Course

Bachelor of Science (Biological Science)

Approved Abbreviation: BSc(BioSc)

Western Sydney University Course Code: 3517.1

CRICOS Code: 041151A

From 2008, prospective students should refer to the following course:

3517.2 Bachelor of Science (Biological Science)

The Bachelor of Science (Biological Science) prepares students for a professional career in science with particular emphasis on the biological sciences. A wide range of topics may be studied, but the principal focus is on areas relevant to analytical, clinical, environmental and forensic sciences, biotechnology and molecular biology. Students will develop fundamental skills in quantification and analysis and the capacity for critical analysis, problem solving and independent thought, as well as practical skills in the biological sciences. The program consists of core studies in biology, chemistry, microbiology and biochemistry, with a choice of more advanced units, including molecular biology, immunology, advanced biochemistry, biotechnology, environmental biology, plant science and medical and food microbiology. Students may maximise the biological science content of their degree or may combine their biological studies with another scientific discipline, or a discipline from the arts, humanities, social science or commerce. The flexible structure of the Bachelor of Science course enables the student to obtain a broad-based degree while keeping various options for specialisation open. This flexibility also allows students to transfer between key areas of study within the Bachelor of Science.

Study Mode
Three years full-time.

Advanced standing

A completed TAFE approved associate diploma or diploma in an appropriate area of science will enable a student to apply for up to one year of advanced standing.

Admission

There is no specific prerequisite for entry into the course. Preferably, students should have successfully completed the HSC at the 2U level or better in at least two of the following units: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics.

Course Structure

Qualification for this award requires the successful completion of 240 credit points which include the units listed in the recommended sequence below. At least 60 credit points must be at Level 3 and no more than 180 credit points at Level 1 and Level 2. The program of study must include, at Level 1, a unit from four out of the following discipline areas: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geology, Mathematics and Physics.

Recommended Sequence

Full-time

Year 1

Biology 1

Chemistry 1

Biology 2

Chemistry 2

And two additional Level 1 core or alternate units [as listed in 3516 - Bachelor of Science (General Science)] EXCEPT that students in course 3517 may not enrol in 300331 General Microbiology.

And two electives

Year 2

Biochemistry 1

Microbiology 1

Biochemistry 2

Microbiology 2

And two additional core or alternate units [as listed in 3516 - Bachelor of Science (General Science)]

And two electives