundation for the development and use of computer graphics with this double degree.
Faculty
Faculty of Engineering
Delivery Mode
Face-to-face (includes blended)
Award
Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Media Arts
Commencing Terms
Term 1, Term 2, Term 3
Duration (Full Time)
4 Year(s)
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
The Computer Science/Media Arts double degree provides both a technical and creative foundation to the development and use of computer graphics. It also allows specialisation in either the technical or creative strand of computer graphics and associated fields.
The Computer Science component emphasises comprehension of the basic principles behind computing tools, operating systems, compilers and translators, and computer hardware. You will study the representation of data and data structures and the design of algorithms, as well as the creation of hardware and software tools and the role of non-computing elements in the design and development process.
The Media Arts degree aims to develop the intellectual and critical expertise for students to make an impact in the arts and cultural sector. You will gain hands-on skills in a studio-based learning environment, complemented by theoretical studies that encourage critical thinking, contextual awareness and creative problem-solving.
Why study this degree at UNSW?
When you study a Bachelor of Computer Science at UNSW you’ll be studying at Australia’s leading Engineering faculty. The latest 2020 QS World University Rankings acknowledged UNSW as the top Engineering faculty in Australia and #37 in the world.
For the past four years, we’ve received a five-star rating for employability, teaching and research.
- UNSW School of Computer Science and Engineering’s research is internationally recognised with 1st CS Rankings in Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, Databases, Embedded & Real-Time Systems and Operating Systems
- We have a five-star rating for employability, helping to guarantee your future on graduation
- Learn from world-renowned researchers in their field
- Our School is rated five stars by the Australian Research Council for the research field of Information and Computing Sciences
- We leverage our strong industry ties to improve our research, teaching and students’ learning
- Our industry partners include leading companies such as Atlassian, The Commonwealth Bank, Google, Honeywell, Microsoft and WiseTech Global
When you study a Bachelor of Media Arts you’ll immerse yourself in hands-on learning with the latest technology. You’ll learn using the latest video cameras, audio recorders, microphones, lights, dollies and gimbals, as well as advanced editing software. As you practice you’ll build a portfolio of audio-visual work to leverage professionally.
You’ll have access to advanced multimedia labs, digital video production and post-production facilities, animation and audio production studios. This includes our unique Esme Timbery Creative Practice Lab, which has a system of computer-controlled amplification for the perfect sound environment.
Through work experience and internships, you’ll gain industry-based experience in film and television, animation or sound production.
Our students have completed industry internships with television, music and sound production agencies, including Network Ten – Studio 10, SBS, Universal Music Australia, Creative Creations and Sonar Sounds.
You can also gain experience and build your portfolio through UNSW’s student led digital news website, Newsworthy.
Program Code
3791
CRICOS Code
098446D
Campus
Kensington
UAC Code
425801
Total Units of Credit (UOC)
192
Indicative Enrolments
21
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Entry requirements
2021 Lowest Selection Rank
90
2021 A levels
16
2021 IB Diploma
33
2021 Lowest ATAR
86.4
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- The 2021 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2021.
- The 2021 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 2021 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2021. It is to be used as a guide only.
- The 2021 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.
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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.
Assumed knowledge
Mathematics Extension 1
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
The Faculty of Engineering Admission Scheme (FEAS) is a possible alternative admission pathway for the admission of domestic undergraduate students to UNSW Faculty of Engineering degree programs, including the BSc Computer Science and the BSc Food Science (Hons), who do not meet the published Guaranteed Entry selection rank. Visit the FEAS page for more information.
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:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
UNSW Global offers courses and programs designed to help you reach the English language level required for entry into your chosen degree. Different options are available depending on your current English language level. Learn more.
International direct entry
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
UNSW Global has university pathway programs that provide seamless transition to UNSW Sydney so you can achieve your academic and career goals. Learn more.
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 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:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
UNSW Global offers courses and programs designed to help you reach the English language level required for entry into your chosen degree. Different options are available depending on your current English language level. Learn more.
Check the specific English language requirements for this program
Program structure
The Bachelor of Computer Science/Bachelor of Media Arts gives you fundamental knowledge in computer systems and media arts.
In the Bachelor of Computer Science component, you’ll study the representation of data and data structures and the design of algorithms for programming languages and machine systems.
Personalise your degree by either studying a general Computer Sciences degree or specialise in one of the following in-demand areas:
- Database Systems
- eCommerce Systems
- Artificial Intelligence
- Programming Languages
- Computer Networks
- Embedded Systems
- Security Engineering
This will be complemented with the Bachelor of Media Arts program where you’ll develop skills and knowledge across a range of digital and screen-based media. You’ll study a variety of Media Art courses, electives and professional experience projects. In this degree you’ll be able to undertake two studio specialisations in:
- Animation
- Moving image
- Sound
- Visual effects
- 3D Visualisation
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- 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)
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- Accounting
- Finance
- Information Systems
- Marketing
- Mathematics
- Psychology
- Animation
- Moving image
- Sound
- Visual effects
- 3D Visualisation
Full program structure
Degree structures can vary depending on the major you choose, number of courses you choose and timetabling, to give you an indication you can consider the below.
In the first two years of your degree, you might study:
- A range of introductory, core courses for your Computer Science degree in the areas of Programming, Computer Systems, Software Engineering, Data Structures, Computer Networks, Ethics, Object Oriented Design and Algorithms and Programming Techniques
- A range of introductory, core courses in Media Arts
From your third year onwards you’ll be able to tailor your degree to your interests by studying courses from your selected specialisations within Media Arts and Computer Science. Within your specialisation options you’ll be able to choose elective units which will help you gain the skills you need for your career after graduating.
In your Media Arts program, you’ll have access to work experience and internships, where you’ll gain industry-based experience in film and television, animation or sound production.
You’ll also be able to access UNSW Engineering’s ChallENG program which is a project-based learning initiative and allows you to work on multidisciplinary projects lead by academic researchers and industry partners.
Future careers
UNSW Engineering graduates are some of the most sought-after engineers in Australia and abroad thanks to the reputation of our teaching.
Your career opportunities will depend on your area of specialisation. From your second year, you can specialise in a particular field of engineering. Visit the various engineering degree specialisations for examples of career opportunities.
Potential careers
- Software engineer/developer
- Chief technology officer
- Digital security specialist
- Database developer/administrator
- Game developer
- Visual effects and post-production designer
- Computer graphics and animation specialist
Accreditation
Australian Computer Society
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.
Ready to start your application?
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.
Ready to start your application?
Fees & Scholarships
2022 Indicative First Year Full Fee
$6,850*
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.
2022 Indicative First Year Fee
$46,213*
2022 Indicative Fee to Complete Degree
$183,253*
*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 below.
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.
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Top 50WorldwideQS World University Rankings, 2022.
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MostEmployable GraduatesAFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.
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LeadingInnovation#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.
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