Deepen your scientific knowledge and research skills with our Bachelor of Science (Honours).
Immerse yourself in the world of scientific inquiry and innovation. Engage in research projects that challenge your critical thinking and creativity, honing essential skills for tackling complex scientific problems.
Connect with a community of likeminded individuals ready to make a meaningful impact on the world through science. You’ll learn to place theoretical knowledge within real-world scientific issues in engaging and innovative learning environments.
Begin your pathway to further study and accelerated career advancements with Adelaide University. You will graduate as a versatile scientist, equipped with a strong foundation in ethical practices and an open mindset for innovation. The possibilities for your journey in science are truly limitless.
Explore uncharted territories in the broad fields of natural and physical sciences, spanning everything from the microscopic to the cosmic and everything in between.
This degree will provide you with a comprehensive and diverse educational experience. You’ll learn critical thinking, analytical approaches to problem-solving and evidence-based decision making. Choose your specialisation in the offered fields of scientific study, before undertaking training in research theory and practice.
Engage in research in one discipline relevant to your major to enhance your knowledge and expertise. Our Honours program allows you to explore specific areas of interest in greater depth, encouraging exploration across various scientific disciplines. The Bachelor of Science (Honours) provides a pathway for entry into a research degree at either a Masters or Doctoral (PhD) level. Achieve this through the supported development of an Honours thesis in your final year.
Expand your knowledge in a chosen scientific discipline. Learn new research techniques and skills, opening the door to increased job opportunities. Choose from over thirty majors specifically designed for Adelaide University. Engage with academics and experts in the field. Undertake a major research or professional project. Gain a competitive edge for future postgraduate research. Our flexible Bachelor of Science (Honours) will take you through studies of the natural and physical world.
You’ll begin by studying foundational science courses that broaden your understanding of the scientific process and breadth of scientific disciplines. Then, you’ll focus on global challenges and exciting scientific advancements. Throughout your degree, you’ll build transferable skills in scientific data handling and visualisation.
From first year, you’ll choose at least one major from a diverse list of scientific areas, ranging from animal science and biochemistry, through to ecology, plant science, palaeontology or theoretical physics. Whatever your interests, Adelaide University offers a major that will allow you to dive deeper into a variety of fascinating fields.
In third year, you’ll complete a professional science project or placement, gaining practical experience in your chosen area of interest.
Your fourth and final Honours year will extend your skills in research practices, where you’ll complete a research project. You’ll also complete up to a further four courses specific to your chosen major, enabling you to become an expert in the field.
The Bachelor of Science (Honours) is also available with majors in the following:
Complete 192 units comprising:
Complete exactly 48 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Advanced Plant, Food and Soil Sciences
|
Course code
AGRI4002
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Honours Plant, Food and Soil Sciences Project
|
Course code
AGRI4003
|
Units
36
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Animal Studies
|
Course code
ANIM4000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Honours Animal Studies Project
|
Course code
ANIM4001
|
Units
36
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Biological Sciences
|
Course code
BIOL4001
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Honours Biological Sciences Project
|
Course code
BIOL4002
|
Units
36
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Chemistry
|
Course code
CHEM4000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Honours Chemistry Project
|
Course code
CHEM4001
|
Units
36
|
|
|
Course name
Problem Solving and Programming Foundations
|
Course code
COMP5002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Object-Orientated Programming Foundations
|
Course code
COMP5033
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Environmental and Geospatial Sciences
|
Course code
EART4001
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Honours Environmental and Geospatial Sciences Project
|
Course code
EART4002
|
Units
36
|
|
|
Course name
Honours Earth Sciences Project
|
Course code
EART4003
|
Units
24
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Field Geoscience
|
Course code
EART5012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geoscience Data Acquisition
|
Course code
EART6001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geoscience Data Analysis and Interpretation
|
Course code
EART6002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geoscience Communication
|
Course code
EART6003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Engineering Data Analytics
|
Course code
ENGI5006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Physics Part 1
|
Course code
PHYS4000
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Physics Part 2
|
Course code
PHYS4001
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Honours Physics Project
|
Course code
PHYS4002
|
Units
24
|
|
|
Course name
Communicating Science
|
Course code
SCIE5001
|
Units
6
|
Complete exactly 144 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Bachelor of Science
|
Course code
BSCIE
|
Units
144
|
The scientific approach to problem-solving, along with the research skills developed during your Honours year, prepares you for a diverse range of career opportunities. As a graduate, you’ll not only pursue careers in traditional scientific fields, but also in emerging interdisciplinary areas where scientific expertise is increasingly in demand.
You might explore how living things interact with their surroundings, implementing strategies, policies and practices that focus on pollution control, protecting wildlife and supporting conservation efforts. You might work as a food technologist and test products for flavour, colour and taste – or uncover Earth’s hidden natural resources. Perhaps you’ll address infectious diseases and pandemics, developing new treatments and antibiotic medication.
Careers are expansive and can include roles in:
The Australian Government has recently released updated National Science and Research Priorities, focusing on a net zero future, supporting healthy communities, protecting and restoring our natural environment and building a secure and resilient nation (Australian Manufacturing, 2024). These priorities aim to guide scientific efforts and investments across government, academia and industry sectors to address Australia's most pressing challenges. Get ready for a career at the forefront of scientific discovery by taking an innovative approach to science education and research with Adelaide University.
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
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:
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.
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
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.
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:
