Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Blended learning – on-campus and digital learning
The primary focus of the Honours course in Science at Swinburne is on research skills with a mix of advanced theory, professional training, research training, and a research project leading to a thesis. An Honours degree in Science provides a competitive advantage for employment in research positions and is a requirement for studying at PhD level.
Every international student application is considered for a scholarship
Whether you’re living in Australia or overseas, you’re automatically considered for a scholarship of up to 20% off your course fees. Please check our updated entry requirements.
An honours year can improve your job prospects or provide a pathway to postgraduate study.
Register your interest to find out more.
Start dates
Hawthorn campus
- Semester 1 - 26 February 2024
- Semester 2 - 29 July 2024
Duration
1 year full-time
Full-time
CRICOS code
073629C
Fees
A$40740 (annual for 2024)*
The indicative course fees shown in Course Search apply to international students for the relevant year only. They are based on a standard study load per year. However, please note that fees are assessed according to a student's study load in each semester, and variation to study load will result in an adjustment to tuition fees. All fees are subject to annual review and may be adjusted.
International students in Australia who hold student visas are required to study full-time and on campus. Courses that are taught entirely online are only available to international students studying outside Australia or those in Australia who are not on a student visa. Online courses are not available to international students in Australia who hold a student visa.
As part of my degree I worked at Defence Science and Technology Group (DST Group) for a year, which changed how I view science and taught me to view things from different perspectives.
Tim
Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Course details
- Description, course structure and career opportunities.
Course structure
Successful completion of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) requires students to complete units of study to the value of 100 credit points. All units of study are valued at 12.5 credit points unless otherwise stated.
View course rules and special requirements
A range of research projects are available to honours students in Physics, as well as those in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Environmental Science.
Choose a specialisation:
- Full-time study: 100 credit points/eight standard units of study per year
- Part-time study: 50 credit points/four standard units of study per year
- One credit point is equivalent to one hour of study per week per semester (including contact hours and private study)
- See the course planner for an example degree structure
Course description
The course is divided into various strands which allow student to focus on their specific discipline. Lectures and, in particular, the research component of the honours degree are expected to focus on that specific discipline.
The following strands are available:
- biochemistry
- biotechnology
- chemistry
- environmental science
- physics
Course learning outcomes
At the completion of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) course, graduates will be able to:
- demonstrate advanced understanding of the methods and processes of science as a creative endeavour
- demonstrate the ability to critically analyse a challenging, complex or multifaceted problem, identify research questions, design and plan a project, complying with any regulatory frameworks and practicing professional ethics
- select and apply practical and/or theoretical techniques or tools to address a research question
- integrate research findings with the current body of disciplinary knowledge/paradigms and demonstrate the potential to make original contributions to scientific knowledge
- communicate scientific ideas and research findings to informed professional audiences using a variety of modes
- demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills to demonstrate autonomy, well-developed judgement, adaptability and responsibility.
Course structure
To qualify for a Bachelor of Science (Honours), a student must complete 100 credit points comprising coursework and thesis units within one area of specialisation:
- biochemistry
- biotechnology
- chemistry
- environmental science
- physics
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) with First Class Honours (H1) for students who achieve 80%-100%
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) with Upper Second Class Honours (H2A) for students who achieve 70%-79%
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) with Lower Second Class Honours (H2B) for students who achieve 60%-69%
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) with Third Class Honours (H3) for students who achieve 50%-59%
Career opportunities
This course equips graduates for careers in a variety of science areas including medical, health, food and beverage, wine, agricultural, sports, chemical and environmental industries. It is also specifically designed as a pathway into higher research degrees (Masters and PhD).
Scholarships
At Swinburne scholarships are about providing opportunity, promoting equity and recognising excellence and achievement. Scholarships are available for both commencing and current students.
How to enter this course
- Entry requirements and English language requirements.
How to apply
Find out more about how to apply.
Closing date for applicants:
It is recommended applicants apply a minimum of one month prior to start of semester. Students will need to confirm supervisor and project as part of the Entry Requirements to this program.