COURSE CURRICULUM

The course structure for the Bachelor of Science with Honours requires students to complete 48 credit points at the 400 level, ensuring they develop advanced skills in scientific investigation, research methodology and discipline-specific knowledge. To qualify for the award, each candidate must undertake a thesis along with discipline-based components that support their chosen research focus. Students complete one approved major, and all majors include the core research unit SCI400, which provides essential training in designing, conducting and presenting scientific research at an advanced level. The program offers a wide range of majors that allow students to specialise in a field aligned with their academic interests and career goals. These majors include agronomy, animal science, archaeology, biochemistry, botany, chemistry, computational science, ecology, environmental science, genetics, geography, geoscience, mathematics, microbiology, neuroscience, physics, physiology and zoology. Each major provides a structured pathway of research-led learning, enabling students to gain deep knowledge of the theories, methods and applications within their discipline. The honours year is designed to strengthen students’ analytical abilities, scientific communication skills and capacity to contribute original insights to their field of study. By engaging in a significant research thesis, students develop independence, critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities that prepare them for professional scientific roles or further postgraduate research, including master’s and doctoral studies. The course structure also ensures flexibility, allowing students to work closely with supervisors and research teams who are active in internationally recognised areas of science. Detailed information, such as specific unit requirements, course plans, intensive schools and any work placement components, is available through the UNE Handbook, which provides comprehensive guidance for enrolled students. Overall, the structure of this honours program ensures rigorous academic preparation and hands-on research experience within a specialised scientific discipline.