Inspire your curious mind with the Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours).
There’s no other degree like it in Australia. You’ll get to explore your interests by undertaking research as an undergraduate student, get one-on-one mentoring by leading academics… all while enjoying the camaraderie of a group of like-minded students.
The research you’ll do throughout your degree is excellent preparation for your fourth, or Honours year of your PhB. You will undertake a year-long research project under the guidance of an academic supervisor. This is where you can really indulge your passion and explore a topic in detail.
Find out more about the Bachelor of Philosophy, the 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.
Mathematics is at the core of all technological innovations.
If you’d like to master quantitative problem-solving, mathematical modelling and critical thinking, this is the degree for you.
It is an elite, research-focused program for exceptional students at Australia’s highest-ranked university.
Make your mark with maths at ANU: find out more about mathematical studies, the degree structure, the university experience, career opportunities and student stories on our website. Work and learn in both independent and collaborative ways with others to encompass diverse abilities and perspectives.
Get the inside story on what it’s like to be an ANU student by visiting our student blog.
This program is not available for Semester 2 commencement.
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
Many of our graduates have used the PhB program as a pathway to completing PhDs in some of the best universities around the world, such as Cambridge, Oxford, Yale, UC Berkley and, of course, ANU.
PhB students who choose to apply through the Graduate Entry Medical School Admissions System (GEMSAS) and who have started in the PhB program from 2026 will receive a 2% honours bonus once graduated from the PhB.
See where a Bachelor of Philosophy could take you: our career wheel will help you turn your interests into a career in science.
Many of our graduates have used the PhB program as a pathway to completing PhDs in some of the best universities around the world, such as Cambridge, Oxford, Yale, UC Berkley and, of course, ANU.
PhB students who choose to apply through the Graduate Entry Medical School Admissions System (GEMSAS) and who have started in the PhB program from 2026 will receive a 2% honours bonus once graduated from the PhB.
See where a Bachelor of Philosophy could take you: our career wheel will help you turn your interests into a career in science.
Learning Outcomes
- Develop, apply, integrate and generate knowledge in educational and professional contexts;
- Develop and use a range of skills and methods to identify, analyse and respond to complex problems and issues;
- Identify and apply various research concepts, methodologies and methods;
- Work and learn in both independent and collaborative ways with others to encompass diverse abilities and perspectives;
- Negotiate research projects considering their academic relevance, possible academic contributions, and ethical implications;
- Source and critically analyse research literature related to their topics of interest and research;
- Appraise concepts and arguments related to their topics of interest and research;
- Convey and relate professional and disciplinary information and ideas to diverse audiences in effective and appropriate ways;
- Develop high level project management skills as support for independent study; and
- Exercise personal, professional and social responsibility as a global citizen.
- Think clearly, sequentially and logically, as demonstrated by the critical analysis of quantitative problems, such as the ability to read, understand and write mathematical proofs.
- Demonstrate mastery of the concepts and techniques of Advanced Mathematics.
- Communicate concepts and results clearly and effectively both in writing and orally.
- Systematically identify relevant theory and concepts, relate these to appropriate methodologies and evidence, and draw appropriate conclusions.
- Engage in critical review of appropriate and relevant information sources.
- Work and learn in both independent and collaborative ways with others to encompass diverse abilities and perspectives.
Further Information
Student Advice
Advanced Studies
Advanced Studies consist of individually tailored courses specifically designed to provide students with a strong base in research. Advanced Studies are available in two formats: courses that are inherently taught at a higher level and are entirely research focussed (Advanced Studies Courses, ASC); or in the form of an extension, assessed at a higher level, attached to a regular course (Advanced Studies Extension, ASE). Students must seek approval from the program and course conveners in order to enrol in Advanced Studies.
What courses should you take in your first year of study?
There are no specific compulsory courses in this program except for the SCNC coded courses however, many 2000-3000 level courses will have 1000-level foundational or prerequisite courses. Please check the requirements of each course and select your 1000-level courses in first year carefully to optimise later year enrolment pathways.
If in doubt, please contact the program convener (details above) or students.cos@anu.edu.au before finalising your enrolment selections.
How can I satisfy the Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving course requirements?
- Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving courses can be found using the Programs and Courses search engine.
- Many majors offered by the College of Science (not required for the PhB (Hons) will identify in the "Advice for students" section which courses listed in the major will contribute towards this requirement. This might assist you in choosing courses relevant to your preferred discipline/Honours specialisation.
You can satisfy the Transdisciplinary course requirement through one of courses offered by the College of Science or through your ANU electives (if in a single degree) - it all depends on how you structure your degree and your other enrolment choices.
Internship opportunities
Students interested in incorporating an internship into their degree can find out more from the College of Science website.
The Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) is available as a Flexible Double Degree program
When the PhB (Hons) is combined with another undergraduate degree through a Flexible Double Degree (FDD), the 48 units of ANU electives units are replaced with the 96-unit core requirements of the other degree plan and the total program duration is expanded to 240 units (5 years Full-Time).
Timing of Science Honours year for students in a Flexible Double Degree program
Students undertaking the PhB (Hons) as part of a Flexible Double Degree (FDD) will only be able to commence the Honours year after satisfaction of the progression hurdle into Honours and should note that many Science Honours disciplines only support full-time enrolment in the Honours year (24+24 units).
Where the second bachelor's component of the FDD program has not yet been completed before the intended start term for Science Honours, it is strongly recommended that students seek appropriate academic advice from a Science Sub Dean.
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 of 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 2021 will be classed as continuing students.
While 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/
Pathway to Honours in Psychology
Change to accredited psychology pathway from 2023 - advice for students
From 2023, key changes have been made to the specific set of courses that satisfy the APAC accreditation requirements.
- Students admitted to the ANU BSc, BA or PhB prior to 2023 who wish to be eligible for Honours in psychology are expected to complete PSYC1003 , PSYC1004 , PSYC2001 , PSYC2002 , PSYC2007 , PSYC2008 , PSYC2009 , PSYC3018 , PSYC3025 , PSYC3026 and an additional 2 x 3000 level PSYC courses (or, for PhB students, 3000 level SCNC courses with a psychology supervisor). This constitutes the minimum required learning in Psychology for accreditation.
- Students admitted to the ANU BSc, BA or PhB from 2023 who wish to be eligible for Honours in psychology are expected to complete PSYC1003 , PSYC1004 , PSYC2001 , PSYC2007 , PSYC2008 , PSYC2009 , PSYC2012 , PSYC3018 , PSYC3020 , PSYC3025 , PSYC3026 and PSYC3202. This constitutes the minimum required learning in Psychology for accreditation.
Students transferring into the program from 2023 are encouraged to seek academic advice, if PSYC2002 has already been completed.
APAC Accreditation
The Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) with Psychology Honours Specialisation is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC)
Student Advice
Advanced Studies
Advanced Studies consist of individually tailored courses specifically designed to provide students with a strong base in research. Advanced Studies are available in two formats: courses that are inherently taught at a higher level and are entirely research focussed (Advanced Studies Courses, ASC); or in the form of an extension, assessed at a higher level, attached to a regular course (Advanced Studies Extension, ASE). Students must seek approval from the program and course conveners in order to enrol in Advanced Studies.
What courses should you take in your first year of study?
There are no specific compulsory courses in this program except for the SCNC coded courses however, many 2000-3000 level courses will have 1000-level foundational or prerequisite courses. Please check the requirements of each course and select your 1000-level courses in first year carefully to optimise later year enrolment pathways.
If in doubt, please contact the program convener (details above) or students.cos@anu.edu.au before finalising your enrolment selections.
How can I satisfy the Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving course requirements?
- Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving courses can be found using the Programs and Courses search engine.
- Many majors offered by the College of Science (not required for the PhB (Hons) will identify in the "Advice for students" section which courses listed in the major will contribute towards this requirement. This might assist you in choosing courses relevant to your preferred discipline/Honours specialisation.
You can satisfy the Transdisciplinary course requirement through one of courses offered by the College of Science or through your ANU electives (if in a single degree) - it all depends on how you structure your degree and your other enrolment choices.
Internship opportunities
Students interested in incorporating an internship into their degree can find out more from the College of Science website.
The Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) is available as a Flexible Double Degree program
When the PhB (Hons) is combined with another undergraduate degree through a Flexible Double Degree (FDD), the 48 units of ANU electives units are replaced with the 96-unit core requirements of the other degree plan and the total program duration is expanded to 240 units (5 years Full-Time).
Timing of Science Honours year for students in a Flexible Double Degree program
Students undertaking the PhB (Hons) as part of a Flexible Double Degree (FDD) will only be able to commence the Honours year after satisfaction of the progression hurdle into Honours and should note that many Science Honours disciplines only support full-time enrolment in the Honours year (24+24 units).
Where the second bachelor's component of the FDD program has not yet been completed before the intended start term for Science Honours, it is strongly recommended that students seek appropriate academic advice from a Science Sub Dean.
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 of 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 2021 will be classed as continuing students.
While 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/
Pathway to Honours in Psychology
Change to accredited psychology pathway from 2023 - advice for students
From 2023, key changes have been made to the specific set of courses that satisfy the APAC accreditation requirements.
- Students admitted to the ANU BSc, BA or PhB prior to 2023 who wish to be eligible for Honours in psychology are expected to complete PSYC1003 , PSYC1004 , PSYC2001 , PSYC2002 , PSYC2007 , PSYC2008 , PSYC2009 , PSYC3018 , PSYC3025 , PSYC3026 and an additional 2 x 3000 level PSYC courses (or, for PhB students, 3000 level SCNC courses with a psychology supervisor). This constitutes the minimum required learning in Psychology for accreditation.
- Students admitted to the ANU BSc, BA or PhB from 2023 who wish to be eligible for Honours in psychology are expected to complete PSYC1003 , PSYC1004 , PSYC2001 , PSYC2007 , PSYC2008 , PSYC2009 , PSYC2012 , PSYC3018 , PSYC3020 , PSYC3025 , PSYC3026 and PSYC3202. This constitutes the minimum required learning in Psychology for accreditation.
Students transferring into the program from 2023 are encouraged to seek academic advice, if PSYC2002 has already been completed.
APAC Accreditation
The Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) with Psychology Honours Specialisation is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC)
Admission Requirements
- ATAR:
- 99
- International Baccalaureate:
- 43
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 an ACT 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 students.cos@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 Advanced or equivalent
- MATH1005: ACT Mathematical Methods (major)/Further Mathematics/Specialist Mathematics (major)/ Specialist Methods or NSW HSC Mathematics Advanced 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 Advanced 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 enroll
- 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).
ACT: Specialist Mathematics and Specialist Methods (double major) / Discrete Mathematics ANU/UC.
NSW: Mathematics Extension 2 or equivalent.
VIC: Specialist Mathematics.
QLD: Specialist Mathematics.
TAS: Mathematics Specialised / Both Mathematics IA and IB through UTAS.
SA / NT: Specialist Mathematics.
WA: Mathematics Specialist.
IB: Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches HL.
More information about interstate subject equivalencies can be found here .
Adjustment Factors
Adjustment factors are combined with an applicant's secondary education results to determine their Selection Rank. ANU offers adjustment factors based on equity, diversity, and/or performance principles, such as for recognition of difficult circumstances that students face in their studies.
To be eligible for adjustment factors, you must have:
- achieved a Selection Rank of 70 or more before adjustment factors are applied
- if you have undertaken higher education, completed less than one year full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) of a higher education program
- applied for an eligible ANU bachelor degree program
Please visit the ANU Adjustment Factors website for further information.
Indicative fees
Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) - Science - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
For more information see: http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/costs-fees
- Annual indicative fee for international students
- $56,120.00
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 Philosophy (Honours) - Science flexible double degree component requires completion of 144 units, of which:
A maximum of 36 units may come from the completion of 1000-level courses
A minimum of 12 units of courses tagged as Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving
A minimum of 132 units must come from completion of courses from the following subject areas, which must include a minimum of 30 units of 3000-level courses:
ASTR – Astronomy & Astrophysics
BIOL – Biology
CHEM – Chemistry
COMP – Computer Science
EMSC – Earth and Marine Science
ENVS – Environmental Science
HLMD – Health and Medicine
HLTH – Health Science
MATH – Mathematics
MEDN – Medical Science
NEUR – Neuroscience
PHYS – Physics
PSYC – Psychology
SCNC – Science
SCOM – Science Communication
STAT – Statistics
A minimum of 6 units must come from the completion of quantitative research skills courses from the following list, which may contribute towards meeting any other requirement in the Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) - Science:
BIAN3014 Research Design and Analysis in Biological Anthropology (6 units)
BIOL2001 Introduction to Quantitative Biology (6 units)
BIOL2202 Experimental Design and Analysis in Biology (6 units)
ENVS1003 Introduction to Environmental and Social Research (6 units)
ENVS2002 Environmental Measurement, Modelling and Monitoring (6 units)
PSYC2009 Quantitative Methods in Psychology (6 units)
PSYC3018 Advanced Research Methods (6 units)
Any 1000-, 2000- or 3000-level course from the subject area MATH- Mathematics or STAT- Statistics, with the exception of MATH1042
36 units from completion of Advanced Studies, including:
A minimum of 18 units from the completion of Advanced Studies (ASC) courses from the following list which can include:
A maximum of 30 units of SCNC2101 Advanced Studies Course (can be taken multiple times)
A minimum of 6 units of SCNC3101 Advanced Studies Course (can be taken multiple times)
A maximum of 18 units from the completion of Advanced Studies Extensions (ASE) courses
48 units from completion of one of the following Honours specialisations:
ASTR-HSPC Astronomy and Astrophysics Honours
BIAN-HSPC Biological Anthropology Honours
BIOL-HSPC Biology Honours
CHEM-HSPC Chemistry Honours
COMP-HSPC Computer Science Honours
EMSC-HSPC Earth and Marine Science Honours
ENVI-HSPC Environments Honours
MATH-HSPC Mathematics Honours
MEDR-HSPC Medical Research Honours
PHYS-HSPC Physics Honours
POPH-HSPC Population Health Honours
POTE-HSPC Physics of the Earth Honours
PSYC-HSPC Psychology Honours
SCNC-HSPC Science Honours
SCOM-HSPC Science Communication Honours
STAT-HSPC Statistics Honours
Students must achieve a minimum 75% Weighted Average Mark in courses with the Alpha codes listed in the study requirements in each period (Summer/First Semester/Autumn and Winter/Second Semester/Spring) subsequent to the first year of study to continue in the Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours). Students who do not achieve a minimum 75% Weighted Average Mark will be transferred to the Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Science (Advanced) (Honours).
Students must complete 144 units and achieve a minimum 70% Weighted Average Mark calculated from the 36 units of courses in disciplines cognate to the Honours specialisation, excluding 1000-level courses, with the highest marks and satisfy all admission requirements specified in the Honours specialisation to commence the Honours specialisation. Students who do not achieve the 70% weighted average mark after 144 units or do not satisfy all admission requirements specified in the Honours specialisation will be transferred to the Bachelor of Science.
Students must achieve a minimum 80% final Honours mark in order to graduate with the Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours). Students who achieve a final Honours mark from 50% to 79% will graduate with a Bachelor of Science (Advanced) (Honours). Students who do not successfully complete the Honours year with a final mark of at least 50% will graduate from the Bachelor of Science.
Timing of Science Honours year for students in a Flexible Double Degree program:
Students undertaking the PhB (Hons) as part of a Flexible Double Degree (FDD) will only be able to commence the Honours year after satisfaction of the progression hurdle into Honours and should note that many Science Honours disciplines only support full-time enrolment in the Honours year (24+24 units).
Where the second bachelor's component of the FDD program has not yet been completed before the intended start term for Science Honours, it is strongly recommended that students seek appropriate academic advice from a Science Sub Dean.
The Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences 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 12 units of courses tagged as Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving
The 96 units must consist of:
A minimum of 84 units from completion of courses from the lists below, which must include:
30 units from the completion of the following compulsory courses:
MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1 (6 units)
MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2 (6 units)
MATH2305 Applied Mathematics I (6 units)
MATH2320 Advanced Analysis 1: Metric Spaces and Applications (6 units)
MATH2322 Advanced Algebra 1: Groups, Rings and Linear Algebra (6 units)
6 units from the completion of one of the following courses:
MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models (6 units)
MATH2222 Introduction to Mathematical Thinking: Problem Solving and Proofs (6 units)
36 units from completion of 3000-level courses from the subject area MATH Mathematics
A minimum of 12 and a maximum of 24 units from completion of courses not previously taken from the following subject areas:
ASTR – Astronomy & Astrophysics
BIOL – Biology
CHEM – Chemistry
COMP – Computer Science
EMSC – Earth and Marine Science
ENVS – Environmental Science
HLMD – Health and Medicine
HLTH – Health Science
MATH – Mathematics
MEDN – Medical Science
NEUR – Neuroscience
PHYS – Physics
PSYC – Psychology
SCNC – Science
SCOM – Science Communication
STAT – Statistics
HURDLE REQUIREMENTS
Students must achieve a minimum 70% Weighted Average Mark in each period (Summer/First Semester/Autumn and Winter/Second Semester/Spring) in the subject area of MATH to continue in the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences. During their first year of study, students will be considered in breach of this requirement only if it is not met in both Semester 1 and Semester 2.
Students who do not achieve a minimum of 70% Weighted Average Mark will be transferred to the Bachelor of Science.
First-year students should note that a prerequisite for the MATH1116 course is a mark of 60% or higher in MATH1115, and a prerequisite for both MATH2320 and MATH2322 is a mark of 60% or higher in MATH1116.
Students must achieve a minimum 70% Weighted Average Mark in each period (Summer/First Semester/Autumn and Winter/Second Semester/Spring) in the subject area of MATH to continue in the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences. During their first year of study, students will be considered in breach of this requirement only if it is not met in both Semester 1 and Semester 2.
Students who do not achieve a minimum of 70% Weighted Average Mark will be transferred to the Bachelor of Science.
First-year students should note that a prerequisite for the MATH1116 course is a mark of 60% or higher in MATH1115, and a prerequisite for both MATH2320 and MATH2322 is a mark of 60% or higher in MATH1116.
Specialisations
Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) - Science Specialisations
Back to the Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) - Science page
Note: Advice on this page is indicative only. Where a number of courses has been identified, it assumes that all of your courses are 6-units. If you take a course worth 12-units please refer to the unit-load in the study requirements in the program orders.
The Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) - Science or PhB is a unique degree that allows intellectually ambitious students to explore their interests, develop their research skills and be mentored by leading academics, while enjoying the camaraderie of a group of like-minded students. The PhB degree has been offered in Science since 2003. Regardless of your main focus, there is room in the degree for you to explore other disciplines.
The four year PhB degree is designed with flexibility in mind - each PhB program is as individual as the student taking it. Each year, you will work with your mentor to tailor a program you will find stimulating and challenging, including courses from other Colleges for those who wish to pursue cross-disciplinary interests.
One quarter of the studies, in the first three years, consists of individually tailored Advanced Studies specifically designed to provide you with a strong base in research. In these courses you typically join a research team to conduct a hands-on research project under the supervision of an academic in your chosen science area. Other options include a theoretical project, for example in Mathematics, a reading course with a world-leading scientist or an external research project with CSIRO, industry or other organisations. In the fourth or Honours year of a PhB, you will undertake a research project for most of the year under the guidance of an academic supervisor.
After completion of your first year of study, the Conditions of Award Committee will determine each semester whether your level of performance is sufficient to remain in the degree program. It is possible to transfer to another undergraduate degree program and receive credit for work successfully completed in the PhB. To remain enrolled in the PhB degree, students must maintain an average mark of 75 percent in all their Science courses in each half-year-period.
To qualify for the degree the Honours year must be completed with first class honours.
This degree can be taken as a single degree or combined with another degree in a Flexible Double Degree (FDD).When
the Bachelor of Science (Adv) (Hons) is combined with another undergraduate degree through a
Flexible Double Degree, 48 units of ANU electives units are replaced with
the core requirements of the other degree and the total program duration is
expanded to 240 units (5 years Full-Time).
Semester 2 commencers
Please
note that if you are commencing your studies in Semester 2 there may be
restrictions on the courses available for enrolment. If you have concerns,
please contact students.cos@anu.edu.au.
Advisory sessions will be held the week before semester commences.
Single degree
The Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) requires 192 units (24 courses + Honours), including:
- *A maximum of 10 x 1000-level courses
- A minimum of 22 courses from the alpha codes listed in the APHSC, which must include a minimum of 5 x 3000-level courses.
- A minimum of 2 x transdisciplinary problem-solving (TD) courses
- A maximum of 10 courses from the lists in the APHSC not previously taken or other ANU electives
- An average of 75% in courses with the alpha codes listed in the APSHC must be maintained each semester to remain in the program
- Completion of 6 x Advanced Studies including a minimum of 3 x Advanced Studies Courses (ASCs)
- 1 x Honours specialisation
- To qualify for the degree Honours must be completed with first class Honours
Double degree
When taken in a FDD you must complete 240 units, of which a minimum of 2 courses must be tagged as transdisciplinary problem-solving. These courses may be taken in either component of the FDD.
The Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) component of an FDD requires 144 units, including:
- *A maximum of 6 x 1000-level courses
- A minimum of 22 courses from the alpha codes listed in the APHSC, which must include a minimum of 5 x 3000-level courses.
- A maximum of 2 courses from the lists in the APHSC not previously taken or other ANU electives
- An average of 75% in courses with the alpha codes listed in the APSHC must be maintained each semester to remain in the program
- Completion of 6 x Advanced Studies including a minimum of 3 x Advanced Studies Courses (ASCs)
- 1 x Honours specialisation
- To qualify for the degree Honours must be completed with first class Honours
Timing of Science Honours year for students in a Flexible Double Degree program:
Students undertaking the Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) as part of a Flexible Double Degree (FDD) will only be able to commence the Honours year after satisfaction of the progression hurdle into Honours and should note that many Science Honours disciplines only support full-time enrolment in the Honours year (24+24 units).
Where the second bachelor's component of the FDD program has not yet been completed before the intended start term for Science Honours, it is strongly recommended that students seek appropriate academic advice from a the College Student Services Team.
About this degree
Transdisciplinary
Problem-Solving courses
In this
degree, you will have to complete 12 units of courses flagged as
Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving (TD). TD courses can be identified using the
Programs and Courses search engine.
Course choices
While you do not need to complete majors in this degree, the Science majors are helpful to give you an idea of possible areas you might like to focus on in your degree. In addition, you can choose up to ten elective courses from right across ANU. You can use these electives to try a range of courses or to take a cohesive group of courses, such as a language, philosophy or economics.
The core of this degree is the opportunity for you to undertake research projects (known as Advanced Studies). You will probably not undertake an Advanced Studies in your first semester of first year because most PhB students like to use this semester to get used to university and find out about as many disciplines as possible. You will undertake an Advanced Studies (as an Advanced Studies Extension project most likely) in second semester of first year and then some kind of Advanced Studies in each semester of second and third year. You will have lots of help from the program convenor in helping you decide courses and showing you how to organise Advanced Studies.
In your 4th year of study you will undertake the Honours year in a single discipline usually closely related to your main area of focus.
Enrolment Status
Duration
The Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) typically takes four years to complete on a full-time basis. Students will usually take 24-units (four six-unit courses) each semester and there are two semesters each year. One course is typically worth six-units.
In total, students need to complete 192 units of study towards the Bachelor of Philosophy (Hons). This will be 24 courses in the first three years if all courses are worth six-units, but may be fewer if one or more courses of 12-units or more are taken. This is followed in the fourth year with a "+1 Honours year", worth 48 units.
If you combine the Bachelor of Philosophy (Hons) with another degree in a Flexible Double Degree, you will need to complete a total of 240 units (32 six-unit courses plus the 48 units for the Honours specialisation.. This will typically take five years full-time.
Domestic students may choose to enrol in fewer than 24-units in any semester or half-year study period. Students studying 18 or more units in a half year (January – June or July – December) are considered full-time. Students studying less than this are considered part-time.
If you take fewer than 24-units in any half year period, then your degree is likely to take longer than three years to complete.
International students on a student visa are required to enrol in a full-time study load of 24-units in each half year study period (Summer, Semester 1, Autumn or Winter, Semester 2, Spring) unless they have been approved for Reduced Study Load or program leave.
Maximum time for completion
The maximum period for completion of the Bachelor of Philosophy (Hons) degree, either as a single or double degree, is eleven years from the date of first enrolment in the program. This eleven years includes any periods of leave.
A transfer of credit (status) from previous studies will reduce the total amount of time remaining to complete the balance of your degree. When you are assessed for credit, you will be notified of the new maximum end date for your degree in your credit offer.
Important things to keep in mind when choosing your 1000-level courses
In your first year, you will enrol in 1000-level courses – these courses have ‘1’ as the first number in their course code. Eg CHEM1201, PHYS1001, MATH1013.
- You can take a maximum of 10 x 1000-level courses across your degree, the majority of which will be in your first year as many 2000-3000 level courses build upon specific knowledge (prerequisites) achieved through the 1000-level courses.
There is room in your first year to pick and choose first year courses depending on your interests but, it is important to select, in your first year of study, the 1000-level courses that are prerequisites for second and third year courses and pay close attention to the semester of delivery. This is particularly important if you have a preferred major in mind. Details on course prerequisites can be found in the Programs and Courses entry for each individual course.
If unsure, seek academic advice in one of the Orientation week advisory session or book an appointment with the PhB program convener.
Majors and Minors
See available majors and minors for this program
Remember, you do not have to undertake a formal major in this degree but you might like to check out the 60+ Science majors, minors and specialisations available for you to study. A list of these is available from the Bachelor of Science website: http://programsandcourses.anu.edu.au/program/Bsc.
If you aren’t sure what you want to study for your whole degree, that’s fine. Use first year to explore lots of discipline areas and let your interests develop on the basis of this experience. The PhB Convenor and your academic mentor will ensure you are choosing something academically sensible and that will allow many paths of study in the later years of your degree.
Because there are so many options available, you will need to take your time choosing what you want to study.
Electives
How do I use my electives?
Electives are courses that provide freedom for you to select subjects that align to your personal interests and career aspirations in a more individualised way than is possible through general major or degree requirements. An ANU elective is a course that you can select without restriction, beyond the global requirements of your program (e.g. limits on 1000-level courses, etc).
In your first year, we recommend taking some electives from a range of discipline areas in science to help you get a feel for which major could be the best fit in your second year. This will give you some flexibility to change plans if you find your preferred subject area isn’t what you expected it to be.
We also recommend holding some ANU electives in reserve to keep other opportunities open, such as international exchange, internships, and meeting the transdisciplinary requirements of your degree.Study Options
Typical first year enrolment pattern for Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours):
This is a typical study pattern for the first year of a student undertaking a Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours).Study Options
| Year 1 48 units | APHSC 1000 level course 6 units | APHSC 1000 level course 6 units | APHSC or ANU Elective 1000 level course 6 units | APHSC or ANU Elective 1000 level course 6 units |
| APHSC 1000 level course 6 units | APHSC 1000 level course 6 units | APHSC or ANU Elective 1000 level course 6 units | APHSC or ANU Elective 1000 level course 6 units |
Typical first year enrolment pattern for Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) - combined degree
This is a typical study pattern for the first year of a student undertaking a Bachelor of Philosophy (Hons) (degree A) with another three year degree, such as the Bachelor of Arts (degree B). It is advisable that a minimum of 4 x 1000-level APHSC courses are taken in first year depending on preferences for later year courses.Study Options
| Year 1 48 units | APHSC 1000 level course 6 units | APHSC 1000 level course 6 units | Degree B 6 units | Degree B 6 units |
| APHSC 1000 level course 6 units | APHSC 1000 level 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 the information at our New commencers & first year students page, or
- Email us at students.cos@anu.edu.au, or
- Come and talk to someone - you can make an appointment with an academic advisor here
Back to the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences page
Mathematics is the study of universal patterns and structures and is the quantitative language of the world. It underpins information technology, computer science, engineering, and the physical sciences; and it plays an increasingly important role in the biological and medical sciences, economics, finance, environmental science, sociology and psychology. The Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences provides the tools to study these patterns and structures and along the way you learn transferable skills in critical thinking, analysis, investigation and evidenced-based decision making.
Your program can concentrate on theoretical mathematics, or can extend to a range of applicable mathematical areas such as mathematical modelling, mathematical finance, mathematical economics, mathematical physics, and quantitative biology.
This program is not available for Semester 2 commencement.
Note: Advice on this page is indicative only. Where a number of courses has been identified, it assumes that all of your courses are 6-units. If you take a course worth 12-units please refer to the unit-load in the study requirements in the program orders.This degree can be taken as a single degree or combined with another degree in a Flexible Double Degree (FDD). When the Bachelor of Biotechnology is combined with another undergraduate degree through a Flexible Double Degree, 48 units of ANU electives units are replaced with the core requirements of the other degree and the total program duration is expanded to 192 units (4 years Full-Time) or 240 units (5 years Full-Time) depending on the duration of the other program.
Single degree
The Bachelor of Mathematical Science requires 144 units (24 courses), including:
- A maximum of 10 x 1000-level courses
- A minimum of 6 x 3000-level courses MATH coded courses
- 5 x compulsory courses
- A minimum of 2 transdisciplinary problem-solving (TD) courses
- Either MATH1005 or MATH2222
- A minimum of 2 x courses from alpha codes listed in the BMASC study requirements
- A maximum of 10 courses from the lists in the BMASC not previously taken or other ANU electives
This program has a progression hurdle which will require you to maintain an average mark of 70% in core and advanced MATH courses each semester to remain in the program
Double degree
The total number of overall units in a Flexible Double Degree (FDD) depends on the FDD combination eg.
- 4050: 192 units
- 4350, 4569, 4750: 240 units
Of which a minimum of 2 courses must be tagged as transdisciplinary problem-solving. These courses may be taken in either component of the FDD.
The Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences component of an FDD requires 96 units, including:
- A maximum of 6 x 1000-level courses
- A minimum of 6 x 3000-level courses MATH coded courses
- 5 x compulsory courses
- A minimum of 2 transdisciplinary problem-solving (TD) courses
- Either MATH1005 or MATH2222
- A minimum of 2 x courses from alpha codes listed in the BMASC study requirements
- A maximum of 2 courses from the lists in the BMASC not previously taken or other ANU electives
This program has a progression hurdle which will require you to maintain an average mark of 70% in core and advanced MATH courses each semester to remain in the program.
About this degree
Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving courses
In this degree, you will
have to complete 12 units of courses flagged as Transdisciplinary
Problem-Solving (TD). TD courses can be identified using the Programs and
Courses search engine.
You can satisfy this requirement through a course/s listed in the program or through
the ANU electives it all depends on how you structure your degree and your
other enrolment choices
Enrolment Status
Duration
The Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences typically takes three years to complete on a full-time basis. Students will usually take 24-units (four six-unit courses) each semester and there are two semesters each year. One course is typically worth six-units.
In total, students need to complete 144 units of study towards the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences. This will be 24 courses if all courses are worth six-units, but may be fewer if one or more courses of 12-units or more are taken.
- If you combine the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences with another degree in a Flexible Double Degree, you will need to complete a total of 192 units (32 six-unit courses) or 240 units (40 six-unit courses) depending on the combination. This will typically take four years for a 192-unit degree or five years for a 240-unit degree .
Domestic students may choose to enrol in fewer than 24-units in any semester or half-year study period. Students studying 18 or more units in a half year (January – June or July – December) are considered full-time. Students studying less than this are considered part-time.
If you take fewer than 24-units in any half year period, then your degree is likely to take longer than three years to complete.
International students on a student visa are required to enrol in a
full-time study load of 24-units in each half year study period (Summer,
Semester 1, Autumn or Winter, Semester 2, Spring) unless they have been
approved for Reduced Study Load or program leave.
Maximum time for completion
- The maximum period for completion of the single Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences degree is ten years from the date of first enrolment in the program. This ten years includes any periods of leave.
- The maximum period for completion of a flexible double degree is ten years for a 192-unit degree or 11 years for a 240-unit degree from the date of first enrolment in the program. The maximum period includes periods of leave.
A transfer of credit (status) from previous studies will reduce the total amount of time remaining to complete the balance of your degree. When you are assessed for credit, you will be notified of the new maximum end date for your degree in your credit offer.
Important things to keep in mind when choosing your 1000-level courses
There are 2 compulsory 1000 level courses you must take in your first year:
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 Biotechnology half of the double degree.Electives
Remember you can choose up to 10 courses from another ANU College if you are undertaking the single Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences program. With these courses you can try a range of courses or take a major or minor in a non-mathematics subject, such as philosophy, history or computing. The choice is yours.
How do I use my electives?
Electives are courses that provide freedom for you to select subjects that align to your personal interests and career aspirations in a more individualised way than is possible through general major or degree requirements. An ANU elective is a course that you can select without restriction, beyond the global requirements of your program (e.g. limits on 1000-level courses, etc).
We also recommend holding some ANU electives in reserve to keep other opportunities open, such as international exchange, internships, and meeting the transdisciplinary requirements of your degree.Study Options
Single degree
This is a typical study pattern for the first year of a student undertaking a Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences.Study Options
| Year 1 48 units | MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1 6 units | Science elective 6 units | Science or non-science course | Science or non-science course |
| MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2 6 units | Science elective 6 units | Science or non-science course | Science or non-science course |
Double degree
This is a typical study pattern for the first year of a student undertaking a Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences with another three year degree, such as the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science . Please note that for some double degrees (e.g. with Bachelor of Engineering) you may only be able to take one course in semester 1 for your mathematical science degree. In these circumstances it is recommended that in your first year you take MATH1115, MATH1116.Study Options
| Year 1 48 units | MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1 6 units | Science elective 6 units | Degree B Course | Degree B Course |
| MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2 6 units | Science elective 6 units | Degree B Course | Degree B Course |
Academic Advice
For further information, you can:
- Visit the Mathematical Sciences Institute webpage here, or
- Download the Science first year course guide available here, or
- View the information at our New commencers & first year students page, or
- Email us at students.cos@anu.edu.au, or
- Come and talk to someone - you can make an appointment with an academic advisor here