Course overview
Gain the expertise for diverse career opportunities in computer science, cybersecurity and software engineering.
This course will equip you with high-level knowledge of computer systems and processes involved in software development and maintenance.
Career outcomes
Careers
- Computer programmer
- Computer security consultant
- IT consultant
- Software engineer / developer
Industries
- Applications and software development
- Cybersecurity
- IT analysis
- Game design and development
Professional accreditation and recognition
This course is accredited by the Australian Computer Society.
Your student experience
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Find your entry pathway to Curtin
You may be finishing high school, coming from TAFE, or just thinking of a career change; but whatever your background, there’s an entry pathway to Curtin for you.
Other study options
Explore what else you can study at Curtin, including honours and postgraduate courses.
- Bachelor of Science (Honours)
- Master of Science (Computer Science)
- Master of Philosophy
- Doctor of Philosophy
Course structure
What you’ll learn
In this course, you’ll learn aspects of modern computing, commencing with fundamental programming and theoretical knowledge. You’ll then tailor your degree to your goals by choosing to study a major in Computer Science, Cyber Security or Software Engineering.
You'll use C and Java as the tools for learning core concepts such as object orientation and algorithms. Linux skills are taught throughout the course, starting with the basics and progressing to advanced topics. Students that perform well in the first year of this course can apply to transfer to the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Computing) honours degree course. (Note that acceptance is not automatic.)
Curtin collaborates with industry partners to optimise course content and provide final-year placement opportunities to suitable students.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information and course structure, visit our Handbook.
Customise your degree
Tailor your degree to your goals by choosing to study a major in Computer Science, Cyber Security or Software Engineering.
Computer Science
This major provides in-depth knowledge of software design, algorithm analysis, artificial intelligence, computer communications, databases and graphics. You will gain the skills required to build operating systems and design new programming languages. Being mathematically based, computer science has a strong emphasis on logic and reasoning.
Learn more about the Computer Science major.
Cyber Security
This major focuses on the key concepts and challenges in data protection and computer software security. You will examine both the high-level and low-level practical aspects of computer security. High-level aspects include cryptography theory, data access policy development and security program management. Low-level aspects include computer forensics, network intrusion detection and incident handling.
You'll learn how to identify and implement appropriate applications for specific scenarios. You'll also gain an understanding of issues related to the protection of individual rights.
Learn more about the Cyber Security major.
Software Engineering
This major focuses on the software development lifecycle, but goes beyond programming to evaluate and meet customer needs, and design and test software. You'll develop design techniques and project management skills to solve real-world problems and build reliable, efficient, large-scale software systems.
This major can also be studied within the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours).
Learn more about the Software Engineering major.
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Entry requirements
To study this course, you must meet the entry criteria:
- course ATAR, or equivalent, demonstrated via an accepted entry pathway
- any course-specific requirements
- English language requirement.
Guaranteed entry
If you achieve the guaranteed ATAR/selection rank for this course and meet all other entry requirements, you’re guaranteed a place in this course.
Entry pathways
There are different ways to meet our academic entry requirements. Choose the option that best suits the highest level of education that you’ve achieved.
Curious how students entered this course? See the entry pathways other students have taken.
Course-specific requirements
You’ll also need to meet any specific requirements to be eligible to apply for this course.
Study credit and support
You may be able to receive study credit or support based on your previous experience or personal circumstances.
Get credit towards your degree
You may be able to receive credit for recognised learning (CRL) from past study or professional experience, which could reduce the time it takes to finish your course.
Find specific details about CRL for this course on the Handbook.
Special consideration
If your studies were affected by circumstances beyond your control, you may be eligible for special consideration when applying to Curtin. This process is available to new applicants only and allows your application to be assessed in light of those circumstances.
Additional information
Notes about this course
Make sure you check the course notes for any other important information.
Fees
2025 Domestic indicative fees
2026 Domestic indicative fees
*The indicative first-year fee is based on a standard full-time study load of 200 credit points.
This fee is a guide only. Your total fee may vary depending on the units you choose, your study load or if your course includes additional requirements. For more information on fees, see other fees and charges.
Scholarships
Get the support you need to succeed with our diverse range of scholarships. Whether it’s financial support, assistance with relocation, or recognition for your academic achievements, we have scholarships tailored to your unique needs.
Curtin Excellence Scholarship
The Excellence scholarship offers support ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 in value to current high school leavers who receive an ATAR of 96 and above.
How to apply
Follow these steps to make sure you’re eligible, prepared and ready to apply for your course.
Check entry requirements
Entry requirements differ by course and your previous work and study experience.
Prepare your documents
The documents you need may vary depending on your course and application pathway.
Check application deadlines
Deadlines vary by course and whether you’re applying as a domestic or international student.
Choose your application pathway
I’m in year 12 or applying for Medicine
If you’re in year 12 or recently finished high school, you’ll need to apply through TISC.
You’ll apply through TISC no matter what you studied in high school, whether that was:
- ATAR
- General subjects
- Certificate IV
- or completing UniReady in Schools program.
TISC has different application dates to Curtin. Visit the TISC website for all important dates, including application deadlines.
I have finished high school
If you’re not a current year 12 student or recent graduate, you’re considered a non school leaver and you’ll apply directly to Curtin.
The only exception is Medicine, which must be applied for through TISC.
You’ll apply directly to Curtin if you are:
- a high school graduate who finished school last year or earlier
- transferring from another university
- returning to study or using your professional experience to qualify
- progressing from a VET or TAFE qualification or bridging program
- a current Curtin student changing courses or campuses.
Application deadlines can vary by course. Make sure to check application deadlines before you apply.
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