Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)

Science

Join one of Australia's top science faculties

International

You have reached the maximum of 6 degrees.

A choice of 24 majors across the physical, natural and human sciences will help you gain the skills you need to drive change in the world. Be assured of future prospects with UNSW Bachelor of Advanced Science’s embedded research skills courses, embedded Honours year and integrated online platform, SciConnect, to track your professional development.

Commencing Terms: Term 1, 2 & 3
Duration: 4 Year(s)
Delivery Mode: Face-to-face (includes blended)
Campus: Kensington
Codes: UAC code 429350; Program code 3962; CRICOS code 088842G

ATAR/2024 lowest selection rank: 93.0
2025 Indicative first year full fee: $9,000*
2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree: $39,500*
2025 Indicative first year full fee: $57,500*
2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree: $252,000*

Choice of majors
Honours year
Research excellence

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Overview

Join the next generation of thought leaders with a degree that nurtures your passion for scientific innovation. This advanced-level degree will equip you with the tools you need to explore new frontiers, generate new knowledge and apply your expertise to real-world challenges.

At UNSW Science, we understand that your academic results are only one measure of success. We believe that your degree isn't just about what you learn in the classroom - it's also an opportunity to find your place in the science community, explore your passions and be supported as you pursue your personal and professional goals. This program is reimagining science education with an increased focus on lifelong learning, personal development and career readiness.

All scientists, no matter their field of expertise, are united by a shared passion for pursuing new knowledge and improving our understanding of the world. Through immersive research experiences and an embedded honours year, this degree will position you as a leader in your field and empower you to build a better future.

Key features

Build a degree that's tailored to your interests & career goals

With 24 majors to choose from, you can tailor your degree to your interests. Our flexible degree structure enables you to explore different disciplines in your first year to find the field that’s right for you. If you already know what you want to major in, you can tailor your degree from the start and explore your choice of 39 complimentary minors.

You can study a single major, or increase the breadth or depth of your learning with a double major or complementary minor. We’ll help you build the degree that’s right for you by providing career advice and guiding you through your study options to ensure you reach your career goals.

Be empowered to lead your learning with SciConnect

SciConnect is an innovative online system that's integrated across your whole 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.

Explore your career possibilities through work and research integrated learning

Research courses are built into the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) program to ensure you develop essential research skills. You’ll engage with authentic scientific research from year one and complete two undergraduate research skills courses as a core component of your degree.

Take advantage of our Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and Research Integrated Learning (RIL) opportunities to explore potential career paths. These experiences give you the opportunity to apply your skills in a professional context and learn alongside world-leading academic experts. We also offer a Talented Students Program (TSP), which gives high-performing students the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge, world-class research at UNSW Science.

In your honours year, you’ll complete a supervised research project and, in some cases, advanced coursework. You’ll conduct original scientific investigations and analysis while developing your critical and integrative thinking.

Why study this degree at UNSW?

We’re home to world-leading scientists who are developing new technologies including quantum physicist and former Australian of the Year Professor Michelle Simmons AO, Nobel Laureate Sir Fraser Stoddart and ground-breaking recycling scientist and 2022 NSW Australian of the Year Professor Veena Sahajwalla.

Our educators are world-leading experts who are passionate about creating the next generation of science leaders. The Australian Awards for University Teaching (AAUT) celebrate and reward excellence in university teaching. We're proud to have a number of UNSW Science academics who have won AAUT awards.

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 be learning in our world-class laboratories, clinics, simulators and biological imaging facilities. Our research centres support the generation of new ideas and advance science through their work in areas such as renewable energy, human health and environmental sustainability.
As a global top 20 university (QS World University Rankings, 2025), we're creating the science leaders of tomorrow.

UNSW Science is ranked in the global top 50 for nine subjects (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025).

Ranked =#32 globally for psychology

Ranked #44 globally for natural sciences

Ranked =#49 globally for chemistry

Ranked =#37 globally for earth and marine sciences

Ranked #38 globally for environmental sciences

Ranked =#28 globally for geology

Ranked #31 globally for geophysics

Ranked #48 globally for mathematics

Ranked #27 globally for materials science

We’re ranked #1 in Australia for research output in physical sciences and #2 in Australia for research output in earth and environmental sciences, and chemistry (Nature Index Institution Outputs, 2024).
Our students are highly sought after by employers with UNSW having the highest number of students in Australia's Top 100 Most Employable list. This has awarded UNSW with the Most Employable students for six years in a row (Australian Financial Review (AFR) Top100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020-2025).

We’re ranked #1 in Australia for employment outcomes (QS World University Rankings, 2025) and UNSW graduates earn the highest median salaries among graduates from the Group of Eight universities (QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey, medium-term - three years after graduating, 2023).

The UNSW Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) is designed to produce career-ready graduates. We've built hands-on learning and research experience into the degree to ensure you have the tools you need to thrive in your future career. Showcase your professional skills to employers with your Graduate Portfolio and benefit from extra-curricular programs such as the STEM Career Launchpad – a career management program that gives you the tools and skills to make informed career choices.

Program Code

3962

CRICOS Code

088842G

Campus

Kensington

UAC Code

429350

Total Units of Credit (UOC)

192

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Entry requirements

2024 Lowest Selection Rank ¹

93.0

2024 A levels ²

15.0

2024 IB Diploma ³

37.0

2024 Lowest ATAR ⁴

80.2

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 fourth year Honours program is subject to academic performance and progression requirements. Students may exit the program after three years 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?

What will I study?

The Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) is offered as either a single or a double degree. It starts with foundation courses to build your core skills before you choose a major (or two) to explore what inspires you the most. Your degree consists of:

four core courses (orientation, graduate portfolio, level one research skills and level two research experience)
11-14 courses in your chosen major
six free electives from any faculty at UNSW (you can use these to build a recognised minor)
two general education courses (non-science courses)
embedded honours year

Go to the handbook

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.
As a single degree, the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) is made up of 34 courses (192 UOC) taken over four years of full-time study.

Type

Units of Credit (UOC)

Number of courses

Core courses

12 4
Major

84 14
Free electives

36 6
General education 12 2
Honours 48 8

Core courses

SCIF0000 Introduction to University - Included in your program (free of cost to you)
Find out everything you need to know about life as a UNSW Science student with this credit-free course. We’ll help you identify your personal career-related values, abilities and interests to shape the science degree that’s right for you.

SCIF1001 Level 1 Research Skills - 6 credit points
Completed in your first year, you'll interact with UNSW leading researchers as they share their experiences and discoveries. You'll develop your ability to think like a scientist and apply scientific thinking in meaningful contexts.

SCIF2001 Level 2 Research Experience - 6 credit points
In your second year, you'll undertake an authentic research project, working collaboratively with your peers to build your research skills and have the opportunity to showcase your findings to the faculty.

SCIF3010 Graduate Portfolio - Included in your program (free of cost to you)
In your third year, you’ll be supported to curate a pre-honours graduate portfolio to showcase your skills development and personal achievements throughout the degree to prospective employers.

Major

Majors vary in credit points from 66-84 (11-13 courses).

You’ll need to complete 96 UOC to meet the core requirements for the Advanced Science program. If your core courses (18 UOC) and major (UOC varies by specialisation) are less than 96 UOC, you must complete additional science electives from the Faculty of Science to meet the UOC requirements.

Free electives

Free electives can be taken from any UNSW faculty.

You can use your electives to build a recognised minor.

General education

These must be non-science courses and can be used to build a minor.

Honours

This involves a year-long supervised research project and, in some cases, advanced coursework.

Type

Core courses

Units of Credit (UOC)

12
Number of courses

4
Type

Major

Units of Credit (UOC)

84
Number of courses

14
Type

Free electives

Units of Credit (UOC)

36
Number of courses

6
Type

General education
Units of Credit (UOC)

12
Number of courses

2
Type

Honours
Units of Credit (UOC)

48
Number of courses

8
As a double degree, this program is made up of 40 courses (240 UOC) taken over five years of full-time study. This 240 credit requirement includes 24 courses (144 UOC) for the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) and a further 16 courses (96 UOC) from your other degree. If you're studying a double degree, you won't take general education or free elective courses.

Type Units of Credit (UOC) Number of courses
Core courses 12 4
Science major
84 14
Honours 48 8
Other degree

96 16

Science major & electives

Majors vary in credit points from 66-84 (11-14 courses).

You'll need to complete 144 UOC to meet the core requirements for the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours), including 48 UOC for your honours year. If your core courses (12 UOC) and major (UOC varies by specialisation) are less than 96 UOC, you must complete additional science electives from the Faculty of Science to meet the UOC requirements.

Honours

This involves a year-long supervised research project and, in some cases, advanced coursework.

Type
Core courses
Units of Credit (UOC)
12
Number of courses
4
Type
Science major

Units of Credit (UOC)
84
Number of courses
14
Type
Honours
Units of Credit (UOC)
48
Number of courses
8
Type
Other degree

Units of Credit (UOC)
96
Number of courses
16
SciConnect is an online system that's integrated into your program to help you navigate your first university experiences, track your professional development and showcase your skills to future employers. SciConnect focuses on four key areas to help you get the most out of your student experience:

1. Orientation

Find out everything you need to know about life as a UNSW Science student, from answering questions to helping you find where you belong in the UNSW Science community. Learn about the different areas of study, be guided on choosing your major and making important decisions in your program to gain the skills you need for your future career.

2. Co-curricular involvement

Complement your studies with experiences beyond the classroom. Through our diverse student cohorts and industry connections, you’ll have access to a range of professional development opportunities. We’ll introduce you to industry leaders and help you build your confidence and networking skills to make the most of these connections.

3. Career development

Track, plan and visualise the development of your professional skills throughout your degree. See your skills grow and identify your strengths while being guided to additional development opportunities.

4. Graduate portfolio

Develop a portfolio of your knowledge, skills and professional experiences. We’ll teach you how to use your graduate portfolio to showcase your professional capabilities to future employers.

Future careers

From oceanography to neuroscience, biotech to quantum physics, a science degree unlocks a world of career possibilities. Prepare for exciting roles in any industry you choose with training to apply your in-demand scientific mindset to any context. This degree will equip you with a strong foundation in logical, analytical and critical thinking, as well as skills in teamwork and communication.

Lead the next wave of scientific discovery and apply your advanced skills in a range of settings from research in universities and government institutes such as CSIRO, to working with emerging start-ups. Other careers include private sector research in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology companies, public policy, health and environmental related non-profits, market research and product development, management, technical and environmental consulting, data analytics, medical sales and science communication.

Explore our study areas below to discover the range of potential career paths available across the physical, natural and human sciences.

Explore study areas

Our alumni

"UNSW's Advanced Science degree gave me the opportunity to blend practical project-based experience with academic research. I wanted a degree that would prepare me for the future, but still give me the flexibility and choice between academia and industry."

Tristan Dwyer

Senior Consultant (Analytics and Cognitive), Deloitte Australia

"As an undergraduate student, I took the opportunity to extend my learning outside the classroom. I loved working in the laboratory with leading researchers to advance basic science. Belonging to a network of curious and passionate academics and students enriched my every day."

Dana Leidl

PhD Candidate, UNSW Psychology

Double degrees

Our double degrees enable you to broaden your opportunities and study different areas simultaneously.

Double degree options:

Arts
Commerce
Computer Science
Economics
Engineering (Hons)
Fine Arts
Law
Social Sciences

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 apply?

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 apply?

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Fees & Scholarships

2025 Indicative First Year Full Fee

$9,000*

2025 Indicative Full Fee to Complete Degree

$39,500*

Commonwealth Supported Place: Student Contribution Band 2

*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

$57,500*

2025 Indicative Fee to Complete Degree

$252,000*

*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 Top100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020-2025

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