Undergraduate study in Computer Science

What can you study in Computer Science?

You can study Computer Science as a major in the Bachelor of Science (BSc), or as a specialisation in the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) (BAdvSci(Hons)). You can find out more about these options further down this page.

The Bachelor of Science (BSc) majoring in Computer Science

Computing technology permeates our lives, and with that comes the demand for specialists to imagine, develop and maintain that technology. Computers are indispensable in our lives in fields such as education, medicine, commerce and engineering – as well as leisure. We can’t imagine what we would do without them, and the innovations just keep on coming.

A BSc in Computer Science offers you an understanding of the conceptual building blocks of computers, software, and communications between computers. As part of your major you’ll complete COMPSCI 399, the Computer Science capstone course, where you’ll work in small teams on a substantial project from conception through to production, and present your work.

This major will allow you to develop logical thinking, problem solving, abstract thought and analysis – all skills that are highly valued by employers.

You’ll study a range of topics, including:

  • Algorithms
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Complexity theory
  • Computer vision
  • Cyber security
  • Data science
  • Graphics
  • Human-computer interaction
  • Logic
  • Networks and the internet
  • Programming languages
  • Robotics
  • Software engineering

The Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) (BAdvSci(Hons)) specialising in Computer science

Computer Science is growing in complexity as technology itself becomes more complex, and as computers (and computational processes) become an intrinsic component in a growing number of academic and professional spheres. The Computer Science specialisation is designed to accommodate the increasing need for both deeper and broader understanding of computers. It will appeal to you if you’re interested in building knowledge or capacity, or if you’re keen to work in interdisciplinary areas.

The specialisation has a particular focus on innovation and developing new knowledge through research activities, leading to advanced knowledge in the discipline. You’ll gain a broad introduction to recent research in Computer Science, which will prepare you to undertake your postgraduate study.

In your first year you’ll take six compulsory courses that cover the core areas of software development, computer systems and theory of computing. As you move into your second and third year you’ll explore one of these areas in more depth, and you’ll take two advanced research courses that will prepare you to complete a research component in your final year.  

Structuring your programme in Computer Science

If you began your degree prior to 2019 we recommend you seek advice to make sure you are taking the correct courses.

Visit your online help and support centre: AskAuckland.

Meet a graduate

Yang Chen studied towards a Bachelor of Science majoring in Computer Science, and ended up pursuing a Doctorate of Philosophy in Computer Science. He finds that PhD research gives him a lot of freedom in his day to day life. Read Yang's story.

Where can undergraduate study in Computer Science take you?

Graduates can look for work in many exciting areas, in an ever-widening variety of roles. The IT industry is keen to employ graduates who have completed our undergraduate programmes. You can read more our students and graduates and find out where a degree in Computer Science has taken them. Meet our students and graduates.

Jobs related to Computer Science

  • Business or systems analyst
  • Cloud systems engineer
  • Data or information architect
  • Database developer
  • Digital designer
  • Front end or back end developer
  • Game developer
  • Programmer
  • Software architect or engineer
  • UX developer
  • Web developer and more

Further study options

Scholarships and awards

Each year we award scholarships and prizes to thousands of students.

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for, search available scholarships or begin an application by visiting Scholarships and awards.

Help and advice

Student Hubs

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The Student Hubs services are available seven days a week at the City, Grafton, Epsom and Tai Tonga campuses and six days a week at Tai Tokerau, with friendly staff available to provide you with advice on any aspect of your studies and life at the University.

Find out more.