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The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:
Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND
Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points
Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.
There are no prerequisites for entry into this program however Stage 2: Chemistry; Mathematical Methods; Physics; or equivalent knowledge, are prerequisites for some courses in some majors. Further details are available in the program schedule rules and notes.
OR Higher education study
Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above
OR Vocational Education and Training (VET)
Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR Work and life experience
Qualify for Special Entry, or
Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
None
Assumed Knowledge
None
English language entry requirements
In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements.
The minimum language requirements for this program are:
English language test
IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]
Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:
English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)
There are no prerequisites for entry into this program in 2025. However, prerequisite knowledge may still be required for some majors. Please refer to the Program Schedule Rules and Notes.
Study Science today to create planetary solutions for tomorrow.
Study the fundamentals of science through observation, experiment, and measurement.
Learn about the Earth, the Universe, and science and human activities in space.
Develop skills in Atomic science and understand how radiation is used in medicine, agriculture, space and defence.
Gain practical experience through laboratory and field work.
Learn in experiential facilities such as the multi-million dollar Materials and Minerals Science Learning and Research Hub based at Mawson Lakes Campus.
Choose your majors based on your interests and career goals.
Become a secondary school science teacher by combining this degree with a Master of Teaching (Secondary).
Snapshot
Unravel the mysteries of the natural and physical world with a Bachelor of Science at UniSA. Scientists work by observation, and measurement, making predictions and informed decisions through the systematic study of the nature and behaviour of the physical universe.
Fostering a spirit of inquiry, you will have the opportunity to follow your natural curiosity and tailor your degree to your interest areas, from traditional pathways like Applied Physics, Biology for Science, Mathematics, and Chemistry for Science, to increasingly critical areas such as Ecosystem Sciences, and Applied Earth Sciences.
You will spend a significant amount of time in laboratory and field settings, with the degree designed with practical skills in mind to ensure you graduate prepared to adapt your expertise to a diverse range of industries, such as defence, the environment, meteorology, and energy or food.
You may also choose to pursue the advancement of knowledge in your field with a career in research, or share your scientific passion in an education setting. If you think you may be interested in secondary school teaching, you can apply for the Bachelor of Science/Master of Teaching (Secondary) – a direct pathway to postgraduate study.
If you would like to apply directly into the Bachelor of Science/Master of Teaching (Secondary) package option, please apply via SATAC using 434101.
On-campus teaching for this program is based at the Mawson Lakes campus. Only 20 minutes from the city centre with easy parking. The Mawson Lakes campus is also accessible by bus and train with the Mawson Lakes train station only a short walk.
What you'll learn
This is a flexible degree. You can select two majors from the following fields:
Applied physics: allows you to pursue in-depth studies in advanced materials, computational physics and medical health physics
Biology for Science: includes plant and animal biology, cell biology, physiology, environmental biology, biochemistry and introductory biotechnology
Chemistry for Science: offers studies in both physical and inorganic chemistry
Ecosystem sciences: looks at environmental sciences and policy including the contemporary concepts of ecosystem management and sustainable development that link natural and social systems, providing a solid foundation in natural sciences and field research techniques.
Applied Earth Sciences: combines the study of chemical, physical, geological and biological processes that shape the natural environment, with an emphasis on problems such as climate change, environmental pollution and landscape modification. Investigate the Earth System and the dynamic interactions that govern global change from the microscopic to the macroscopic scale.
Mathematics and statistics: investigates core studies in applied mathematics, statistics and optimisation.
If you are interested in taking a major in another area of science this may also be possible. Please consult with the Program Director. If you think you might be interested in secondary school teaching, you can apply for the Bachelor of Science/Master of Teaching (Secondary) – a direct pathway to postgraduate study packaged with your Bachelor of Science degree.
1. Students in the Mathematics major must enrol in this course.
2. Students in the Applied Physics major must enrol in this course. If students are also completing a Mathematics Major the course required for the Mathematics Major should be completed (Rule 1).
3. Students who are not completing the Mathematics or Applied Physics majors must enrol in one of these courses. This course is the foundation mathematics course for the program.
4. Majors: (a) Students must select two science majors (36 units each), (b) Students who are interested in taking a major in another area of science not listed in the program schedule must seek Program Director approval.
5. This course may be selected from university-wide electives from any discipline
6. This course may be selected from the Electives list below, or from the university-wide electives from any discipline.
Notes
1. The Major in Applied Physics has prerequisite knowledge of SACE Stage 2 Physics and Mathematical Methods or equivalent knowledge. Students who do not have the assumed knowledge must discuss options with their program director to take `equivalent knowledge' courses as electives in their program.
2. The Major in Chemistry for Science has prerequisite knowledge of SACE Stage 2 Chemistry or equivalent knowledge. Students who do not have the prerequisites must discuss options with their program director to take `equivalent knowledge' courses as electives in their program.
3. The Major in Mathematics has prerequisite knowledge of SACE Stage 2 Mathematical Methods or equivalent knowledge. Students who do not have the prerequisites must discuss options with their program director to take `equivalent knowledge' courses as electives in their program.
4. Further studies - Students who intend to apply for subsequent entry into either a UniSA STEM or UniSA Clinical and Health Sciences honours program should seek Program Director advice in order to complete extra courses in the area of the relevant major.
5. Students selecting the internship course should contact the STEM Industry Experience team via their Program Director for further advice.
6. Students should contact STEM-TeachingLearning@unisa.edu.au for a study plan relevant to the Major areas of study you have chosen.
7. Students undertaking the Chemistry for Science, Biology for Science, or Mathematics majors may have other project course options available. Please see Program Director for further information.
8. This course is subject to availability and students may be required to obtain their own Internship opportunity. Students should have a minimum GPA of 5. Students must have prior Program Director approval before enrolling.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally-focused, and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:
reports and project documentation
research projects, group projects
essays and assignments
tests and examinations
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
In this flexible degree you will develop a broad science education. Learning from academic and industry leaders, you will study two majors in areas of science that interest you, and develop a strong scientific understanding in those areas. In this degree you will study new courses in Space Missions and Atomic, Nuclear and Radiation Science, and cap your studies with a project course or internship within one of your major areas.
Depending on your results in the program, you may also be eligible to apply for entry into one of our highly regarded honours programs and spend a year on more detailed scientific research. Honours programs include:
We are home to several research centres in the fields of biomaterials and nano-medicine, environmental science, phenomics and bioinformatics, energy, and minerals and resources science. As well as research, they provide consulting services to organisations and government. All have state-of-the-art facilities including the Future Industries Institute, with world renowned links and associations that provide a dynamic teaching and research base for our students. We also host regular University-wide career expos and employment forums through our Career Service, as well as alumni events in Australia and overseas.
Hear from Bianna Kelly, Science student
Bianna Kelly talks about her experience studying UniSA's Bachelor of Science which sparked her interest in research.
Career outcomes
Your career
Because of the diverse nature of this degree, your skills and knowledge will apply to careers in a broad range of industries, such as:
private or government laboratories
medical and pharmaceutical industries
manufacturing
environmental management
food and beverages
mining and energy
information technology
defence and space science
meteorology
teaching (with further study)
If you think you might be interested in secondary school teaching, you can apply for the Bachelor of Science/Master of Teaching (Secondary) - a direct pathway to postgraduate study.
Industry facts
Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills are essential to Australia's top five growth industries
(National Centre for Vocational Education Research)
Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills are essential to 75 per cent of Australia's fastest growing employment areas
(AMSI: Australia Must Embrace Mathematics for Innovation)
How to apply
To apply:
go to the top of this page and make note of the relevant SATAC code*, then click Apply
you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application
*There are two SATAC codes – one for this degree, and one for this degree packaged with the Master of Teaching. You can apply to study this degree on its own. However, if you already know you would like to combine it with a Master of Teaching, you can apply for both together.
Alternative Pathways
Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.
Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.
24/7 digital environment
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Your campus
We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.
This degree is delivered at the following campus.
Your study spaces
You will have access to our multi-million dollar Materials and Minerals Science Learning and Research Hub at the Mawson Lakes campus. The $50 million facility supports our world-class research in minerals and materials science. It’s a place that blends teaching and research environments, making you part of a vibrant learning community.
Your program director
My background is in physics, having both an undergraduate degree and a PhD in physics. My PhD was in Auroral Physics with the Space Environment Physics group at the University of Southampton in the UK, which allowed me to explore the fusion of many areas of physics as I studied the behaviour of the Aurora borealis, or Northern Lights. Following my PhD, I switched focus to teaching and moved to New Zealand to teach physics at Massey University. I took up my current position at UniSA mid-2020 as a teaching-focussed lecturer in Applied Physics with a focus on foundational and first year physics teaching.
I’m passionate about physics teaching and enabling students to actively explore the behaviour of the physical world. My scholarship interests are currently in simulated experiments, and exploring the links between engagement and performance in physics and physics-allied courses.
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.
If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.
Postgraduate study by research For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.
There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.
The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.
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
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
Bachelor of Science
I was raised on a sheep and cropping farm in the mid-north of South Australia and have always been interested in biology and the environment. This led me to study a science degree. I am fascinated by the possibilities of science and have decided to further my knowledge by completing honours. My goal is to pursue a career in research because I enjoy fieldwork and being outdoors.
Fees This is based on the total number of units for this program where one EFTSL is expressed as 36 units.
*UniSA accepts applications for programs commencing beyond the year advertised and tuition fees for these years will be higher. Please note that your tuition fees will be subject to an annual increase.
