Australia is one of the most popular destinations for studying abroad. Between its incredible natural marvels, beautiful beaches, and stunning cities, it is no surprise that it is a great place to get your degree. This country-continent has high expectations for its education system, and several of its top universities rank among the best worldwide. Australian higher education providers that teach international students operate under nationally consistent standards.
Students with an Australian student visa can generally work part-time while they study. The standard limit is 48 hours per fortnight while a course is in session. Australia is also home to research-focused universities with computing programs that cover fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, software development, and information systems. For these reasons, Australia is a strong destination for a computer science degree. Here are some of the top schools offering computer science in Australia and the particular benefits of each one.
Top Schools Offering Computer Science in Australia
1. University of Technology Sydney
The University of Technology Sydney is located in Sydney, a culturally vibrant city. UTS offers computer science and related information technology pathways. The university states that graduates in its computer science study area are eligible to apply for professional-level membership with the Australian Computer Society.
Students can choose the three-year, full-time Bachelor of Computing Science or explore the four-year, full-time Bachelor of Computing Science (Honours). The standard bachelor’s program develops skills in areas such as programming, network fundamentals, databases, algorithms, and computing theory. The honors program combines theory and practice, includes research projects with UTS researchers, and places a stronger emphasis on mathematics and research preparation.
2. Adelaide University
Adelaide University reports that it is ranked 73rd globally for Computer Science and Information Systems in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026. Its computer science and information technology study area covers fields such as software development, cybersecurity, data management, and artificial intelligence.
The current Bachelor of Computer Science includes a broad mix of courses covering artificial intelligence, algorithms, data management, programming languages, security, and computer architecture. Students can choose a general pathway or specialize in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Human-Centred Computing, or Programming Languages. Related options include the Bachelor of Cyber Security, the Bachelor of Mathematics majoring in Data Science, the Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, the Master of Data Science, and the Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security).
3. University of Sydney
The University of Sydney is ranked equal 25th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026. Its School of Computer Science is devoted to advancing computer and data sciences through education and research related to computer science and technological innovation.
The university’s computer science study page states that several undergraduate degrees, including the Bachelor of Advanced Computing, are accredited by the Australian Computer Society at the conditional professional level. Several postgraduate programs, including the Master of Computer Science, are accredited at the conditional provisional professional level.
Students can study the Bachelor of Advanced Computing or combine it with a second degree in commerce, science, health science, or medical science. The combined programs are five years long, allowing students to graduate with two qualifications.
4. University of New South Wales
The University of New South Wales is ranked 20th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026. Its School of Computer Science and Engineering conducts research in areas including artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and software and systems.
UNSW’s Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) is a three-year, full-time degree accredited by the Australian Computer Society. Students can choose from majors including Database Systems, Programming Languages, Embedded Systems, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Networks, and Security Engineering. The university also offers postgraduate coursework and research pathways.
5. Australian National University
Australian National University is ranked 32nd globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026. ANU also reports that its graduates rank first in Australia for employability in the Times Higher Education Global University Employability Rankings 2023–2025.
Undergraduate computing options at ANU include the three-year Bachelor of Computing, the four-year Bachelor of Advanced Computing with embedded honors, and the Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research and Development) (Honours). Postgraduate options include the Master of Computing, the Master of Computing (Advanced), and the Master of Machine Learning and Computer Vision.
The ANU School of Computing focuses its research on artificial intelligence and machine learning, computer systems and software, and the theoretical foundations of computing. Students interested in research can explore the school’s Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy programs. The computing Ph.D. is a four-year research program that requires a thesis making a significant contribution to the field.
FAQ: Computer Science Studies in Australia
Are Computer Science Graduates in Demand in Australia?
Computer science graduates can pursue careers in growing technology-related fields. As one example, Jobs and Skills Australia reports that Australia has 203,200 Software and Applications Programmers and that employment in this occupational group grew by 13,700 over the past year. This group includes roles such as analyst programmer, developer programmer, software engineer, and software tester.
Jobs and Skills Australia reports median full-time earnings of A$2,537 per week for Software and Applications Programmers. This is equivalent to approximately A$131,924 per year before tax. Actual salaries vary by occupation, location, experience, and employer.
How Many Years Is a Computer Science Degree in Australia?
The length of a computer science degree in Australia depends on the university and the program. Some standalone bachelor’s programs take three years of full-time study, including the Bachelor of Computing Science at UTS and the Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) at UNSW. Other programs take four years, including the University of Sydney’s flagship Bachelor of Advanced Computing and ANU’s Bachelor of Advanced Computing with embedded honors. Master’s degree durations also vary, so students should check the current course page for the program they plan to pursue.
A degree in computer science can be your ticket to an enriching career, and choosing the right school is an important first step. You will also need to prepare for the costs of becoming an international student. Check out our article on the costs of living and studying in Australia and get your finances ready.
We hope this article on the best universities for computer science in Australia was helpful. Make sure also to check out the Study in Australia guide and the Available Programs for International Students to learn more about studying in the country and abroad!
