Bachelor of Science
Learn from international leaders in science. Benefit from the guidance of teachers whose research findings are known on a global scale.
About the Course
The Bachelor of Science allows you to follow a path to suit your intended career in the sciences. You will undertake an in-depth study of the Biology – the study of all living things, encompassing diverse subdisciplines, including cell and developmental biology, behaviour, biodiversity, conservation, ecology, genetics, microbiology, anatomy and physiology. You'll learn about the function and processes that influence the ecology and evolution of organisms. You’ll consider taxa ranging from microbes to fungi, plants and animals, with a focus on Australia’s unique biodiversity. Following our philosophy of learning by doing, you’ll learn to apply your knowledge and skills, with foundational quantitative methods, to independently analyse, research and creatively solve problems. You’ll be equipped to adapt and thrive in future enterprises and employment with skills such as working collaboratively on industry- and research-related projects, and effectively communicating scientific concepts in multiple modes to a range of audiences.
Supporting the primary study in Biology, students will study a minor in human biology. This popular area of biology encompasses all aspects of what it is to be human, including genetics, anatomy, physiology, anthropology, ecology and epidemiology.
Core units in the degree will address the quantitative skills needed by all scientists. Scientists need to be able to understand, analyze and communicate data.
Critical employability skills will be addressed both in the core units and through embedded learning in the discipline units of the majors.
The course integrates real-world learning activities, culminating in a Science Capstone unit.
By providing both in-depth discipline education as well as the broader skills required by all scientists the degree will provide a world-class science education.
The Bachelor of Science will help you develop skills such as problem-solving and critical thinking through practical work and peer-assisted learning. Our science staff are recognised for their excellence in teaching and many are known internationally for their research, ensuring you are taught with the most up-to-date scientific knowledge.
Please note: Some subjects in this degree require you to attend laboratory sessions in Sydney.
Course Entry Requirements
- 4 OUA undergraduate subjects at pass level from any OUA provider, OR
- 2 OUA undergraduate subjects at credit grade level from any OUA provider
- A competitive ATAR of 75 or equivalent OP of 12.
- Academic IELTS of 6.5 overall with minimum 6.0 in each band, or equivalent.
- If you have completed prior study at Diploma level or higher, you may be eligible for credit towards your Bachelor at Macquarie which can reduce the duration of your program.
Course Structure
Recommended study pattern
Students are required to complete 24 subjects (240 credit points).
Core zone - 160 credit points comprised of:
- Major - 80 credit points
- Minor - 40 credit points
- Essential Subjects - 40 credit points
Flexible zone - 80 credit points
You can enrol in any OUA subject for which you meet the requisites.
Major
Biology major: - 80 credit points
- BIOX1310 Organisms to Ecosystems
- CHEX1001 Foundations in Chemistry and Molecular Sciences 1
- BIOX2210 Life Processes
- BIOX2310 Diversity of Life
- BIOX2610 Biological Data Analysis
- BIOX3110 Evolutionary and Conservatory Genetics
- BIOX3130 Ecology and Evolution of Emerging Infectious Diseases
- BIOX3510 Vertebrate Biology and Behaviour
Minor
Human Biology Minor - 40 credit points
- BIOX1110 Genes to Organisms
- BIOX1210 Human Biology
- BIOX2110 Genetics
- BIOX3120 Human Genetics and Evolutionary Medicine
Essential subjects - 40 credit points
- FOSX1015 Statistical Concepts for Science
- FOSX1025 Scientific Computing
- BIOX1320 Biological Basis of Behaviour
- FOSX3000 Making Science Work for You and Society :Capstone
Award requirements
To be awarded the degree, students must complete the following minimum requirements.
Minimum number of subjects for the degree = 24
- Demonstrate broad and coherent in-depth knowledge and skills from a scientific discipline.
- Identify ethical issues as they arise in scientific work and adhere to professional ethical standards when undertaking this work, determining the potential impact on others and the planet, including Indigenous, inter-cultural and environmental contexts.
- Integrate scientific knowledge and skills into practice through working collaboratively on industry- and research-related projects, and effectively communicating scientific concepts in multiple modes to a range of audiences.
- Identify the range of career paths available to science graduates and demonstrate related professional skills and attributes, including career literacy, personal accountability, use of digital communication and technologies, independent learning and critical evaluation.
- Apply sound knowledge of scientific principles, theory and practice, technical skills and foundational quantitative methods, to independently analyse, research and creatively solve complex problems.
