Course details

Summary

When people think of Computer Science they often just think of programming, but there are many more aspects to the field including interaction design, communications and networks, software design, computer security, information systems, graphics operating systems, educational systems, artificial intelligence and embedded systems (processors that are embedded in everything from mobile phones to cars). All of these areas are experiencing rapid growth both in New Zealand and internationally and there is a strong demand for Computer Science graduates.

Computer Science is about helping people do their work efficiently and effectively by analysing needs and constructing appropriate solutions. It provides a step beyond programming, and is about knowing how to design systems that are fast, usable, reliable, secure, scalable and make a positive impact on society and our environment.

Computer Science students learn techniques to tackle these challenges for applications as diverse as monitoring the condition of patients in hospitals to designing educational games for smart phones.

A Bachelor of Science (BSc) will extend your knowledge in multiple interest areas, satisfying many questions you may have about the world and encouraging you to investigate even further.

Qualification structure and duration

The Bachelor of Science requires a minimum total of 360 points:

• a minimum of 255 points of Science courses
• the remaining 105 points can be from either Science courses or courses from other degrees.
• At least 225 points must be from courses above 100-level, with at least 90 points at 300-level.

Double Degrees

Many students combine the study of a BSc with another degree, such as a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce or a Bachelor of Laws. If you are considering a double degree you should get advice from the College of Science Student Advisor or the Liaison Office.

Career opportunities

There is a strong demand for graduates who are qualified in Computer Science, particularly those who combine technical skills with good communication skills and teamwork ability. Canterbury's leading-edge IT sector is facing a shortage of qualified graduates, meaning that UC-qualified Computer Science graduates are in high demand.

Many employment opportunities exist with organisations that run large computer-based systems, such as finance companies, airline industries, government departments, state-owned enterprises, consulting companies, and computer organisations themselves. Work with these organisations often involves international travel opportunities. Many of our students start up their own software companies, and end up being employers rather than employees.

Apart from a professional career in computing, a degree in Computer Science can be used as a good basis for a career in the many areas in which computer systems are applied. Graduates are employed in fields including education, computer forensics, embedded systems and computer graphics, and in a variety of positions including software engineer, programmer, analyst, computer consultant, webmaster, internet developer, GIS analyst, games developer and computing tutor.

Entry criteria

Admission to UC with University Entrance, or equivalent, is required to enrol for a Bachelor's degree. Applicants must have completed New Zealand University Entrance through NCEA; or Cambridge International Examinations (CIE); or International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) or any other equivalent overseas qualification.

Recommended preparation

It is possible to enrol in our courses with only a general computing background, but it is a significant advantage to have completed the NCEA achievement standards in programming and computer science (or IB/Cambridge equivalent).

A strong background in Year 13 calculus or statistics is recommended. A mathematical background is important for students who intend to advance beyond first year.

Other English language requirements: TOEFL PBT with a minimum score of 550 and TWE with a minimum score of 4.5; CCEL EAP Level 2 with a minimum C+ grade; CAE or CPE minimum score of 169 with at least 162 in reading, writing, listening and speaking; Pearson Test of English (Academic) - PTE with an overall score of 57 and no PTE communicative skills score below 50.