If you want to explore the cutting edge of research in computing and gain skills that will enable you to development software that tackles complex problems then you are looking at the right degree.
This is a unique, interdisciplinary program that will prepare you to be a future leader of the information and communications technology revolution. It also is a great pathway to a PhD.
As a degree accredited by the Australian Computer Society you will not only learn advanced computing techniques and have the opportunity to complete a unique specialisation, but also develop exceptional professional skills including communication and teamwork.
You’ll work alongside distinguished researchers at ANU and pursue research projects in your own area of interest.
While some of our students are developing code which controls unmanned aerial vehicles, others are busy writing algorithms to mine through Petabytes of data. If mastering challenging projects is your thing, the ANU Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research and Development) can launch you into a spectacular career
Mathematics is at the core of all technological innovations.
If you’d like to master quantitative problem-solving, mathematical modelling and critical thinking, this is the degree for you.
It is an elite, research-focused program for exceptional students at Australia’s highest-ranked university.
Make your mark with maths at ANU: find out more about mathematical studies, the degree structure, the university experience, career opportunities and student stories on our website. Work and learn in both independent and collaborative ways with others to encompass diverse abilities and perspectives.
Get the inside story on what it’s like to be an ANU student by visiting our student blog.
This program is not available for Semester 2 commencement.
Career Options
ANU ranks among the world's very finest universities. Our nearly 100,000 alumni include political, business, government, and academic leaders around the world.
We have graduated remarkable people from every part of our continent, our region and all walks of life.
Employment Opportunities
Innovative solutions come to those working in R&D. Graduates can choose to work in ICT R&D in the public or private sector, and in academia.
They can work across a range of industries in a variety of roles. Examples include:
- Data Mining Specialist
- Big Data Analyst
- Human-Computer Interaction Specialist,
- Software Developer
- Embedded systems developer
- Network Architect
- Systems Analyst
- Computer Engineer
- Advanced Software Solutions Engineer
- Software Architect
Our graduates work in many organisations including:
- IBM
- Microsoft
- Yahoo
- Intel
- Price Waterhouse Coopers
- Accenture Australia
- Bloomberg
- National Australia Bank
- Citigroup
- Deloitte
- Unisys
- Australian Government (Australian Taxation Office, Reserve Bank of Australia, Department of Broadband, Communication and the Digital Economy, etc.)
Innovative solutions come to those working in R&D. Graduates can choose to work in ICT R&D in the public or private sector, and in academia.
They can work across a range of industries in a variety of roles. Examples include:
- Data Mining Specialist
- Big Data Analyst
- Human-Computer Interaction Specialist,
- Software Developer
- Embedded systems developer
- Network Architect
- Systems Analyst
- Computer Engineer
- Advanced Software Solutions Engineer
- Software Architect
Our graduates work in many organisations including:
- IBM
- Microsoft
- Yahoo
- Intel
- Price Waterhouse Coopers
- Accenture Australia
- Bloomberg
- National Australia Bank
- Citigroup
- Deloitte
- Unisys
- Australian Government (Australian Taxation Office, Reserve Bank of Australia, Department of Broadband, Communication and the Digital Economy, etc.)
Learning Outcomes
- Define and analyse complex problems, and design, implement and evaluate solutions that demonstrate an understanding of the systems context in which software is developed and operated including economic, social, historical, sustainability and ethical aspects
- Demonstrate an operational and theoretical understanding of the foundations of computer science including programming, algorithms, logic, architectures and data structures
- Recognise connections and recurring themes, including abstraction and complexity, across the discipline
- Adapt to new environments and technologies, and to innovate
- Demonstrate an understanding of deep knowledge in at least one area of computer science
- Communicate complex concepts effectively with diverse audiences using a range of modalities
- Work effectively within teams in order to achieve a common goal
- Demonstrate commitment to professional conduct and development that recognises the social, legal and ethical implications of their work, to work independently, and self- and peer-assess performance
- Demonstrate a deep understanding of the fundamentals of research methodologies, including defining research problems, background reading and literature review, designing experiments, and effectively communicating results
- Proficiently apply research methods to the solution of contemporary research problems in computer science, and
- Demonstrate an understanding of research processes including research proposals, article reviewing and ethics clearance.
- Think clearly, sequentially and logically, as demonstrated by the critical analysis of quantitative problems, such as the ability to read, understand and write mathematical proofs.
Demonstrate mastery of the concepts and techniques of Advanced Mathematics.
Communicate concepts and results clearly and effectively both in writing and orally.
Systematically identify relevant theory and concepts, relate these to appropriate methodologies and evidence, and draw appropriate conclusions.
Engage in critical review of appropriate and relevant information sources.
Work and learn in both independent and collaborative ways with others to encompass diverse abilities and perspectives.
Further Information
The Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research & Development) is a four year program that is accredited by the Australian Computing Society. The program has been specifically designed to provide exceptional students with early experience in undertaking research and or development. The program combines a strong foundation in computer science and mathematics, a specialty advanced computing curricula unique to the ANU, and a project based, research intensive course of study, also unique to the ANU. It provides ample scope for the student to pursue research in individual areas of interest, working with researchers of international distinction in the areas of computer science, engineering and mathematics.
A graduate of the program will have a solid grounding in the fundamentals of computing and relevant mathematics, expertise in the software development process, technical knowledge in a selection of contemporary and advanced ICT topics, and a solid experience in research methods in the ICT area.
Students are required to maintain high grades to remain and complete this program. Students who are unable to maintain these grades may transfer into the Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours) degree program which also has many research and development opportunities.
A graduate of the program will have the skills, knowledge and capability to go onto advanced research programs in Computer Science and related areas, and have the potential to become innovators and leaders in the Information Communication Technology (ICT) discipline
Program Transfers
Current students wishing to transfer into the Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research & Development) are required to achieve at least an 80% average in the university courses they have completed and be deemed suitable by an interview with the program convenor. Generally students would need to transfer into the program before the end of their second year.
Learn more about the degrees offered at the ANU College of Engineering and Computer Science, read current student profiles to see what campus life is really like, and discover what our graduates have achieved since leaving the College. Visit the College of Engineering and Computer Science website.
The Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research & Development) is a four year program that is accredited by the Australian Computing Society. The program has been specifically designed to provide exceptional students with early experience in undertaking research and or development. The program combines a strong foundation in computer science and mathematics, a specialty advanced computing curricula unique to the ANU, and a project based, research intensive course of study, also unique to the ANU. It provides ample scope for the student to pursue research in individual areas of interest, working with researchers of international distinction in the areas of computer science, engineering and mathematics.
A graduate of the program will have a solid grounding in the fundamentals of computing and relevant mathematics, expertise in the software development process, technical knowledge in a selection of contemporary and advanced ICT topics, and a solid experience in research methods in the ICT area.
Students are required to maintain high grades to remain and complete this program. Students who are unable to maintain these grades may transfer into the Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours) degree program which also has many research and development opportunities.
A graduate of the program will have the skills, knowledge and capability to go onto advanced research programs in Computer Science and related areas, and have the potential to become innovators and leaders in the Information Communication Technology (ICT) discipline
Program Transfers
Current students wishing to transfer into the Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research & Development) are required to achieve at least an 80% average in the university courses they have completed and be deemed suitable by an interview with the program convenor. Generally students would need to transfer into the program before the end of their second year.
Learn more about the degrees offered at the ANU College of Engineering and Computer Science, read current student profiles to see what campus life is really like, and discover what our graduates have achieved since leaving the College. Visit the College of Engineering and Computer Science website.
Admission Requirements
- ATAR:
- 98
- International Baccalaureate:
- 40
Pathways
Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours) might be a pathway for students who meet the Maths pre-requisites but do not have the required score for direct entry into this program.
Eligible students should enrol into Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours) and if they can maintain a High Distinction average in their first year, they may be approved to transfer into the R&D program in their second year.
Prerequisites
ACT: Specialist Mathematics (Major/Minor)/Specialist Methods(Major/Minor), NSW: Mathematics Extension 1. More information about interstate subject equivalencies can be found here.
ACT: Specialist Mathematics/ Specialist Methods (double major)/ Discrete Mathematics ANU/UC, NSW: Mathematics Extension 2 or equivalent. More information about interstate subject equivalencies can be found here.
Adjustment Factors
Adjustment factors are additional points added to an applicant's Selection Rank (for example an applicant's ATAR). ANU offers adjustment factors based on performance and equity principles, such as for high achievement in nationally strategic senior secondary subjects and for recognition of difficult circumstances that students face in their studies.
Selection Rank adjustments are granted in accordance with the approved schedules, and no more than 15 (maximum 5 subject/performance-based adjustment factors and maximum 10 equity-based adjustment factors) can be awarded.
You may be considered for adjustment factors if you have:
- applied for an eligible ANU Bachelor degree program
- undertaken Australian Year 12 or the International Baccalaureate
- achieved an ATAR or equivalent at or above 70
- not previously attempted tertiary study.
Please visit the ANU Adjustment Factors website for further information.
Indicative fees
Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research and Development) (Honours) - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
For more information see: http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/costs-fees
- Annual indicative fee for international students
- $49,330.00
Scholarships
ANU offers a wide range of scholarships to students to assist with the cost of their studies.
Eligibility to apply for ANU scholarships varies depending on the specifics of the scholarship and can be categorised by the type of student you are. Specific scholarship application process information is included in the relevant scholarship listing.
For further information see the Scholarships website.
Program Requirements
The Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research and Development) (Honours) flexible double degree component requires completion of 144 units, of which:
A maximum of 60 units may come from completion of 1000-level courses
12 units count towards the requirements of the other double degree component
The 144 units must include:
78 units from completion of compulsory courses from the following list:
COMP1130 Programming as Problem Solving (Advanced)
COMP1140 Structured Programming (Advanced)
COMP1600 Foundations of Computing
COMP2100 Software Design Methodologies
COMP2120 Software Engineering
COMP2300 Computer Organisation and Program Execution
COMP2310 Systems, Networks and Concurrency
COMP2420 Introduction to Data Management, Analysis and Security
COMP2550 Advanced Computing R&D Methods
COMP2560 Studies in Advanced Computing R&D
COMP3600 Algorithms
COMP3770 Individual Research Project (12 units)
6 units from completion of course from the following list:
MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models
MATH2222 Introduction to Mathematical Thinking: Problem-Solving and Proofs
6 units from completion of course from the following list:
MATH1013 Mathematics and Applications 1
MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1
6 units from completion of course from the following list:
MATH1014 Mathematics and Applications 2
MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2
STAT1003 Statistical Techniques
STAT1008 Quantitative Research Methods
24 units from completion of one of the following specialisations:
Machine Learning
Artificial Intelligence
Systems and Architecture
Theoretical Computer Science
Human-Centred and Creative Computing
24 units from completion of COMP4550 Advanced Computing Research Project
The Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences flexible double degree component requires completion of 96 units, of which:
A maximum of 36 units may come from completion of 1000-level courses
The 96 units must consist of:
36 units from the completion of the following compulsory courses:
MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1
MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2
MATH2222 Introduction to Mathematical Thinking: Problem Solving and Proofs
MATH2305 Applied Mathematics I
MATH2320 Advanced Analysis 1: Metric Spaces and Applications
MATH2322 Advanced Algebra 1: Groups, Rings and Linear Algebra
36 units from completion of 3000-level courses from the subject area MATH Mathematics
24 units from completion of courses from the Science course list
Students must achieve a minimum 70% weighted average mark in each period (Summer/First Semester/Autumn and Winter/Second Semester/Spring) in the subject area of MATH in order to continue in the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences.
Students who do not achieve a minimum of 70% weighted average mark will be transferred to the Bachelor of Science.
Specialisations
Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research and Development) (Honours) Specialisations
Study Options
| Year 1 | COMP1130 Programming as Problem Solving (Advanced) 6 units | MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models 6 units | MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1 6 units OR MATH1013; | |
| COMP1140 Structured Programming (Advanced) 6 units | COMP1600 Foundations of Computing 6 units | MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2 6 units OR MATH1014; | ||
| Year 2 | COMP2100 Software Design Methodologies 6 units | COMP2550 Advanced Computing R&D Methods 6 units | COMP2300 Computer Organisation and Program Execution 6 units | |
| COMP2120 Software Engineering 6 units | COMP2310 Systems, Networks, and Concurrency 6 units | COMP2560 Studies in Advanced Computing R&D 6 units | ||
| Year 3 | COMP2420 Introduction to Data Management, Analysis and Security 6 units | Computing Research Specialisation 6 units | ||
| COMP3600 Algorithms 6 units | Computing Research Specialisation 6 units | |||
| Year 4 | COMP3770 Individual Research Project 6 units | Computing Research Specialisation 6 units | ||
| COMP3770 Individual Research Project 6 units | Computing Research Specialisation 6 units | |||
| Year 5 | COMP4550 Advanced Computing Research Project 12 units | COMP4550 | ||
| COMP4550 Advanced Computing Research Project 12 units | COMP4550 |
Back to the Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research and Development) (Honours) page
As a high-achieving student in the Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research & Development) (Honours) (BAC(R&D)) degree you have chosen a unique degree. You will study to become an innovator and a future leader of the ICT revolution by undertaking research with some of the world's leading researchers. You will undertake an accelarated mode of learning, develop a strong foundation in core computer science and be provided with the tools to develop the next generation of computing applications.
The BAC can be taken as a single degree which inlcudes a number of core and compulsory courses. The single degree also offers 48 units (eight courses) of electives that can be taken from additional computing courses (enabling you to complete a Computing major, minor, or specialisation), or from other university courses.
The BAC(R&D) can also be taken as a part of many double degrees. You may not be able to complete a major in a computing discipline but a minor might be possible. You will be able to specialise in other areas as part of the ‘other half’ of your double degree.Single degree
- This degree requires 192 units (each course is typically 6 units)
- Typically you will study four courses per semester (total of 24 units)
Double degree
- This degree requires 144 units (each course is typically 6 units)
- Typically you will study four courses per semester (total of 24 units)
- You will complete a Research and Development major (48 units)
- There are no university electives in the double degree
- You can find your double degree with BAC(R&D) from Program and Courses
About this degree
- Typically you will study 4 courses per semester (total of 24 units) as a
full time student giving you a total of 24 courses across your whole
degree.
- The degree comprises compulsory requirements, additional computing electives, research and development projects, internship and electives in the single degree.
- There are no electives in the double degree but you still may be able to study a computing specialisation (24 units).
Enrolment Status
While it is possible to enrol in fewer courses per semester, which is
called studying part-time, it will take you longer to finish your
program and get your degree. If you are an international study you must
always be full-time.
Important things to keep in mind when choosing your 1000-level courses
- IF YOU ARE COMMENCING IN JULY YOU SHOULD SEND AN EMAIL TO <studentadmin.cecs@anu.edu.au> FOR ADVICE ABOUT YOUR ENROLMENT OR YOU SHOULD ATTEND AN ENROLMENT ADVICE SESSION AT THE UNIVERSITY IN THE WEEK BEFORE SEMESTER COMMENCES.
- As the BAC(R&D) is an advanced degree, you will study both first and second year courses in your first year. First year courses are typically '1000-level' courses ie start with '1' while second year courses typically start with '2'.
- Students doing double degrees with business degrees do STAT1008 in place of STAT1003 and take an additional Computing elective.
- You need to enrol in courses for both First Semester and Second Semester
- You can't study more than four courses (24 units) per semester, eight for the year
- You may take 1000-level courses later in your program. But remember you can’t count more than ten 1000-level courses (60 units) towards your single degree or six 1000-level courses (36 units) towards your BAC(R&D) half of the double degree.
Study Options
Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research & Development) (Honours)
Study Options
| Year 1 48 units | COMP1130 Programming as Problem Solving (Advanced) 6 units | MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models 6 units | MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1 6 units OR MATH1013; | University Elective |
| COMP1140 Structured Programming (Advanced) 6 units | COMP1600 Foundations of Computing 6 units | MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2 6 units OR MATH1014; | University Elective |
Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Research & Development) (Honours)
Study Options
| Year 1 48 units | COMP1130 Programming as Problem Solving (Advanced) 6 units | MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models 6 units | MATH1013 or MATH1115 | Other Degree course |
| COMP1140 Structured Programming (Advanced) 6 units | COMP1600 Foundations of Computing 6 units | MATH1014 or MATH1116 or STAT1003 or STAT1008 | Other Degree course |
Academic Advice
For assistance, please email: studentadmin.cecs@anu.edu.au
Back to the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences page
Please note that if you are commencing your studies in semester 2 there may be restrictions on the courses available for enrolment. We strongly recommend that you make an appointment with an academic advisor. You can make an appointment by using our online booking system here. There will also be advisory sessions offered during the week before semester commences.
Mathematics is the study of universal patterns and structures and is the quantitative language of the world. It underpins information technology, computer science, engineering, and the physical sciences; and it plays an increasingly important role in the biological and medical sciences, economics, finance, environmental science, sociology and psychology. The Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences provides the tools to study these patterns and structures and along the way you learn transferable skills in critical thinking, analysis, investigation and evidenced-based decision making.
Your program can concentrate on theoretical mathematics, or can extend to a range of applicable mathematical areas such as mathematical modelling, mathematical finance, mathematical economics, mathematical physics, and quantitative biology.
Single degree
In a Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences single degree program you will study a total of 144 units (24 courses) and as a full time student you will need to take 24 units (4 courses) per semester. Of these courses you will need to complete a minimum of 12 core and advanced MATH courses (72 units) together with another 4 courses from the Science course list. You also can choose 8 elective courses (48 units) from any ANU Colleges. You can try a range of courses or take a major or minor in a non-mathematics subject, such as philosophy, history or computing. The choice is yours.
Summary:
This degree requires 144 units (24 courses)A maximum of 60 units (10 courses) of 1000-level courses
- 36 units (6 courses) of core MATH courses
- A minimum of 36 units (6 courses) of advanced MATH 3000-level courses
- 24 units from completion of courses from thethe Science course list
- An average mark of 70% in core and advanced MATH courses must be maintained each semester to remain in the program
- 48 units (8 course) from the Science course list or another ANU College
Double degree
The Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences can also be taken as a part of many double degrees.
In a Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences double degree program you will study a total of 96 units (16 courses) and as a full time student you will take 4 courses per semester (24 units). However, in each semester you will be likely to take 2 courses from your Mathematical Sciences degree and 2 courses from the other half of your double degree – still a total of 4 courses a semester.
Summary:
- In a flexible double degree the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences component requires 96 units (16 courses)
- 36 units (6 courses) of core MATH courses
- A minimum of 36 units (6 courses) of advanced MATH 3000-level courses
- 24 units from completion of courses from the Science course list
- An average mark of 70% in core and advanced MATH courses must be maintained each semester to remain in the program
Enrolment Status
It is possible to enrol in fewer courses per
semester but it will take you longer to finish your program and get your
degree. If you are an international student you must always be enrolled
full-time in 24 units (4 course) each semester.
- You need to enrol in courses for both First Semester and Second Semester.
- You can’t study more than 4 courses (24 units) per semester, 8 courses (48 units) for the year.
- You may take 1000-level courses later in your program. But remember you can’t count more than ten 1000-level courses (60 units) towards your single degree or six 1000-level courses (36 units) towards your Mathematical Sciences half of the double degree.
Important things to keep in mind when choosing your 1000-level courses
There are two compulsory 1000 level courses you must take in your first year year:
Electives
Remember you can
choose up to 8 courses from another ANU College if you are undertaking the single Bachelor of Mathematical
Sciences program.
Study Options
Single degree
This is a typical study pattern for the first year of a student undertaking a Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences.Study Options
| Year 1 48 units | MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1 6 units | Science elective 6 units | Science or non-science course | Science or non-science course |
| MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2 6 units | Science elective 6 units | Science or non-science course | Science or non-science course |
Double degree
This is a typical study pattern for the first year of a student undertaking a Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences with another three year degree, such as the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science . Please note that for some double degrees (e.g. with Bachelor of Engineering) you may only be able to take one course in semester 1 for your mathematical science degree. In these circumstances it is recommended that in your first year you take MATH1115, MATH1116.Study Options
| Year 1 48 units | MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1 6 units | Science elective 6 units | Degree B Course | Degree B Course |
| MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2 6 units | Science elective 6 units | Degree B Course | Degree B Course |
Academic Advice
For further information, you can:
- Visit the Mathematical Sciences Institute webpage here, or
- Download the Science first year course guide available here, or
- View the information at our New commencers & first year students page, or
- Email us at science.enquiries@anu.edu.au, or
- Come and talk to someone - you can make an appointment with an academic advisor here