Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Science majoring in Plant Biology

Start date

February, July

Campus

Waite, Adelaide City

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BSCIE

Study as

Full-time

Indicative fees

$50,800

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115751E

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 qualifications

International 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?

Want to use your knowledge of plant biology to help solve real-world problems? Imagine: your house built from hemp, your car manufactured using chia components, and your fuel extracted from the succulent we use to make tequila.

With our Bachelor of Science majoring in Plant Biology, you’ll build the skills to fight climate change, improve food security and enhance human wellbeing. You’ll discover new ways to use plants – from making biofuels to developing natural medications. Understand how plants sustain and improve our lives. Learn how they can contribute to a transformative future. Graduate with the expertise to work in biotechnology, agribusiness, government agencies and cutting-edge research institutions.

Overview

As a Bachelor of Science student majoring in Plant Biology, you’ll develop a broad foundation in science, specialised knowledge in plant biology and graduate with a transferable skillset. In your major studies, delve into topics on plant physiology, reproduction, biochemistry, energy use and environment adaption. You’ll be able to identify and understand the crucial roles of different plants for ecosystems, health and global sustainability. You will build practical skills including laboratory, research, fieldwork and analysis techniques. Choose from a range of science electives to build a diverse knowledge base or pick a second major to enhance your career prospects. Our Bachelor of Science majoring in Plant Biology will give you the skills to work across various fields including agriculture, research, pharmaceuticals and conservation.

Key features

Learn about plant physiology, genetics, reproduction and biochemistry.
Develop your research, analysis and reporting skills.
Build skills in analytical problem-solving, critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making.   
Select a second major that will enhance your employment prospects. 
Learn in purpose-built labs with industry-standard tools and technologies.
Choose to complete a research project or placement in your final year.

What you'll learn

Over three years of full-time study, you’ll complete a combination of common core courses, science core courses, plant biology courses, elective courses and a professional placement or project.

Common core courses will build skills applicable to a range of careers such as critical thinking, research, analysis and writing. In your science core courses, you’ll explore topics on people, society, the future of our planet, and data handling and visualisation techniques.

Your major in Plant Biology will delve into agricultural genetics, plant structure, plant environment adaptation, impacts of climate change, biotechnology and plant nutrition.

In your final year, choose to complete a professional placement, or a project aligned to your interests. You can also personalise your studies with a second major or a range of elective courses.

Majors

The Bachelor of Science is also available with majors in the following:

Biochemistry  
Genetics 
Microbiology and Immunology
Evolutionary Biology and Palaeontology 
Geology
Geology and Earth Resources.
Geology and Palaeontology
Geophysics
Soil Science.

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 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 72 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Biology IB: Organisms	Course code BIOL1004	Units 6
Course name Chemistry IA	Course code CHEM1002	Units 6
Course name Foundations in Plant Science II	Course code BIOL2024	Units 6
Course name Botany II	Course code BIOL2023	Units 6
Course name Plant Breeding III	Course code BIOL3016	Units 6
Course name Food Production in a Future Climate	Course code FOOD3000	Units 6
Course name Plant Biotechnology	Course code BIOL3017	Units 6
Course name Microbiology and Invertebrate Biology II	Course code BIOL2020	Units 6
Course name Plant Health III	Course code BIOL3018	Units 6
Course name Soil and Plant Nutrition III	Course code EART3010	Units 6
Course name Research Project: Agricultural and Plant Science III	Course code BIOL3019	Units 6
Course name Plant Identification III	Course code BIOL3020	Units 6
Course name Agricultural Genetics II	Course code BIOL2010	Units 6
Course name Genetics IIA	Course code BIOL2005	Units 6
Course name Biomedical Practical A	Course code BIOL2014	Units 0

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 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

As a graduate of our Bachelor of Science majoring in Plant Biology, you could explore various career paths. You might work as a pharmaceutical scientist, identifying innovative drugs or therapies derived from plants. You could be a plant breeder, creating new disease-resistant or super nutritious species. Perhaps you’ll make plant-based plastics or edible packaging.

You could also be a:

Botanist
Agricultural scientist
Horticulturist
Biotechnologist
Plant biology researcher.

Industry trends

Over the past 10 years, employment in environmental science has increased by 45.6%. It is predicted there will be shortage of environmental scientists to meet future demand (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2024). As the impact of global warming becomes alarmingly clear, companies, organisations and research institutes will look for individuals with the skills to help them transition to a sustainable future. What does this mean for you? Your knowledge in plant biology will be sought-after, making you a desirable employee.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

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: