Computer systems engineers combine creativity with technology to develop solutions to some of the world’s greatest challenges. They are essential in a wide range of industries like computer design, defence applications, communication networks and internet development. With a Bachelor of Computer Systems Engineering (Honours), you might find yourself developing advanced computing equipment for industrial or business systems. Or, you could develop or maintain banking data centre to run internet banking services.

What is computer systems engineering? Computer systems engineers use digital and computing technologies to solve problems in industrial systems. As part of a Bachelor of Computer Systems Engineering (Honours) you will study courses in areas such as information processing, data transfer, communications, commerce and travel. Students will learn to combine creativity with technology to develop both hardware and software for electronic and ICT systems.

Why combine engineering with science? Complete these two bachelor degrees in just five years – deepen your technical skills with comprehensive physics courses which are available in the Bachelor of Science. Physics is fundamental to engineering and a deeper knowledge of this science can help you solve more complex engineering problems. This advanced theoretical background will also open up opportunities in research and development.

What you will study

Build critical technical engineering skills by studying courses in:

• advanced computer systems and embedded systems
• advanced physics
• computer and electrical engineering
• programmable logic design
• quantum mechanics and semiconductor physics
• signals and systems

Connect with industry through guest lectures and interdisciplinary projects solving real world engineering problems. Gain invaluable practical experience in computer systems engineering through your industry placement.

Become job-ready through our professional practice courses. You'll learn to tackle ‘wicked problems’ and develop essential workplace skills in finance, project management, sustainability, communication and entrepreneurism.

Develop your physics skills in:

• mathematical discovery
• statistics for the sciences
• electromagnetism
• modern optics

• atomic and nuclear physics
• classical mechanics and special relativity
• solid state and nanoscience
• optical fibre technology

Computer engineers are an essential part of wide range of industries. They may find employment in computer design and development, instrumentation and control, ICT infrastructure, defence applications, healthcare systems and communication networks/internet development. Average starting salaries for engineers are great – more than $80,000 per annum.

Computer engineering is flexible and diverse. You may prefer hands-on fieldwork, design and development, or a leadership role managing people and projects. Typical positions include:

• information and communications technologist
• computer systems specialist
• web developer

• information technology manager
• computer systems analyst
• network engineer

It’s also common for engineers to take on senior leadership roles in innovative businesses. The CEOs of Google, Microsoft, Amazon and Tesla Motors are all engineers. In fact, engineering is the most common degree among the highest performing Fortune 500 CEOs!

The combined degree advantage: Your advanced physics skills will help you enter specialist roles in research and development. Employers will value the depth and diversity of your skills and you’ll be well placed to take up leadership roles in engineering.