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?
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 paleontological 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:
- Geology
- Ecology
- Genetics
- Environmental Science
- Marine and Wildlife Conservation.
What courses you'll study
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 24 to 54 units for Core Courses, and
- Either:
- 30 to 102 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 24 to 54 units comprising:
- 12 units for all Program Core, and
- 12 to 18 units from Common Core, and
- 18 to 36 units from Science Core
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 | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
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 | 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
CHEM1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Chemistry 1B
|
Course code
CHEM1003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Earth, Climate and Life Systems
|
Course code
ECOL1001
|
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
Data Skills for Scientists
|
Course code
STAT1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Physics 1B
|
Course code
PHYS1002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Planet Earth
|
Course code
EART1000
|
Units
6
|
Complete 66 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
Planet Earth
|
Course code
EART1000
|
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
Molecular Methods in Ecology and Evolution
|
Course code
ECOL3007
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Evolutionary Biology 3 Theory
|
Course code
ECOL3008
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Evolutionary Biology 3 Practical
|
Course code
ECOL3009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Geochemistry
|
Course code
GEOL2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sedimentary Geology
|
Course code
GEOL2002
|
Units
6
|
Complete at least 6 units from the following:
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Professional Skills in Animal Science
|
Course code
ANIM3901
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Applications in Animal Behaviour
|
Course code
ANIM3900
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Molecular and Biomedical Sciences 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
|
Course code
BIOL3012
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Genetics Practical 3A
|
Course code
BIOL3900
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Field Palaeontology
|
Course code
EART3002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Field Geoscience Program
|
Course code
EART3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Optics and Photonics
|
Course code
PHYS3004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computational Physics
|
Course code
PHYS3900
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Experimental Physics
|
Course code
PHYS3901
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Science Professional Project
|
Course code
SCIE3901
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Science Professional Placement
|
Course code
SCIE3900
|
Units
6
|
Complete 0 to 48 units for either of the following:
- 0 to 48 units from Free Electives, or
- One of the following:
- 0 to 12 units from Animal Behaviour Electives, or
- 0 to 12 units from Animal Science Electives, or
- 0 to 6 units from Biochemistry Electives, or
- 0 to 12 units from Ecology Electives, or
- 0 to 12 units from Environmental Science Electives, or
- 0 to 24 units from Evolutionary Biology Electives, or
- 0 to 12 units from Evolutionary Biology & Palaeontology, or
- 0 to 18 units from Marine and Wildlife electives
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Genes and Inheritance
|
Course code
ANIM2005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Wildlife Management
|
Course code
ENVI2006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Evolutionary Biology 2
|
Course code
BIOL2022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Principles of Ecology
|
Course code
ECOL2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Zoology
|
Course code
BIOL2004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Social Contexts
|
Course code
PSYC1002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Ecological Issues
|
Course code
ECOL1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Data Skills for Scientists
|
Course code
STAT1000
|
Units
6
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Ecological Issues
|
Course code
ECOL1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Data Skills for Scientists
|
Course code
STAT1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Soils and Landscapes
|
Course code
EART1004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Fundamentals of Climate Change
|
Course code
ENVI1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Physics
|
Course code
PHYS1000
|
Units
6
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Ecological Issues
|
Course code
ECOL1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Soils and Landscapes
|
Course code
EART1004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Fundamentals of Climate Change
|
Course code
ENVI1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Physics
|
Course code
PHYS1000
|
Units
6
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Animal Identification in Wildlife Conservation
|
Course code
ECOL2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Plant Identification
|
Course code
ECOL2002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Evolutionary Biology 2
|
Course code
BIOL2022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Molecular Methods in Ecology and Evolution
|
Course code
ECOL3007
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Evolutionary Biology 3 Theory
|
Course code
ECOL3008
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Evolutionary Biology 3 Practical
|
Course code
ECOL3009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Science International Study Tour
|
Course code
SCIE3009
|
Units
6
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Introduction to Surveying and Spatial Sciences
|
Course code
ENGI1006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Spatial Data Acquisition and Analysis
|
Course code
ENGI2004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Remote Sensing
|
Course code
ENGI2002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Web Cartography
|
Course code
SCIE3003
|
Units
6
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Principles of Ecology
|
Course code
ECOL2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Research Methods: Ecology, Marine and Wildlife
|
Course code
BIOL3013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Concepts in Ecology
|
Course code
ECOL3000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Marine Ecology
|
Course code
ECOL3005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Conservation Biology
|
Course code
ECOL3006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Freshwater Ecology
|
Course code
ECOL3004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Earth Observation for the Environmental Sciences
|
Course code
ECOL3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
GIS for Environmental Management
|
Course code
ECOL3002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
GIS for Agriculture and Natural Resources
|
Course code
ECOL3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Science International Study Tour
|
Course code
SCIE3009
|
Units
6
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Animal Identification in Wildlife Conservation
|
Course code
ECOL2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Plant Identification
|
Course code
ECOL2002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Principles of Ecology
|
Course code
ECOL2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Research Methods: Ecology, Marine and Wildlife
|
Course code
BIOL3013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Concepts in Ecology
|
Course code
ECOL3000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Marine Ecology
|
Course code
ECOL3005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Conservation Biology
|
Course code
ECOL3006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Freshwater Ecology
|
Course code
ECOL3004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Earth Observation for the Environmental Sciences
|
Course code
ECOL3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
GIS for Environmental Management
|
Course code
ECOL3002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
GIS for Agriculture and Natural Resources
|
Course code
ECOL3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Structural Geology
|
Course code
GEOL2003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Igneous and Metamorphic Geology 2
|
Course code
GEOL2004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Igneous and Metamorphic Geology 3
|
Course code
GEOL3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Tectonics
|
Course code
GEOL3002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Field Geoscience Program
|
Course code
EART3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Geochemistry
|
Course code
GEOL2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Mineral Resources 2
|
Course code
GEOL2005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Energy Resources
|
Course code
GEOL3004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Earth Systems History
|
Course code
EART3000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Mineral Resources 3
|
Course code
GEOL3003
|
Units
6
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Evolutionary Biology 2
|
Course code
BIOL2022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Earth Observation for the Environmental Sciences
|
Course code
ECOL3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
GIS for Environmental Management
|
Course code
ECOL3002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
GIS for Agriculture and Natural Resources
|
Course code
ECOL3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Freshwater Ecology
|
Course code
ECOL3004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Molecular Methods in Ecology and Evolution
|
Course code
ECOL3007
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Evolutionary Biology 3 Theory
|
Course code
ECOL3008
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Evolutionary Biology 3 Practical
|
Course code
ECOL3009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Science International Study Tour
|
Course code
SCIE3009
|
Units
6
|
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.
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
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