Program Overview
Introduction to the Bachelor of Science Program
The Bachelor of Science program is a comprehensive undergraduate degree that offers students a wide range of subjects to choose from. This program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in science, as well as the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of interest.
Program Structure
The Bachelor of Science program typically consists of eight courses per year, with students able to choose from a variety of subjects. The program is designed to be completed in three years, with students able to take additional courses or spread their workload over a longer period of time.
Enrolment
To be considered a full-time student, a minimum of 100 points over two semesters, 50 points in any one semester, or 25 points at Summer School must be taken. Fewer points than this will classify the student as part-time, which may have implications for student loans.
Weekly Timetable
Students should expect to spend around 10 hours per week on each 15-point science course, including class hours and personal study time. This includes:
- Lectures: Most first-year Science courses involve three to four hours of lectures per week.
- Tutorials: Some courses include tutorials, usually one hour per week.
- Laboratories: These may range from one to three hours, either weekly or fortnightly.
- Field Trips: A number of subjects also involve field trips, which can range from a single day to a week-long trip.
- Assessments: Science courses typically have some written work or tests during the semester, including lab assignments and reports, and a two or three hour examination at the end.
Typical Program for a BSc Student
A typical program for a BSc student will include:
- Year One: Eight courses in up to three subject areas, including one General Education course.
- Year Two: Eight courses, with students able to advance two to three subjects to Stage II.
- Year Three: Eight courses, with students taking at least five Stage III courses, including four in their major.
Capstones in BSc
Capstone courses are taken in the final year and provide students with the opportunity to integrate and apply their previous learning to a real-world problem in their subject area. These courses vary depending on the subject area and may facilitate an independent research project or group work on assignments designed to develop valuable transferable skills.
Related Programs
The University also offers conjoint programs, which allow students to combine their Bachelor of Science degree with another degree, such as a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Commerce. These programs are designed to be completed in four to five years and provide students with a comprehensive education in two disciplines.
Double Major
For students who wish to pursue a double major, they will need to take four Stage III courses in their first major and three Stage III courses in their second major. This will require careful planning and consultation with academic advisors to ensure that all requirements are met.
Research Areas
The University has a strong research focus, with a wide range of research areas available for students to explore. These include:
- Biological Sciences
- Chemical Sciences
- Computer Science
- Environment
- Exercise Sciences
- Marine Science
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
Support Services
The University provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, student support services, and career counseling. These services are designed to help students succeed in their studies and achieve their career goals.
Conclusion
The Bachelor of Science program at the University is a comprehensive and flexible degree that provides students with a wide range of subjects to choose from. With its strong research focus and range of support services, this program is ideal for students who wish to pursue a career in science or a related field.