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Bachelor of Science (Evolutionary Biology)

Campus North Terrace Campus

Degree Type Bachelor

Duration 3 years full-time or part-time equiv.

SATAC Code 324281

2012
ATAR 76.6

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  • Program Outline

    Evolutionary Biology involves the study of information contained in living plants and animals and their fossils to determine how they evolved. This knowledge assists in understanding biodiversity and planning for its conservation.  The program provides access to South Australian Museum staff and collections and is unique in South Australia.  It is designed to deliver internationally competitive training.

  • Program Structure
    After the first year level, students have the opportunity to pursue more advanced level courses that focus on the origins of the Australian biota, evolutionary genetics, systematics, phylogenetics, ancient DNA, and the fossil record. Students are exposed to high quality, cutting-edge research and conduct a research project in their field of interest.
  • Assessment

    Assignments, exams, practical work, field trip reports

  • Related Programs
  • Admission and Fee Information

    Choose your applicant type to view the relevant admissions information for this program.
    I am a:

    Domestic applicants

    Not a domestic applicant?

    SATAC Code 324281
    2012 CSP ATAR 76.6
    Adelaide Approved Score 75
    2012 CSP IB 26
    Annual tuition fees
    Commonwealth-supported place: $8,250
    Mid-year entry? Subject to availability
    Deferment? Yes - 2 year
    Enquiries University Contact Centre
    Selection Criteria
    Year 12 applicants
    You must not have completed more than 2 years full time equivalent university study (48 units). You compete for a place with your Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR).
    Assumed Knowledge
    SACE Stage 2 Chemistry, Mathematical Studies

    Alternative entry pathways
    • Higher Education applicants
      You must have completed at least half a year full time equivalent university study. A Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated for each separate program you have undertaken (apart from some double degree programs where the GPA is combined). You compete on the basis of your best GPA.
    • VET applicants
      You must have completed an AQF Certificate IV or above from a Registered Training Organisation. Your application will be ranked according to the level of the award.
    • Special Entry applicants
      You must be 18 years or over before February 1st of the year that you will be studying. If you have studied a higher education program within the last two years, you must not have studied more than 2 years full-time equivalent in that program and you must not hold a completed higher education level award. If you meet this criteria, you will be ranked according to your result in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT). Personal Competencies (PC) and Employment Experience (EE) statements may also contribute to your rank. If you submit a PC or EE statement, and one of these ranks higher than your STAT score, then the highest ranking statement will contribute 50% to your overall rank and the STAT will contribute the remaining 50%. If you do not submit a PC or EE statement, or if the statements have a lower rank than the STAT, then you will compete for a place on the basis of your STAT result only. Indigenous applicants may be eligible for entry through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Access Scheme. See Wilto Yerlo for further information.
    • Without formal qualifications?
      You may be eligible for our special access schemes.
    • Other Entry Pathways
    How to Apply
    SATAC Code: 324281

    International applicants

    Not an international applicant?

    International ATAR 80
    IB 27
    IELTS Overall 6 [more info]
    Annual tuition fees International student place: $26,750
    Mid-year entry? No
    CRICOS 051758J
    Enquiries University Contact Centre
    Selection Criteria
    Assumed Knowledge
    Chemistry and Mathematics is desirable
    Equivalent Scores
    International ATAR 80
    IB 27
    IELTS
    Overall
    Reading
    Listening
    Speaking
    Writing
    6
    5.5
    5.5
    6
    6
    A-Level 9
    UEC [Malaysia] 15
    SAT [US] 1770
    OSSD OAC [Canadian Pre-U] 75
    Eynesbury Foundation Program 380
    Bradford Foundation Program 77
    How to Apply

    International applicants applying with Australian year 12 results

    Not an international applicant applying with Australian year 12 results?

    International ATAR 80
    Annual tuition fees International student place: $26,750
    Mid-year entry? No
    Enquiries University Contact Centre
    Selection Criteria
    Assumed Knowledge
    SACE Stage 2 Chemistry, Mathematical Studies
  • Areas of Specialisation

    After a common first year focussing on the fundamentals of biology, chemistry and geology you will be given the opportunity to pursue one of two majors:

    • Palaeontology or Systematics & Molecular Evolution – the reconstruction and study of fossil material;  or
    • Systematics and Molecular Evolution – the use of molecular biology and evolutionary genetics to investigate the diversification of life.
  • Study Plans

    The study plans given are examples of pathways through this degree for students that commenced their program in 2013 (refer to the program rules). Students that commenced in previous years should refer to the tabs above(referring to years) or consult their Faculty for advice.

    Level I

    Semester 1 (core courses)

    together with an additional 6 units of Level I courses chosen from the following electives:

    • CHEM 1100: Chemistry IA
      or
    • CHEM 1101: Foundations of Chemistry IA
    • MATHS 1011: Mathematics IA *
      or
    • MATHS 1013: Mathematics IM

      other courses offered by the Faculty of Sciences.  A maximum of 3 units may be taken from courses offered by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, the Faculty of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences and the School of Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Urban Design.

      Semester 2 (core courses) 

      together with an additional 6 units of Level I courses chosen from the following electives:

      or

      other level 1 courses selected in consultation with the Program Coordinator

      *may be taken in either Semester 1 or 2

      #STATS 1004 Statistical Practice (Life Sciences) may be taken in Semester 1 or 2

    Level II

    Passes in Level II courses as follows.

    FOR A MAJOR IN PALAEONTOlOGY:

    with passes in additional courses to the value of 15 units chosen from:

    or courses selected in consultation with the Program Coordinator

    * Students wishing to enrol in GENETICS 3111 Genes, Genomes & Molecular Evolution as part of the Level III Palaeontology major must enrol in both GENETICS 2510: Genetics IIA: Foundations of Genetics and GENETICS 2520: Genetics IIB: Function & Diversity Genomes.

     

    FOR A MAJOR IN SYSTEMATIC AND MOLECULAR EVOLUTION:

    with electives to the value of 9 units chosen from:

    or additional Level II or III courses in the disciplines Environmental Biology, Geology selected in consultation with the Program Coordinator

     

    Level III

    Passes in Level III courses as follows:

    FOR A MAJOR IN PALAEONTOLOGY:

    Semester 1

    Semester 2

    Plus passes in additional Level III courses to the value of 15 units chosen from:

    Semester 1

    Semester 2

    or additional Level III courses in the disciplines Environmental Biology, Geology  selected in consultation with the Program Coordinator and in accordance with Academic Program Rules 5.5.5 for the Bachelor of Science.

     

    FOR A MAJOR IN SYSTEMATICS AND MOLECULAR EVOLUTION:

    Semester 1

    Semester 2

    Plus passes in additional Level III courses to the value of 9 units chosen from:

    Semester 1

    Semester 2

  • Career Opportunities

    Employment opportunities exist for graduates in a large range of organisations including:

    • Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)
    • Emerging Climate Change enterprises as research scientists, science journalists, teachers and technical support staff
    • Government and private sector
    • Herbaria
    • Museums
    • Private companies
    • Universities

    Potential careers

    Ecologist, Biodiversity Assessment, Environmental Management, Resource Management, Environmental Remediation Officer, Environmental Scientist, Life Scientist, Palaentology, Environmental Biologist, Environmental Consultant, Scientific Officer, Government Officer, Lecturer, Consultant, Personal / Research Officer (Local MP), Policy Adviser, Project Officer, Education Officer / Educator, Environmental Project Officer, Research Assistant, Research Associates, Resource Manager, ...

  • Graduate Attributes

    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.
  • Program Rules
  • Further Information

    Please direct enquiries to the University Contact Centre
    Phone: +61 8 8313 7335 (toll free 1800 061 459)

    The annual Open Day and Information Night events provide an excellent opportunity to see our campus, meet with academics, and discuss your study options.

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The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.

Last updated: Wednesday, 27 Feb 2013

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