Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) / Arts
- Commencing Terms
- Term 1, 2 & 3
- Duration
- 4 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Face-to-face (includes blended)
- Campus
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Kensington
- Codes
- UAC code 425800
- Program code 3783
- CRICOS code 052229D
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2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $8,000*
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2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $40,000*
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2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $51,000*
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2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $214,500*
Fees
Fees
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Accredited program
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38 majors
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Double degree
International application pause for 2025 intakes
Applications for international students to study at UNSW in 2025 are currently paused. Please submit your expression of interest to join our application waitlist so we can contact you.
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
This double degree enables students to gain skills and knowledge in the technical field of Computer Science as well as in a variety of subjects in Humanities and Social Sciences.
The Computer Science component emphasises comprehension of the basic principles behind computing tools, operating systems, compilers and translators, and computer hardware. You'll 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.
In the Arts component, you'll choose a major and a minor from a range of disciplines, including languages, arts, history, and philosophy. In whichever area you study, you'll develop transferable skills and in-depth knowledge, and gain the tools to think critically, communicate effectively and conduct independent research.
Want to see more from UNSW Engineering?
Entry requirements
Students must meet the entry requirements for both the BSc (Computer Science) and the BA in the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture
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- The 2024 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2024.
- The 2024 A levels score is based on four Advanced Level (A2) subjects. 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 2024 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2024. It is to be used as a guide only.
- The 2024 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
This degree is eligible for admission through our Portfolio Entry Early Conditional Offer Scheme. Complete a submission to demonstrate your passion and performance in relevant subjects. Successful applicants will receive an early conditional offer with an adjusted ATAR entry requirement.
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
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
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
Study areas
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You can complete a major in the following study areas:
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Discover our closest neighbours' impact on the world and understand Australia's place within the Asian region. With an "all Asia" approach, learn from multilingual specialists who cover history, politics, social policy, health, philosophy, media and more. Prepare for a future in government, NGO, education, media, and the arts with a genuinely international perspective.
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Criminology and criminal justice are growing fields with increasing opportunities to create change in communities. Experience an approach beyond lectures that sees you visiting courts and prisons and hearing first-hand from the people in the justice system. See crime through a big-picture lens. Ask why people commit it. And help imagine a more just future.
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Hone your writing practice by exploring fresh, experimental writing across genres in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and ficto-criticism. Learn from award-winning writers, join writing masterclasses and events, and create invaluable industry connections. Plus, have the chance to showcase your work in the UNSW literary journal.
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We believe English is more than simply academic – it’s an opening to the world, a passport to different realities, and a stick of dynamite to narrow-mindedness and prejudice. Delve deep into memorable stories, poetic patterns, ringing phrases, and imaginative landscapes in one of the world’s top 50 universities.
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Want to make a change to climate change? One of the greatest questions of our times is how to meet environmental challenges head-on. From species extinction and GMOs to climate change and nuclear power – immerse yourself in the social, cultural, and political factors shaping human relations with the natural world.
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Europe has a rich history as well as a complicated present. From Britain, Russia, and the Mediterranean to Northern Europe – delve into the intellectual history, politics, religion, and movement of minority peoples throughout history. You'll also have the opportunity to see Europe through our international exchange.
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Film helps us understand the world around us. If you want to tell stories, share human experiences, document reality, and expand horizons as an experimental art form – film studies set the foundation. This specialisation also takes you into the studio to learn practical film-making skills from industry professionals.
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The relationship between people, societies, and the environment underpins the greatest global challenges of our time. As a human geographer, you will explore how physical, social, cultural, economic, and political factors shape places. Together we will discover how we can plan for a better future by combining classroom study with hands-on experience in the field.
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Why are some countries developing so quickly while others seem left behind? Global development looks at the impact of change across social, political, and economic environments. Explore issues from urbanisation to widening disparity, environmental threats, and the dominance of communication technologies. Learn the many ways we can create practical and positive change at local, national, and global levels.
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The world we live in is the product of an ongoing, globally connected history. UNSW offers a particular strength in the histories of migration, gender, empires, with a strong focus on our region. Whether you're fascinated with ancient, early modern, or modern history – discover a uniquely global perspective taught by passionate, world-class historians.
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Gain an understanding of diverse First Nation cultures and societies. This program begins with exploring current and traditional Indigenous knowledge, philosophies, and cultural values tied to country. Complex themes cover popular culture, political history, government policy, colonialism, environmental justice, gender, and cultural heritage. Gain profound critical reflection skills and challenge your assumptions.
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Learn to communicate in other languages, gain cross-cultural understanding, and benefit from a deep experience of other countries and cultures. The study of languages and cultures enriches your global perspective, opens you up to international opportunities, and transforms how you engage with the world.
You can major or minor in Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Korean and Spanish – whether you are just starting or ready to build on existing skills. In addition to the languages we offer as majors, you can study a minor in modern Greek, Indonesian and Italian.
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Explore the foundations of language and the relationship between language, society, and self. Find out how your brain processes and uses language. Expand your knowledge by studying linguistic diversity in urban settings and Indigenous contexts. Prepare for a career using linguistics by learning how language policy impacts multilingual and multicultural communities in Australia and around the world.
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The way we produce and consume media has a profound impact on modern life. It takes critical thinking and analysis to understand how media, technology and culture collide. Cut through the disinformation and understand the history, legacy, and ongoing impact of media through the 20th and 21st centuries across an ever-changing tech landscape.
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The study of music is for anyone who wants to perform to a crowd, record, teach, compose a score, or work professionally in the industry. Learn practical, hands-on musicianship and discover how music can be an expression that defines both cultures and societies as well as an expression of yourself.
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Questions around the nature of reality, knowledge, society, and ethics are fundamental to who we are as humans. Philosophy students learn to ask these questions by thinking clearly, deeply, analytically, and creatively. These skills help you communicate and debate even the most complicated ideas. They set a solid foundation for tackling some of the world's significant challenges and prepare you for a whole world of career opportunities.
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Studying politics helps you to understand power. From political instability to conflict, national security to great-power rivalry, climate change to human rights – facing these challenges requires understanding the intricacy of domestic politics and foreign affairs. Pave your way for careers in government and business. Lead with difference and change the world.
Learn more about studying politics and international relations at UNSW.
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What makes life meaningful? Why do we disagree, and why do we care? What brings about social change? Answers to these questions differ depending on who you ask, but finding new insights is crucial to navigating reality’s conflicts and challenges. Join Australia’s oldest sociology department and discover insights from diverse cultures and the lived human experience.
Learn more about studying sociology and anthropology at UNSW.
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What drives human behaviour? Psychology is a science that aims to understand the causes of psychological disorders. It investigates your interactions with others, learning and memory, and ability to cope with pressure. Understand yourself and others better with analytical thinking skills and scientific methods learned from leading academics.
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Take the stage and learn why performance matters in a media-savvy world. In this specialisation, you'll learn from industry professionals, collaborate with artists, and gain experience with production companies, venues, and publishers. And have the chance to bring your creativity to life at the unique UNSW Creative Practice Lab with dedicated studio and workshop spaces.
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You can complete a minor in the study areas listed above, as well as:
Full program structure
Potential careers
- Software engineer/developer
- Digital security specialist
- Database developer/administrator
- Game developer
- Systems analyst
- Entrepreneur
- Journalist
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
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.
*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 here.
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.
QS World University Rankings, 2025.
AFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.
#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.
I love that everything in the world is being engineered by somebody.
