Program Overview

Diploma of Biological Sciences

The Diploma of Biological Sciences is a one-year full-time or part-time equivalent course that provides a supported pathway to a range of La Trobe's Bachelor's degrees in biological sciences, agriculture, or animal and veterinary biosciences.

Overview

• Award: Diploma of Biological Sciences
• VTAC code: (CSP)
• Start dates: Semester 1 (March 2026), Semester 2 (July 2026)
• Duration: 1 year full-time or part-time equivalent
• Learning mode: Multi-Modal
• Scholarships: View fees and scholarships
• Prerequisite: English (Please refer to admission requirements for details)
• Fees: Estimated cost per year if studying full-time $8,337 (CSP) per 120 credit points

About the Diploma of Biological Sciences

This diploma explores the essential elements of life sciences, offering a pathway to various Bachelor's degrees. Students can choose a stream in biological sciences, agriculture, or animal and veterinary biosciences, earning up to one year's worth of credit. The course provides a full university experience, with students studying core subjects alongside Bachelor's degree students. A dedicated senior support adviser and peer mentors are available for career advice, academic support, and navigating university processes.

What You'll Study

• Sample course structure: To qualify for the award of Diploma of Biological Sciences, students must complete a total of 120 credit points across 1 year.
• Year 1: Requires the completion of 120 credit points, including 60 credit points from Core, 15 credit points from chosen Core choice, and 45 credit points from chosen Core choice - Biological sciences stream.
• Core subjects:
  • ACADEMIC INTEGRITY MODULE
  • WOMINJEKA LA TROBE: INDIGENOUS CULTURAL LITERACY FOR HIGHER EDUCATION
  • ANIMAL AND PLANT LIFE
  • INFECTIONS, PANDEMICS AND EPIDEMICS
  • MAKING SENSE OF DATA
  • MOLECULES, GENES AND CELLS
• Core choice subjects:
  • CHEMISTRY FOUNDATIONS
  • GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF CHEMISTRY

Entry Requirements and Pathways

• ATAR requirements: This course does not require ATAR as part of its selection considerations.
• Prerequisite: VCE: Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.
• Selection criteria:
  • Applicants can complete and submit a Personal Statement if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process.
  • You may satisfy the academic requirements by completing the STAT multiple choice if you are not currently studying an Australian Year 12 (or equivalent), have no prior secondary school (Year 12), VET studies, HE studies, or relevant work experience that can be considered for entry, or do not meet the minimum academic requirements for the program.
• VTAC equity schemes (SEAS) & scholarships: For information on adjustment factors that may be applicable, see VTAC equity schemes (SEAS) & scholarships.

Course and Career Outcomes

• Diploma of Biological Sciences intended learning outcomes:
  • Develop scientific written reports to communicate with peers.
  • Analyse data from experiments and scientific reports to describe local and international issues.
  • Formulate questions to explore scientific ideas, seek evidence and information, and to generate new scientific knowledge and solutions.
  • Identify real-world problems in applied science using understanding of scientific concepts.
  • Work effectively in teams using communication and collaboration skills.
  • Apply understanding of ethical issues in the work of a bioscientist.
• Diploma of Biological Sciences career opportunities: This diploma offers a pathway into related Bachelor's degrees, preparing students for careers in various industries, including biological analyst, biological scientist, biosecurity officer, biotechnologist, botanist, ecologist, environmental consultant or educator, geneticist, microbiologist, and zoologist.

Fees and Scholarships

• Estimated course fees for domestic students: $8,337 (CSP) per 120 credit points.
• Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP): Available for this course.
• Scholarships: Various scholarships are available, including the Bendigo Pioneers Bursary, Regional Benefits Program, La Trobe High Achiever Scholarship, and more.

How to Apply

• Before you apply: If you are applying for multiple courses, you will need to apply through UAC or VTAC (Semester 1 only). If you are applying for one course, you may be able to apply directly.
• Applying for a Bachelor's degree: Select an option based on your current study status (e.g., current Year 12 student, non-Year 12 applicant).
• Current Year 12 students living in Victoria: Lodge an application via the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC).
• Current Year 12 students living in NSW: Lodge an application via UAC.
• Special access schemes: Available for students living in rural or regional areas, attending a school with an existing La Trobe relationship, or living close to one of our campuses.
• La Trobe Elite Athlete Program: For students who participate and compete in sport at an elite level.
• RISE program: Offers culturally adept pathways for Indigenous students.
• Tertiary Preparation Program: A free program for students who complete high school without an ATAR, providing an accessible pathway into university.