Computer Science

Studying Computer Science at the University of Waikato, you'll learn about software systems and how people and computers interact. You’ll also learn how to create new software, and ensure it's easy for people to use.
computer science

Why study Computer Science?

Computer Science is rapidly changing the world we live in. Ongoing progress in computer technology means that there is a steady need for more qualified computer professionals. The University of Waikato is recognised among the world’s best in computer science, and offers the largest range of advanced computer science courses in New Zealand.

A major in Computer Science is flexible, allowing you to focus on a particular area, or to complete a more generalist major. The papers available are carefully designed to ensure you have a good mastery of a particular area of Computer Science and will equip you with the skills you need to succeed in your chosen career.

Waikato is well-recognised internationally for our computer science research, and have especially enjoyed success with open source software development.

Students have the opportunity to work alongside internationally-respected academics on a wide range of exciting and innovative research projects in areas such as:

  • Broadband communication
  • Data compression
  • Digital libraries
  • Formal methods
  • Human-computer interaction
  • Machine learning
  • Software engineering
  • Cyber security.

Computing facilities at Waikato

The computing facilities at the University of Waikato are among the best in New Zealand with a cluster of computers for massively parallel processing.

You will also have 24 hour access to computer labs equipped with all the latest computer software, and several labs fully equipped with Mac computers, commonly used in professional design environments.

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Career Opportunities

  • Web Architect
  • Business analyst
  • Software Developer
  • Network Architect
  • Computer Animator
  • Mobile App Master
  • Data Miner
  • Usability Architect

Scholarships and Prizes

Computer Science Undergraduate Scholarship

For students who are currently in Year 12 or Year 13 at a New Zealand secondary school. Candidates must be intending to enrol full-time in either the BCompSc, BSc majoring in Computer Science, or BE(Hons) majoring in Software Engineering.

Sir William Gallagher Cyber Security Scholarship

This scholarship is for students intending to enrol in the dissertation or thesis part of a Master of Cyber Security by the end of A Trimester 2024. Candidates must have gained a 'B+' average for their most recent 120 points of study. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to gain industry experience through a research project at Gallagher.

Visit our Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships

Computer Science papers