Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Science majoring in Evolutionary Biology

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City, Mawson Lakes

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BSCIE

Study as

Full time or part time

Indicative fees

Commonwealth Supported

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

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:

Recent 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 at an Australian higher education institution.

Overseas qualifications considered by Adelaide University as equivalent to the above Australian qualifications may be accepted.

Work and life experience

Completion of an Adelaide University approved enabling, pathway or bridging program; OR
Achieved a pass result in the Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT); OR
Passed an Adelaide University online literacy and numeracy test AND have relevant work experience; OR
Qualify for special entry

Note:

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

Why Bachelor of Science?

Studying evolutionary biology satisfies a deep human urge to understand our origins. You’ll love investigating the complexities of life on Earth – and your place within it. How did ancient fish come to walk on land? Why would a tree grow fruit underground? The way plants and animals have evolved over time is incredible.

Entering this field puts you at the heart of progress. As climate change accelerates, industries are rushing to adapt to ecological shifts. You'll tackle urgent global challenges such as biodiversity conservation and sustainable living. Your skills will be in demand across exciting fields like biomedicine, forensic science and environmental management.

Overview

Our Bachelor of Science majoring in Evolutionary Biology introduces you to the astonishing diversity of life on Earth. Drawing on Australia’s natural environments – from pristine beaches to rocky ranges – you’ll learn all about the many life forms on our planet.

Explore the origins of plants and animals, their adaptations, and genetic heritage. Examine how evolutionary biology informs conservation efforts and helps predict climate change. With a blend of fieldwork, laboratory research and theory, this degree will inspire your curiosity and open doors to dynamic and fulfilling careers. You’ll graduate as a sharp evolutionary thinker, confident and prepared to join the global science community.

What you'll learn

This degree will give you a deep understanding of evolution. You’ll explore micro- and macro- evolutionary biology, from the smallest cellular mutations to the patterns of species across continents. What are climate change’s impacts on evolution? How is big data reshaping the field?

Through critical analysis of evolutionary theory, you’ll learn to address contemporary issues in human, animal, plant, fungal and microbial systems. You’ll gain essential skills for a changing future, including practical knowledge of taxonomy, genomics analysis and population genetics.

Core courses will help you build broad scientific literacy, enriched by Aboriginal knowledge and perspectives. This degree offers flexible hybrid delivery, which includes a mix of on-campus and online study. In your final year, you’ll undertake an 80-hour industry placement or project, where you’ll gain valuable professional skills and real-world experience.

Your courses with cover both theoretical and practical topics, including:

Botany
Zoology
Biology (of molecules, genes, cells, and organisms)
Evolutionary biology
Animal and plant identification and monitoring
Molecular methods in ecology and evolution.

You can also broaden your perspective with electives from across Adelaide University in areas like Health, Languages, and Business.

Majors

Did you know that you can also choose a Bachelor of Science with a major in one of the following:

Evolutionary Biology and Palaeontology
Animal Behaviour
Animal Science
Environmental and Geospatial Science
Environmental Science
Marine and Wildlife Conservation
Biotechnology
Computational Physics
Space Science and Astrophysics.

What courses you'll study

You're required to complete 144 units to complete your degree, across a mix of core courses, elective and work integrated learning. A list of indicative courses is provided below.

Complete exactly 42 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Science of People, Society and the Future Planet	SCIE1001	6
Scientific Data Handling and Visualisation	INFO2011	6
UG Common Core 1	AUXX1000	6
UG Common Core 2	AUXX2000	6
UG Common Core 3	AUXX3000	6
Physics IA	PHYS1001	6
Physics IB	PHYS1002	6
Chemistry IA	CHEM1001	6
Chemistry IB	CHEM1003	6
Calculus 1	MATH1004	6
Biology IA: Molecules, Genes and Cells	BIOL1003	6
Biology IB: Organisms	BIOL1004	6
Earth, Climate and Life Systems	ECOL1001	6

Complete exactly 6 units from the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Science Professional Project	SCIE3901	6
	Science Professional Placement	SCIE3900	6

Complete 6 to 54 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Foundations in Physics	PHYS1000	6
Foundations in Chemistry	CHEM1000	6
Foundations in Mathematics	MATH1000	6
Calculus 1	MATH1004	6
Elective 1	AUXX1011	6
Elective 2	AUXX1012	6
Elective 3	AUXX1013	6
Elective 4	AUXX1014	6
Elective 5	AUXX1015	6
Elective 6	AUXX1016	6
Elective 7	AUXX1017	6
Elective 8	AUXX1018	6

Complete exactly 48 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Quantitative Methods	STAT1000	6
Biology IB: Organisms	BIOL1004	6
Evolutionary Biology II	BIOL2022	6
Molecular Methods in Ecology and Evolution	ECOL3007	6
Evolutionary Biology III (Theory)	ECOL3008	6
Evolutionary Biology III (Practical)	ECOL3009	6
Zoology II	BIOL2004	6
Botany II	BIOL2023	6
Animal Identification in Wildlife Conservation II	ECOL2001	6
Plant Identification in Wildlife Conservation II	ECOL2002	6

Career outcomes

Evolutionary biology can lead to many different careers exploring the evolution of life. You could unravel the genetic secrets of viruses as a molecular evolutionist. You might work in a museum, curating fossil or insect exhibits. As an extraterrestrial ecologist, you could even design ecosystems for other planets.

Other possible careers include:

Genetic counsellor
Conservation geneticist
Climate adaptation strategist
Forensic DNA analyst
Biomedical research scientist
Environmental consultant
Evolutionary ecologist
Paleogeneticist
Public health adviser
Zoologist
Botanist
Science communicator.

Industry trends

Advances in DNA sequencing and computational biology have led to an explosion of genetic data. Evolutionary biologists who can analyse this data are crucial for understanding genetic diversity, adaptation, and the evolutionary relationships between species.

As the climate changes, we also need skilled evolutionary biologists to develop strategies for maintaining and protecting ecosystems. Our degree provides the expertise needed to navigate these challenges and make a valuable contribution to the evolving landscape.

How to apply

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Check the requirements

Look out for any prerequisite or assumed knowledge courses. Some degrees may have additional entry requirements.

Consider your preferences

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How to apply

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

If you want to start your studies earlier, consider applying to the University of Adelaide or UniSA now, and continue onto Adelaide University in 2026. Register your interest to stay informed.

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

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.

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. 

View all FAQs

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.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

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.

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Bachelor of Science majoring in Evolutionary Biology