From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.
Entry requirements
Admission criteria
To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.
Secondary education (Year 12)
- Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
- Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.
Higher education study
- Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate certificate (AQF level 5) or higher qualification from a recognised higher education institution with an overall Grade Point Average of 4.0 or higher.
English language entry requirements
In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.
- IELTS Overall 6.5
- IELTS Reading 6.0
- IELTS Listening 6.0
- IELTS Speaking 6.0
- IELTS Writing 6.0
Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:
Equivalent English qualificationsInternational admissions by country
Country | Score |
---|---|
Australia – ATAR | 70 |
Bangladesh – Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) | 4.80 |
China – Gaokao | 60% |
Hong Kong – Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) | 16 |
India – CBSE and CISCE | 70 |
India – State Board Examinations | 80 |
Kenya – Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) | B+ |
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) | 2.67 |
Malaysia – United Entrance Certificate (UEC) | 23 |
Malaysia – Matrikulasi | 2.67 |
Singapore - Singapore GCE Advanced Levels | 7 |
Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels | 8 |
Vietnam – Year 12 - Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông | 7.80 |
Why Bachelor of Science?
Wish you could talk to the animals? With a degree in animal behaviour, you can! Immerse yourself in the world of animal psychology and get ready to understand them like never before. If you love interacting with animals and are fascinated by pets and their personalities, this degree will give you the insights you need to work with all kinds of species. Explore why cat’s meow, find out if parrots are smart, and play with the odd puppy or two as you build the skills to join this growing industry.
Overview
Study animal behaviour and be rewarded with the keys to the animal kingdom. Explore the science behind why animals act in certain ways, how to work with them, and how to protect their futures. Your studies will also strengthen your understanding of human behaviour as you explore our relationship with animals.
How do birds know when to start their annual migration? Why do cats rub their heads against things? Answer these questions and more as you explore the behaviour of animals big and small – including cats, dogs, birds, horses, livestock, wildlife and insects. Build practical skills through internship opportunities as well as field work and study tours.
Your degree could lead you to nurture exotic pets, prepare greyhounds for adoption, or shape policies in animal management for local government. You might train dogs for roles guiding the visually impaired, detecting in customs, or even comforting children with autism and anxiety. Perhaps you’ll host your very own animal science show on TV.
Key features
- Become an expert in the care and welfare of animals.
- Benefit from professional work experience placements at shelters, training facilities, zoological parks and farms.
- Participate in field work and study tours.
- Study a degree that covers a large range of species.
- Learn from world leaders in animal research.
- Be part of a close-knit animal loving community on campus.
What you'll learn
Studying the Bachelor of Science majoring in Animal Behaviour prepares you for a rewarding career working with animals in the field of behaviour. Explore animal development and the biological drivers of behaviour and let your interests guide you through research projects and case studies. You’ll also develop a comprehensive understanding of best practice in the management and treatment of animals.
With 120 hours of placements, you’ll build and apply your animal behaviour, research and personal skills in a workplace setting.
As part of your animal behaviour major, you’ll study a range of courses in:
- Animal handling and husbandry
- Animal behaviour, welfare and ethics
- Comparative animal anatomy physiology
- Applied behaviour analysis
- Animal management.
This degree includes Undergraduate Core and Universal Common Core courses that allow you to expand your science education across different disciplines while maximising your professional skills.
Majors
Did you know that you can also choose a Bachelor of Science with a major in one of the following:
- Animal Science
- Biotechnology
- Computational Physics
- Environmental and Geospatial Science
- Environmental Science
- Evolutionary Biology
- Marine and Wildlife Conservation
- Space Science and Astrophysics.
What courses you'll study
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 42 units from Core courses, and
- 6 units from Work integrated learning, and
- 6 to 54 units from Electives, and
- Either:
- 48 units from Discipline courses, or
- 42 to 90 units for one Major from Major
Complete exactly 42 units from the following:
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Science of People, Society and the Future Planet
|
Course code
SCIE1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Scientific Data: Analysis and Visualisation
|
Course code
INFO2011
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
UG Common Core 1
|
Course code
AUXX1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
UG Common Core 2
|
Course code
AUXX2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
UG Common Core 3
|
Course code
AUXX3000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Physics 1A
|
Course code
PHYS1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Physics 1B
|
Course code
PHYS1002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Chemistry IA
|
Course code
CHEM1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Chemistry 1B
|
Course code
CHEM1003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Calculus 1
|
Course code
MATH1004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Biology 1A: Molecules, Genes and Cells
|
Course code
BIOL1003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Biology 1B: Evolution and Diversity of Organisms
|
Course code
BIOL1004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Earth, Climate and Life Systems
|
Course code
ECOL1001
|
Units
6
|
Complete exactly 48 units from the following:
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Animal Handling and Husbandry I
|
Course code
ANIM1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Principles of Animal Behaviour, Welfare & Ethics I
|
Course code
ANIM1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Comparative Animal Anatomy and Physiology II
|
Course code
ANIM2002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Animal Behaviour II
|
Course code
BIOL2025
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Research Methodology for Animal Science II
|
Course code
ANIM2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Animal Management III
|
Course code
ANIM3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
The Science of Enrichment and Animal Learning III
|
Course code
ANIM3002
|
Units
6
|
Complete exactly 6 units from the following:
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Science Professional Project
|
Course code
SCIE3901
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Science Professional Placement
|
Course code
SCIE3900
|
Units
6
|
Complete 6 to 54 units from the following:
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Foundations in Physics
|
Course code
PHYS1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Chemistry
|
Course code
CHEM1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Calculus 1
|
Course code
MATH1004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 1
|
Course code
AUXX1011
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 2
|
Course code
AUXX1012
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 3
|
Course code
AUXX1013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 4
|
Course code
AUXX1014
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 5
|
Course code
AUXX1015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 6
|
Course code
AUXX1016
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 7
|
Course code
AUXX1017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 8
|
Course code
AUXX1018
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
You’ll graduate as an expert in animal behaviour and care, with in-demand skills adaptable to a range of roles. Your career could take you into an unlimited number of settings – from private or government laboratories, to research and development, manufacturing and environmental management, or science communication.
You might work in shelters and welfare organisations, in zoos and wildlife parks, or in animal management for government agencies.
Careers to consider:
- Animal trainer
- Animal shelter manager
- Animal management officer in local councils
- Dog training private business
- Assistance and detector dog trainer
- Animal behaviourist
- Park ranger
- Zoo keeper
- Environmental or conservation scientist
- Government or corporate policy adviser
- Science communicator.
Industry trends
There is a growing realisation that understanding human and animal behaviour, and how they work together, is integral to world health. It's a field that affects policy, economics, law enforcement and resource management. So, it’s no surprise that employment growth in this area is expected to be strong. (Australian Government, Labour Market Insights, 2023).
How to apply
FAQs
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.
Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.
You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.
You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:
- Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
- Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
- Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
- Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
- Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
- On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
- Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
- An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
- Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
- Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
- A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
- A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.
Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.
Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure.
Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:
- February for Semester 1
- July for Semester 2.
Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail.
For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.