Bachelor of Science (Honours)

2024 Deakin University Handbook

Year

2024 course information

Award granted Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Deakin course codeS400
Faculty

Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment

CampusOffered at Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
OnlineNo
Duration1 year full-time or part-time equivalent
Course Map - enrolment planning tool

These course maps are for new students commencing from Semester 1 2024:

These course maps are for new students commencing from Semester 2 2024:

Course maps for commencement in previous years are available on the Course Maps webpage or please contact a Student Adviser in Student Central.

CRICOS course code063355G Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition

The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 8.

Course sub-headings

Course overview

Deakin’s Bachelor of Science (Honours) continues your studies in the exciting world of scientific discovery, while you forge your own unique path through research exploration in either life and environmental sciences, chemistry or mathematics. You will undertake focused research in your area of interest, developing key skills before launching into a successful career.

Honours is an optional year of specialised study that allows you to combine the theory and practical skills gained throughout your undergraduate degree. You’ll explore research of global significance and develop crucial skills in research design and implementation, critical thinking, data analysis, digital literacy and scientific communication. You will also develop valuable skills for lifelong learning – an essential professional attribute in this ever-evolving field.

Ready to see how far your scientific curiosity can take you?

The coursework component of the honours program provides you with essential knowledge in key principles of research – experimental design, quantitative analysis and science professionalism. The research project component enables you to develop the research skills necessary to investigate your area of interest.

Importantly, you will be guided every step of the way by experts who are leaders in their field. Our teaching staff are active contributors to the science industry, putting them right at the forefront of scientific research and making them well placed to pass on the skills that are most valued by employers. You’ll graduate with skills that provide you with a competitive edge in the job market or ready to embark on further study and research training (including masters and PhD programs).

Career opportunities

The Bachelor of Science (Honours) will produce high quality graduates with the generic skills, theoretical knowledge, and specialised practical skills to either gain employment in their relevant discipline (biology, chemistry or mathematics) or to succeed in further study such as Higher Degrees by Research.

Participation requirements

Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.

Fees and charges

Fees and charges vary depending on the type of fee place you hold, your course, your commencement year, the units you choose to study and their study discipline, and your study load.

Tuition fees increase at the beginning of each calendar year and all fees quoted are in Australian dollars ($AUD). Tuition fees do not include textbooks, computer equipment or software, other equipment or costs such as mandatory checks, travel and stationery.

Use the Fee estimator to see course and unit fees applicable to your course and type of place. For further information regarding tuition fees, other fees and charges, invoice due dates, withdrawal dates, payment methods visit our Current students website.

Course Learning Outcomes

Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes

Course Learning Outcomes

Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities

Graduates will have advanced theoretical and technical knowledge in one of biology, chemistry or mathematics.

Communication

Communicate effectively the design and outcomes of research using a range of verbal, graphical and written forms customised for diverse audiences.

Digital literacy

Utilise a range of digital technologies and information sources to discover, select, analyse, employ, evaluate, critique, and disseminate outcomes from the research project.

Critical thinking

Use critical and analytical thinking to identify problems and the design of solutions using established theories, models, constructs and practice.

Problem solving

Apply theoretical constructs, advanced skills and critical analysis to demonstrate well developed judgement adaptability and evaluation of solutions to research problems.

Self-management

Develop and apply knowledge and skills in creative ways to demonstrate advanced levels of autonomy, initiative and ethical and professional behaviour in research.

Teamwork

Work independently and/or collaboratively within a research team, receiving advice and guidance from supervisor/s that contributes to achieving the outcomes of the Honours project.

Global citizenship

Apply scientific knowledge and skills with a high level of autonomy, judgement, responsibility and accountability in collaboration with stakeholders to articulate the place and importance of scientific inquiry in the local and global context.

Approved by Faculty Board 27 June 2019

Course rules

To complete the Bachelor of Science (Honours), students must attain 8 credit points, which must include the following:

  • six (6) core units within your chosen research specialisation (6 credit points)
  • two (2) core units that cover coursework in scientific disciplines (2 credit points)
  • completion of DAI001 Academic Integrity Module (0-credit point compulsory unit).

Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.

Course structure

Core

Students are required to complete all units within one of the following discipline areas:

Biology - unit set code SP-S000066

DAI001Academic Integrity Module (0 credit points)

SLE420Honours Biology Research 1A

SLE421Honours Biology Research 1B

SLE422Honours Biology Research 2 (2 credit points)

SLE423Honours Biology Research 3 (2 credit points)

SLE451Science Professionalism

SLE452Research Design and Data Analysis


Chemistry - unit set code SP-S000067

DAI001Academic Integrity Module (0 credit points)

SLE430Honours Chemistry Research 1A

SLE431Honours Chemistry Research 1B

SLE432Honours Chemistry Research 2 (2 credit points)

SLE433Honours Chemistry Research 3 (2 credit points)

SLE451Science Professionalism

SLE453Advanced Topics in Chemistry


Mathematics - unit set code SP-S000068

DAI001Academic Integrity Module (0 credit points)

SLE451Science Professionalism

SLE452Research Design and Data Analysis

SIT723Research Techniques and Applications (2 credit points)

SIT746Research Project (Advanced) (2 credit points)

SIT747Research Project (Publication) (2 credit points)

Other course information

Projects and Supervision - additional information

As part of your application for this course, you will be required to first contact potential supervisors and discuss projects. Once you have met with a supervisor and agreed on a project, you will need to complete an application form and submit this via the Deakin applicant portal.

Information on How to Apply, important dates and the 2024 Honours projects booklet can be found on the Honours in Life and Environmental Sciences page.

Course duration

Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.

Further information

Student Central can help you with course planning, choosing the right units and explaining course rules and requirements.

Research and research-related study

The research project provides the practical skills necessary to deliver a strong foundation in research. Thesis preparation will include an introduction to research methodologies appropriate to the discipline including associated methods, processes and practice. You will work with a member of staff who is experienced in research and who can assist you to gain insight into research and independent investigation. Staff use their research experience and industry skills to ensure that the research projects and course delivery methods are current.