Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)/Social Sciences

Science

Join one of Australia's top science faculties

International

You have reached the maximum of 6 degrees.

Think big at a university that prepares you for the jobs of tomorrow. With an Advanced Science and Social Sciences double degree, you won’t compromise academic success for employability. From earth science to psychology, you’ll gain in-demand skills for almost any industry and be equipped to inform debate and shape policy.

Commencing Terms: Term 1, 2 & 3
Duration: 5 Year(s)
Delivery Mode: Face-to-face (includes blended)
Campus: Kensington
Codes: UAC code 429380; Program code 3924; CRICOS code 110671A

ATAR/2024 lowest selection rank: 93
2025 Indicative first year full fee: $12,500*
2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree: $68,000*
2025 Indicative first year full fee: $57,000*
2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree: $316,500*

Students learning in the Science facilities at the UNSW Kensington campus

Hands-on learning
Industry connections
World-class labs

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Overview

Take your passions, purpose and potential to new heights with an advanced double degree at a global top 20 university*. You’ll benefit from a broad and flexible education with hands-on learning experiences, cutting-edge facilities and learn from world-leading academics to prepare you for the jobs of tomorrow.

The Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) degree will prepare you for a wide range of careers. From earth science to psychology, mathematics to biotech, no matter what you choose, you will gain in-demand transferable skills that you can apply to almost any industry.

In the Bachelor of Social Sciences degree, you’ll explore various political, international, social, environmental and economic challenges. You’ll gain the knowledge and skills you need to inform public debate and shape the policies that affect society.

With expertise across two highly relevant disciplines, this double degree will broaden your skill set and expand your career possibilities.

^{*QS World University Rankings 2024}

Key features

Flexibility and variety to customise your career path

At UNSW, you’ll be encouraged to explore a wide range of focus areas and career paths so you can shape your degree to suit your passions, purpose and potential. In Advanced Science (Honours), choose from 24 majors across the physical, natural and human sciences. In Social Sciences, you’ll have 16 specialisations on offer, including policy, environment, sociology, media and international studies. With so many options, you’ll be well-equipped to find the path suited to your goals.

Be empowered to lead your learning with SciConnect

SciConnect is an innovative online system that's integrated across your whole science degree. It will be there to help you settle into university, track your professional development and showcase your skills to future employers. The platform focuses on connecting you with four key areas to help you get the most out of your student experience including orientation, co-curricular opportunities and communities, career development and a graduate portfolio.

SciConnect enables you to shape your university experience and supports you in showcasing your talents to potential employers with a comprehensive impression of who you are, beyond your academic transcript.

Strengthen your skills with a supervised research project

Your honours year is an integral part of your degree. It involves a supervised research project and, in some cases, advanced coursework. You’ll conduct original scientific investigations and analyses while developing critical and integrative thinking skills.

Multiply your opportunities with a specialised double degree

Employers are always looking for candidates who stand out from the crowd. Graduating with a competitive double degree demonstrates dedication and specialised expertise, giving you a competitive advantage in the job market.

Explore your career possibilities through research and work integrated learning

Bridge the gap between study and employment with our Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and Research Integrated Learning (RIL) opportunities. These experiences allow you to explore different career paths and apply your skills professionally while being guided by world-leading academics.

During your studies, you’ll collaborate with students from a range of disciplines to tackle real-world problems in project-based learning initiatives. This multidisciplinary educational approach allows you to develop essential technical and professional skills, so you thrive in your future career.

Why study this degree at UNSW?

As one of the world’s top 20 universities*, we’re guiding the future leaders of science and economics in Australia and overseas.

UNSW Science has eight study areas ranked in the top 50 globally**, including psychology (#30), environmental sciences (#33) and earth and marine sciences (#30). We’re ranked 1st in Australia for research output in chemistry and physical sciences and 2nd in Australia for research output in earth and environmental sciences.^

^{*QS World University Rankings 2024}

^{**QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024}

^{^Nature Index Institution Outputs, 1 Dec 2019 – 30 Nov 2020}
With over $450 million invested in our state-of-the-art facilities, UNSW Science is well-equipped to help you launch your science career. You’ll learn in world-class laboratories, clinics, simulators and biological imaging facilities. Our research centres are helping to advance science in renewable energy, human health and environmental sustainability.
You’ll join a diverse and inclusive community of students, academics and professionals who are transforming ideas into impact. From peer mentoring and student support services to the 300+ clubs and societies across UNSW, you’ll connect with open-minded students whose perspectives will expand your worldview.

You’ll build up your professional identity through SciConnect – an innovative online system that helps you settle into university, track your professional development and showcase your skills to future employers. Plus, you’ll have the chance to take your studies abroad through International Student Exchange.

Program Code

3924

CRICOS Code

110671A

Campus

Kensington

UAC Code

429380

Total Units of Credit (UOC)

240

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Entry requirements

2024 Lowest Selection Rank ¹

2024 A levels ²

15.0

2024 IB Diploma ³

37.0

2024 Lowest ATAR ⁴

<5 offers

The 2024 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2024.

The 2024 A levels score is based on four Advanced Level (A2) subjects. Entry scores are calculated from the best three or four A2 subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1. At most one Applied A Level subject may be included in the best four subjects used to calculate the aggregate.

The 2024 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2024. It is to be used as a guide only.

The 2024 Lowest ATAR is the lowest ATAR (before adjustment factors were applied) to which an offer was made. Where <5 is listed, this indicates that less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made and so the score has not been published. N/A indicates no offers were made on the basis of ATAR.
At UNSW, we are committed to ensuring prospective students have all the information they need in order to make informed decisions about their study options.

To assist you in gaining a better understanding of how Admissions works at UNSW, we have provided you with a summary of ATAR offers and the student profile.

We hope this information will help you identify the degree that is right for you.

See more

Assumed knowledge

Mathematics Advanced or Mathematics Extension 1 (depending on chosen area of study) plus one or more of Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science, Physics.

Adjustment Factors

We offer a range of adjustment factor schemes that reward students for academic performance and extra-curricular achievements. These schemes also take into account a range of personal and educational disadvantages that may have affected your studies.

HSC Plus
This scheme rewards students who perform well in Year 12 subjects that are relevant to their preferred UNSW degree. You may be awarded up to five points.

Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EAPL)
This program recognises achievements in the areas of sport, academia, leadership and music at an elite level. You may be eligible for up to five points.

Educational Access Scheme (EAS), opens in a new window
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don't always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12. If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen UNSW degree.

Admission pathways

Your ATAR is not the only measure of your potential to succeed, which is why we offer a range of pathways into university. Explore your options below and get in touch with our Future Student Advisers to discuss your path to UNSW.

Gateway Admission Pathway
This scheme is open to students who attend Gateway schools, live in a low-socioeconomic area based on IRSAD and IEO indexes of SEIFA criteria, or are an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person. It adjusts the ATAR requirements for your preferred UNSW degree and provides early offers and early conditional offers to UNSW.

Entry programs for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
We offer entry programs for Indigenous Australians, including the Indigenous Preparatory Programs and the Indigenous Admission Scheme (IAS). The entry pathway program you apply for will depend on the degree you want to study.

Progression requirements

Entry into the Honours program in Science is subject to academic performance and progression requirements. Students may exit the Advanced Science (Honours) program with a B Science award if they are unsuccessful in applying for entry into Honours.

English language requirements

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.

If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

English language tests and university English courses
Prior study in the medium of English
Other qualifications

If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.

For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page.

International direct entry

I studied in:

Qualifications	Direct entry requirement
International ATAR	88.0
UNSW Foundation Studies GPA	7.7
Great Britain General Certificate of Education (GCE A levels)	12.0 All applicants must present a minimum of two Advanced Level (A2) subjects. Entry Scores are calculated from the best two, three, or four A2 Level subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2 and E=1.
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)	33.0 Entry criteria is based on scores required for entry into UNSW in 2024 and are only applicable if the Diploma has been completed. Students currently attempting the IB Diploma or Bilingual Diploma can apply directly to UNSW or through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) (after 2016)	1240.0 Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) based on the total of evidence-based reading and writing and mathematical test scores. Must be provided in conjunction with evidence of successful completion of senior secondary studies.

We do not accept secondary qualifications from this country. We may accept tertiary study results, please contact us for more information.

Please contact us for direct entry requirements.

Admission pathways

If you do not meet the requirements for direct entry into your chosen degree, you may be eligible for a pathway program with UNSW College. UNSW College provides alternative entry options using university-approved content so that you can start your UNSW journey with confidence. 

Progression requirements

English language requirements

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

English language tests and university English courses
Prior study in the medium of English
Other qualifications

For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page.

Check the specific English language requirements for this program

Select from the options below

Which applies to you?

Program structure

The Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)/Bachelor of Fine Arts is a double degree that you can complete in five years with full-time study. You’ll complete a minimum of 240 units of credit (UOC) through a combination of majors, minors and electives.

Full program structure

Your double degree consists of:

144 units of credit from Advanced Science (Honours), including:

Two core research skills courses
One Science major
An optional minor
One Science Honours specialisation
Science elective courses (if required)

96 units of credit from Social Sciences, including:

One Social Sciences major
12 UOC of Level 1 courses
18 UOC of Level 2 courses
18 UOC of Level 3 courses

Majors

Choose from 24 majors with the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours):

Advanced Physical Oceanography
Advanced Physical Oceanography explores physical conditions, processes, and interactions in the ocean.

Advanced Physics
Explores the laws of nature that govern the behaviour of the universe, from the smallest sub-atomic particles to the universe itself.

Anatomy
Study the structure of the human body.

Bioinformatics
Bioinformatics integrates computer science and statistics to analyse genetic information in molecular biology.

Biology & Biodiversity
Study life science and explore how organisms function, grow, evolve, and relate to their environment.

Biotechnology
Biotechnology explores biological processes for producing food, industrial chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.

Chemistry
Explore chemistry, from sub-atomic particles to spectacular phenomena, the field offers vast opportunities.

Climate Systems Science
Gain an understanding of the Earth's Climate System, focusing on areas such as climate change and risks.

Earth Science
Earth science investigates our planet’s nature, evolution, and powerful forces.

Ecology and Conservation
Explore how various organisms interact with one another and their environment.

Genetics
Genetics studies fundamental genes that influence every characteristic in humans and other species.

Geography
Explore Earth’s landscapes, and environments to understand how they function and change over time.

Immunology
Unlock better treatments and prevention strategies for immune-related illnesses.

Marine and Coastal Science
Explore marine and coastal science, that looks at all aspects of the marine environment encompassing many sciences from biology to geology.

Materials Science
Materials science is the specialised study of creating high-performance materials from metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites for society.

Mathematics
Mathematics is the science of patterns and underpins all corners of science and technology

Microbiology
Microbiology studies tiny life forms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.

Molecular and Cell Biology
Study cell biology, which explores molecular structures, cellular processes, and their roles in function, reproduction, and development.

Neuroscience
Neuroscience aims to understand the nervous system’s biological and behavioral aspects, as well as to treat diseases like schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s.

Pathology
Pathology involves studying diseases at genetic, molecular, cellular, and organ levels. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not solely about blood tests.

Pharmacology
Discover the effect that drugs have on living tissues and the normal body functions of humans and animals.

Physiology
Physiology studies how the human body functions, including organ processes, growth, maintenance, and responses during disease and aging.

Psychology
Psychology studies behavior, mental processes, brain-behavior relationships, perception, learning, memory, and social interactions.

Statistics
Statistics is the science of collecting, analysing, presenting and interpreting data.
Economics is a constantly changing field that informed and adapts to the world around us. To solve some of our greatest global challenges, you need a sound understanding of what motivates people, businesses, and governments. Study the analytical tools and gain critical thinking skills that help shape societies, raise living standards, and promote economic growth. Learn more about studying economics at UNSW, opens in a new window.

Want to make a change to climate change? One of the greatest questions of our times is how to meet environmental challenges head-on. From species extinction and GMOs to climate change and nuclear power – immerse yourself in the social, cultural, and political factors shaping human relations with the natural world. Learn more about environmental humanities., opens in a new window

The relationship between people, societies, and the environment underpins the greatest global challenges of our time. As a human geographer, you will explore how physical, social, cultural, economic, and political factors shape places and people. Together, we will discover how we can plan for a better future by combining classroom study with hands-on experience in the field. Learn more about geographical studies, opens in a new window.

Why are some countries developing so quickly while others seem left behind? Global development looks at the impact of change across social, political, and economic environments. Explore issues from urbanisation to widening disparity, environmental threats, and the dominance of communication technologies. Learn the many ways we can create practical and positive change at local, national, and global levels. Learn more about studying global development at UNSW., opens in a new window

What makes human resource management so rewarding? A company is only as good as its people, and human resource management provides the foundation for ongoing success. Develop effective and responsible management skills in various workforce issues – performance, change, health and safety, and beyond. Build the people skills that set you up for success in a diverse and rewarding career. Learn more about human resource management at UNSW., opens in a new window

Diverse peoples, cultures, and societies form Australia’s First Nations. This program begins with exploring traditional and current Indigenous knowledge and philosophy, and how popular media and cultural institutions portray Indigenous identities. Without straying from Australia’s imperial origin, you’ll examine the role of public policy in shaping communities and peoples’ resistance, activism, and political organisation. You’ll critically analyse past and current policies to understand how they are made, what factors influence their development, and their impact on society. Learn more about Indigenous studies at UNSW, opens in a new window.

How does innovation impact and transform businesses and society at large? It drives productivity, competitive advantage, differentiation, growth, profitability, and sustainability. Understand and meet these challenges with strong leadership skills that help shape the future of organisations worldwide. Learn how to lead with confidence, discover new opportunities, turn insights into action, and design business strategies that create, capture, and deliver value. Learn more about innovation, strategy and entrepreneurship at UNSW., opens in a new window

The world has never been more connected thanks to globalisation and technology changing how we engage and do business. Make the most of this evolution by becoming a professional globetrotter with borderless boardrooms at your fingertips. Change how the world does business as you make the most of your strong foundation in business, commerce, and economics. Learn more about studying international business at UNSW., opens in a new window

Migration, the climate crisis, and new ideas are shaping the world and challenging international organisations like never before. What do these developments mean for society? Learn to think creatively about governing solutions for significant challenges - from adapting to global economic changes to managing refugee intakes, human rights, security, and environmental crises. 

You'll also be able to learn another language and study overseas with one of our 300 global partner institutions. Learn more about international studies at UNSW., opens in a new window

From design, branding, advertising, and communication; to digital marketing and analytics – marketing is a future-focused area of study, with strategic thinking and innovation at its core. Learn how data helps businesses stand out, understand customer behaviour, provide different experiences, and meet customer needs. You'll have opportunities to apply your new knowledge in real-world professional and creative environments. Learn more about marketing at UNSW., opens in a new window

The new media landscape is vast and complex, spanning social, mobile, on-demand, and rapidly evolving platforms. Throughout your studies, you'll learn about media's social, political, and cultural dynamics and its impact on technology and everyday life. You'll also discover the complex relationships between local and global media and the role of diverse audiences in media processes. Learn more about media, culture & technology at UNSW., opens in a new window

Lead differently and make an impact with a degree focused on complex governments and global politics. Discover how to think critically about the challenges facing our world today. Unpack complicated international issues and create meaningful solutions. Understand the forces driving political developments, so you can recognise future opportunities to make real and positive change. Learn more about studying politics and international relations at UNSW., opens in a new window

What makes life meaningful? Why do we disagree, and why do we care? What brings about social change? Answers to these questions differ depending on who you ask, but finding new insights is crucial to navigating reality's conflicts and challenges. Join Australia's oldest sociology department and discover insights from diverse cultures and the lived human experience. Learn more about studying sociology and anthropology at UNSW., opens in a new window

Download Sample Program

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Future careers

Studying at UNSW gives you the optimal balance of theoretical and hands-on learning to prepare you for tomorrow’s workforce. You’ll develop vital transferable skills that you can apply to almost any industry. What’s more, you’ll gain a solid foundation in logical, analytical and critical thinking, as well as vital skills in teamwork and communication.

A double degree will double your career possibilities as you’ll have valuable expertise across two (or more) fields. You’ll have a wide variety of majors and specialisations to choose from in both degrees, allowing you to carve your education to your own career goals.

Explore our study areas below to discover the range of potential career paths available across the fields of science and social sciences.

Science study areas

Social Sciences

Psychologist

Pilot

Environmental scientist

Data scientist

Materials scientist

Clinical coder

Biotechnologist

Teacher

Neuroscientist

Genetic counsellor

Mathematician

Medical technician

Biologist

Food scientist

Laboratory technician
Campaign manager

Advocate

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade official

International business consultant

Local government official

Non-government organisation official

Policy analyst

Political adviser

Political journalist

Project officer

Program manager

Research consultant

Research officer

Tourism and trade adviser

United Nations official

How to apply

Applications for undergraduate study from domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders and New Zealand citizens) are processed by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).

Visit the Apply section of the UAC website, opens in a new window and you can nominate up to five degrees in order of preference, with the first being your most desired degree and university.

On-time applications for admission usually close at the end of September each year for Term 1 admission. Late applications can be submitted, but a late fee will apply. For study starting in Term 1, the majority of offers are made in December and January. Visit the UAC website, opens in a new window for key dates for admission outside of Term 1.

Ready to start your application?

Apply now

For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.

Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For more information visit our international applicant information page.

*If you are an international student studying an Australian qualification, go to the Universities Admission Centre (UAC), opens in a new window for application and UAC key dates. Note: If you are under 18 years of age, you need to make special arrangements. Read more.

Ready to start your application?

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Fees & Scholarships

2025 Indicative First Year Full Fee

$12,500*

2025 Indicative Full Fee to Complete Degree

$68,000*

Commonwealth Supported Place multiple Student Contribution Bands may apply for this double degree. See single degrees for the applicable fee bands.*The student contribution for a Commonwealth Supported Place is an indication only of the amount payable in Year 1 based on a standard full-time load of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL). The actual student contribution you will be liable for depends on your individual program of study and the calendar year in which you enrol. Actual fees are calculated upon enrolment. Student contribution amounts are subject to annual review by the University and may increase each year during your studies (subject to caps determined by the Australian Government), effective at the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only other fees and charges are not included.

2025 Indicative First Year Fee

$57,000*

2025 Indicative Fee to Complete Degree

$316,500*

*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).

Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.

Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.

Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.

Scholarships

At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.

Explore Scholarships

Top 20

Worldwide

QS World University Rankings, 2025

Most

Employable Graduates

AFR Top 100 Future Leaders Award, 2020-2024

Leading

Innovation

#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders

UNSW has a strong focus on industry collaborations with opportunities for students to network.

Jason Chan

Environmental Planner