Bachelor of Advanced Science

Program Overview

Bachelor of Advanced Science

Overview

The Bachelor of Advanced Science is a comprehensive program that equips students with advanced skills and knowledge in their chosen field of science. The program is designed to develop highly adept conceptual and analytical thinkers, with a focus on practical, hands-on experience.

Majors

Students can choose from the following Advanced Science majors:

• Aquaculture Science and Technology: Benefit from access to the Marine and Aquaculture Research Facility for the hands-on discovery of the sustainable practices of aquaculture.
• Chemistry: With award-winning laboratories at the JCU Science Place and access to industry leaders, students benefit from small class sizes and the personalised approach of lecturers.
• Data Science: Experience the power of data visualisation, Big Data and machine learning. Learn how to develop sophisticated algorithms and create innovative solutions to contemporary problems.
• Environmental Earth Science: Get hands-on with your studies through a diverse mix of field work in unique locations and research opportunities within the biodiverse region of Far North Queensland.
• Geology: Be part of the drive to discover, secure and utilise critical minerals as you explore the broad applications of geology, a field concerned with the structure and composition of the earth.
• Marine Biology: Benefit from access to one of the most diverse and fragile marine ecosystems in the world, the Great Barrier Reef. With opportunities to do hands-on research at world-class JCU Orpheus Island Field Station, you will learn from expert lecturers and benefit from researchers’ strong links with industry.
• Mathematics: Develop highly sought after problem-solving, analytical and quantitative reasoning skills. You will gain a thorough understanding of various mathematical techniques, data analysis, and multivariate statistical methods.
• Molecular and Cell Biology: Learn how to amplify and edit DNA sequences and conduct laboratory-based and field-based projects. Throughout your degree, you will study the basis of health and disease at a molecular level and analyse the functions of a whole cell.
• Physics: Develop the expertise to explore some of the universe’s most challenging questions. Accredited by the Australian Institute of Physics, a Physics major at JCU provides you with knowledge and skills across multiple physics disciplines.
• Zoology and Ecology: Study amazing rainforests and diverse species. Go on field trips to Borneo or the Galapagos Islands. Access the JCU Daintree Rainforest Observatory to learn about biosecurity, behavioural ecology, conservation biology and ecological modelling. Perform research in one of the most biodiverse regions in Australia.

Honours

An Honours degree is an additional one-year study program (full-time or equivalent) that includes the development of a personal research project and thesis. The three-year Bachelor of Advanced Science is ideal preparation for the rigours of an Honours year, and Advanced Science students are encouraged to consider this option. Honours is especially recommended for students who wish to pursue a career with significant involvement in scientific research.

Career Opportunities

JCU Advanced Science graduates are highly-skilled professionals who find employment in a variety of industries. Graduates pursue careers in areas including marine biology, aquaculture, earth science, chemistry, mathematics, molecular and cell biology, physics, and zoology and ecology.

Entry Requirements

• ATAR/Selection Rank: 90.00
• Entry score range:
  • JCU Townsville:
    • Highest: 99.30
    • Median: 93.55
    • Lowest: 89.45
  • JCU Cairns:
    • Highest: 99.95
    • Median: 95.10
    • Lowest: 89.25

Fees and Scholarships

• Estimated annual Commonwealth Supported fee: $AUD7,800.00
• A variety of Scholarships are available to suit different student types.

Location and Commencing

• Location: JCU campuses or study centres where you can study this course. 'Online' means the course can be studied off-campus using a combination of online resources, printed material or other technologies. Some online courses include on-campus workshops and travel for professional placements.
  • Townsville
  • Cairns
• Commencing: The month(s) you can start the course.
  • Townsville: January, September
  • Cairns: January, September

Duration

• Duration: The time it will take you to complete the course as a full-time student. Also specifies if the course is available part-time. This section will indicate if some online courses may have a longer duration due to their different delivery method.
  • 3 years full-time

Inherent Requirements

Inherent requirements are the identified abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours that must be demonstrated, during the learning experience, to successfully complete a course. These abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours preserve the academic integrity of the University’s learning, assessment, and accreditation processes, and where applicable, meet the standards of a profession. For more information please review the inherent requirements for the course.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This advanced science degree from JCU allows students to major in a variety of science subjects, including aquaculture science and technology, chemistry, data science, earth science, marine biology, mathematics, advanced molecular and cell biology, physics, and zoology and ecology. It also equips students with strong research and communication skills to investigate the role of science in sustainability within the Tropics. Students will model solutions to case studies from various biophysical contexts and extend their hands-on learning through research internships or practical placements. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical modeling skills highly sought-after by employers.

Teaching:

The Bachelor of Advanced Science program at JCU employs a blend of teaching methods to facilitate effective learning. Students engage in lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, and field studies to gain a comprehensive understanding of scientific concepts and principles. The program is taught by world-renowned lecturers and experts who provide students with a solid foundation in their chosen field. JCU's focus on research-led teaching ensures that students are exposed to the latest advancements and discoveries in science. Additionally, the program offers opportunities for students to participate in seminars conducted by leading scientists, where they can engage in discussions, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of the subject matter.

Careers:

Graduates of the Bachelor of Advanced Science program from JCU are in high demand due to their advanced skills and practical experience. They can pursue careers in various industries such as marine biology, aquaculture, earth science, chemistry, mathematics, molecular and cell biology, physics, and zoology and ecology. Potential job roles include research assistants, laboratory technicians, scientific journalists, environmental scientists, physicists, teachers, and patent lawyers. Additionally, graduates who major in Chemistry may be eligible to register for non-corporate membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) and, with further experience, become Chartered Chemists with Corporate Membership of RACI. Graduates may also choose to pursue graduate entry into science, medicine, veterinary science, physiotherapy, dentistry, or other health sciences.