Why Bachelor of Science?
Is curiosity in your bones?
Palaeontology is about fossils: the remains of living organisms. Without fossils, the theory of evolution – which forms the basis of modern biology – would not exist.
Palaeontologists use evolutionary knowledge to explore and interpret the fascinating history of life on Earth. They uncover long-buried secrets, offering profound insights into how life has evolved over billions of years. They help identify relationships between species, understand past ecosystems and learn from historical events. This knowledge is crucial for our collective survival – and the continued thriving of our planet.
The past is the key to our future. What will you uncover?
Overview
To meet humanity’s future challenges, we need to understand our planet and its systems over the past 4.5 billion years.
Our Bachelor of Science majoring in Evolutionary Biology and Palaeontology uses evolutionary theory to explore how life has changed and diversified over geological time. How have mass extinctions altered life on Earth? What do fossils teach us about the pace of evolution? How do human activities impact other species?
Develop cross disciplinary knowledge in biology and geology, learning to interpret important clues left by ancient life forms. Work alongside researchers in laboratory and outdoor settings. Fieldwork will build your physical stamina, resilience, and adaptability, preparing you for real-world scientific challenges.
Study genetics, comparative anatomy and ecology. Examine real fossil organisms. Learn how palaeontology informs contemporary issues like resource management, climate change and sustainability.
You’ll graduate with broad scientific expertise, ready to enter the workforce as a skilled biologist – or specialise further in palaeontology.
Key features
Work alongside active palaeontological researchers.- Learn how to search, survey, excavate, prepare, and curate fossil sites and specimens.
- Study in purpose-built laboratories with industry-standard equipment.
- Use evolutionary theory to interpret palaeontological data.
- Tackle real-world challenges in the palaeontology field.
- Gain practical experience through fieldwork, placements and hands-on projects.
What you'll learn
This degree will give you deep insight into the processes of evolution and the history of life on Earth. You’ll learn to analyse and interpret changes in climate, cataclysmic events, mass extinctions and the complex relationships within biological family trees.
You’ll pose and answer big questions: How do fossils document evolutionary processes and relationships? What insights do they provide about ancient ecosystems? Can studying extinct species help with modern conservation efforts?
Explore micro- and macro-evolutionary biology, learning about the mechanisms of natural selection, genetic drift, and speciation.
Discover the chemical and physical structure of our planet through introductory geology courses, learning how to examine rock formations to understand past climates and geological events.
You’ll gain practical skills in taxonomy, genomics analysis, and population genetics, integrating knowledge about fossils, geological processes, sedimentary archives and geochronology to fully understand evolution.
You’ll build palaeontological skills in the field and the laboratory, working in groups and alongside active scientists out in nature.
Your courses will cover:
- Botany
- Zoology
- Biology (of molecules, genes, cells, and organisms)
- Evolutionary biology
- Molecular methods in ecology and evolution
- Earth climate and life systems
- Planet Earth
- Geochemistry
- Sedimentary geology
- Earth systems history
- Field palaeontology.
You can also broaden your scope with electives from across Adelaide University in areas like anthropology, biomedicine and computer science.
Majors
The Bachelor of Science is also available with majors in the following:
What courses you'll study
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 42 to 54 units for Core Courses, and
- Either:
- 30 to 96 units for one Major from Majors, or
- 48 units from Discipline courses, and
- At least 6 units from Work integrated learning, and
- 0 to 48 units for Electives
Complete 42 to 54 units comprising:
- 6 to 12 units for all Program Core, and
- 12 to 18 units from Common Core, and
- 6 to 30 units from Core Selective
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Science of People, Society and the Future Planet
|
Course code
SCIE1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Data Skills for Scientists
|
Course code
STAT1000
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
An Ethically Rich Life
|
Course code
COREX001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Fact or Fiction: Data for Everyone
|
Course code
COREX002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Igniting Change: Ideas to Action
|
Course code
COREX003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Proppa Ways, Future Practice
|
Course code
COREX004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Responsible AI: Bridging Ethics, Education and Industry
|
Course code
COREX005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Ways of Being, Ways of Seeing
|
Course code
COREX006
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
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
Foundations in Chemistry
|
Course code
CHEM1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Chemistry 1A
|
Course code
CHEM1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Chemistry 1B
|
Course code
CHEM1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Planet Earth
|
Course code
EART1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Earth, Climate and Life Systems
|
Course code
EART1012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Calculus 1
|
Course code
MATH1004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Calculus 2
|
Course code
MATH1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Physics
|
Course code
PHYS1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physics 1A
|
Course code
PHYS1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physics 1B
|
Course code
PHYS1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Linear Algebra
|
Course code
MATHX104
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Differential Equations
|
Course code
MATHX202
|
Units
6
|
Notes
Program Core - Students in the following Majors will not enrol in STAT1000 Data Skills for Scientists:
Computational Physics, Experimental Physics, Nuclear and Radiation Physics, Physics and Geophysics, Space Science and Astrophysics, Theoretical Physics
Complete 72 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Zoology
|
Course code
BIOL2004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Evolutionary Biology 2
|
Course code
BIOL2022
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Botany
|
Course code
BIOL2023
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Molecular Methods in Ecology and Evolution
|
Course code
BIOL3033
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Evolutionary Biology 3 Theory
|
Course code
BIOL3035
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Evolutionary Biology 3 Practical
|
Course code
BIOL3036
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Planet Earth
|
Course code
EART1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Sedimentary Geology
|
Course code
EART2008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geochemistry
|
Course code
EART2011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Earth Systems History
|
Course code
EART3000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geochronology, Fossils and Palaeoenvironments
|
Course code
EART3001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Scientific Data: Analysis and Visualisation
|
Course code
SCIE2000
|
Units
6
|
Complete at least 6 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Professional Skills in Animal Science
|
Course code
ANIM3005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Applications in Animal Behaviour
|
Course code
ANIM3900
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2
|
Course code
BIOL2900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3
|
Course code
BIOL3007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Microbiology and Immunology Practical 3
|
Course code
BIOL3012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Genetics Practical 3A
|
Course code
BIOL3900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Field Palaeontology 3
|
Course code
EART3002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Field Geoscience Program 3
|
Course code
EART3003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Optics and Photonics 3
|
Course code
PHYS3004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Computational Physics
|
Course code
PHYSX300
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Experimental Physics
|
Course code
PHYSX301
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Science Professional Placement
|
Course code
SCIE3900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Science Professional Project
|
Course code
SCIE3901
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Genetics Practical 3B
|
Course code
BIOL2016
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geophysics 3C: Seismic Processing and Interpretation
|
Course code
EART3004
|
Units
6
|
Notes
If studying ANACBSCIE - Analytical Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying ANIBBSCIE - Animal Behaviour then complete ANIM3900 - Advanced Applications in Animal Behaviour
If studying ANISBSCIE - Animal Science then complete ANIM3901 - Professional Skills in Animal Science (UoA)
If studying BIOCBSCIE - Biochemistry then complete BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3
If studying BIOTBSCIE - Biotechnology then complete BIOL2900 - Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2 and BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3
If studying CHEYBSCIE - Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying COMPBSCIE - Computational Physics then complete PHYSX300 - Computational Physics
If studying ECOLBSCIE - Ecology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying ENVGBSCIE - Environmental and Geospatial Science then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying ENVSBSCIE - Environmental Science then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying EVOLBSCIE - Evolutionary Biology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying EVOPBSCIE - Evolutionary Biology and Palaeontology then complete EART3002 - Field Palaeontology 3
If studying EXPEBSCIE - Experimental Physics then complete PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics
If studying FOODBSCIE - Food Science and Technology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying GENEBSCIE - Genetics then complete BIOL2900 - Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2 or BIOL3900 - Genetics Practical 3Aor BIOL3901 - Genetics Practical 3B and BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3
If studying GEOLBSCIE - Geology then complete EART3003 - Field Geoscience Program 3
If studying GEOEBSCIE - Geology and Earth Resources then complete EART3003 - Field Geoscience Program 3
If studying GEOPBSCIE - Geology and Palaeontology then complete EART3002 - Field Palaeontology 3
If studying GEOYBSCIE - Geophysics then complete EART3004 - Geophysics 3C: Seismic Processing and Interpretation and may also complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying MARWBSCIE - Marine and Wildlife Conservation then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying MEDBBSCIE - Medicinal and Biological Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying MICRBSCIE - Microbiology and Immunology then complete BIOL2900 - Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2 and BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3 and BIOL3012 - Microbiology and Immunology Practical 3
If studying NUCCBSCIE - Nuclear Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studyingNUCRBSCIE - Nuclear and Radiation Physics then complete PHYSX300 - Computational Physics or PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics
If studying PHYGBSCIE - Physics and Geophysics then complete PHYS3004 - Optics and Photonics 3 or PHYSX300 - Computational Physics
If studying PLABBSCIE - Plant Biology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying PACHBSCIE - Pure and Applied Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying SOILBSCIE - Soil Science then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying SPACBSCIE - Space Science and Astrophysics then complete PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics
If studying THEOBSCIE - Theoretical Physics then complete PHYSX300 - Computational Physics or PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics
Career outcomes
Careers in palaeontology require dedication – and almost always postgraduate study – but for those with passion and perseverance, the field is fascinating and fulfilling. You could be a forensic palaeontologist, solving prehistoric mysteries. You might contribute to groundbreaking de-extinction projects like the scientists in Jurassic Park. Perhaps you'll curate exhibits in a museum, bringing the past to life for future generations.
You could also be a:
- Resource information officer
- Senior curator
- Paleogeneticist
- Collection manager
- Conservation geneticist
- Climate adaptation strategist
- Forensic DNA analyst
- Technical officer.
Industry Trends
The future job growth for palaeontologists and related fields is promising, driven by technological advancements and interdisciplinary research. Palaeontologists will be crucial in ongoing climate change research, helping predict and mitigate its effects.
Tech innovations like 3D imaging, printing, CT scanning, and big data are revolutionising fossil study, making it more detailed and exciting than ever. Advances in ancient DNA technology could also revolutionise our understanding of extinct species. As techniques improve, palaeontologists may be able to extract and analyse genetic material from increasingly older and more degraded samples.
As virtual reality and augmented reality become more prevalent, there will be increased need for specialists who can integrate these tools into research and education, creating exciting career opportunities for tech-savvy scientists.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Ask Adelaide University
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.
