Why Study / Key Benefits

This is a four-year double degree combining computer science and applied innovation. The computer science component develops skills in software development, analysis, design and implementation of large-scale systems, while the Applied Innovation component focuses on human-centred design, creativity, experimentation, problem-solving and innovation frameworks.

Key benefits for an international student include:

• Combines technical computing knowledge with innovation and entrepreneurship skills.
• Develops software development and systems-design capability.
• Includes practical computing projects, including Computing Technology Project A and B.
• Provides opportunities to study areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, games development, Internet of Things and software development.
• Includes innovation subjects covering creativity, innovation practice, innovation experimentation and responsible innovation.
• Students can use 50 credit points for a minor, advanced minor or electives, allowing some interdisciplinary specialisation.
• The Bachelor of Computer Science is professionally accredited by the Australian Computer Society at professional level.
• Swinburne currently promotes its computer science offering as ranked #1 in Australia for Computer Science and Engineering in the ARWU Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025, and #1 in Victoria for Graduate Employability and Salary according to the QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024.

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

The course is divided into Computer Science, Applied Innovation and additional study.

Computer Science core units include:

• Computer Systems
• Introduction to Programming
• Technology in an Indigenous Context Project
• Web Technology Project
• Networks and Switching
• Object Oriented Programming
• Computing Technology Project A
• Computing Technology Project B

Applied Innovation core units include:

• Exploring Creativity and Innovation
• Fundamentals of Innovation Practice
• Innovation Sandpit
• Responsible Innovation Futures

Disciplines / Specialisations

The Bachelor of Computer Science component provides major options in:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Cyber Security
• Data Science
• Games Development
• Internet of Things
• Software Development

Programme Highlights

Important programme-specific highlights include:

• 4-year double degree.
• 400 credit points.
• Hawthorn campus.
• CRICOS code 108352A.
• Computer Science plus Applied Innovation in one qualification.
• Australian Computer Society professional accreditation for the Bachelor of Computer Science component.
• Eight Computer Science core/major units plus six Applied Innovation major units within the overall structure.
• 50 credit points available for additional study.
• Substantial computing project work.
• Human-centred innovation and problem-solving.
• Options spanning AI, cybersecurity, data science, games, IoT and software development.

Career Outcomes

The Computer Science component can prepare graduates for software and systems-oriented careers involving the development, analysis, design, implementation and operation of software systems.

Potential computer science career directions include roles associated with:

• Software development
• Systems development
• Software engineering
• Cybersecurity
• Data science
• Artificial intelligence
• IoT
• Games development
• Network and systems administration

The Applied Innovation component additionally supports professional innovation roles such as:

• Innovation consultant
• Innovation lead
• Innovation analyst
• Strategic designer
• Creative producer
• Start-up founder
• Human-centred researcher
• Self-employed entrepreneur
• Product manager
• Transformation lead
• Innovation strategist
• Innovation manager

International Student Visa Requirements

International students studying this course in Australia normally require an Australian Student visa, subclass 500.

Key requirements and conditions include:

• Hold a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for the course.
• Meet the Student visa eligibility requirements.
• Maintain the required Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), unless an exemption applies.
• Meet the Genuine Student requirement.
• Provide English-language evidence where required.
• Meet applicable health and character requirements.
• Comply with the conditions attached to the Student visa.
• International students in Australia on a Student visa must study full-time and on campus for this Swinburne course.