Program Overview

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Bachelor of Science (Animal Behaviour)

The Bachelor of Science (Animal Behaviour) at Flinders University is a comprehensive program that delves into the world of animal behaviour, exploring the reasons behind animal actions and their implications for conservation, welfare, and research.

Program Overview

This degree focuses specifically on animal behaviour, distinguishing it from zoology. It offers a deep understanding of animal behaviour from biological, psychological, and ecological perspectives. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in science, as well as practical experience through field trips, lab work, and a final-year project or placement.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Animal Behaviour) can pursue a wide range of career opportunities, including:

• Wildlife Conservation Officer: Protecting species through science, tracking populations, assessing threats, and managing landscapes for biodiversity.
• Animal Behaviourist: Studying how animals respond to environments, training, stress, and enrichment in zoos, with companion animals, or in research.
• Zoo or Sanctuary Technician: Supporting animal care, enrichment, and behavioural monitoring in wildlife facilities.
• Animal Welfare Officer: Monitoring and improving the wellbeing of animals in farming, labs, shelters, or captivity.
• Field Ecologist: Conducting species surveys, behavioural observations, and conservation research in the field.

Entry Requirements

• Guaranteed Entry ATAR: 70.00
• No ATAR: Alternative entry options are available, including the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) with a score of 165.0, or a GPA of 4.5.
• TAFE/VET: Certificate IV or above.
• English language requirements: IELTS overall score of 6.0, with speaking, writing, and listening scores of 6.0, or Pearson overall score of 50.

Program Structure

The program is structured over three years, with core topics and elective options each year.

Year 1 - Core Topics

• Evolution of Biological Diversity
• Molecular Basis of Life
• Psychology
• Science Communication
• Chemical Structure and Bonding
• 1 elective

Year 2 - Core Topics

• Ecology
• Genetics and Evolution
• Foundations of Animal Behaviour
• Biostatistics
• 1 option topic

Year 3 - Core Topics

• Human Impacts and Biodiversity
• Research in Animal Behaviour
• Integrative Physiology of Animals and Plants
• Marine Mammals, Birds, and Reptiles
• Global Climate Change
• 2 option topics

Support Services

Flinders University offers a range of support services for students, including:

• International Student Services (ISS) for international students
• Academic support
• Health and wellbeing services
• Career services
• Financial support

Application Process

Applications for the Bachelor of Science (Animal Behaviour) can be made through the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). International students can apply directly through Flinders University or through an authorized agent.

Tuition Fees

• 2026: $9,537 (Commonwealth Supported Place, CSP)
• 2026: $43,500 (Full Fee Paying, FFP)

Research Areas

The university is involved in various research areas, including:

• Engineering and technology
• Health and medical
• People and society
• Science, environment, and natural resources
• Emerging research - Defence

Rankings and Recognition

Flinders University is recognized for its excellence in teaching and research, ranked:

• No.1 in SA for Sciences (learning resources, skills development, student support, teaching quality, and graduate salary)
• Top 400 in the world for Life Sciences
• Ranked #7 in Australia in Science & Mathematics for learner engagement

Campus and Locations

Flinders University has several campuses and locations, including:

• Bedford Park
• Tonsley
• City Campus
• Flinders in the NT
• Health and Medical Research Building

Student Profile

The student profile for this course includes a mix of students from different backgrounds, with a significant proportion of international students. The table below provides an indication of the likely peer cohort for new students in this course.

ATAR and Selection Rank Profile

The ATAR and Selection Rank data for students offered a place in Semester 1, 2025, is as follows:

• Highest rank to receive an offer: 95.20
• Median rank to receive an offer: 76.17
• Lowest rank to receive an offer: 57.75

Frequently Asked Questions

For answers to frequently asked questions about the Bachelor of Science (Animal Behaviour), including application processes, entry requirements, and support services, please refer to the university's website or contact the relevant department directly.