Bachelor of Science (Advanced)

Love scientific enquiry and research?

Aspire to be outstanding in your field?

The Bachelor of Science (Advanced) is a distinctive vocational degree for high-achieving students who want to excel in their chosen career.

The BSc (Advanced) has a strong emphasis on advanced research training to give students the best chance of becoming a professional scientist. Like the Bachelor of Science, students in the BSc (Advanced) design their own degree from a broad range of study options and have flexibility to select areas of specific interest. In first year, students enrol in a combination of courses that prepare them to follow pathways through to major study areas. In third year, students choose at least one area of science in which to specialise and undertake a research placement. Exposure to research culture will be explored through the BSc (Advanced) specific courses Principles and Practice of Research (Advanced) II and Principle and Practice of Research (Advanced) III.To remain in this highly competitive program, students must maintain a high Grade Point Average (GPA) throughout their candidature. Similarly, students who attain a predetermined GPA will automatically be eligible for a place in the BSc (Hons) program upon completion of the BSc (Advanced).Study PlanLevel 1Core course: SCIENCE 1300 Principles & Practice of Research (Advanced) INon core courses chosen from a range of science offerings that complement a student's interests and build towards two science majors listed below.Level 2Core course: SCIENCE 2300 Principles and Practice of Research (Advanced) II; Non core courses chosen from a range of science offerings and that maintain study in the area of two science majors listed below.Level 3Core course: SCIENCE 3100 Principles and Practice of Research (Advanced) IIINon core courses chosen from a range of science offerings that complete the study required to achieve at least one science major as listed below.

Academic Program Rules

The Calendar is a comprehensive handbook of the University's academic program rules.

Bachelor of Science (Advanced)

Areas of Specialisation

BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE Majors: Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Chemistry, Genetics, Microbiology & Immunology Biomedical Science involves the biomedical aspects of biology,and focuses on understanding both the normal functions and diseases of the human body. Emphasis is placed on the interface between modern biomedical knowledge and experimental approaches.  Students are taught by world-class biomedical researchers and experienced educators. Graduates gain employment in medical or research laboratories, hospitals, private industries, the pharmaceutical industry, sports clinics, the biotechnology industry, forensic science, food science and nutrition, cardiac technology, rehabilitation, chiropractic and teaching. CHEMICAL SCIENCES Major or Double Major: Chemistry Chemical Sciences involves the study of the structure, physical and chemical properties and reactions of elements and compounds. Students learn how to apply this knowledge to develop new and useful chemicals such as plastics, fuels and pharmaceuticals, for use in manufacture, medicine and the environment.  A wide range of professional careers may be sought by graduates including environmental monitoring and control, mining, forensic science, nanotechnology, the pharmaceutical industry, medical and agricultural laboratories, manufacturing, food technology, the chemical industry, research and teaching. EARTH SCIENCES Majors: Geology, Geophysics and Palaeontology Earth Sciences involves the study of how our planet is built, how it works, its turbulent 4.5 billion year history and how its precious resources can be located and used. It also investigates how the fragile landscape and often hazardous natural events must be studied and understood to allow them to be adequately managed.  Earth Science is one of the most diverse of the sciences covering everything from meteorites to dinosaurs and from gold deposits to volcanoes. Graduates may seek a wide range of professional careers in areas including resource management, environmental geology, mineral exploration, organic geochemistry, seismology, geomorphology, palaeontology, industry and fundamental research. EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY AND ECOLOGY Majors: Evolutionary Biology, Ecology, Ecology/Spatial Science Evolutionary Biology and Ecology allows students to investigate the diversity of life on earth and the relationships between organisms and their environments.  Students will learn about plants and animals, their ecology, conservation and management, physiology and evolution, including those in terrestrial, freshwater and marine systems. Fieldwork and the study of South Australian ecosystems are important components of many later year courses. Exciting careers exist in environmental consultancy, environmental monitoring and management, marine science, aquaculture, community education, ecotourism, wildlife parks, catchment management, research and teaching. Fieldwork and the study of South Australian ecosystems are important components of many later year courses.  Spatial Science allows students to assess, map and monitor the Australian landscapes using the latest technology in geographical information systems, remote sensing, and spatial modelling. PHYSICS Majors: Physics and Theoretical Physics Physics provides an understanding of the structure of matter and the nature of the universe. You will develop a detailed knowledge of areas which can include astrophysics, atmospheric and environmental physics, computational physics, optics and lasers, photonics and nuclear/particle physics. Mathematical and computer science courses are often taken along with physics.  Employment opportunities exist for graduates in electronics, optics and laser industries, scientific computing, telecommunications, space and astronomy programs, forensic science, defence, health and environmental industries, medical physics or in research. SOIL SCIENCE AND SPATIAL INFORMATION SCIENCE Major: Soil Science and Plant Biology Soil Science  explores the biological, chemical and physical properties of soils in Australian landscapes and uses the latest technology in geographical information systems, remote sensing, and spatial modelling to monitor distributions of landscape properties.  Graduates are keenly sought after by a wide range of government agencies, regional bodies, private enterprise and universities in the fields of oil surveying, environmental planning, soil conservation, environmental impact assessment, environmental engineering, land assessment and mapping, research and biodiversity survey and assessment.

Example Study Plan

Study Plans - Majors (areas of study)

Assessment

Varies according to chosen major but may include assignments, practicals, field reports and exams.

For those who are based in Adelaide, we will be offering a blended delivery mode that combines face-to-face with remote learning in as many courses as possible, taking into consideration social distancing and hygiene. All lectures will continue to be delivered online for the remainder of the year, with some exceptions.

For our students who are studying offshore for the remainder of the 2020 Academic Year, the University will continue to offer high-quality access to the learning resources remotely. This includes all lectures, tutorials and other support material. Students will be advised in advance if there are course components that cannot be provided in remote mode and, wherever possible, offered alternative courses.

Career Readiness

The Bachelor of Science (Advanced) is designed to give you the best chance of becoming a professional scientist. As such, there’s a strong emphasis on advanced research training.

The University of Adelaide Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry.

Graduate Attributes

Adelaide Graduate Attributes

1. Deep discipline knowledge
2. Critical thinking and problem solving
3. Teamwork and communication skills
4. Career and leadership readiness
5. Intercultural and ethical competency
6. Self-awareness and emotional intelligence

Industry Placement

Potential careers

Merchant Banker, Atmospheric Chemist, Palaeontologist, Plant Scientist, Public Health Scientist, Ecotour Operator, Research and Development Manager, Environmental Manager, Flavour Chemist, Geobiologist, Geospatial Scientist, Toxicologist, Hedge Fund Manager, Wildlife Conservationist, Land Resources and Land Care, Aerospace Scientist, Laser and Photonics Scientist / Engineer, Air-Traffic Controller, Analytical Chemist, Life Scientist, Animal Behaviourist, Aquaculture, ...