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Key facts
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course overview
Deakin’s Bachelor of Science prepares you to enter the exciting world of scientific discovery, while allowing you to forge your own unique path by choosing from a wide range of disciplines. The course is about more than just laboratory work – it equips you for the diverse, innovation-driven real-life settings in which today's science graduates work. With this industry-led degree, you can follow your curiosity into any field of science that inspires you.
You will explore a range of science disciplines at the beginning of your degree, before specialising in the discipline you enjoy the most. Deakin science graduates enter the workforce with confidence because of the extensive practical experience we offer. You will get hands-on training in our science labs, as well as opportunities to apply your skills in the real world through industry placements and community science projects.
Ready to see how far your curiosity can take you?
The Bachelor of Science trains you to be a scientific explorer, ready to solve tomorrow’s global issues through science and discovery. Graduates are increasingly expected to demonstrate flexibility and adaptability and this degree equips you with the ability to find creative solutions to everyday problems. You will build your foundational knowledge by studying a diverse range of science-related study areas before focusing on a major of your choosing.
Our broad spectrum of majors allows you to tailor your degree to your unique career aspirations. Follow a lifelong passion and get more out of your degree by learning more about the things that matter to you.
Best of all, learning isn’t confined to the classroom. Throughout the course you will gain practical experience through programs undertaken in modern teaching laboratories, complete a Community Science Project and have an opportunity to undertake an industry-based learning placement.
All of this prepares you for real-life science environments and scenarios, meaning you can confidently enter the workforce with the industry experience needed to thrive.
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.
The Bachelor of Science is available as a single degree, or as a combined course with arts, commerce, law or teaching.
Read MoreCourse information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Science
- Year
2023 course information
- VTAC code
1400311321 - Regional Access Scheme - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400314401 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400514401 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)- Deakin code
- S320
- CRICOS code?
- 083996G Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Approval status
This course is approved by the University under the Higher Education Standards Framework.
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Science, students must attain 24 credit points, which must include the following:
- Nine (9) core units (9 credit points);
- At least one six (6) credit point approved Science major sequence;
- Nine (9) credit points of elective units;
- Completion of SLE010 Laboratory and Fieldwork Safety Induction Program (0-credit point compulsory unit);
- Completion of STP050 Academic Integrity (0-credit point compulsory unit);
- Completion of STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit);
- Level 1 – up to 10 credit points;
- Level 3 - at least 6 credit points (including a minimum of 4 Science units).
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements. Click here for more information.
9
Core units
9
Electives
6
Major units
24
Total
Core Units
Choose one from:
# Must have successfully completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0 credit point unit)
∼ Mathematics - choose one from:
∼ Please note:
- It is recommended that students intending to take the Chemistry, Human Biology, Cell Biology and Genomics, Animal Biology, Plant Biology or Environmental Science majors undertake SIT191 Introduction to Statistics and Data Analysis.
- Students intending to take the Chemistry major and who have not previously completed VCE Maths Methods (units 3 and 4) are advised to alternatively undertake SIT190 Introduction to Functions, Relations and Graphs.
- For students intending to take the Mathematical Modelling major, the units SIT190 Introduction to Functions, Relations and Graphs or SIT191 Introduction to Statistics and Data Analysis are electives, although students who have not completed VCE Maths Methods (units 3 and 4) are strongly advised to first complete SIT190 Introduction to Functions, Relations and Graphs.
Chemistry - choose one from:
^Assumed knowledge: SLE133 Chemistry in our World or high achievement in VCE Chemistry 3 and 4 (or equivalent).
Please note: SLE155 Chemistry for the Professional Sciences is a required prerequisite when undertaking the Cell Biology and Genomics and Chemistry majors.
Electives
Select from a range of elective units offered across many courses. In some cases you may even be able to choose elective units from a completely different discipline area (subject to meeting unit requirements).
Major sequences
Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability.
Students must complete at least one major from the following areas:
- Animal Biology*
- Cell Biology and Genomics
- Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Human Biology
- Mathematical Modelling
- Plant Biology*
Students wishing to gain credit for a double major combination in the BSc cannot count more than 2 units in common for both majors.
*Enrolment in a Trimester 3 study period is compulsory
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
Trimester 2 - July
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Additional course information
In addition to student contribution fees, students may be required to meet their own expenses in connection with travel, food and accommodation while on fieldwork.
Course duration - additional information
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Participation requirements
You may be required to complete units in Trimester 3 depending on your chosen major. Please refer to the Handbook for unit offering patterns.
Elective units may be selected that may include compulsory placement, study tours, work-based training or collaborative research training arrangements.
Work experience
You will have an opportunity to undertake a discipline-specific Industry-Based Learning placement as part of your course. This will provide you with the opportunity to apply and consolidate what you are learning in your course, experience workplace culture and workplace practices, explore career options and develop a professional network before you graduate. deakin.edu.au/sebe/wil.
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Entry requirements
Current or recent Year 12
If you are currently studying Year 12 or completed Year 12 in the previous two years and have not attempted higher education or VET/Polytechnic study since, your selection is based on the following.
VCE Prerequisite subjects
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.
ATAR
This course uses the ATAR as part of its selection consideration.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Higher education study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of higher education after secondary schooling, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
VET study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your secondary education and subsequent academic records as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago or did not finish Year 12, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Selection adjustments
Subject adjustment
A study score of 30 in any English, any Mathematics or any Science equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 10 points.
Access and equity
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the Recognition of Prior Learning System which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
The Faculty may give credit towards a BSc for previous tertiary study and other approved forms of post-secondary study or experience. This previous study need not have led to a complete qualification; for example, a student may be given credit after completing the first year of a course at another institution. All applications for advanced standing must be made initially to the Selection/Enrolment Officer who will advise students of the necessary procedures.
All applications are considered on merit and usually no credit will be given for subjects/courses/units completed more than seven years prior to the request. For the BSc the maximum Recognition of Prior Learning that can be granted is 16 credit points. This may include up to 8 credits for non-science studies.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose to study as each unit has its own costs. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking the first year of this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of Prior Learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for that course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year.
You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the Handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
Applications for Trimester 1, 2024 open in August. Each year, thousands of students prepare for uni with the help of Deakin support services. We offer a huge range of support, including one-on-one consultations, webinars, online resources and events throughout the year.
Direct applications are open for applicants who are not currently in Year 12, including:
- recent Year 12 students who completed secondary education in the past two years
- applicants with work and life experience
- applicants with TAFE study
- applicants with higher education study.
Please note: If you’re applying for more than one course, you need to apply through VTAC.
The Indigenous Access Scheme is a pathway to undergraduate study for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and looks beyond academic results to recognise all the skills, experience and achievements that make you unique and prepare you for study at university.
To apply, complete the online application form.
Entry pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Science with our pathways finder.
Contact information
Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services and how we can help you further your career.
Call us 1800 693 888 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm)
Live Chat Mon–Thurs, 8am–7pm, Fri 8am–5pm
Careers
Want a degree that’s more than just a qualification? Our industry connections, world-class facilities and practical approach to learning are just some of the reasons why Deakin students graduate confident and ready to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.
Career outcomes
Graduates of this course may find career opportunities in government institutions, in roles such as quality assurance, occupational health and safety, research, planning, management or marketing; science related industries, working in pharmaceutical production or pharmaceutical sales; biomedical science areas such as research or hospital and laboratory science; quality assurance in analytical and diagnostic laboratories; the food industry in quality control; environment and natural resources, fisheries resource management, aquaculture management, teaching, information technology, mathematics or science journalism to name a few.
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Science (Chemistry major) has been professionally accredited by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI). Graduates of this course are encouraged to apply for membership of the respective local branch of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.
Course learning outcomes
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Apply a broad and coherent knowledge of the scientific disciplines of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology and the environment within the chosen major area(s) of study to demonstrate a deep understanding of scientific facts, scientific practices and the edifice of science. Apply technical knowledge and skills and use them in a range of activities, in a professional and/or academic setting within the major area(s) of study; this application of technical knowledge and skills being characterised by demonstrable in-depth knowledge of scientific methods and tools, and demonstrable proficiency in the utilisation of chosen major area(s) knowledge. Use hypotheses, laws, facts and theories to investigate, test, analyse, and evaluate scientific data and demonstrate autonomy, well-developed judgement and responsibility to argue about characteristics and aspects of scientific theory in the advancement of science. |
| Communication | Demonstrate listening skills and the ability to use a range of communication skills to accommodate, encourage and answer audience questions. Articulate the boundaries or limits of scientific information, experimental or field data, discuss error, probability, uncertainty, conclusions and arguments. Judge how well to present essential details of scientific procedures, key observations, results and conclusions in a professional manner using appropriate style, language and references including local, national, and international contributions or contexts. |
| Digital literacy | Use well-developed technical skills, judgement and responsibility to independently locate, analyse, evaluate the merits of, synthesise and disseminate scientific literature, information, data and results. |
| Critical thinking | Locate and evaluate scientific information from multiple sources and use scientific methods and frameworks to structure and plan observations, experimentation or fieldwork investigations. Use critical and analytical thinking and judgement to analyse, synthesise and generate an integrated knowledge, formulate hypotheses and test them against evidence-based scientific concepts and principles. |
| Problem solving | Use initiative and creativity in planning, identifying and using multiple approaches to recognise, clarify, construct and solve problems taking into account relevant contextual factors. Advocate scientific methodologies, hypotheses, laws, facts and principles to create solutions to authentic real world problems. |
| Self-management | Take personal, professional and social responsibility within changing professional science contexts to develop autonomy as learners and evaluate own performance. Work autonomously, responsibly and safely to solve unstructured problems and actively apply knowledge of regulatory frameworks and scientific methodologies to make informed choices. |
| Teamwork | Work independently and collaboratively as a team to contribute towards achieving team goals and thereby demonstrate interpersonal skills including the ability to brainstorm, negotiate, resolve conflicts, managing difficult and awkward conversations, provide constructive feedback and work in diverse professional, social and cultural contexts. |
| Global citizenship | Apply scientific knowledge and skills with a high level of autonomy, judgement, responsibility and accountability in collaboration with others to articulate the place and importance of science in the local and global community. |
Approved by Faculty Board 10 June 2021
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Footnotes
*ARWU Rankings 2022
^Australian Graduate Survey 2010–2015, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2016–2021 (GOS), Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT)