Qualifications
Qualification

Bachelor of Computer Science
AQF Level 7

Duration
Duration

3 years full time or equivalent part time

ATAR
Admission criteria

Selection rank: 70

View all admission criteria
Fees
Fees

First Year: $9,537

Fee type: Commonwealth supported place (CSP)

Practical component
Real-world experience

Industry-linked projects

Study mode
Study mode

On campus, Blended

Commencement
Commencement

Semester 1, Semester 2

Codes
Codes

Program code: 3585

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Study Computer Science at Notre Dame

The Bachelor of Computer Science is your gateway to an exciting career in technology. Designed to immerse you in a dynamic blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience that will set you apart in a fast-evolving tech landscape.

Dive into problem-based learning that empowers you to tackle real-world challenges while collaborating with leading industry partners. You'll explore key areas like programming, data structures, algorithms, software development, network security, and machine learning.

As a graduate, you'll walk away not only with strong analytical and critical thinking skills but also with a comprehensive understanding of the digital world.

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    Industry-relevant curriculum always updated to keep you in tune with the latest trends and best practices, ensuring you're at the forefront of innovation.

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    Prepare for success with opportunities to specialise in Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security or Data Science so you can tailor your degree to your career aspirations.

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    Gain practical experience and be career-ready through expert mentorship from our experienced faculty and by completing industry-aligned projects.

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    Build your professional network and collaborate with our educational partner and tech companies to gain practical insights and diversify your employment opportunities.

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    Feel supported students enrolled in computer science programs at Notre Dame may be eligible to receive $1,000 towards the purchase of new hardware or software to support their studies.

Predicted job growth to 2029

ICT Manager

15.2%

Computer Network Professionals

14.7%

ICT Security Specialists

14.2%

Source: National Skills Commission based on job title identified as linked to degree/qualification May 2024 to May 2029.

Program details

This three year program is perfect for anyone wishing to develop their knowledge and skills in the ever-advancing field of computer science. Our curriculum is designed to meet the current and future industry demands and provides students with opportunities to apply their learning in industry-aligned projects. With a strong focus on hands-on learning, students are exposed to real-world projects and experiential learning opportunities, producing graduates who are job-ready.

Useful links

More information regarding courses can be found on the course description page.

Core curriculum

The core curriculum is embedded in every degree. It is a distinguishing characteristic of Notre Dame and provides our graduates with transferable skills that are integral to every industry, vocation and profession, laying the foundation for a fulfilling career and a purposeful life.

  • CORE I: Foundations of Wisdom
  • CORE II: Elective
    • Electives in philosophy and/or theology
    • Professional embedded electives that integrate studies in a profession with philosophy and/or theology
    • An option to undertake a pilgrimage embedded in the study of the philosophy and theology of pilgrimage, e.g. World Youth Day
    • An option to undertake a course that integrates philosophy & theology with community service and charity work
    • An option to undertake an elective in philosophy, theology and the liberal arts contained within an international experience

Real-world experience

Our industry-linked team project provides you with the opportunity to tackle real-world challenges through internships, industry-based scenarios, or collaborative Work Integrated Learning (WIL) with industry partners. Our strong partnerships with various industries offer you access to internships and work placements, allowing you to start building your professional networks. Additionally, you will learn from expert lecturers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.

First year

  • COMP1001 Computer Systems and Networks
  • COMP1002 Mathematics for Computer Science
  • COMP1004 Database Systems
  • COMP1006 Web Design and Development
  • COMP1007 ICT Project Management and Governance

Second year

  • COMP2001 Data Structures and Algorithms
  • COMP2002 Artificial Intelligence
  • COMP2007 Team Project
  • COMP2014 Principles of Cyber Security
  • COMP2015 Systems Analysis and Design

Third year

  • COMP3001 Industry-linked Project A
  • COMP3002 Industry-linked Project B
  • COMP3003 Software Testing and Quality Assurance
  • COMP3008 Advanced Topics in Computer Science

Majors

All students in the Bachelor of Computer Science must complete at least one of the following Majors and 8 courses related to their specialisation:

Artificial Intelligence
A Major in Artificial Intelligence equips students with expertise in machine learning, robotics and intelligent systems design. You will learn to develop innovative solutions for real-world challenges while developing skills in deep learning, data analysis, algorithm design and automation. This program emphasises hands-on experience, enabling you to tackle complex problems and contribute to the advancement of technology.

Cybersecurity
A Major in Cybersecurity prepares students with the skills to protect digital systems from cyber threats and attacks. You will learn about encryption, ethical hacking and risk management, while developing a strong foundation in digital security strategies. Hand-on experience is key, ensuring you graduate ready to tackle evolving security challenges across a range of industries.

Data Science
A Major in Data Science provides students with knowledge in statistical analysis, machine learning and big data management. You will learn to extract insights from large datasets, while honing skills in data interpretation, predictive modelling and data-driven decision-making. With a focus on practical experience, a Data Science Major teaches you to analyse complex data and contribute to solving real-world challenges.

Refer to Appendix B: Major Requirements of the Program Requirements for course details.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Computer Science graduates will be able to:

  • Understand advanced computer science concepts and techniques and their application to and implications for a global society.
  • Critically evaluate existing technologies and techniques and apply appropriate problem-solving strategies to design and implement modern solutions.
  • Analyse and design software solutions to meet specific requirements using appropriate software design and development principles and techniques.
  • Evaluate and implement secure software systems with a focus in artificial intelligence and data science, considering ethical, social, legal, and professional issues.
  • Assess pressing research problems in the discipline area of computer science and effectively communicate the results including clear articulation of the research question, methodology, findings, and conclusions.
  • Demonstrate strong project management skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team to plan, execute, and evaluate a substantial software development project.

Practical component

Practicum or internship requirements are not applicable to the Bachelor of Computer Science. However, there are opportunities for students to address real-world problems or complete projects in the workplace (WIL) in the courses Industry-linked Project A, Industry-liked Project B, and Team Project.

Career outcomes

Professional accreditations

Australian Computing Society (ACS)

The Bachelor of Computer Science is seeking Australian Computing Society (ACS) accreditation. By meeting the ACS requirements for the accreditation, the program will assure employers that graduates have acquired the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies required for employment in the field of computer science, enhancing their employability and increasing their chances of securing rewarding positions in the industry.

Careers

  • Check icon Software engineer
  • Check icon Data analyst
  • Check icon Cybersecurity analyst
  • Check icon Artificial intelligence researcher
  • Check icon Technology entrepreneur
  • Check icon Security architect
  • Check icon Systems analyst

Industries

  • Check icon Software Development
  • Check icon IT and Cybersecurity
  • Check icon Data Science
  • Check icon Government and Finance
  • Check icon Web Development
  • Check icon Robotics
  • Check icon Gaming

Admission criteria

Academic requirements for this program are outlined below. In addition, to be eligible for admission, all applicants need to satisfy the Minimum University Admission requirements outlined. These include those relating to minimum age and English language proficiency.

We consider your application more broadly – your non-academic achievements (such as any previous leadership roles, volunteering, work, church and/or community involvement) as well as personal qualities – your aspirations and interests and your capacity to complete your chosen program. See Individual Factors for further details regarding this.

Select an option that best suits you:

Indicative ATAR/Selection Rank*

*Selection Ranks include ATAR plus Adjustment Factors.

Successful completion of 2 subjects at an undergraduate level or higher*

OR

Successful completion of the Notre Dame Tertiary Pathway Program (TPP), or a tertiary preparation program from another institution that is deemed to be of a similar academic rigour to the Notre Dame TPP

*Applicants who have successfully completed subjects at another university, which are relevant to the selected program of study, may be eligible for credit (Advanced Standing).

Successful completion of AQF Certificate IV or higher from an accredited provider such as TAFE or a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)

Applicants who left secondary education more than two years previously and who have not undertaken VET or higher education study since may be considered for direct entry. This includes applicants who have completed Steiner, Montessori or home school curriculums. To qualify, applicants must be 20 years of age as at 1 March in the year of intake and meet one or more of the following:

Applicants who have completed at least two years of relevant work experience may be considered for direct entry. Applicants must provide evidence of their work experience, including duties undertaken and years of experience, and they must demonstrate that they have the academic capability to undertake undergraduate studies. The Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) may be required.

OR

Completion of two Year 12 WACE, HSC or equivalent exams, with a result equivalent to the Indicative ATAR/Selection Rank listed under Secondary Education section above.

*STAT results must have been obtained within the last three calendar years in order to be considered (e.g. for 2025 admission, STAT results obtained in 2024, 2023 or 2022 can be considered).

There are no additional entry requirements or pre-requisites for the Bachelor of Computer Science.

Pathways

If you’re interested in studying at Notre Dame, there are a range of pathways available, and we might have a pathway option that suits you.