With a myriad of majors and minors, craft a science degree that is uniquely yours with the ANU Bachelor of Science.
You’ll have the opportunity to experiment in our state-of-the-art laboratories while being mentored by leading scientists. You’ll have the flexibility to go on fieldtrips, take your studies overseas, or try an internship.
Whether your passion lies in marine science or mathematics, physics or psychology, you’ll be able to explore your interests and follow your passions with our most flexible science degree.
Find out more about our science study areas, degree structure, the university experience, career opportunities and student stories on our website.
Get the inside story on what it’s like to be an ANU student by visiting our student blog.
When undertaking the Bachelor of Visual Arts at the ANU, you will be immersed in a program of rigorous scholarship and intensive studio practice, tailored to your aspirations and informed by internationally renowned art practitioners within Australia’s top-ranking university. You will graduate with the essential creative skills and critical knowledge to address the grand challenges of a rapidly changing world.
You will develop deep disciplinary knowledge and learn specialist skills offered across the School of Art and Design studio disciplines, including animation and video, ceramics, furniture, glass, hybrid art practice, jewellery and object, painting, photomedia, printmedia and drawing, sculpture and spatial practice, and textiles. You will extend your study through access to courses in the Centre for Art History and Art Theory, combined with access to electives from across the ANU.
Career Options
ANU ranks among the world's very finest universities. Our nearly 100,000 alumni include political, business, government, and academic leaders around the world.
We have graduated remarkable people from every part of our continent, our region and all walks of life.
Employment Opportunities
In a global economy driven by data, technology and innovation, high quality scientists are in demand.
You could become a neurologist, marine or conservation biologist, teacher, journalist, nuclear physicist, astronomer, meteorologist, policy advisor, researcher or maybe even pursue a career that hasn’t been invented yet.
You might also like to undertake further studies at the Honours, Masters or Doctoral level.
See where a Bachelor of Science could take you: our career wheel will help you turn your interests into a career in science.
In a global economy driven by data, technology and innovation, high quality scientists are in demand.
You could become a neurologist, marine or conservation biologist, teacher, journalist, nuclear physicist, astronomer, meteorologist, policy advisor, researcher or maybe even pursue a career that hasn’t been invented yet.
You might also like to undertake further studies at the Honours, Masters or Doctoral level.
See where a Bachelor of Science could take you: our career wheel will help you turn your interests into a career in science.
Learning Outcomes
- develop, apply, integrate and generate scientific knowledge in educational and professional contexts;
- use a range of skills and methods to identify, analyse and respond to problems and issues;
- convey and relate professional and disciplinary information and ideas to diverse audiences in effective and appropriate ways;
- work and learn in both independent and collaborative ways with others to encompass diverse abilities and perspectives;
- exercise personal, professional and social responsibility as a global citizen.
apply technical skills and specialist knowledge to realise artworks, artefacts and related forms of creative expression;
demonstrate skills and knowledge of the practices, languages, forms, materials, technologies and techniques in the visual arts;
recognise and reflect on social, cultural and ethical issues, and apply historical and theoretical perspectives to practice in the visual arts;
develop, express and evaluate ideas, concepts and processes by thinking creatively, critically and reflectively;
interpret, communicate and present ideas, problems and arguments in modes suited to a range of audiences; and
work independently and collaboratively in response to project demands.
Further Information
Want to learn more about the structure of the Bachelor of Science or wish to map out your degree? Click here to see a short program presentation video and access the study plan.
Additional advice:
Students interested in incorporating an internship into their degree can find out more from the College of Science website.
Important fee information for commencing and continuing domestic undergraduate students intending to study psychology as a professional pathway:
Please note that due to changes in Australian government funding from 2021 as a result of the Job Ready Graduates Package, fees for Behavioural Science courses will be invoiced at different rates. This will affect students in the following manner:
Commencing Students
Study of the accredited sequence of psychology courses taken under the psychology degrees recognised by the Australian Government will be eligible for the Professional Pathway funding rates (HECS band 2). At ANU, these programs are:
- Bachelor Science (Psychology) - (3 year degree)
- Bachelor of Science (Psychology) (Honours) - (+1 Hons year)
- Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) - (4 year degree incl Honours).
Note that Bachelor of Science (Psychology) (Honours) students who commenced their Bachelor of Science (Psychology) at ANU prior to 1 January 2021will be classed as continuing students.
While the accredited sequence of psychology courses can be taken as part of other programs of study at ANU [Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science (Honours), Bachelor of Science (Advanced) (Honours), Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) and Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours)], the study of psychology is not compulsory therefore Psychology courses in these programs will be charged different fees (HECS band 4).
Continuing students
Continuing students (enrolled before 1 January 2021) studying courses in disciplines with increased student contribution amounts, will be grandfathered under the legislation. That is, they will continue paying the same amount as they would have, had these reforms not been implemented for any courses that would otherwise have an increased student contribution.
For more information on the 2021 fee changes to Student Contributions Amounts, please visit https://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/fees-payments/student-contributions; and for more information on the Job Ready Graduates Package please visit https://www.studyassist.gov.au/
Want to learn more about the structure of the Bachelor of Science or wish to map out your degree? Click here to see a short program presentation video and access the study plan.
Additional advice:
Students interested in incorporating an internship into their degree can find out more from the College of Science website.
Important fee information for commencing and continuing domestic undergraduate students intending to study psychology as a professional pathway:
Please note that due to changes in Australian government funding from 2021 as a result of the Job Ready Graduates Package, fees for Behavioural Science courses will be invoiced at different rates. This will affect students in the following manner:
Commencing Students
Study of the accredited sequence of psychology courses taken under the psychology degrees recognised by the Australian Government will be eligible for the Professional Pathway funding rates (HECS band 2). At ANU, these programs are:
- Bachelor Science (Psychology) - (3 year degree)
- Bachelor of Science (Psychology) (Honours) - (+1 Hons year)
- Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) - (4 year degree incl Honours).
Note that Bachelor of Science (Psychology) (Honours) students who commenced their Bachelor of Science (Psychology) at ANU prior to 1 January 2021will be classed as continuing students.
While the accredited sequence of psychology courses can be taken as part of other programs of study at ANU [Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science (Honours), Bachelor of Science (Advanced) (Honours), Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) and Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours)], the study of psychology is not compulsory therefore Psychology courses in these programs will be charged different fees (HECS band 4).
Continuing students
Continuing students (enrolled before 1 January 2021) studying courses in disciplines with increased student contribution amounts, will be grandfathered under the legislation. That is, they will continue paying the same amount as they would have, had these reforms not been implemented for any courses that would otherwise have an increased student contribution.
For more information on the 2021 fee changes to Student Contributions Amounts, please visit https://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/fees-payments/student-contributions; and for more information on the Job Ready Graduates Package please visit https://www.studyassist.gov.au/
Admission Requirements
At a minimum, all applicants must meet program-specific academic/non-academic requirements, and English language requirements. Admission to most ANU programs is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not guarantee entry into the program.
In line with the university's admissions policy and strategic plan, an assessment for admission may include competitively ranking applicants on the basis of specific academic achievement, English language proficiency and diversity factors.
The University reserves the right to alter or discontinue its programs and change admission requirements as needed.
- ATAR:
- 80
- International Baccalaureate:
- 29
Domestic applicants
Before applying for a program, you should review the general information about domestic undergraduate admission to ANU programs and how to apply, and the program-specific information below.
- Applicants with recent secondary education are assessed on:
- completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and the minimum Selection Rank (from their academic qualifications, plus any adjustment factors) requirement for this program; and
- co-curricular or service requirement (applies to applicants who complete secondary education in the year prior to commencing at ANU); and
- English language proficiency; and
- any program-specific requirements listed below.
- Applicants with higher education study are assessed on:
- previous higher education studies; or secondary education results if completed less than one full-time equivalent year (1.0 FTE) of a degree; or the result from a bridging or preparatory course; and
- English language proficiency; and
- any program-specific requirements listed below.
- Applicants with vocational education and training (VET) study are assessed on:
- previously completed VET qualifications at AQF level 5 or higher (i.e. a Diploma or above); or secondary education results if the VET qualification is not completed; and
- English language proficiency; and
- any program-specific requirements listed below.
- Applicants with work and life experience are assessed on:
- ATAR or equivalent if secondary education was completed; or the Special Adult Entry Scheme (SAES); or work experience; and
- English language proficiency; and
- any program-specific requirements listed below.
International applicants
Applicants who complete a recognised secondary/senior secondary/post-secondary/tertiary sequence of study will be assessed on the basis of an equivalent selection rank that is calculated upon application. A list of commonly observed international qualifications and corresponding admission requirements can be found here. Applicants must also meet any program specific requirements that are listed below.
Diversity factors & English language proficiency
As Australia's national university, ANU is global representative of Australian research and education. ANU endeavours to recruit and maintain a diverse and deliberate student cohort representative not only of Australia, but the world. In order to achieve these outcomes, competitive ranking of applicants may be adjusted to ensure access to ANU is a reality for brilliant students from countries across the globe. If required, competitive ranking may further be confirmed on the basis of demonstrating higher-level English language proficiency.
Further information is available for English Language Requirements for Admission
Prerequisites
There are no formal program prerequisites and many first-year science courses assume little specific knowledge. The exceptions are:
- For many of the biology majors, chemistry is a requirement, therefore it is recommended that students have at least an ACT minor (but preferably a major) in chemistry, or successful completion of a bridging course in chemistry, or multistrand science in NSW, or equivalent. Chemistry is essential for all later-year courses in the biological streams of biochemistry and cell biology, microbiology and immunology, molecular genetics, animal and human physiology, and some parts of botany and neuroscience. A bridging course is available in February details can be obtained through science.enquiries@anu.edu.au
- CHEM1101: ACT major in Chemistry, or successful completion of a bridging course in chemistry, or multistrand science in NSW, or equivalent, is required. Chemistry is essential for all later-year courses in chemistry. A bridging course is available in February details can be obtained through science.enquiries@anu.edu.au
- MATH1003: Assumed knowledge: ACT Mathematical Methods (major)/Further Mathematics/Specialist Mathematics (major)/ Specialist Methods or NSW HSC Mathematics or equivalent
- MATH1005: ACT Mathematical Methods (major)/Further Mathematics/Specialist Mathematics (major)/ Specialist Methods or NSW HSC Mathematics or equivalent
- MATH1013: A satisfactory pass in ACT Specialist Mathematics Major - Minor or NSW HSC Mathematics Extension 1 or equivalent. Students with a good pass in ACT Mathematical Methods or NSW HSC Mathematics or equivalent will be considered
- MATH1115: A satisfactory pass in ACT Specialist Mathematics double major or NSW HSC Mathematics Extension 2 or equivalent. Students with excellent marks in either ACT Specialist Mathematics major-minor or NSW HSC Mathematics Extension 1 or equivalent may be permitted to enrol
- PHYS1101: There is a corequisite of MATH1013/1115. See the entries above. There is no formal physics prerequisite but preparation is assumed and recommended. Recommended preparation is - NSW: a high standard in 2 unit physics or a multistrand science; ACT: a high standard in physics (major).
Adjustment Factors
Adjustment factors are additional points added to an applicant's Selection Rank (for example an applicant's ATAR). ANU offers adjustment factors based on performance and equity principles, such as for high achievement in nationally strategic senior secondary subjects and for recognition of difficult circumstances that students face in their studies.
Selection Rank adjustments are granted in accordance with the approved schedules, and no more than 15 (maximum 5 subject/performance-based adjustment factors and maximum 10 equity-based adjustment factors) can be awarded.
You may be considered for adjustment factors if you have:
- applied for an eligible ANU Bachelor degree program
- undertaken Australian Year 12 or the International Baccalaureate
- achieved an ATAR or equivalent at or above 70
- not previously attempted tertiary study.
Please visit the ANU Adjustment Factors website for further information.
Indicative fees
Bachelor of Science - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Bachelor of Visual Arts - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
For more information see: http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/costs-fees
- Annual indicative fee for international students
- $48,384.00
Scholarships
ANU offers a wide range of scholarships to students to assist with the cost of their studies.
Eligibility to apply for ANU scholarships varies depending on the specifics of the scholarship and can be categorised by the type of student you are. Specific scholarship application process information is included in the relevant scholarship listing.
For further information see the Scholarships website.
Program Requirements
The Bachelor of Science flexible double degree component requires completion of 96 units, of which:
A maximum of 36 units may come from completion of 1000-level courses
A minimum of 30 units must come from completion of 3000-level courses from the Science course list
The 96 units must include:
48 units from completion of one of the following Science majors:
Agricultural Innovation
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Biochemistry
Biodiversity Conservation and Management
Biological Anthropology
Cell & Molecular Biology
Chemistry
Climate Science
Computer Science
Earth Science
Environmental Science
Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology
Geography
Human Biology
Human Evolutionary Biology
Marine Science
Mathematical Economics
Mathematical Finance
Mathematical Modelling
Mathematics
Resource and Environmental Management
Physics
Psychology
Quantitative Biology
Quantitative Environmental Modelling
Science Communication
Statistics
Sustainability Studies
Water Science
Either:
24 units from the completion of one of the following Science minors / specialisations:
Abnormal Psychology Minor
Advanced Chemistry Specialisation
Advanced Mathematics Specialisation
Advanced Physics Specialisation
Advanced Quantitative Biology and Bioinformatics Specialisation
Applied Statistics Minor
Astronomy and Astrophysics Specialisation
Biology Minor
Biochemistry Specialisation
Biodiversity Conservation and Management
Biological Anthropology Minor
Biological Neuropsychology Minor
Biomedical Science Specialisation
Chemistry Minor
Climate Science and Policy Minor
Cognitive Psychology Minor
Computer Science Minor
Developmental Psychology Minor
Earth and Marine Science Minor
Earth Physics Specialisation Minor
Environmental Geology Specialisation
Environmental Policy Minor
Evolution and Ecology Specialisation
Forest Science and Policy Minor
Genetics Specialisation
Geochemistry and Petrology Specialisation
Geography Minor
Geophysics and Geology Specialisation
Human Ecology Minor
Mathematical Physics Specialisation
Mathematics Minor
Microbiology and Immunology Specialisation
Neuroscience and Physiology Specialisation
Optics Specialisation
Philosophy and Science Minor
Physics Minor
Plant Science Specialisation
Professional Science Engagement Specialisation
Psychology Specialisation
Science Communication Minor
Social Psychology Minor
Soil and Land Management Minor
Sustainable Development Minor
Water Science and Policy Minor
24 units from completion of courses from the Science course list
Or:
48 units from completion of a second Science majors, listed above
A maximum of 12 units from completion of 1000-level courses may contribute towards meeting the requirements of two Science majors with common 1000-level course requirements.
In such cases, an equal number of units must come from the completion of additional courses from the Science course list.
The Bachelor of Visual Arts flexible double degree component requires completion of 96 units, of which:
A maximum of 48 units may come from completion of 1000-level courses
The 96 units must include:
24 units from completion of the following compulsory courses:
ARTH1006 Art and Design Histories: Form and Space
ARTH1007 Art and Design Histories: Making and Meaning
ARTV3035 Creative Research Practice: Extending and Consolidating an Independent Project
6 units from completion of a foundation course from the following list:
ARTV1020 Figure & Life
ARTV1021 Image and Object
ARTV1033 Hold Everything: Studio Foundation
DESA1021 Precise Drawing and Model Making
DESN1002 Visual Communication: Design and Production
DESN1003 Contemporary Design in Context
12 units from completion of art history and theory courses from the following list:
ARTH2043 After the Bauhaus: Design from the Interwar Period to the Age of Climate Crisis
ARTH2044 Art and Its Context: Materials, Techniques, Display
ARTH2045 Curatorship History and Evolution
ARTH2050 Photography and Art
ARTH2052 Art of the Modern Print
ARTH2056 Art and Architecture of Southeast Asia: Tradition and Transformation
ARTH2059 Art of Asia: Histories and Traditions
ARTH2061 The Postmodern and the Contemporary: World art, 1970 to the present
ARTH2080 Art and Visual Culture of the Long Eighteenth Century, 1660-1815
ARTH2081 Art of the European Courts, 1500-1815
ARTH2082 Art, War and Conflict
ARTH2097 Victorian and Edwardian Art: Australia and Europe 1837-1914
ARTH2098 Australian First Nations Art and Culture
ARTH2104 Asian Art In-Country
ARTH2161 Contemporary Australian Art
ARTH2162 Art in the Digital Age
ARTH2166 Individual Research Unit
ARTH2167 Issues in Contemporary Craft and Design
ARTH2168 Renaissance and Baroque Art
ARTH2169 Introducing Asian Modernisms
ARTH2170 Contemporary Asian Art
ARTH2171 Australian Art: The Modern Period
ARTH2173 Art and the Moving Image
ARTH2174 Art, Medicine, Gender from the Renaissance until Today
ARTH2175 Across the Pacific: Australian Interactions with American Art and Art-Worlds
ARTH3004 City Sites: studies in art, design and urbanity
12 units from completion of introductory studio courses from the following list:
ARTV1101 Ceramics: Introduction to Clay Forming and Technology
ARTV1102 Ceramics: Throwing & Surface Decoration
ARTV1201 Furniture: Shape/Structure
ARTV1202 Furniture: Elevate/Surface
ARTV1301 Glass Hot Forming Introduction: Fundamentals for Contemporary Practice
ARTV1302 Glass Kiln Forming Introduction: Fundamentals for Contemporary Practice
ARTV1403 Jewellery & Object: Introduction to Precise Miniature Construction
ARTV1404 Jewellery & Object: Maker, Wearer, Viewer, User
ARTV1501 Painting: Introducing Painting
ARTV1502 Painting: Composition & Space
ARTV1601 Hyperanalogue: the alchemy of darkroom photography
ARTV1610 PhotoVideo: Interrogating the Camera
ARTV1611 Expanded Studio Practice: Constructing Worlds
ARTV1612 Video Art: Editing & Montage
ARTV1613 Foundations of Animation
ARTV1614 Post-Digital Photography: bending the image
ARTV1703 Drawing into Print: Etching and Relief
ARTV1704 Drawing into Print: Screen Printing and Stencils
ARTV1803 Supports: conceptual and material
ARTV1804 Place, time, and wood
ARTV1901 Textiles: Plants & Place
ARTV1902 Textiles: Pattern & Print
18 units from completion of intermediate/advanced studio courses from the following list:
ARTV2027 Professional Practice: Economies and Ecologies in the Australian Cultural Sector
ARTV2038 Workshop Atelier
ARTV2057 Hands On: Material Language
ARTV2059 Immersive Media
ARTV2060 Contexts of Making: Globalisation and Change
ARTV2061 Contexts of Making: Materiality and Value
ARTV2117 Ceramics: Glaze & Colour Development
ARTV2119 Ceramics: Experimental Methods and Meanings
ARTV2120 Ceramics: Designing for the Table and Home
ARTV2124 Ceramics: Surface, Form and Connectivity
ARTV2125 Ceramics: Moulding, Casting & Digital Technologies
ARTV2206 Furniture: Bend/Curve
ARTV2207 Furniture: Support/Body
ARTV2208 Furniture: Contain/Display
ARTV2209 Furniture: Collect/Treasure
ARTV2313 Glass Kiln Casting for Contemporary Practice
ARTV2314 Glass Blowing for Contemporary Practice: Materiality and Form
ARTV2315 Glass Kiln Forming for Contemporary Practice
ARTV2316 Glass Blowing for Contemporary Practice: Utility and Narrative
ARTV2401 Jewellery & Object: Making with machines
ARTV2402 Jewellery & Object: Utility as Context
ARTV2410 Jewellery & Object: Experimenting with process
ARTV2421 Jewellery & Object: Hollow Construction
ARTV2506 Painting: Approaches to Abstraction
ARTV2507 Painting: Painting in the Photo Digital Age
ARTV2508 Painting: Taking Your Own Direction
ARTV2509 Painting: Approaches to Composition and Colour
ARTV2605 The Photographic Document: Materiality and Form
ARTV2607 Photomedia: Large Format Photography
ARTV2608 Photomedia: Experimental Processes
ARTV2609 Animation and Video: Visual Storytelling
ARTV2610 Animation and Video: Character development
ARTV2613 Animation and Video: Landscape and Environment
ARTV2614 Animation and Video: Non-linear Forms
ARTV2706 Printmedia and Drawing: Drawing Beyond the Line
ARTV2707 Printmedia and Drawing: Extended Etching and Relief Printing
ARTV2708 Printmedia and Drawing: Construct Meaning with Drawing
ARTV2715 Printmedia and Drawing: Typography
ARTV2717 Printmedia and Drawing: The Book as Art
ARTV2723 Printmedia and Drawing: Extended Screen Printing
ARTV2727 Printmedia and Drawing: Lithography
ARTV2801 Socially Engaged Art Practice: Authorship, Dialogue and Community
ARTV2802 Politics of Memory: Video Installation, Sculpture, Documentary and Monuments
ARTV2810 Politics of Bodies: Sculpture, Figure Modelling, Performance and Choreography
ARTV2820 Politics of Spaces: Installation, Sculpture and Spatial Practice
ARTV2821 Posthuman Sculpture Practice with Active Materials: Bronze Casting, 3D Modelling and Bio Art
ARTV2830 Automation and Autonomy: Process, Accident, Sculpture
ARTV2906 Textiles: Approaches to Drawing for Craft and Design
ARTV2907 Subverting Stitch
ARTV2908 Woven Worlds
ARTV2909 Social Fabric: Crafting Communities
ARTV2911 Spatial/Temporal Methods
ARTV2921 Environment Studio: field based research and studio practice in visual arts
ARTV3031 Making Research for a Studio Practice in the Visual Arts
ARTV3032 Demonstrating research methods for a studio practice in the visual arts
ARTV3507 Painting: Open to Influence Studio Research
ARTV3508 Painting: Materiality and Meaning
ARTV3510 Painting: Critical Analysis and Reflection in the Studio
12 units from completion of courses listed in either the ‘introductory studio courses’ list or the ‘intermediate/advanced studio courses’ list above.
6 units from completion of an advanced studio course from the following list:
ARTV3028 Developing a Contemporary Craft Practice
ARTV3033 Creative Research Practice: Developing an Independent Work Proposal
6 units from completion of an engagement course from the following list:
ARTV2027 Professional Practice: Economies and Ecologies in the Australian Cultural Sector
ARTV2921 Environment Studio: field based research and studio practice in visual arts
ARTV3031 Making Research for a Studio Practice in the Visual Arts
ARTV3032 Demonstrating research methods for a studio practice in the visual arts
Majors
Bachelor of Science Majors
Bachelor of Visual Arts Majors
Minors
Bachelor of Science Minors
Bachelor of Visual Arts Minors
Specialisations
Bachelor of Science Specialisations
Study Options
Year 1 | 1000 level course Science Major 6 units | 1000 level Science elective or minor course 6 units | Introductory Studio Course 6 units | Foundation List Course 6 units |
1000 level course Science Major 6 units | 1000 level Science elective or minor course 6 units | Introductory Studio Course 6 units | Introductory/ Intermediate/Advanced Studio Course 6 units | |
Year 2 | 2000 level course Science Major 6 units | Science elective 6 units | Introductory/ Intermediate/Advanced Studio Course 6 units | ARTH1006 ARTH1006 |
2000 level course Science Major 6 units | Science elective or minor or specialisation course 6 units | Intermediate/Advanced Studio Course 6 units | ARTH1007 ARTH1007 | |
Year 3 | 2000 level course Science Major 6 units | Science elective or minor or specialisation course 6 units | Intermediate/Advanced Studio Course 6 units | Intermediate/Advanced Studio Course 6 units |
3000 level course Science Major 6 units | 3000 level Science elective or specialisation course 6 units | Engagement Course 6 units | Art History and Theory List Course 6 units | |
Year 4 | 3000 level course Science Major 6 units | 3000 level course Science elective 6 units | Advanced Studio Course 6 units | Art History and Theory List Course 6 units |
3000 level course Science Major 6 units | 3000 level Science elective or specialisation course 6 units | ARTV3035 ARTV3035 | ARTV3035 ARTV3035 |
Back to the Bachelor of Science page
Do you have boundless
interests you can't pin down? Are you curious about parasites and planets and
everything in between?
Explore the endless possibilities of astronomy and astrophysics, biological anthropology, biology, chemistry, climate science, computer science, earth science, environmental policy, evolution and ecology, genetics, geography, immunology, marine science, mathematics and statistics, natural resource management and sustainability, physics, plant science, psychology and neuroscience, and science communication (just to name a few).
Whatever you choose to study, you will gain transferrable skills in critical thinking, analysis, investigation and evidenced-based decision making.
With the ANU Bachelor of Science you have the flexibility to explore all your interests, tailoring a program for the direction you choose to take science.
Single degree
- This degree requires 144 units
- A maximum of 60 units of 1000 level courses
- A minimum of 30 units 3000 level Science courses
- One Science major (48 units)
- One Science minor,
specialisation (24 units) or a second Science major (48 units)
- Other courses from Science course list or another ANU College (maximum non-science allowed 48 units)
Double degree
- The Bachelor of Science in a double degree requires 96 units Science courses
- A maximum of 36 units of 1000 level courses
- A minimum of 30 units 3000 level Science courses
- One Science major (48 units)
- One Science minor, specialisation or a second Science major (24units/48 units)
- Other courses from the Science course list
About this degree
Single degree
In a Bachelor of Science single degree program you will study a total of 144 units. Typically you will take 4 courses per semester (total of 24 units) as a full time student giving you a total of 24 courses across your whole degree.
You'll need to take one Science major (8 courses) and one Science minor (or specialisation) (4 courses), and four Science electives (4 courses). If you'd like to, you can use your Science electives to extend your Science minor into a second Science major. You'll also get to choose eight electives from courses right across ANU (science or non-science courses). You can use these electives to try a range of courses or to take a major or minor in a non-Science subject, such as history or marketing.
Double degree
In a Bachelor of Science double degree program you will study a total of 96 units of Science course. Typically you will take 4 courses per semester (total of 24 units) as a full time student giving you a total of 16 courses across your whole degree. However, for each semester you are likely to take 2 courses from your Science degree and then 2 courses from the other half of your double degree – still a total of 4 courses a semester.
You'll need to take
one Science major (8 courses) and one Science minor (or specialisation) (4
courses), and four Science electives (4 courses). If you'd like to, you
can use your Science electives to extend your Science minor into a second Science
major.
The maximum period for completion of the degree program is 10 years from the date of first enrolment in the program. The 10 years includes periods of leave.
Where there is mention of Science courses, majors, minors and specialisations this refers to courses, majors, minors and specialisations that are offered by the College of Health and Medicine and College of Science as well as some that are offered by the College of Engineering and Computer Science, College of Business and Economics and College of Arts and Social Sciences as listed below.
Courses offered by College of Health and Medicine and College of Science include any courses commencing with the following codes:
ASTR BIOL CHEM EMSC ENVS MATH NEUR PHYS PSYC SCNC SCOM VCUGCourses offered by other ANU Colleges can be found on the Science Course List.
Enrolment Status
While it's possible to enrol in fewer courses per semester, which is called studying part-time, it will take you longer to finish your program and get your degree. If you are an international student you must always be full-time.
When you enrol for the first time you will study ‘1000-level’ courses. These courses have ‘1’ as the first number in their course code, such as SCNC1234.
- A course (usually 6 units) can only be counted towards one major or minor.
- You need to enrol in courses for both First Semester and Second Semester.
- You can’t study more than four courses (24 units) per semester, eight for the year.
- You need to enrol in courses for at least one potential Science major
- You need to enrol in courses for at least one potential Science minor or a second potential Science major
- You may take 1000-level courses later in your program. But remember you can’t count more than ten 1000-level courses (60 units) towards your single degree or six 1000-level courses (36 units) towards your Science half of the double degree.
Majors and Minors
See available majors and minors for this program
A course can only ever be counted toward one major or minor.
Exception: A maximum of 12 units of 1000 level courses can count toward two majors that share common first year requirements.
There are over sixty Science majors, minors and specialisations available for you to study, from Astronomy and Astrophysics to Water Science. You can find all the possibilities on our Program and Courses website.
If you aren’t sure what you want to study for your whole degree, that’s fine. You don’t need to commit to majors or minors until after your first year. Using electives can help to keep your options open.
There are two main ways to choose courses for majors and minors:
- Choose from the list of Science majors and minors and see what first year courses you need to enrol in.
- Choose from the list of first-year Science courses and see what majors and minors they count towards.
Electives
While you only need to enrol in courses for one Science major and one Science minor, you can use your electives to enrol in 1000-level courses for other Science majors or minors. That way you keep your options open. Once you've selected courses for a Science major, and a Science minor or second Science major, you should choose electives to make up the balance of your courses.
Remember you can choose up to 8 courses from another ANU College at the University if you are undertaking the single Bachelor of Science program.
Study Options
Bachelor of Science - single degree
This is a typical study pattern for the first year of a student undertaking a Bachelor of Science with one Science Major and one Science minor.Study Options
Year 1 48 units | 1000 level course Science Major 6 units | 1000 level Science elective or minor course 6 units | Science or non-science elective 6 units | Science or non-science elective 6 units |
1000 level course Science Major 6 units | 1000 level Science elective or minor course 6 units | Science or non-science elective 6 units | Science or non-science elective 6 units |
Bachelor of Science - double degree
This is a typical study pattern for the first year of a student undertaking a Bachelor of Science (degree A) with another three year degree, such as the Bachelor of Science (degree B).Study Options
Year 1 48 units | 1000 level course Science Major 6 units | 1000 level Science elective or minor course 6 units | Degree B 6 units | Degree B 6 units |
1000 level course Science Major 6 units | 1000 level Science elective or minor course 6 units | Degree B 6 units | Degree B 6 units |
Academic Advice
For further information on prerequisites and Science disciplines you can:
- Download the Science first year course guide available here, or
- View our program presentation videos located on our New commencers & first year students page, or
- Email us at science.enquiries@anu.edu.au, or
- Come and talk to someone face-to-face. You can make an appointment with an academic advisor here or by calling Science Central on 6125 2809.
Do you want to talk to someone before enrolling?
Contact Science.Enquiries@anu.edu.au
Single degree
This following information is to be read in conjunction with the program rules that are outlined on the “Study” tab. Please always make sure that you refer to the program rules for the year that you commenced your program.
Bachelor of Visual Arts consists of 144 units. Most courses are worth 6 units each, with 48 units (8 courses) per year being the standard full-time load.
A course (usually 6 units) can only be counted towards one list such as in a major or minor or designated list. For example, you are not permitted to count ARTH1006 towards the Art History and Theory major and the BVARTS designated list.
For the Bachelor of Visual Arts you will need to complete:
- One compulsory course (6 units)
- Two introductory courses from the designated list (12 units)
- One introductory art and design history course from the designated list (6 units)
- Three art history and theory courses from the designated list (18 units)
- One engagement course from the designated list (6 units)
- One workshop major from the designated list (48 units)
- Eight electives from across the ANU (48 units)
Please note that you are only permitted to count ten 1000-level courses (60 units) towards your program.
You are advised to complete a Program Plan for the Bachelor of Visual Arts. This will help you seek advice on your course choices, ensure you meet the program requirements and give you a plan that you can refer to for the duration of your program.
Double degree
This following information is to be read in conjunction with the program rules that are outlined on the “Study” tab. Please always make sure that you refer to the program rules for the year that you commenced your program.
Bachelor of Visual Arts Double Degree program consists of 96 units. Most courses are worth 6 units each, with 48 units (8 courses) per year being the standard full-time load. During each semester you are likely to take two courses from your Bachelor of Visual Arts degree and another two courses from the other half of your double degree – making up a total of four courses per semester.
A course (usually 6 units) can only be counted towards one list such as in a major or minor or designated list. For example, you are not permitted to count ARTH1006 towards the Art History and Theory major and the BVARTS designated list.
You will need to complete:
- One compulsory course (6 units)
- Two introductory courses from the designated list (12 units)
- One introductory art and design history course from the designated list (6 units)
- Three art history and theory courses from the designated list (18 units)
- One engagement course from the designated list (6 units)
- One workshop major from the designated list (48 units)
Please note that you are only permitted to count eight 1000-level courses (48 units) towards your degree.
You are advised to complete a Program Plan for the Bachelor of Visual Arts. This will help you seek advice on your course choices, ensure you meet the program requirements and give you a plan that you can refer to for the duration of your program.
Enrolment Status
While it is possible for domestic students to enrol in fewer than four courses per semester, which is called studying part-time, it will take you longer to finish your program and get your degree. If you are an international student you must always be full-time.
First year students are not permitted to study more than four courses (24 units) per semester.
If you are beginning your program in Semester 1, you should enrol for all your courses for both Semester 1 and Semester 2 (8 courses for full time), so that you can plan your study year.
Important things to keep in mind when choosing your 1000-level courses
When you enrol for the first time you will study ‘1000-level’ courses. These courses have ‘1’ as the first number in their course code, such as ARTS1234. Whilst it is important to take 1000-level courses in your first year (so that you can meet the pre-requisites for later year courses) they also can be taken later in your program.
You can only count a maximum of ten 1000-level courses (60 units) towards your single degree or eight 1000-level courses (48 units) towards your Bachelor of Visual Arts half of the double degree.
In your first year you need to enrol in:
- 1000-level Introductory courses
- 1000-level art and design history courses
- 1000-level workshop major courses
- Elective courses for students undertaking the single degree.
Electives
For students in the single degree, your electives (48 units from completion of elective courses offered by ANU) can be additional courses from your discipline (including the option of a major or minor) or courses from another ANU College. If you have an interest in another discipline such as management, psychology or mathematics, then you should explore first year courses in these areas. In particular look at the majors and minors in these areas. These will give you an idea of the first year courses you can study.
If you are interested in undertaking a language and have
prior knowledge/experience with that language you may need to undertake a
placement test – you should check with the relevant language area for further
details by searching for “language placement test” on ANUs website.
Study Options
Study Plan
Please refer to the "Study" tab.Study Options
Year 1 48 units | - | - | - | - |
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Study Plan
Please refer to the "Study" tab.Study Options
Year 1 48 units | - | - | - | - |
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