Bachelor of Computational Design at UNSW Sydney

Bachelor's Degree Architecture Full Time

Bachelor of Computational Design

at University of New South Wales · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

061905J

CRICOS provider code

00098G

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

3.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$154,500 total

Per year

A$46,172/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Bachelor of Computational Design at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney is an innovative degree that merges architecture, digital design, and computational technologies. During this 3.5-year programme, students engage with the core concepts of design thinking, computational methods, and digital fabrication, developing key skills in parametric design, 3D modelling, and coding relevant to the built environment.

The degree structure consists of sequential units of study, each carrying designated credit points. These units explore foundational and advanced topics in design, digital environments, programming, and the technological tools shaping modern architecture and construction. Semester-based study allows for a logical progression through core and elective subjects. The programme culminates in a capstone project, where students synthesise their learning to tackle complex, real-world design challenges, often in collaboration with industry or research partners.

UNSW’s strong industry connections within Australia’s architecture, engineering, and construction sectors provide students with valuable opportunities for work-integrated learning, internships, and studio projects. Professional placements, where available, introduce students to leading Australian firms and innovative workplaces, ensuring graduates are workplace-ready. The course is well-suited to creative thinkers interested in both design and advanced technology, and to those who wish to shape the future of the built environment using computational tools.

Graduates of this programme gain technical proficiency, creative problem-solving abilities, and the communication and collaboration skills desired by employers. While the Bachelor of Computational Design is not a qualification for registered architectural practice, it is an ideal foundation for a wide range of careers or further study. International students must demonstrate English proficiency, commonly with an IELTS Academic score of 6.0–6.5 overall or equivalent. For the latest unit offerings, admission requirements, and pathways, consult the official UNSW or CRICOS programme page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Computational designer in architecture and design firms
Digital fabrication and prototyping specialist
BIM (Building Information Modelling) coordinator
Design technology consultant for construction and engineering companies
Parametric modeller in the built environment sectors
Research and development roles in technology-driven design practices
Project coordinator in digital transformation for urban development

Graduates are sought after in Australia’s architecture, construction, engineering, and creative industries, supported by work rights for international students (up to 48 hours per fortnight during study) and eligibility for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Bachelor of Computational Design at University of New South Wales?

It typically takes 3.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$154,500 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Computational designer in architecture and design firmsDigital fabrication and prototyping specialistBIM (Building Information Modelling) coordinatorDesign technology consultant for construction and engineering companiesParametric modeller in the built environment sectorsResearch...

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