Explore your study options
When you study biological science at Deakin, you’ll spend time in an organisation and apply knowledge as you learn in real life. It’s a great way to explore your career options, build a professional network and graduate with industry experience.
Undergraduate
Undergraduate (your first degree)
A Deakin undergraduate course is the foundation of your future career, usually completed in two to four years. Duration varies based on degree type, enrolment pattern and any credit received from recognition of prior learning.
Postgraduate
Postgraduate (further study)
A postgraduate qualification can be undertaken by students who have already completed an undergraduate degree or possess significant, demonstrable work experience. Postgraduate courses include graduate certificates, graduate diplomas, masters and PhDs, as well as specialist programs for industry professionals.
Research
Higher Degrees by Research (supervised research)
Research degrees are research based master’s or PhD programs that focus on a single area of expertise. They provide students the opportunity to carry out highly specialised research under expert supervision.
Choose a biological science degree that will make you work ready
Our science courses offer an experience, not just a classroom degree. Cultivate a deep understanding of biology along with related developments in informatics and technology and learn what's needed to reduce our impact on living resources and ecosystems.
Valuable industry experience
Apply your skills while you learn in the real world by undertaking 80 hours of work placement within industry or a relevant company. You’ll have the option to complete your placement locally or internationally.
Inspiring facilities
We offer advanced equipment for scientists and dedicated spaces such as our aquaculture facilities, and biomedical and geographic information systems (GIS) labs. You'll learn in modern facilities equipped with the same state-of-the-art technologies professionals use.
Top professional roles in biological science
Natural and physical science professional roles are projected to grow by 19.7% to 155,200 jobs by 2033. The life sciences are expected to see a 19.4% increase.* Prepare for success in this booming industry and get ahead with Deakin – we’ll help you gain practical experience to hit the ground running.
You'll be prepared for a career in a wide range of areas, including:
- animal health
- environmental consulting
- emerging biotechnology industries
- herbaria
- museums
- primary industries
- wildlife biology
- quarantine services
- the general health and medical industry.
Study with the best
Deakin is ranked in the top 250 universities globally for life sciences.^ This rating highlights Deakin’s world-class facilities, academic reputation, employer reputation and research impact.
Through Deakin, I have developed a passion for wildlife research, the environment and sustainability.
Darcy Watchorn
Biological science student
World-class teaching experiences
Our global learning opportunities, industry connections and expert teaching staff will equip you with the specialised skills you need to succeed in your future career.
Start here, go anywhere
On top of your industry placements, you will also have opportunities to participate in our study abroad and international study tour programs. Gain a unique skill set and a global perspective that sets you apart.
Industry connections
Attend our annual careers evening for current students every April, held at our Melbourne Burwood, Geelong Waurn Ponds and Warrnambool campuses. Raise your profile and network with student-led societies and guest industry speakers.
Research and teaching excellence
Our teaching and research staff are experts in their field, with broad international links and experience. With our high-level research capabilities, specialist equipment and internationally recognised academics, our research helps shape the world.
Want to explore more?
If you're dreaming of an exciting and rewarding career in science, a Deakin degree will help you get there.
Study science at Deakin
Find out why our students love studying science, the diverse study opportunities and the benefits of the hands-on, practical approach at Deakin.
Explore our science facilities
Explore Deakin's facilities at our Melbourne Burwood Campus, featuring modern labs and equipment and the ability to conduct practical work in the natural reserve and creek right by campus.
Rankings and footnotes
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
*Jobs and Skills Australia 2023, Employment Projections to 2033
^Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2024
Contact us
Got a question about our biological science courses? Our course advisers are available to speak to you about your study options and how we can help you further your career.
Domestic students
1800 693 888
Enquire online
International students
+61 3 9918 9188
Enquire online