Program Overview

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Overview

The Diploma of Science is a qualification that introduces students to the academic culture of university study, providing foundational skills necessary for success in higher education or the work environment. This diploma is an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level 5 qualification.

Career Outcomes

As a graduate of the Diploma of Science, students can apply for technical and support roles within scientific fields, such as:

• Laboratory assistant
• Field assistant
• Veterinary assistant
• Environmental monitoring officer Students may also choose to pursue further studies with a Bachelor of Science, which can open doors to more specialized science career opportunities.

Why Study Sciences and Agriculture at UniSQ?

• UniSQ hosts the only ground-based support in the Southern Hemisphere for NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite mission.
• Rated 5/5 stars for overall educational experience in agriculture (Good Universities Guide, 2026).
• UniSQ is ranked #1 in Queensland for science and mathematics graduates in full-time employment (Good Universities Guide, 2026).

What You'll Study

To graduate from the Diploma of Science, students must successfully complete 8 units of study.

Degree Structure

An undergraduate university degree typically consists of a combination of core, major, and elective courses designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and opportunities for an in-depth dive into their chosen field.

Core

(4 Units)

• SCI1001 - Succeeding in Science
• STA1003 - Fundamental Statistics
• MAT1100 - Foundation Mathematics
• CSC1401 - Foundation Programming

Selection Units

(4 Units) 4 units chosen from any major in the Bachelor of Science (BSCN) program, subject to meeting pre-requisite requirements.

Entry Requirements

There are many ways to be considered for entry into a UniSQ degree based on education, work experience, and relevant personal attributes.

I am a Current or Recent Year 12 Student

• ATAR 55.00
• Sound knowledge in English (Units 3 & 4, C) and General Mathematics (Units 3 & 4, C)

I am an Applicant with Higher Education Study

If you've previously completed or started higher education study at university, you may be eligible to apply based on your previous studies.

I am an Applicant with Vocational Education and Training

If you have completed a qualification from a TAFE or qualified private provider, you can use your Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) awards to apply to study with UniSQ.

I am an Applicant with Work Experience and Life Experience

If it's been over two years since you completed secondary education and you haven't pursued any vocational education training (VET) or higher education since, you're still eligible to study at UniSQ.

English Language Requirements

You'll need to meet the applicable English language requirements, and this degree requires:

• IELTS (Academic) - Minimum overall score of 6.0 and a minimum score of 5.5 in each of the four components - listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

Fees and Scholarships

• Commonwealth supported: AUD 9,536 (indicative annual fee)
• The Federal Government contributes to the cost of your degree, and you need to pay a student contribution.
• HECS-HELP: a government loan scheme that allows you to defer payment until your income reaches a certain threshold.

How to Apply

You can apply to study at UniSQ via the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) website.

Study Dates

You can select to start your study in Trimester 1, 2, or 3.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Diploma of Science?

An undergraduate diploma introduces you to the academic culture of university study and is a great option to get your dream career started without committing to a full 3-year degree.

What can you do with a Diploma of Science in Australia?

A Diploma of Science qualification can lead to fulfilling careers in a variety of scientific fields.

What are the Pathways to Entry?

At UniSQ, there is more than one journey to study a Diploma of Science. If you don't meet the entry requirements, we have a pathway option to suit you.

How do I Choose the Right Major for Me?

The Diploma of Science major that is right for you will vary depending on your interests and career goals. At UniSQ, we have seven majors to choose from:

• Biology
• Computing/IT
• Environment & Sustainability
• Mathematics
• Physical Sciences
• Wildlife Management

Why Study a Diploma of Science with UniSQ?

Gain a strong start to your career in sciences and apply to study a Diploma of Science at UniSQ:

• Learn from industry experts
• Study a Diploma of Science online or on-campus with our flexible ways to study
• According to the Good Universities Guide, 2026, we are rated 5/5 stars for learning resources and ranked #1 in Queensland for graduate starting salary and graduates in full-time employment for sciences and mathematics.