Bachelor of Science
The Faculty of Science has structured the general BSc degree to allow you the choice of 29 specialist majors in one degree using one UAC choice.
This means that you will have the flexibility to nominate your preferred major at enrolment, or if you’re not sure what major you might like you can try a range of subjects from the science curriculum before choosing. Staff will be available to give advice on selecting individual subjects and options appropriate to your interests, career aspirations and abilities. Up to one third of the BSc can be taken in non-science areas.
When you graduate from the BSc you may elect to have your major area(s) of study printed on your testamur, identifying your expertise in a particular discipline.
The flexibility of the BSc degree also makes it possible for qualified students to transfer into a specialist science degree after a year in the BSc, gaining maximum credit possible. Surveys show that BSc students value their approachable and enthusiastic lecturers, the opportunity to develop communication and teamwork skills in practical classes, and the ability to choose non-science electives.
The Sydney Advantage
- 29 areas of study in one degree using just one UAC choice
- nominate your major now or later
- have your area of expertise printed on your testamur
You can also choose from our specialist degrees including:
| Degree Information | |
|---|---|
| Intake | 320 |
| Duration | 3 years full-time 6 years part-time |
| Information for Local Students | |
|---|---|
| 2009 UAI Cut-off | 83.00 |
| ATAR equivalent of 2009 UAI |
84.40 |
| UAC Course code | 512040 |
| Information for International Students | |
|---|---|
| CRICOS code | 000719E |
| Annual Fees for 2009 | Bachelor of Science |
| Is mid-year entry available | Yes |
| English language requirements | Standard - view details |
Degree Profile
The BSc requires three years of full-time study. Part-time study is also available, although most classes are held only during the day.
In the first year of the BSc degree fulltime students enrol in 48 credit points of junior units of study (a typical junior semester length subject is worth 6 credit points). At least 12 credit points of mathematics must be studied throughout the course.
After completing this general first year, students begin to focus on their special areas of interest. In second year most students select 48 credit points of intermediate subjects. In third year most students study a total of 48 credit points
in one or two major areas of study. A degree with two majors is an asset when
applying for jobs in a competitive job market.
BSc students with at least a Credit average may be able to continue on to Honours level, which is an additional year of study and research. Students who do not gain entry to the Honours year in their discipline might consider the Graduate Diploma in Science which is an honours-equivalent year.
Career Opportunities
Science graduates from the University of Sydney have distinguished themselves in many areas of endeavour. Some have won prestigious prizes and scholarships such as the Nobel Prize or the Rhodes Scholarship. Others have gone on to occupy positions in the world’s best research institutions and many have established successful careers in education, business, banking and government.
You may decide to pursue a career closely linked to your specialist field of study, particularly if you have taken an Honours year - or you may choose to consider a
career in management and administration or teaching.
One reason science graduates are especially in demand is because employers recognise that the Bachelor of Science degree provides graduates with adaptable skills and the ability to think creatively about difficult issues.
The degree also forms an ideal base for graduate research in science or for professional coursework programs such as the University’s graduate medical and dental programs.
Professional Recognition
Most majors in the Bachelor of Science are recognised by the relevant professional association. For example students with a major in chemistry are eligible for Graduate membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI).