Please note: For 2012 there will be entry into first and second years only.

Year 12 Applicants must obtain an ATAR of 95 or higher (or equivalent).

The Bachelor of Science (Advanced) (BSc (Advanced)) is designed for high-achieving students who wish to develop their knowledge and understanding of science, with a strong emphasis on research skill development.

This program provides students with the early opportunity to participate in the academic and research culture of the scientific areas they are most interested in, while still providing the choice and flexibility of a Bachelor of Science.

BSc (Advanced) students participate in program specific courses that will introduce topics on processes, communication and methods used in science research. Students will also participate in structured research activities and research seminars, normally only available to honours and postgraduate students. 

In addition, a semester long research placement and lab attachments will provide breadth of experience. These activities will allow associations with academic staff in major research areas, providing early access to research laboratories/projects that can be further developed for an Honours year and postgraduate study (Masters or PhD).

To remain in this highly competitive program, students must maintain a high Grade Point Average (GPA) throughout their candidature.  Similarly, students who attain a predetermined GPA will automatically be eligible for a place in the BSc (Hons) program upon completion of the BSc (Advanced). 

Like the Bachelor of Science, students in the BSc (Advanced) design their own degree from a broad range of study options and have flexibility to select areas of specific interest. In first year, students enrol in a combination of courses that prepare them to follow pathways through to major study areas. In third year, students choose at least one area of science in which to specialise and undertake a research placement. Exposure to research culture will be explored through the BSc (Advanced) specific courses Principles and Practice of Research (Advanced) II and Principle and Practice of Research (Advanced) III.

To remain in this highly competitive program, students must maintain a high Grade Point Average (GPA) throughout their candidature. Similarly, students who attain a predetermined GPA will automatically be eligible for a place in the BSc (Hons) program upon completion of the BSc (Advanced).

Study Plan
Level 1: Core course - Principles and Practice of Science I; non core courses chosen from a range of science offerings that complement a student's interests and build towards two science majors listed below.

Level 2: Core course - Principles and Practice of Research (Advanced) II; non-core courses chosen from a range of science offerings and that maintain study in the area of two science majors listed below.

Level 3: Core course - Principles and Practice of Research (Advanced) III; non-core courses chosen from a range of science offerings that complete the study required to achieve at least one science major as listed below.

Science Majors

• Biochemistry
• Botany
• Chemistry
• Ecology
• Ecology and Spatial Science
• Geology
• Genetics
• Geophysics & Applied Geology
• Microbiology & Immunology
• Physics
• Theoreticl Physics
• Soil Science
• Zoology
• Experimental & Theoretical Physics
  

Careers
The BSc (Advanced) has a strong emphasis on advanced research training to give students the best chance of becoming a professional scientist. Dependant on your chosen major, some of the many careers available to graduates include:

Analytical Chemist
Cancer Researcher
Environmental Scientist
Food Scientist
Food Technologist
Geneticist
Geologist
Hydrologist
Marine Biologist
Meteorologist
Mineral Exploration Scientist
Nanotechnologist
Natural Resource Manager
Neuroscientist
Oceanographer
Oil and Gas Analyst
Palaeontologist
Physicist
Plant Breeder
Research & Development Officer
Science Teacher
Scientific journalist
Scientific Researcher
Toxicologist

In the BSc (Advanced) there is a strong emphasis on advanced research training to give students the best chance of becoming a professional scientist. Science students learn a number of transferable skills that are also in demand in a wide range of careers. These skills include analytical methods, critical thinking and problem solving, laboratory and field techniques, information technology and literacy skills, teamwork, initiative and the ability to communicate and cooperate with people from a range of backgrounds and expertise.

Graduates of the BSc (Advanced) are also well prepared for a range of further study options. These include honours and higher degrees by research in their chosen science discipline or graduate studies in areas such as nutrition, medicine, chiropractics, physiotherapy, pharmacy and teaching.

Varies according to chosen major but may include assignments, practicals, field reports and exams.

Bachelor of Science

Biomedical Science focuses on the biomedical aspects of biology, understanding the normal functions and diseases of the human body. Emphasis is placed on the interface between modern biomedical knowledge and experimental approaches. You will be taught by world-class biomedical researchers and experienced educators. Graduates gain employment in medical or research laboratories, hospitals, private industries, the pharmaceutical industry, sports clinics, the biotechnology industry, forensic science, food science and nutrition, cardiac technology, rehabilitation, chiropractics and teaching.

Chemical Sciences involves the study of the structure, physical and chemical properties and reactions of elements and compounds. Students learn how to apply this knowledge to develop new and useful chemicals such as plastics, fuels and pharmaceuticals, for use in manufacture, medicine and the environment.  A wide range of professional careers may be sought by graduates including environmental monitoring and control, mining, forensic science, nanotechnology, the pharmaceutical industry, medical and agricultural laboratories, manufacturing, food technology, the chemical industry, research and teaching.

Earth Sciences involves the study of how our planet is built, how it works, its turbulent 4.5 billion year history and how its precious resources can be located and used. It also investigates how the fragile landscape and often hazardous natural events must be studied and understood to allow them to be adequately managed.  Earth Science is one of the most diverse of the sciences covering everything from meteorites to dinosaurs and from gold deposits to volcanoes. Graduates may seek a wide range of professional careers in areas including resource management, environmental geology, mineral exploration, organic geochemistry, seismology, geomorphology, palaeontology, industry and fundamental research.

Evolutionary Biology and Ecology allows students to investigate the diversity of life on earth and the relationships between organisms and their environments.  Students will learn about plants and animals, their ecology, conservation and management, physiology and evolution, including those in terrestrial, freshwater and marine systems. Fieldwork and the study of South Australian ecosystems are important components of many later year courses. Exciting careers exist in environmental consultancy, environmental monitoring and management, marine science, aquaculture, community education, ecotourism, wildlife parks, catchment management, research and teaching.

Molecular Biology explores how biological processes function at a molecular level and its application in medicine, agriculture and research. Students develop an understanding of the manufacture of important biological molecules and how, through gene technology, genes may be manipulated in beneficial ways. Graduates can pursue careers in biotechnology, biomedicine, agricultural research, pharmaceutical industries and medical laboratories. 

Physics provides an understanding of the structure of matter and the nature of the universe. You will develop a detailed knowledge of areas which can include astrophysics, atmospheric and environmental physics, computational physics, optics and lasers, photonics and nuclear/particle physics. Mathematical and computer science courses are often taken along with physics.  Employment opportunities exist for graduates in electronics, optics and laser industries, scientific computing, telecommunications, space and astronomy programs, forensic science, defence, health and environmental industries, medical physics or in research.

Soil Science and Spatial Information Science explores the biological, chemical and physical properties of soils in Australian landscapes and uses the latest technology in geographical information systems, remote sensing, and spatial modelling to monitor distributions of landscape properties.  Graduates are keenly sought after by a wide range of government agencies, regional bodies, private enterprise and universities in the fields of oil surveying, environmental planning, soil conservation, environmental impact assessment, environmental engineering, land assessment and mapping, research and biodiversity survey and assessment.

The BSc (Advanced) has a strong emphasis on advanced research training to give students the best chance of becoming a professional scientist. Dependant on your choice of major, some of the many careers available to graduates include:

Analytical Chemist

• Cancer Researcher
• Environmental Scientist
• Food & Wine Producer
• Food Scientist
• Food Technologist
• Geneticist
• Geologist
• Hydrologist
• Laboratory Technician
• Marine Biologist
• Meteorologist
• Mineral Exploration Scientist
• Nanotechnologist
• Natural Resource Manager
• Neuroscientist
• Oceanographer
• Oil and Gas Analyst
• Palaeontologist
• Physicist
• Plant Breeder
• Research & Development Officer
• Science Teacher
• Scientific journalist
• Scientific Researcher
• Toxicologist

Students are encouraged to take responsibility for developing the following attributes:

• Knowledge and understanding of the content and techniques of a chosen discipline at advanced levels that are internationally recognised.
• The ability to locate, analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner.
• An ability to apply effective, creative and innovative solutions, both independently and cooperatively, to current and future problems.
• Skills of a high order in interpersonal understanding, teamwork and communication.
• A proficiency in the appropriate use of contemporary technologies.
• A commitment to continuous learning and the capacity to maintain intellectual curiosity throughout life.
• A commitment to the highest standards of professional endeavour and the ability to take a leadership role in the community.
• An awareness of ethical, social and cultural issues and their importance in the exercise of professional skills and responsibilities.

Faculty of Sciences Undergraduate Program Rules

• Faculty of Sciences
• Program Information Leaflet
• Undergraduate Scholarships
• University Contact Centre Enquiry Form