Computer Science

Study the many ways in which computers can be used in problem-solving.

Overview

Computer Science is the discipline of solving problems via solutions that are implemented on computers. These problems can arise from a variety of areas, such as commerce, finance, mining, science, engineering, mathematics, music, and entertainment. To be a successful Computer Science student, you will need to be creative and have good critical thinking skills, analytical ability, and mathematical ability.

The undergraduate Computer Science curriculum teaches you the fundamental mathematical and scientific principles behind Computer Science, as well as the practical skills required. You will be taught how to design and implement programs, and how to analyse them for correctness and efficiency. You will also take courses in computer networks, database systems, operating systems, artificial intelligence, formal languages, software design, and data structures.

Career Opportunities

Software and System Architects, Software Development, Consulting, Database and System Administration, App Development, Game Design, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Robotics, Teaching, Artificial Intelligence, and Cyber Security.

Curriculum

First-year

Computer Science I:

  • Basic Computer Organisation
  • Discrete Computational Structures
  • Introduction to Algorithms and Programming
  • Introduction to Data Structures and Algorithms

AND

Mathematics I (Major):

  • Algebra I
  • Calculus I

AND

Computational and Applied Mathematics I

  • Mathematical Methods and Modelling
  • Mechanics
  • Scientific Computing

AND

Any other Level I course

Second-year

Computer Science II:

  • Database Fundamentals
  • Mobile Computing
  • Computer Networks
  • Analysis of Algorithms

Mathematics II (major):

  • Basic Analysis II
  • Multivariable Calculus II
  • Abstract Mathematics II
  • Advanced Analysis II
  • Linear Algebra II
  • Introduction to Mathematical Statistics II

AND

Computational and Applied Mathematics ll:

  • Mathematical Methods and Modelling
  • Mechanics
  • Scientific Computing
Third year

Computer Science III:

  • Analysis of Advanced Algorithms
  • Formal Languages and Automata
  • Operating Systems and System Programming
  • Software Design OR Software Engineering

AND Computational Applications III:

  • Computer Graphics and Visualisation
  • Machine Learning
  • Parallel Computing
  • Software Design Project

Entry Requirements

APS 44+

English Home Language OR First Additional Language Level 5

Mathematics Level 6

Wait-listing

Applicants with 41-43 points may be wait-listed, subject to place availability.

National Benchmark Test

All Faculty of Science applicants must write the National Benchmark Tests (NBT) before being considered for admission. There are two tests. The Academic and Quantitative Literacy Test and the Mathematics Test. Your test results are used in addition to your Grade 12 results to identify students who may need additional support during the course of their studies. 

University Application Process

  • The Student Enrolment Centre at Wits handles all student applications.
  • Please click here for an overview of the application process. 
  • Check the admission requirements for your degree. Check if any additional selection requirements apply. 
  • Submit your application, required documentation and application fee before the closing date.
  • Once you have applied, an admissions consultant will be assigned to your application.
  • Applicants can monitor the progress of their applications via the Self Service Portal.
  • If you are an international applicant and/or have a foreign qualification, please click here.

Compliance with the minimum requirements does not guarantee a place at the University. The University has a specific number of places for first year undergraduates, approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training. Final selection is made subject to the availability of places, academic results and other entry requirements where applicable.

University Fees and Funding

Click here to see the current average tuition fees for the first year of study. The Fees website also provides information about the payment of fees and closing dates for fees payments. Once you have applied you will be able to access the fees estimator on the student self-service portal. 

The Financial aid office provides information on student funding and scholarships. University-funded Scholarships include Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships, University Entrance Scholarships, Equality Scholarships, Sports Scholarships and National Olympiad winner awards. For information about NSFAS funding, please visit the NSFAS website. External bursaries portal: The Bursaries South Africa website provides a comprehensive list of bursaries in South Africa.

Wits Plus applicants: terms of payment are in accordance with University regulations, and students are not eligible for University bursaries/NSFAS or residential accommodation.