Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)
- Commencing Terms
- Term 1, 2 & 3
- Duration
- 4 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Face-to-face (includes blended)
- Campus
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Kensington
- Codes
- UAC code 429350
- Program code 3962
- CRICOS code 088842G
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2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $9,000*
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2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $38,500*
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2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $54,000*
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2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $235,500*
Fees
Fees
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Choice of majors
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Honours year
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Research excellence
International application pause for 2025 intakes
Applications for international students to study at UNSW in 2025 are currently paused. Please submit your expression of interest to join our application waitlist so we can contact you.
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- Double degrees
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
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?
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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.
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As one of the world's top 20 universities*, we're creating the science leaders of tomorrow.
- We’re one of the top 50 universities in the world for Environmental Sciences (#33), Psychology (#30), Mathematics (#44), Geology (#30), Geophysics (#31), Materials Science (#30), Earth & Marine Science (#30) and Anatomy (#40).**
- We’re ranked 1st in Australia for research output in chemistry and physical sciences, and 2nd in Australia for research output in earth & environmental sciences.^
*QS World University Rankings 2024
**QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
^Nature Index Institution Outputs, 1 Dec 2019 – 30 Nov 2020
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Our students are highly sought after by employers. For the last four consecutive years, UNSW has had the highest number of students in Australia's Top 100 Most Employable list.* We’re ranked 29th globally for graduate employability** and have the highest graduate median salaries of all Go8 universities.^
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.
*AFR Top 100 Future Leaders Awards 2020, 2021, 2022 & 2023
**QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2023
^QILT, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2022
Want to see more from UNSW Science?
Entry requirements
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- 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.
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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.
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)
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 advisors to discuss your path to UNSW.
Gateway Admission Pathway
This scheme is open to students in Years 11 and 12 who attend Gateway schools. It significantly adjusts the ATAR requirements for your preferred UNSW degree and provides you with an early conditional offer 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.
International direct entry
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
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 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
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.
Check the specific English language requirements for this program
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
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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.
- SCIF0000 Introduction to University - Included in your program (free of cost to you)
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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.
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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.
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Study the physical conditions and physical processes within the ocean such as waves, currents and tides, its interaction with the atmosphere and its role in climate. You’ll gain an understanding of the mathematical equations that describe fluid flow and how these are used in the context of the ocean. This major also explores ocean measurement and the numerical modelling of processes at various scales.
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This major explores the laws of nature that govern the behaviour of the universe, from the smallest sub-atomic particles to the universe itself. It applies these laws to the solution of practical and theoretical problems and to the development of new technologies.
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Study the structures of the human body. This major covers:
- gross anatomy (form, arrangement and function of the bones, joints, muscles and internal organs)
- histology (microscopic structure of tissues and cells)
- embryology (development of the embryo and fetus from conception to birth)
- neuroanatomy (organisation and functions of the brain and spinal cord)
- biological anthropology (applying biological principles to the study of humans and non-human primates).
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Develop technologies for analysing and interpreting genetic information. You’ll learn how to design and implement software for activities such as identifying cancer genes. This major covers the foundational disciplines of bioinformatics: biology, computing algorithms and mathematics and statistics.
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Study the science of life. Biologists explore how living organisms function, grow, evolve and relate to one another and the environment in which they live. Your study will cover:
- animal behaviour, morphology and physiology
- plant morphology and physiology
- cell biology, evolutionary studies and genetics
- marine biology.
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Explore the various biological processes used to make products and perform services. Biotechnology is used for:
- the production of food
- industrial chemicals
- the development of improved crops and livestock for farming
- environmental clean-up
- forensics
- the production of pharmaceuticals.
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Study the world from the ground up - from the sub-atomic, atomic and molecular to the spectacular. This major is designed for students who wish to specialise in the chemical sciences.
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Gain a broad introduction to the science of the Earth's climate system. You’ll gain an understanding of the fundamentals of atmospheric science, oceanography and chemistry. You’ll also have the option of focusing your studies in areas such as climate and vegetation, hydrology, biology, biogeochemistry or environmental and resource management.
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Explore the science of nature and the evolution of our planet. This major covers everything from the structure of natural crystals and formation of fossils to the powerful forces that drive earthquakes and volcanoes.
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Explore how various organisms including mammals, invertebrates, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, plants and microbes interact with one another and with their environment.
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In humans and all other species, genes influence every characteristic, from appearance to behaviour to disease. This major offers a general introduction to the discipline before delving into more specialised areas including molecular genetics, human genetics, plant and microbial molecular biology and conservation biology.
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Study the Earth’s landscapes, peoples, places and environments. This major explores how natural and built environments function and change over time. Discover how these environments enhance or constrain human activity.
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This major provides an in-depth study of immunology, pathology and microbiology. It’ll prepare you to unlock better treatments and prevention strategies for immune-related illnesses. This major is particularly beneficial for students who want to pursue a career in the health sciences.
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Explore all aspects of the marine environment, from biology to geology and the many sciences in between. This major can be studied with an emphasis on biology, earth sciences, climatology or oceanography.
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Everything we use is made of materials, yet only a handful of these materials occur naturally. The rest have been microscopically engineered originally by nature, but increasingly by materials scientists and engineers. This major is the foundation for creating high-performance components and devices from metals, ceramics, polymers and composites for use in society.
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Mathematics underpins all corners of science and technology and is a vibrant and fascinating field of study. Mathematics specialisations can be broadly categorised into the following:
- Pure mathematics is the study of concepts that transcend specific applications.
- Applied mathematics develops models for the social, economic and natural sciences to make sense of scientific phenomena and solve technical/industrial problems.
Statistics can also be studied within a mathematics major or as a stand-alone major.
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Study the smallest forms of life: bacteria, viruses, archaea, fungi and protozoa. These fascinating organisms cause disease in humans, animals and plants and spoil our food. On the positive side, they also turn the biological wheels on Earth and are responsible for the sustainability of life.
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Explore molecular structures, the processes of cellular life and their roles in the function, reproduction and development of living organisms. Cell biology studies the basic unit of life, the cell, including:
- cell anatomy
- cell division
- cell processes such as cell respiration and cell death.
Molecular biology is a marriage of biochemistry, microbiology and cell biology.
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Study the biological and behavioural aspects of the nervous system. The nervous system includes the:
- central nervous system (brain and spinal cord)
- peripheral nervous system (nerves in limbs, muscles and organs).
This major is based on the neuroscience courses offered by the School of Psychology and UNSW’s Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology Departments.
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Examine how and why diseases develop, what happens to our bodies when we’re ill and the effects of diseases. Pathology involves the study of diseases, such as infections and cancers, at the genetic, molecular, cellular and organ levels.
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Explore the effect that drugs have on living tissues and the normal body functions of humans and animals. This major looks at the efficacy of drugs, the ability of the body to metabolise them and the toxicology/side effects of drugs.
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This major is all about what makes human bodies work. Explore how the organs function, how humans grow and develop, how humans sustain bodily functions and what happens to these processes during disease and ageing.
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Study human behaviour and mental processes. Psychology is a broad field that includes:
- brain-behaviour relationships
- the processes of perceiving, learning, memory and thinking
- the assessment of abilities and attitudes
- the origins of personality and emotional states
- the nature and effects of social interactions with other people.
This major is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) and when combined with honours, it satisfies the minimum requirement for provisional registration. It acts as the first step in the six-year pathway to becoming a registered psychologist.
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This major provides comprehensive training in:
- probability and stochastic processes
- statistical inference and modelling
- modern statistical computing methods.
Third-year electives allow you to further develop your statistical capabilities according to your own interests.
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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.
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 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 for key dates for admission outside of Term 1.
Ready to apply?
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) 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?
Fees & Scholarships
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.
*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.
QS World University Rankings, 2025.
AFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.
#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.
UNSW has a strong focus on industry collaborations with opportunities for students to network.
