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).
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.
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
Structuring your programme
Explore Bachelor of Science major in Computer Science schedule in the Curriculum Catalogue to find courses you can study in this major.
You must also complete a capstone course in your final year of study. The capstone course is a student-led project where you integrate and apply your learning to a real-world problem in your chosen major or specialisation.
For Computer Science we recommend the capstone course, COMPSCI 399. In this course you’ll work in small teams on a substantial project from conception through to production, and present your work.
Complementary majors
- Information and Technology Management
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
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.
Preparing for your Computer Science major
Some students will feel more prepared for our Computer Science courses if they have already studied certain subjects in high school.
Find out which school subjects will help you feel prepared by reading our Subject guide for school students.
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 about 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
Visit a Hub for help and advice on any aspect of your studies and life at University.
The Student Hubs are your physical gateway to Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland.
The Student Hubs services are available seven days a week at the City, Grafton and Tai Tonga campuses and six days a week at Tai Tokerau. Our friendly staff are available to provide you with advice on any aspect of your studies and life at the University.