University of South Australia

Science and Maths

Interested in Science and Maths?

Study at SA's number one university for teaching quality1, and quality education2 in maths and science. Our mathematics and science degrees have been designed in collaboration with industry. You will learn skills that are practical and relevant to today’s working environment. 

Science is concerned with the study of the nature and behaviour of the physical universe and impacts all of society through the solutions and technologies developed. Our science studies have a practical emphasis, with a focus on laboratory and fieldwork. Pick your major from areas including applied physics, biology, chemistry, environmental systems, or mathematics and statistics.

Mathematics can open doors to a wide range of careers with employers looking to solve problems and quantify and understand data. The analytical and problem-solving skills you will develop when studying maths are highly valued by prospective employers as new and improved solutions are sought to contemporary social and economic challenges. As part of your degree you will also have an opportunity to undertake an industry-based project or participate in our Maths Clinic. 

If you’re interested in becoming a secondary school teacher, you can apply up-front to study one of our mathematics or science degrees plus a Master of Teaching (Secondary). We also offer a postgraduate Data Science degree, that recognises the growing specialisation and opportunities in big data. 

1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Science and Mathematics – Teaching Quality Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.

2ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Science and Mathematics – Teaching Quality Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.

Key features

  • Select from a broad range of majors based on your interests and career goals, such as applied physics, biology, chemistry, ecosystem sciences, or mathematics.
  • Learn in the multi-million dollar Materials and Minerals Science Learning and Research Hub based at Mawson Lakes campus.
  • Gain international experience through a study exchange.
  • Apply for a bachelor degree plus a Master of Teaching (Secondary) to become a secondary school teacher.
  • Hypatia and SA Water scholarships available for mathematically-talented women.
  • Research rated at well above world-class in the area of applied mathematics and statistics1, and mathematical sciences2.

12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)

22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)

Why UniSA?

The University of South Australia runs several research centres and institutes. In addition to research, our centres also provide consulting services to organisations, ensuring our strong links with community and industry.

UniSA’s research in the field of Mathematical Sciences, including applied mathematics and statistics, is ranked well above world-class by 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)1.

UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities*, we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.

12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)
UNSTOPPABLE ® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. *Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.

UniSA offers the following Science and Maths degrees

Choose your level of study

Your career

The skills and knowledge you develop will apply to careers in a broad range of areas, such as:

  • analyst positions – data, fraud, investment reporting, marketing, transport, planning
  • defence
  • environmental modelling and education
  • meteorology
  • statistics 
  • private or government laboratories
  • data mining and analysis
  • manufacturing
  • mining and energy
  • information technology
  • teaching (with further study)
Your Career

Global networks

We are a globally connected university; our staff and students come from over 90 countries. We have more than 2,500 industry and professional relationships that support student internships, research and community engagement.

UniSA also has extensive research strengths and partnerships that provide a strong foundation for all our degree programs, including:

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.

    The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.

    There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.

    If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.

    You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.

    If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying

  • Is there a closing date for applications? minus-thick plus-thick

    Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

    Undergraduate

    The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.

    Postgraduate

    Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.

    As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.

  • What credit can I receive for previous studies? minus-thick plus-thick

    You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central. 

  • Can I speak to someone regarding my study options? minus-thick plus-thick

    Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.

More FAQs

Study at UniSA

Bianna Kelly talks about her experience studying UniSA's Bachelor of Science which sparked her interest in research.

UniSA Video

What others are saying

I decided to study at UniSA because of the broad choice of science subjects on offer and practical side of the degree. Plus as a student I’m been involved in the UniSA Sport tennis club, competing in the Australian Uni Games. I enjoyed studying so much that now I'm completing a research degree with UniSA.

Douglas Howard

Bachelor of Science

Douglas Howard

Douglas Howard

Bachelor of Science

I am currently employed as a Mine/Exploration Geologist at Newmarket Gold in the Northern Territory… Having a degree not only helped me get a role as a geologist but it also introduced me to the first company who employed me.

Inna Ujvari

Bachelor of Science

Inna Ujvari

Inna Ujvari

Bachelor of Science

I’ve completed a summer vocation scholarship in the maths department, and from there gained a role working as a mentor for the UniSA College. These are enjoyable activities to be involved in, and help boost my resume and experience!

Sarah Mundi

Bachelor of Science

Sarah Mundi

Sarah Mundi

Bachelor of Science

Why study at UniSA?

As one of the most innovative universities in Australia and Asia, there are many reasons to study with us. Here are just three:

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Accessible, helpful and flexible

We have six campuses, a 24/7 online learning environment, and we offer flexible study options like online and evening courses.

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Graduate success

UniSA is South Australia's number one university for graduate careers.*
*ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019-21 – Full-time Employment Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.

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A five star university

Five stars for research, employability, teaching, facilities, internationalisation, inclusiveness and innovation*
*2023 QS Stars Ratings