Program Overview

---

Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) / Fine Arts

The Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) / Fine Arts double degree provides technical and creative foundations for developing and using computer graphics and coded media. It allows students to specialise in either the technical or creative strand of computer graphics and associated fields.

Overview

Designed for students aspiring to work in the creative fields, the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) is for those who are open-minded, curious, and inventive and who wish to immerse themselves in their creative practice. The BFA is home to distinctive specialisations in Animation and Moving Image, Art Theory, Music, and Visual Arts, each of which is led by experts in the field and supported by specialist facilities.

Key Features

• Australia's leading engineering faculty: The Computer Science and Engineering School is part of the Faculty of Engineering, which is ranked #1 in Australia and #25 globally for Engineering and Technology.
• Self-discovery: Explore and develop your artistic voice within your specialisation and take advantage of opportunities to experience a variety of creative disciplines.
• World-class scholarship: UNSWs School of Computer Science and Engineering research is ranked #1 in Australia for Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, Databases, Embedded & Real-Time Systems, and Operating Systems.
• Collaborate with purpose: Bring an open mind to our social campus culture meet and work alongside artists who are changing the way we think about important issues.
• Real industry experience: Both programs connect you with industry and offer professional development experiences unique to your passions and goals.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Science (Computer Science)/Fine Arts double degree program is 4 years full-time and consists of 32 courses (192 Units of Credit). The program includes:

• Core courses in computer science and fine arts
• Fine arts specialisation
• Optional computer science specialisation
• Elective courses

Fine Arts Specialisations

Students can choose from the following fine arts specialisations:

• Animation & moving image
• Art theory
• Music
• Visual arts

Computer Science Specialisations

The Bachelor of Computer Science allows students to personalise their degree by either studying a general Computer Sciences degree or specialising in one of the following in-demand areas:

• Database Systems
• Artificial Intelligence
• Programming Languages
• Computer Networks
• Embedded Systems
• Security Engineering

Entry Requirements

• 2025 Lowest Selection Rank: 92.0
• 2025 A levels: 15.0
• 2025 IB Diploma: 36.0
• 2025 Lowest ATAR: 84.35
• Assumed knowledge: Mathematics Extension 1
• Additional selection criteria: Acceptance into the Music specialisation requires an audition.

English Language Requirements

Students may be asked to provide evidence of their English proficiency to study at UNSW, depending on their educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments, and examinations.

Admission Pathways

If students do not meet the requirements for direct entry into their chosen degree, they may be eligible for a pathway program with UNSW College.

Fees & Scholarships

• 2026 Indicative First Year Full Fee: $8,000
• 2026 Indicative Full Fee to Complete Degree: $37,500
• Commonwealth Supported Place multiple Student Contribution Bands may apply for this double degree.

Careers

Computer science specialists are increasingly sought-after across many industries. Paired with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, potential roles upon graduation include:

• Software engineer/developer
• Chief technology officer
• Digital security specialist
• Database developer/administrator
• Game developer
• Visual effects and post-production designer
• Computer graphics and animation specialist

Fine Arts careers may include:

• Animator
• 3D artist
• Texturing artist
• Concept artist
• Storyboard artist
• Creature effects artist
• Visual effects artist
• Visual effects compositor
• Media arts practitioner
• Digital publishing
• Digital communications specialist
• Art director
• Advertising director
• Film producer
• Television producer
• Post-production designer
• Media strategist
• Sound designer
• Cinematographer

Art theory careers may include:

• Art critic
• Art director
• Archive manager
• Creative director
• Creative entrepreneur
• Communications officer
• Community engagement officer
• Cultural event manager
• Cultural policy adviser
• Cultural research officer
• Cultural consultant
• Exhibit planner
• Festival curator
• Gallery curator
• Museum curator
• Public event programmer

Music careers may include:

• Audio producer
• Audio engineer
• Broadcaster
• Composer
• Classroom music teacher
• Music journalist
• Performing artist
• Private music teacher
• Session artist
• Songwriter
• Sound designer
• Soundtrack producer
• Tour manager
• Talent manager
• Talent scout

Visual arts careers may include:

• Advertising creative
• Art critic
• Art director
• Artist
• Arts educator
• Arts journalist
• Arts publisher
• Creative director
• Commercial photographer
• Communications officer
• Cultural administration
• Cultural policy consultant
• Event program manager
• Exhibition manager
• Festival curator
• Illustrator
• Installation artist
• Interdisciplinary artist
• Painter
• Performance artist
• Photographer
• Photojournalist
• Printmaker
• Private art teacher
• Sculptor

Accreditation

The program is accredited by the Australian Computer Society.