Program Overview

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Bachelor of Science (Palaeontology)

The Bachelor of Science (Palaeontology) is a highly interdisciplinary course that provides students with in-depth knowledge and appreciation of the Australian fossil record, and a broad-based foundation in the scientific principles underpinning palaeontology and allied disciplines.

Overview

This program gives students exclusive access to fossils, fieldwork, and cutting-edge research, allowing them to explore ancient ecosystems, study dinosaurs and megafauna, and learn how geology and biology reveal the secrets of evolution. With practical experience and expert guidance, students gain the skills to work in museums, research, conservation, education, or science communication, bringing the past to life and shaping the future of palaeontology.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Palaeontology) are prepared for a wide range of careers, including:

• Museums, as a curator, collections manager, or education officer
• Fieldwork and fossil excavation, both in Australia and overseas
• Evolutionary biology and ecological research
• Science communication, including writing, media, and public outreach
• Teaching, especially in science and Earth sciences
• Postgraduate research, leading to academic or specialist roles in palaeontology

Course Structure

The course consists of 108 units, completed over three years. The program of study includes:

Year 1

• 36 units of core topics, including:
  • Evolution of Biological Diversity
  • Molecular Basis of Life
  • Human Evolution
  • Earth and Environmental Sciences
  • Geospatial Information Systems
  • Biostatistics
  • Communicating STEM
  • Coding for Science

Year 2

• 27 units of core topics, including:
  • Scientific Techniques in Archaeology
  • Biostatistics 2
  • Scientific Illustration
  • Vertebrate Form and Function
  • Diversity of Life
  • Science Applied
• 9 units of a chosen Minor

Year 3

• 22.5 units of core topics, including:
  • Digital Pasts: Applied 3D Capture and Reconstruction of Ancient Worlds
  • Genetics and Evolution
  • Vertebrate Palaeontology
  • Global Climate Change
  • Geology of Australia
• 4.5 units of option topics, including:
  • Science Connect
  • Research Project in Science
  • 6-week Industry-based Practicum
  • Workplace Preparation
• 9 units of the same Minor selected in Year 2

Minors

Students can choose from a range of Minors, including:

• Archaeology
• Animal Behaviour
• Biodiversity and Conservation
• Environmental Restoration
• Geospatial Information Science

Admission Requirements

The minimum requirements for consideration for entry to all undergraduate courses are specified in detail in the University Entry Requirements. SACE Stage 2 (Year 12) Biology is desirable, but not assumed. International Student English Language Requirements also apply.

Aims

The course aims to provide students with in-depth knowledge and appreciation of the Australian fossil record, and a broad-based foundation in the scientific principles underpinning palaeontology and allied disciplines. Students are expected to develop a range of transferable research, analytical, and communication skills in both university- and field-based settings.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the course, students will be able to:

1. Apply current theories, subject content, professional methodologies, ethical frameworks, and research procedures relevant to studies of palaeontology and vertebrate evolution.
2. Analyse the processes through which current knowledge about the areas of palaeontology and vertebrate evolution and diversity was developed.
3. Apply relevant scientific principles to solve problems by creating and testing hypotheses, generating predictions, designing and conducting experiments, and statistically analysing data.
4. Critically evaluate studies relating to palaeontology, palaeoecology, and vertebrate evolution in both laboratory and field contexts.
5. Communicate findings and present information clearly to a variety of audiences in written and spoken form.
6. Evaluate the processes that have led to the evolution of the modern Australian fauna and appreciate the fossil heritage of the continent.

Student Progression Rules

The Student Progress Policy applies to all students enrolled, or seeking to re-enrol, in a course at the University.

Qualification Title

Bachelor of Science (Palaeontology)

Associations

The course is associated with the Bachelor of Science (Honours) - 1 year.

College

College of Science and Engineering

Unit Value

108 units

Course Type

Undergraduate course

Level of Study

AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree

Standard Full-Time Duration

3 years

CRICOS Code

Available upon request