Computer Science

Ranked top 50* in the world for Computer Science and number one in South Australia, the University of Adelaide is a leader in this field. 

Our reputation is built upon impactful research that pushes the boundaries of how we design, use, and engage with technology, as well as our outstanding, industry-driven undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

The majority of those programs are accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) and our Software Engineering program is accredited by Engineers Australia.


Computer science

Research

The impacts of our internationally recognised research can be tracked from the theoretical foundations of computer science, right through to application for end users.  

Our expertise and strengths are in:   


  • State-of-the-art facilities

    We conduct global research in machine learning (ML), artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning and computer vision (CV) through the Australian Institute for Machine Learning (AIML). Funded, in part, by the South Australian state government, AIML is the first institute of its kind in Australia and is ranked amongst the world’s leading centres for CV and AI research.  

    Our state-of-the-art facilities include: 

    Collaborative design facility

    The Collaborative Design Facility is an industry-first tripartite agreement between Capgemini, the University of Adelaide and Dassault Systèmes implemented to accelerate design innovation through industry, academia and government collaboration. This co-creation space helps bring pioneering concepts to life. 

    Phoenix High Performance Computing (HPC)

    Phoenix is one of Australia’s fastest HPC platforms and is ranked in the world’s top 500 supercomputers. It can be used to dramatically shorten time frames for analysis and processing of big data, and to process highly complex models and simulations. 

    Innovation studios

    With individual workshops including the Creation Studio, Fabrication Studio and Additive Studio (3D Prototyping Lab); the Innovation Studios feature a wide range of tools and equipment for use when working on University projects. 

    3D prototyping lab

    Our 3D prototyping lab houses ‘Big Rep’, the largest 3D printer of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Big Rep can print using a carbon-filled PLA to produce stronger parts. 

  • Extensive undergraduate and postgraduate teaching

    Undergraduate 

    Our degrees in computer science provide an outstanding foundation of skills and understanding in complex computing and computer systems. They can lead to diverse careers — from machine learning and artificial intelligence, to data science and cybersecurity.  

    Our Bachelor of Computer Science and Bachelor of Computer Science (Advanced) feature artificial intelligence and machine learning courses not available anywhere else in South Australia. Graduates of Bachelor of Computer Science (Advanced) gain automatic entry in to our Honours program.   

    The Bachelor of Information Technology leverages the University’s strong industry links and world renowned research to equip students with the IT design and management skills needed for industry. We also offer a pathway into the Bachelor of Information Technology for international students at our Melbourne campus.  

    Honours consists of one further year of full-time study that includes a research component. It prepares students for postgraduate study and increases employability. 


    Postgraduate 

    The University of Adelaide provides one of the most stimulating environments in the world for technology-related study. Our main city campus stands literally next door to Lot Fourteen, Adelaide’s thriving innovation and technology precinct.  

    These relationships help to inform our postgraduate coursework teaching. Our students learn the skills to more effectively meet industry’s evolving needs in the areas of:   

  • Higher Degrees by Research (HDR) 

    Whether planning to work in research or industry or to upskill to change jobs, our Higher Degrees by Research provide additional insight and deliver a competitive career edge. 

    We offer two postgraduate research degrees: 

    • The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is a two-year full-time (or part-time commitment) and teaches you about applying research methodology to critically evaluate literature and results in your field. 
    • The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is our flagship research award and is the standard qualification for a research career or academic position. Study a research degree in an area of interest and be supported by one of our highly talented research supervisors. 

    HDR opportunities 

  • Collaborate with us

    The University of Adelaide has a long and productive history of engagement and collaboration with governments, other universities and industry to make a local and global impact through our computer science research.  

    Our many research partners include: BAE SystemsBHPCSIROData61Defence Science and Technology GroupGoogleRiverland WineOZ MineralsAustralian Grain TechnologiesDepartment of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA)Department for Energy and MiningSorbonne UniversityUniversity College LondonUniversity of Nottingham.

    We have expertise in: artificial intelligence and machine learning; computer vision and robotics; distributed systems; Internet of Things (IoT); computer security; optimisation and logistics; and learning technologies.  

    The University of Adelaide provides a team of business development specialists and commercialisation to facilitate research collaborations, and teams to manage student internships and undergraduate and postgraduate levels.   

    Partner with us to address global and national priorities in computer science and information technology. Gain access to advanced technical resources and work in partnership with highly accomplished researchers and sought-after higher degree students. 

    Partner with us

  • Scholarships

    The University offers scholarships to undergraduate and postgraduate students. These scholarships (as well as many others) funded by industry and non-profit organisations, are available to potential and currently enrolled students.