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Computer equipment.

Major

Programming Theory

Bachelor of Computer Science
Overview Study details

Programming theory is the backbone of software development, exploring the design and analysis of languages and tools that ensure efficient, secure and reliable software across critical domains.

Software, programming tools and frameworks change constantly. What stays relevant are the fundamentals. In this major, you’ll go beyond writing code to understand how software works beneath the surface, from programming language design and compilers to program analysis, concurrency and formal reasoning.

This major is ideal if you enjoy analytical thinking, problem solving and understanding why software behaves the way it does. You'll learn from academics with expertise in computing’s core principles, and build the kind of technical maturity employers value. 

You’ll explore how developers create software that's reliable, efficient and easier to adapt, while building the technical depth to solve complex computing problems.

Your studies may include:

  • functional programming
  • logic programming
  • compilers
  • formal methods
  • program analysis
  • concurrency
  • algorithms
  • optimisation.

These concepts can support work across software development, artificial intelligence, cyber security, robotics, embedded systems, distributed systems and compiler design.

By focusing on the ideas behind programming languages and systems, you’ll build the adaptability to keep learning as technologies change and the confidence to make strong technical decisions.

Highlights

1 in Queensland for computer science and information systems

QS World University Rankings 2026

Career possibilities

Our programs prepare you for your first job and beyond. Here are some of the careers you could be on your way to:

  • Software engineer
  • Developer programmer
  • Software architect
  • Research scientist
  • Analyst programmer
  • Cyber security analyst

Average annual salary range

Systems Analyst

$95K–$115K

seek.com.au

Next steps after graduation

Your knowledge of programming languages, systems and theory can support work across software development, technology consulting, research and advanced computing.

How you'll learn

Your learning experiences are designed to best suit the learning outcomes of the courses you choose.

  • Lectures
  • Tutorials
  • Seminars
  • Workshops

What you'll study

At UQ, subjects are called 'courses'. Here's a sample of the courses you could study:

  • Principles of Program Analysis
  • Functional and Logic Programming
  • Operating Systems Architecture
  • Web/Mobile Programming [Core course]

See courses and program structure

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