The University of the South Pacific (USP) has received an extension to full professional accreditation for its Bachelor of Networks and Security and Bachelor of Software Engineering programmes by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) through to 2028.
ACS is the official accrediting body for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) degree programmes in Australia and is aligned with international standards. As a signatory to the Seoul Accord, ACS also ensures that accredited programmes meet globally benchmarked criteria for computing education and professional practice.
Offered by USP’s School of Information Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Physics (STEMP), this is a significant milestone that reflects USP’s commitment to delivering internationally recognised and industry-aligned qualifications in the field of ICT.
This achievement also opens further pathways for USP graduates to pursue international employment opportunities, advanced study and professional certification.
STEMP Head of School, Professor Bibhya Sharma, welcomed the accreditation and commended the tireless efforts and dedication of staff from the Computing Science and Information Systems (CS/IS) discipline and the internal Accreditation team.
“The accreditation ensures our students are not only learning relevant and high-quality content, but are also positioned to compete and succeed on the global stage,” he said.
Professor Sharma added that this achievement is also reflective of broader regional and institutional strategies.
“We’re proud to continue providing our Pacific and global students with access to world-class education right here at home,” he said.
“This also aligns with our commitments to the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific and as Chair of the Council of Regional Organisations of the Pacific (CROP) ICT working group.”
“It also supports the University’s strategic goal of enhancing digital accessibility, capability and innovation across the region.”
Accreditation Officer, Hilda Kunau, acknowledged the achievement as a testament to USP’s robust internal quality assurance processes and collaborative approach to continuous programme improvement.
“This accreditation strengthens USP’s position as a leader in IT education in the Pacific and supports our graduates’ employability and regional development,” she said.
Dr Surya Prakash, Discipline Coordinator for Computing Science and Information Systems (CS/IS), highlighted the significance of the accreditation for the discipline and the broader academic community.
“This recognition reflects years of sustained effort by the CS/IS team in curriculum enhancement, academic leadership, and industry alignment,” he said.
“We are proud to offer our students globally benchmarked programmes that empower them to thrive in today’s digital world.”
The School also plans to introduce a new Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence programme in 2026.
