Top Universities in Australia for Computer Science

The University of Adelaide is home to the seventh best computer science course in Australia which is ranked 113th globally. It particularly excels in the research citations per paper indicator,for which it’s ranked seventh in the world. 

Established in 1874, the University of Adelaide is the third oldest university in Australia. The School of Computer Science at the university provides a diverse array of computer science courses, enabling its students to tailor their studies towards their respective career paths. 

In joint fifth place is the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), ranked joint 73rd in the world. UTS scores excellently for their international research network, closely followed by research citations per paper and H-index, with its programmes being constantly updated to reflect developments in research and technology. 

The university has strong connections with industry professionals through its teaching and learning, research and consultation. These partnerships allow UTS to give its computer science courses a more practical element, which helps improve graduate employability. 

Ranked joint 73rd globally, Monash University shares fifth place in Australia for computer science this year with UTS. Monash University stands out as a recognised global leader in research, earning its highest score in the international research network indicator and the second highest in research citations per paper. 

Monash University’s computer science course teaches students problem-solving, programming and analytical skills, as well as how to apply these in the real world. The university’s international outlook means that students will also be able to benefit from research collaborations, global partnerships and a range of opportunities oversees. 

Sharing third place in Australia with UNSW this year, and ranked joint 57th in the world, is the University of Sydney. The highest score achieved by the university is for the research citations per paper indicator and the second highest is for H-index citations, showcasing university's research-oriented approach, aiming to address significant societal challenges. 

The majority of the university’s courses are accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) and teach fundamental principles and practical skills in computing. The university also has strong links to industry professionals, including Microsoft, IBM and CISCO, as well as having a purpose-built centre with advanced facilities, including access to Dell EMC’s Artemis 3 supercomputer

University of New South Wales (UNSW) is ranked joint 57th in the world and joint third in Australia for computer science this year. The university’s 4,400 researchers are world leaders in quantum computing and as a result, UNSW scores exceptionally well in the H-Index indicator. 

Computer science students of UNSW benefit from getting the opportunity to use all the latest technologies in high-spec labs, including a Digital Investigation Lab and a Cyber Security Suite. 

Maintaining its position as the second-best university in Australia for computer science for yet another year, the Australian National University (ANU) is also ranked 56th globally. ANU excels across all indicators, particularly securing the highest score for research citations per paper. 

Despite ANU's lowest score being recorded for academic reputation, it still holds the second rank in Australia for this indicator. The university continually updates its computer science degrees to address future challenges, enhancing the employability of its graduates. 

For the fourth consecutive year, the University of Melbourne maintains its position as the top university with the best computer science course in Australia, ranked 41st globally. The university excels across all indicators, demonstrating comprehensive success in research, academic achievements, and graduate employability.  

Notably, the University of Melbourne holds the first position in Australia for both academic and employer reputation indicators. 

The School of Computing and Information Systems at the University of Melbourne boasts over 50 years of experience, establishing itself as an international leader in teaching and research. Over this period, the school has played a pioneering role in commissioning Australia's first computer, managing initial internet connections, and consistently staying at the forefront of innovation. 

Which university is best to study computer science in Australia? 

According to the most recent QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023: Computer Science and Information Systems, the university with the best computer science course in Australia is the University of Melbourne. Globally, the course is ranked 41st, showcasing the university's consistent position at the forefront of innovation. 

Is Australia good in computer science? 

Australia is recognised as a fairly strong location for computer science studies, with its top universities ranking globally between 41st and 60th in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023: Computer Science and Information Systems. Some universities even excel in specific indicators securing indicator-wise rankings in the top 10. However, it's essential to note that other countries also offer excellent computer science programmes. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences.  

You can explore the complete list of universities offering computer science programmes here to make an informed decision based on your unique preferences and priorities. 

What is the cost of a computer science course in Australia?  

The cost of a computer science course in Australia can vary depending on the university, the specific programme, and whether the student is an international or domestic student. On average, for international students, tuition fees for computer science courses can range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 45,000 per year. Domestic students usually pay significantly lower tuition fees, and there might be additional costs for textbooks, materials, and living expenses.  

It's advisable to check the official websites of the specific universities or contact their admissions offices for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the cost of computer science courses in Australia.