Bachelor of Science

Love science but not sure which path to take?The Bachelor of Science lets you design your own degree based on your strengths and emerging interests.

From Chemistry to Palaeontology, Genetics to Geophysics...

we support your scientific curiosity.Our degree is ranked best for Science in South Australia, and among the top 100 in the world*.

Core CourseSCIENCE 1400 Science or Fiction? ElectivesRefer to the Program Rules for available electives.

Academic Program Rules

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

Bachelor of Science

Areas of Specialisation

BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE Choose a major in: Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Chemistry, Genetics, or 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's and teaching. CHEMICAL SCIENCES Choose a major or Double Major in: 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 Choose a major in: Geology, Geophysics or 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 Choose a major in: Evolutionary Biology, Ecology, or 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 Choose a major in: Physics, or 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 and particle physics. Mathematical and computer science courses are often taken together 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 and in research. SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT BIOLOGY Choose a major in: Soil Science or 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 to work 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

• business
• defence industry
• environmental sciences
• government departments
• hospitals and health organisations
• intellectual property
• laboratory research and development
• management
• minerals and energy
• oil and gas industry
• private industry and consulting
• research
• sales and consultancy
• science communication, journalism
• teaching and lecturing
• universities.

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

Potential careers

Biochemist, Botanist, Catchment Management, Ecologist, Ecotourism, Environmental Biologist, Environmental Chemist, Environmental Consultant, Environmental Geology, Environmental Geoscientist, Environmental Management, Environmental Project Officer, Forensic Scientist, Geochemist, Geologists, Hydrogeologist, Merchant Banker, Atmospheric Chemist, Palaeontologist, Plant Scientist, Ecotour Operator, Research and Development Manager, ...