Pathways to computer science

Find your route to university with UNSW College.

Students reading report in folder together

If you want a career that taps into the exciting future of technology, start your journey to becoming a data analyst, cyber security consultant or software developer with UNSW College. With the right pathway program, you will progress to a Computer Science degree at UNSW Sydney with all the skills and confidence to succeed.

 

Find your degree here

Your pathway to a degree at UNSW Sydney

Top 20
Worldwide

QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026

Most
Employable Graduates

AFR Top100 Future leaders Award, 2020-2025

Best
Australian university for entrepreneurs

Crunchbase venture capital start-up data, 2021

What are my options?

Diploma of Computer Science 

Progress to Second Year at UNSW Sydney 

This 12-month program is your first step to a career in computer science, where you’ll learn the same fundamental principles as students in the First Year degree program. 

Once you’re finished, you will launch straight into Second Year of a Bachelor of Science (Computer Science), in UNSW Sydney’s top ranked Faculty of Engineering.
 

Explore a Diploma

Foundation Studies – Physical Science 

Prepare for university success 

Over 9-15 months (depending on your program) you’ll learn academic English and computing, and improve your skills in biology, chemistry, maths and physics. 

Once you’re finished, you’ll be ready for First Year of an undergraduate degree in Computer Science, in the top ranked Faculty of Engineering. 
 

Explore Foundation Studies

Transition Program 

Join campus life and be university ready in just four months 

This four-month pre-university preparation program is a faster way to get to a degree at UNSW Sydney. Study degree-specific university approved content on campus, supported by experienced teachers. Start your journey here and join a vibrant student community right in the heart of Sydney. 

Once you’re finished, you’ll be ready for First Year of an undergraduate degree at UNSW Sydney. 
 

Explore Transition Program

Pre-Masters

Duration: 15 weeks / 1 term
Progression: Master's degree at UNSW Sydney

The Pre-Masters program is designed to provide a pathway for students who require additional academic or English language support to meet the entry requirements for a master's degree at UNSW Sydney. Upon successful completion, students will receive guaranteed entry and up to 12 Units of Credit (one or two courses) toward their master's program at UNSW Sydney.

 

Learn more

Student Guide

Download our Student Guide today for more information on our courses, life at UNSW College and how we help you reach your goals.

Student Life

As a UNSW College student, you are connected to the wider UNSW community: active, vibrant and diverse. Discover more about what that means.

Living in Sydney

One of the world’s most liveable cities, Sydney is multicultural, safe, filled of natural beauty and home to many global companies. See what Australia’s iconic harbour city can offer you.

Accommodation

UNSW Sydney has a variety of student accommodation options to suit your needs. Walk to your classes, make new friends and enjoy the amazing Sydney lifestyle.

Pathway Finder

Choose from multiple pathway options that will help you get into your university degree of choice at UNSW Sydney.

Student Services

We are here to support you while you study with us. Learn more about the many different ways we look after you from your first day to graduation.

Under 18 Care

Many of our students at UNSW College are under 18. If you do not have a parent or guardian to stay with while you are in Sydney, we can help.

Student & Alumni Stories

Hear from the students we have helped along their path to academic success and future careers, as they share their stories about studying with UNSW College.

Scholarships

We have a range of scholarship options available for UNSW College students. Find out how to apply, eligibility criteria and more.

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Foundation Studies, Academic English and Pre-Masters Program
UNSW College delivers its Foundation Studies, Academic English, and Pre-Masters Program under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K; TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education). 

Diplomas
UNSW College delivers its UNSW College Diplomas under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K; TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education). UNSW College delivers UNSW Diplomas on behalf of UNSW Sydney under CRICOS Provider Code 00098G; UNSW Sydney TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12055 (Australian University).

See https://unswcollege.edu.au/esos for more information. © 2025 UNSW Global Pty Limited.