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, completing a Community Science Project or undertaking 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 MoreKey dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 1 2025 close 16 February 2025
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Save time and money with a double degree
Studying a Bachelor of Science and a second degree lets you complete two qualifications at the same time, equipping you with versatile skills, deeper knowledge and a competitive edge. Graduate faster with expertise in two fields, opening more career options and enhancing your value in the job market.
Course information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Science
- Year
2025 course information
- VTAC code
1400314401 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400311321 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS) - Regional Access Scheme
1400514401 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)- Deakin code
- S320
- CRICOS code?
- 083996G Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- 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:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- SLE010 Laboratory and Fieldwork Safety Induction Program (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- 9 core units
- 6 credit point approved science major sequence
- 9 credit points of open elective units
- maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
- minimum 6 credit points at level 3 (including a minimum of 4 Science units).
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
9
Core units
6
Major sequence
9
Electives
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.
- students intending to take the Mathematical Modelling major who have not completed VCE Maths Methods (units 3 and 4) are strongly advised to first complete SIT190 Introduction to Functions, Relations and Graphs.
Students intending to take the Mathematical Modelling major are not required to complete SIT190 Introduction to Functions, Relations and Graphs or SIT191 Introduction to Statistics and Data Analysis, however, they are able to undertake SIT190/ SIT191 as electives.
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 open elective units, 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
- Food 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).
Course duration
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as failing of units or accessing or completing placements.
Other 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.
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 lecturers, 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. Explore the SEBE WIL program.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
Current or recent secondary education
If you’re currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 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
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
Higher education
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
Vocational education
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and have not undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
English language proficiency requirements
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
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.
Admissions information
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2024 students (PDF, 793KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
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 (RPL) 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, as each unit has its own cost. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in 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 this 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 on our Current students fees website.
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, 2025 are open. We've helped over 300,000 Deakin graduates across Australia and throughout the world apply with confidence. In Year 12? Follow these how to apply steps. Completed secondary education in or prior to 2021? Follow these how to apply steps.
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
You can apply for this course through the Indigenous Access Scheme, which recognises the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and considers the skills, experience and community work that prepares you for study. We look beyond your ATAR and academic results so we can reward your hard work with a place at university.
You can apply for this course through the Deakin Regional Access Scheme, which is offered to current Year 12 students looking to study at our regional campuses. We want to know all about the skills, experience and achievements that make you unique and prepare you for university study.
To apply, complete the online application form and preference your chosen course in your VTAC application, using the Deakin Regional Access Scheme VTAC code.
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 Monday – Friday, 9am–5pm
- Live Chat: Monday - Friday
- Submit an online enquiry
- Help hub find common and trending questions and answers
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 can pursue various career paths in both public and private sectors. They may explore opportunities in government institutions, where roles span across quality assurance, occupational health and safety, research, planning, management, and marketing. Additionally, they could find positions in science-related industries, specialising in pharmaceutical production or sales. Other avenues include biomedical science, involving research or working in hospital and laboratory settings. Quality assurance roles are also available in analytical and diagnostic laboratories, while the food industry offers positions in quality control. Opportunities extend to environmental and natural resources sectors, encompassing fisheries resource management and aquaculture management. Moreover, graduates can consider careers in teaching, information technology, mathematics, or science journalism, among others.
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. |
Footnotes
*ARWU Rankings 2022
^Australian Graduate Survey 2010–2015, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2016–2022, Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT)