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University of New South Wales (UNSW)

  • 34% international / 66% domestic

Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Science

  • Certificate

This Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Science is designed for students who aren't able to, or not ready to commit to a full Bachelor's degree in Computer Science.

Key details

Degree Type
Certificate
Duration
0.7 - 0.7 years full-time
Study Mode
In person
Domestic Fees
$4,000 per year / $28,000 total

About this course

Overview

This Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Science is designed for students who aren't able to, or not ready to commit to a full Bachelor's degree in Computer Science. You can explore the area while undertaking study that will count towards your final degree if you choose to study an undergraduate degree with us. It's also an entry pathway for students into the Bachelor of Computer Science for those who might not have the required ATAR.

Computer Science involves the study of the design, construction and uses of computer systems. It works with the representation of data and data structures in computer systems and the design of algorithms for automatic manipulation of this information by programming languages and machine systems. With computers, information technology and software increasingly underpinning our lives, study in this area will offer you a range of employment opportunities.

Key features

You'll study at the number one engineering faculty in Australia with leading edge facilities and opportunities for practical hands-on learning.

This program provides you with a solid foundation in Computer Science concepts through four introductory courses. Upon successful completion of this program, you can use it as a pathway into the Bachelor of Science (Computer Science), where your study will be recognised including the courses undertaken in this certificate

The Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) is a three-year, full-time degree that'll give you the skills to shape the computer systems required by individuals and organisations of tomorrow. You'll graduate with the right knowledge and qualifications to get a job. This degree is accredited by the Australian Computer Society.

You can choose from diverse majors in industry relevant areas including:

  • Database Systems
  • eCommerce Systems
  • Programming Languages
  • Embedded Systems
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computer Networks
  • Security Engineering
Why study this degree at UNSW?

You'll be studying at Australia's leading Engineering faculty, ranked 1st in Australia and 31st in the world by QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024.

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. Our strong focus on research, with our world-class research facilities feeds leading-edge discoveries straight into our degrees. Our research culture provides an education where you'll question, test, learn and experiment, making new discoveries along the way.

UNSW is known for its graduate employability, with UNSW awarded the Most Employable Students Award in the AFR Top100 Future Leaders Awards for 5 consecutive years (2020-2024).*

At UNSW Engineering you'll benefit from a diverse and welcoming community. No matter what your particular interest, engineering or beyond, there's a club or society for you. UNSW Engineering boasts 16 student societies including a society for each school. Get involved in Queer Students in Stem, Electrical Engineering Society, Women in Renewable Energy Society or Robogals. UNSW's Women in Engineering (WIE) society runs social and industry events as well as programs designed to mentor and develop female engineers.

When you study engineering at UNSW you can take part in the ChallENG Program. This unique program connects students, academics and industry to exciting, real-world, project-based learning initiatives. The program will prepare you for your future career by helping develop technical and design skills and expanding your professional expertise.

*AFR Top100 Future Leaders 2024

Program Code
7022
Campus
Kensington
Total Units of Credit (UOC)
24
Want to see more from UNSW Engineering?
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Entry requirements

Entry requirements
2023 Lowest Selection Rank 1
85
2023 A levels 2
14
2023 IB Diploma 3
31
2023 Lowest ATAR 4
76.5

Please note that the ATAR will vary depending on the specialisation you choose to study. You can view the required ATAR by visiting the specific page of the specialisation.

    1. The 2023 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2023.
    2. The 2023 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.
    3. The 2023 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2023. It is to be used as a guide only.
    4. The 2023 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

Math 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. Learn more about FEAS.

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

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:
Qualifications Direct entry requirement
International ATAR

Please contact us for direct entry requirements.

UNSW Foundation Studies GPA

Please contact us for direct entry requirements.

Great Britain General Certificate of Education (GCE A levels)

Please contact us for direct entry requirements.

All applicants must present a minimum of two Advanced Level (A2) subjects. Entry Scores are calculated from the best two, three, or four A2 Level subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2 and E=1.

International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)

Please contact us for direct entry requirements.

Results based on scores required for entry into UNSW in 2019 and are only applicable if the Diploma has been completed. Students currently attempting the IB can apply directly to UNSW or through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC). For more details, visit www.uac.edu.au

Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) (after 2016)

Please contact us for direct entry requirements.

Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) based on the total of evidence-based reading and writing and mathematical test scores. Must be provided in conjunction with evidence of successful completion of senior secondary studies.

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.

Assumed knowledge
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


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.

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:

  • English language tests and university English courses
  • Prior study in the medium of English
  • Other qualifications

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.

Check the specific English language requirements for this program
Select from the options below *
Which applies to you? *

Study locations

Kensington

Career pathways

Future careers

When you graduate from this certificate you are then able to move into a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Once completed you'll be eligible to apply for membership of Engineers Australia. 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 in your undergraduate degree. From your second year, you can specialise in a particular field of engineering. Visit the various engineering degree specialisations for examples of career opportunities.