• Length 5 years full-time
  • Minimum 240 Units
Admission requirements
Prerequisites Adjustment factors availability
  • Academic plan AACOM / BSC
  • CRICOS code 079094C
  • UAC code 135010
Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours) / Bachelor of Science

This is a unique, interdisciplinary program that will prepare you to be a future leader in the information and communications technology revolution.

As a degree accredited by the Australian Computer Society, you will learn advanced computing techniques and have the opportunity to complete a unique specialisation. You will also develop exceptional professional skills including communication and teamwork while completing an Honours degree.

While some of our students are developing code that controls unmanned aerial vehicles, others are busy writing algorithms to mine through Peta-bytes of data. If mastering challenging projects is your thing, the ANU Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours) can launch you into a spectacular career.

With a myriad of disciplines offered, 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.

Wherever your passion lies, 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.

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

The best computing professionals often have knowledge of a wider field than computing alone. BAC graduates will be ideally positioned to shape their chosen sector of the computing industry now and into the future. They will acquire the skills and knowledge to become leaders in the ICT industry.

Opportunities exist in high-tech industries, software start-ups, computing research and development as well as specialist computing organisations. These employment opportunities include software developers; data mining specialists for insurance, banking and health sectors; human-computer interaction specialists for software services industries; computer vision specialists to develop the next generation of AI and machine learning tools for media companies, and embedded systems developers for defence and automotive industries.

The best computing professionals often have knowledge of a wider field than computing alone. BAC graduates will be ideally positioned to shape their chosen sector of the computing industry now and into the future. They will acquire the skills and knowledge to become leaders in the ICT industry.

Opportunities exist in high-tech industries, software start-ups, computing research and development as well as specialist computing organisations. These employment opportunities include software developers; data mining specialists for insurance, banking and health sectors; human-computer interaction specialists for software services industries; computer vision specialists to develop the next generation of AI and machine learning tools for media companies, and embedded systems developers for defence and automotive industries.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Define and analyse complex problems, and design, implement and evaluate solutions that demonstrate an understanding of the systems context in which software is developed and operated including economic, social, historical, sustainability and ethical aspects.
  2. Demonstrate an operational and theoretical understanding of the foundations of computer science including programming, algorithms, logic, architectures and data structures.
  3. Recognise connections and recurring themes, including abstraction and complexity, across the discipline.
  4. Adapt to new environments and technologies, and to innovate.
  5. Demonstrate an understanding of deep knowledge in at least one area of computer science.
  6. Communicate complex concepts effectively with diverse audiences using a range of modalities.
  7. Work effectively within teams in order to achieve a common goal.
  8. Demonstrate commitment to professional conduct and development that recognises the social, legal and ethical implications of their work, to work independently, and self- and peer-assess performance.
  9. Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamentals of research methodologies, including defining research problems, background reading and literature review, designing experiments, and effectively communicating results.
  10. Apply research methods to the solution of contemporary research problems in computer science.
  1. Develop, apply, integrate and generate scientific knowledge in educational and professional contexts;
  2. Use a range of skills and methods to identify, analyse and respond to problems and issues;
  3. Convey and relate professional and disciplinary information and ideas to diverse audiences in effective and appropriate ways;
  4. Work and learn in both independent and collaborative ways with others to encompass diverse abilities and perspectives;
  5. Exercise personal, professional and social responsibility as a global citizen.

Further Information

The Bachelor of Advanced Computing graduate will possess technical knowledge of programming and the fundamentals of Computer Science, With these as a foundation, their technical knowledge will have been honed by the study of a selection of advanced computing topics within their Specialisation. Professional and practical skills in software development will be gained through a series of courses in software analysis, design and construction, capped off with a group software project, industry internship or individual research project. With professional skills developed in the areas of entrepreneurship and management, the graduate will be in a position to apply their in-depth technical knowledge to become innovators in industry or, if a research project is completed, apply directly to world-leading PhD programs.


The best computing professionals are informed by knowledge of a wider field than computing alone. Graduates fulfilling a Major in an interdisciplinary area will be ideally positioned to shape the respective sector of the computing industry as it evolves over the near future. This will also imbue a capacity for lifelong learning by exposure to a broader range of perspectives and ways of studying.

The Bachelor of Advanced Computing graduate will possess technical knowledge of programming and the fundamentals of Computer Science, With these as a foundation, their technical knowledge will have been honed by the study of a selection of advanced computing topics within their Specialisation. Professional and practical skills in software development will be gained through a series of courses in software analysis, design and construction, capped off with a group software project, industry internship or individual research project. With professional skills developed in the areas of entrepreneurship and management, the graduate will be in a position to apply their in-depth technical knowledge to become innovators in industry or, if a research project is completed, apply directly to world-leading PhD programs.


The best computing professionals are informed by knowledge of a wider field than computing alone. Graduates fulfilling a Major in an interdisciplinary area will be ideally positioned to shape the respective sector of the computing industry as it evolves over the near future. This will also imbue a capacity for lifelong learning by exposure to a broader range of perspectives and ways of studying.

Admission Requirements

ATAR:
85
International Baccalaureate:
32

Pathways

There are a range of pathways available to students for entry into Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours):

Prerequisites

ACT: Mathematical Methods (Major)/Further Mathematics (Major)/Specialist Mathematics/Specialist Methods (Major)

NSW: HSC Mathematics Advanced or equivalent.

VIC: Mathematics Methods or equivalent

QLD: Mathematics Methods or equivalent

TAS: Mathematical methods/Mathematics Specialised/Mathematics 1 and II through U Tas/Both Mathematics 1 and II through UTAS/Both Advanced Calculus and Applications 1A and 1B through UTAS

SA / NT: Mathematical Methods or equivalent

WA: Mathematical Methods or equivalent

IB: Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations HL/Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches SL or HL


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 multi-strand 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 multi-strand 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 students.cos@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 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 multi-strand science; ACT: a high standard in physics (major).

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

Domestic International

Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours) - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)

Bachelor of Science - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)

For more information see: http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/costs-fees

Annual indicative fee for international students
$53,700.00

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

This double degree requires the completion of 240 units.

The Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours) flexible double degree component requires completion of 144 units, of which:

A maximum of 48 units may come from completion of 1000-level courses

A minimum of 48 units that come from completion of 4000-level courses from the subject area COMP Computer Science.

A minimum of 12 units of courses tagged as Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving

The 144 units must include:

6 units from completion of a course from the following list:

COMP1100 Programming as Problem Solving (6 units) / COMP1130 Programming as Problem Solving (Advanced) (6 units)

AND


6 units from completion of a course from the following list:

COMP1110 Structured Programming (6 units) / COMP1140 Structured Programming (Advanced) (6 units)

AND


6 units from completion of a course from the following list:

MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models (6 units) / MATH2222 Introduction to Mathematical Thinking: Problem-Solving and Proofs (6 units)

AND


42 units from completion of compulsory courses from the following list:

COMP1600 Foundations of Computing (6 units)

COMP2100 Software Design Methodologies (6 units)

COMP2300 Computer Architecture (6 units)

COMP2310 Systems, Networks and Concurrency (6 units)

COMP2400 Relational Databases (6 units)

COMP3600 Algorithms (6 units)

COMP4450 Computing Research Methods (6 units)

 AND


24 units from the completion of one of the following specialisations:

Artificial Intelligence

Machine Learning

Systems and Architecture

Theoretical Computer Science

Human-Centred and Creative Computing

AND


Either:

18 units from completion of further courses from the subject area COMP Computer Science  

OR

12 units from completion of further courses from the subject area COMP Computer Science

 AND

6 units from completion of courses from the following list:

ENGN1211 Engineering Design 1: Discovering Engineering (6 units)

MATH1013 Mathematics and Applications 1 (6 units)

MATH1014 Mathematics and Applications 2(6 units)

MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1 (6 units)

MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2 (6 units)

MATH2301 Games, Graphs and Machines (6 units)

STAT1003 Statistical Techniques (6 units)

STAT1008 Quantitative Research Methods (6 units)


AND


18 units from the completion of 3000 or 4000-level courses from the subject area COMP Computer Science


Either:

24 units from completion of COMP4550 Computing Research Project which must be completed twice, in consecutive semesters (12+12 units)

OR

12 units from COMP4500 Software Engineering Team Project which must be completed twice, in consecutive semesters (6+6 units)

AND 12 units from the completion of further 4000-level courses from the subject area COMP Computer Science

OR

COMP4820 Advanced Computing Internship (12 units)

AND 12 units from the completion of further 4000-level courses from the subject area COMP Computer Science



Honours Calculation

COMP4801 Final Honours Grade will be used to record the Class of Honours and the Mark. The Honours Mark will be a weighted average percentage mark (APM) calculated by first calculating the average mark for 1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 level courses. We denote these averages: A1, A2, A3, and A4 respectively. The averages are calculated based on all courses completed (including fails), that are listed in the program requirements, excluding non-COMP-coded electives, giving NCN and WN a nominal mark of zero. Finally, these averages are combined using the formula APM = (0.1 X A1) + (0.2 X A2) + (0.3 X A3) + (0.4 X A4).

 

The APM will then be used to determine the final grade according to the ANU Honours grading scale, found at http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/assessments-exams/grading-scale.

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 12 units of courses tagged as Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving

A minimum of 30 units must come from completion of 3000-level courses from the Science course list

A minimum of 6 units must come from completion of quantitative research skills courses from the following list, which may contribute towards meeting the requirements of a major, minor or specialisation in the Bachelor of 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

The 96 units must include:

A minimum of 84 units from completion of courses from the following lists, which must include:

A minimum of 12 units from completion of 1000- level courses from the following subject areas or courses listed below:

ASTR – Astronomy & Astrophysics

BIOL – Biology

CHEM – Chemistry

EMSC – Earth and Marine Science

ENVS – Environmental Science

MATH – Mathematics

PHYS – Physics

SCNC – Science

SCOM – Science Communication

COMP1100 Programming as Problem Solving

COMP1110 Structured Programming

COMP1130 Programming as Problem Solving (Advanced)

COMP1140 Structured Programming (Advanced)

COMP1600 Foundations of Computing

COMP1730 Programming for Scientists

FINM1001 Foundations of Finance


48 units from completion of one of the following Science majors:

Agricultural Innovation

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Biochemistry

Biodiversity Conservation

Biological Anthropology

Cell & Molecular Biology

Chemistry

Climate Science

Computer Science

Earth Science

Environmental Science

Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology

Human Biology

Mathematical Finance

Mathematical Modelling

Mathematics

Physics

Psychology

Quantitative Biology

Science Communication

Statistics


A minimum of 24 units from completion of courses not previously taken from the following subject areas:

ASTR – Astronomy & Astrophysics

BIOL – Biology

CHEM – Chemistry

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

Once you have met the program requirements of your degree, you may have enough electives to complete an additional elective major, minor or specialisation. Majors and minors if taken together must have different names. Detailed information on course overlap is available from the College of Science website.

A major cannot contribute satisfying the requirements of two degrees.

Majors

Bachelor of Science Majors

Minors

Bachelor of Science Minors

Specialisations

Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours) Specialisations

Study Options

Year 1 COMP1100 Programming as Problem Solving 6 units OR COMP1130; MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models 6 units Computing Elective 6 units
COMP1110 Structured Programming 6 units OR COMP1140; COMP1600 Foundations of Computing 6 units
Year 2 COMP2100 Software Construction 6 units COMP2300 Computer Architecture 6 units
COMP2120 Software Engineering 6 units COMP2310 Systems, Networks, and Concurrency 6 units Computing Elective 6 units
Year 3 COMP2420 Computing Specialisation Course 6 Units
Computing Elective 3000 or 4000 level<b/>6 Units COMP3600 Algorithms 6 units
Year 4 COMP4450 Computing Research Methods 6 units Computing Specialisation course 6 units
Computing elective 3000 or 4000 level 6 units Computing elective 3000 or 4000 level 6 units
Year 5 COMP4560 Advanced Computing Project 6 units Computing Elective course 4000 level 6 units Computing Specialisation course 6 units
COMP4560 Advanced Computing Project 6 units Computing Elective course 4000 level 6 units Computing Specialisation course 6 units

Back to the Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours) page

The Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours) (BAC) is a unique, interdisciplinary program that will prepare you to be a future leader in technology.

The BAC can be taken as a single degree which includes a number of core and compulsory courses including a computing specialisation. The single degree also offers 48 units (eight courses) of electives that can be taken from additional computing courses (enabling you to complete a further computing major, minor, or specialisation), or a major from other schools.

The BAC can also be taken as a part of many Flexible Double Degrees.

Single degree

  • This degree requires a total of 192 units (each course is typically 6 units though some may be 12 units or higher)
  • There are a number of core and compulsory courses
  • You will need to complete one computing specialisation
  • 48 units (eight courses) of electives that can be taken from additional computing courses (enabling you to complete a computing major, minor, or specialisation), or from other university courses.
  • You can do a maximum of 60u 1000 level courses in your single degree

Double degree

  • There are no university electives available in the Flexible Double Degree.
  • This degree requires 144 units  of the compulsory Advanced Computing requirements (each course is typically 6 units though some may be 12 units or higher)
  • You will need to complete one computing specialisation
  • Typically you can do a maximum of 72u 1000 level courses in your Flexible Double Degree
  • You can find your Flexible Double Degree with the BSEng from Program and Courses

About this degree

  • The degree is made of up compulsory requirements, additional computing electives,  and 48 units (eight courses) of electives
  • In the single degree you have 48 units of university electives (eight courses).  These courses can be used to study more computing courses, or a major or minor from another area of the university including Engineering, or a selection of courses that suits your interests. 
  • In the Flexible Double Degree, you have no university electives - your other degree requirements use up all of these.

Enrolment Status

While it’s possible to enrol in fewer courses per semester, it will take you longer to finish your program and get your degree. There are maximum time limits for completion of the degree on a part-time basis. If you are an international student you must always be full-time.

Important things to keep in mind when choosing your 1000-level courses

  • When you enrol for the first time you will typically study '1000-level' courses. These courses have '1' as the first number in their course code, such as COMP1100.
  • You need to enrol in courses for both First Semester and Second Semester though note that you can change your Semester 2 courses all the way until July.
  • You can’t study more than four courses (24 units) per semester, 48u for the year, and international students cannot study less than 24u a semester expect in exceptional circumstances and with approval.
  • 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 BAC half of the Flexible Double Degree.
  • In choosing your first year programming courses you will have a choice of doing COMP1100 or COMP1130 in Semester 1, and COMP1110 and COMP1140 in Semester 2. The standard courses are COMP1100/1110 but if you have a strong maths background, and/or significant programming experience, you might like to choose COMP1130/1140. Note that you choose 1130 you will be able to drop back to 1100 in the first 2 weeks.
  • You should make sure you do MATH1005 and COMP1600 in your first year.

Majors and Minors

See available majors and minors for this program

You will be required to complete a 24-unit specialisation as a compulsory part of your program. This can be declared via ISIS in your second or third year. When planning your Specialisation check the pre-requisites for courses to ensure you can complete all the required courses. o Artificial Intelligence o Human-Centred and Creative Computing o Machine Learning o Systems and Architecture o Theoretical Computer Science

You can also choose to complete a Computing Major (48-units) if you use your elective space. If you plan to complete a major please check with the College Student Services about how to plan your degree before enrolling in your second year subjects.

COMS-MAJ Computer Systems

CSEC-MAJ Cyber Security

HCCC-MAJ Human-Centred and Creative Computing

INFS-MAJ Information Systems

Follow the steps here: Declaring majors, minors & specialisations to declare your Specialisation and any majors you wish to take, noting the dates this can be done. You do not need to declare your Specialisation until your second or third year but note that you need to plan to complete the required courses to meet their requirements.

Electives

If you are in the single degree then in your first year you have two computing electives and two university electives to choose.

  • To find 1000-level (first year) elective courses, use the catalogue search.
  • University electives can be additional computing courses, or courses from anywhere in the university.
  • Courses that can be taken in first year as computing or other electives are: COMP2620 and COMP2400 . Students should consider these in light of their performance in thier first semester computing and maths courses and take them only if they have performed well.
  • If you enjoy and are good at  mathematics and do not plan to do a major from another area of study, then you are encouraged to consider doing the following:
    • Semester 1: MATH1013 Maths and Applications 1, or MATH1115 Maths and Applications 1 (Hons) (only recommended for outstanding maths students)
    • Semester 2: MATH1014 Maths and Applications 2, or MATH1116 Maths and Applications 2 (Hons) (only recommended for outstanding maths students)
  • Suggested university electives in your first year if you are interested in Engineering are: Semester 1 - PHYS1001 or PHYS1101  and Semester 2 – ENGN1218
  • Suggested university electives if you are interested in Information Systems are Semester 1 or 2: INFS1001
  • If you have an interest in another area (eg management, mathematics, psychology, languages) then you should explore first year courses in these areas and in particular, look at the majors and minors in these areas. These will give you an idea of the first year courses that you should study.
  • Transdisciplinary (TD) Courses can be found on P&C. By following your degree rules you will meet your TD program requirement.

Study Options

Single Degree

Study Options

Year 1 48 units COMP1100 Programming as Problem Solving 6 units OR COMP1130; MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models 6 units Computing Elective University Elective
COMP1110 Structured Programming 6 units OR COMP1140; COMP1600 Foundations of Computing 6 units Computing Elective University Elective

Flexible Double Degree

Study Options

Year 1 48 units COMP1100 Programming as Problem Solving 6 units OR COMP1130; MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models 6 units Computing Elective 6 Units Course from other degree
COMP1110 Structured Programming 6 units OR COMP1140; COMP1600 Foundations of Computing 6 units Course from other degree Course from other degree

Academic Advice

The Study Options below are a guide, depending on your personal circumstances and interests you may need to move Electives and courses into different semesters.

If you want to talk to someone before enrolling or have your study plan reviewed review the information on Getting Started in your Study Program and then contact the College Student Enquiries team at studentadmin.cecc@anu.edu.au

Back to the Bachelor of 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.


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 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.

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 Science requires 144 units (24 courses), including:

  • *A maximum of 10 x 1000-level courses
  • A minimum of 5 x 3000-level courses which can come from a major and/or other lists in the core requirements of the BSC
  • A minimum of 14 courses from the lists specified in the core requirements of the BSC
  • A minimum of 2 x transdisciplinary problem-solving (TD) courses
  • 1 x quantitative skills course
  • A maximum of 10 courses from the lists in the BSC not previously taken or other ANU electives

 The minimum 84 units (14 courses) specified in the core component of the BSC must include:

  • A minimum of 2 x 1000- level courses from the list in the BSC
  • 1 x major listed in the BSC
  • *A minimum of 4 x 2000-3000 level courses listed in the BSC.
*With careful enrolment choices, these courses can be used to complete an optional second major or a minor or specialisation. The College of Science offers a range of optional minors and specialisations as listed further down on this page.



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 Science component of an FDD requires 96 units, including:

  • *A maximum of 6 x 1000-level courses
  • A minimum of 5 x 3000-level courses which can come from a major and/or other lists in the core requirements of the BSC
  • A minimum of 14 courses from the lists specified in the BSC
  • 1 x major listed in the BSC
  • A minimum of 2 transdisciplinary problem-solving (TD) courses
  • 1 x quantitative skills course
  • A minimum of 2 x 1000- level courses from the list in the BSC
  • *A minimum of 4 x course from the lists in the BSC.
  • *A maximum of  2 x courses from courses listed in the BSC not previously taken or other ANU electives
*With careful enrolment choices, these courses can be used to complete an optional minor or specialisation. The College of Science offers a range of optional minors and specialisations as listed further down on this page.



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). However, many majors will identify in the "Advice for students" section which courses listed in the major will contribute towards this requirement.

You can satisfy this requirement through a course/s in the major or as an elective in the core requirements of the degree or through the ANU electives (if in a single degree) - it all depends on how you structure your degree and your other enrolment choices.  Some majors in the BSC may include TD flagged courses, so if you enrol in a TD course listed in a major it will contribute towards satisfying this requirement.

Enrolment Status

Duration

The Bachelor of Science 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 Science. 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 Science 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 Science 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

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 within the single degree, or 6 x 1000-level courses if taking a Bachelor of Science within a double degree. The majority of these courses will be taken in your first year.Many 2000 and 3000 level courses build upon the specific knowledge achieved through 1000-level courses.
  • You must complete a minimum of 2 x 1000-level courses as part of your Bachelor of Science.  Please check the “Requirements” in the “Study” tab of your preferred major to make sure you enrol in any prerequisites required for the 2000 and 3000 level courses in this major.

There is room in your first year to pick and choose courses depending on your interests but, you must also ensure that you select the 1000-level courses that are prerequisites for 2000 and 3000 level courses. When selecting your courses, please pay close attention to the semester in which it is offered. This is particularly important if you have a preferred major in mind. The 1000- level course that are prerequisites for each major can be found in the:

  • Programs and Courses entry for each major.
  • Programs and Courses entry for each individual course.
  • College of Science first year guide.

Details of the semester/s in which courses are offered can be found in the individual course entries  on the Programs and Course website on the Class tab.


Majors and Minors

See available majors and minors for this program

What is a major?
A major is a sequence of 48-units  (eight six-unit courses), usually at 2000 and 3000 level. The major has been structured to develop relevant skills and knowledge in the discipline and to prepare you for further study or entry to the workforce. The majors that contribute towards the core requirements of the Bachelor of Science are listed in the “Program Requirements” on the “Study” tab.


What is a minor or a specialisation?
Minors and specialisations are sequences of 24 units (four six-unit courses). Minors are typically made up of 1000 and 2000-level courses and can bring structured breadth to your degree. Specialisations are typically made up of 2000 and 3000 level courses (minimum 2 x 3000-level) and can bring structured depth to your degree. Specialisations build upon the knowledge of specific co-requisite majors and must be taken together with the co-requisite major.

You do not need to take a second major or a minor/specialisation towards your degree. But you may have enough electives to do this if you wish. This is optional not compulsory. Majors and minors if taken together must have different names. Detailed information on course overlap is available from the College of Science website.


Minors offered by the College of Science:
  • Applied Statistics APST-MIN
  • Biodiversity Conservation and Management BCAM-MIN
  • Biology BIOL-MIN
  • Chemistry CHEM-MIN
  • Climate Science and Policy CSAP-MIN
  • Computer Science CSCI-MIN
  • Developmental Psychology  DEPS-MIN
  • Earth and Marine Sciences EMSC-MIN
  • Environmental Policy ENVP-MIN
  • Forest Science and Policy FSAP-MIN
  • Geography GEOG-MIN
  • Human Ecology HECL-MIN
  • Mathematics MATH-MIN
  • Nuclear Science NCSC-MIN
  • Physics PHYS-MIN
  • Science Communication SCOM-MIN
  • Social Psychology SOPS-MIN
  • Soil and Land Management LAND-MIN
  • Sustainable Development SUSD-MIN
  • Water Science and Policy WSAP-MIN
Specialisations offered by the College of Science:
  • Advanced Chemistry CHEM-SPEC
  • Advanced Mathematics ADMA-SPEC
  • Advanced Physics ADPH-SPEC
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics ASAP-SPEC
  • Biochemistry BCHM-SPEC
  • Biomedical Science BMSC-SPEC
  • Climate Science CLSC-SPEC
  • Evolution and Ecology EVEC-SPEC
  • Genetics GENE-SPEC
  • Geochemistry and Petrology GOPT-SPEC
  • Marine Science Specialisation MARS-SPEC
  • Microbiology and Immunology MBIM-SPEC
  • Neuroscience and Physiology NEUR-SPEC
  • Plant Science PLNT-SPEC
  • Psychology PSYC-SPEC

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 the BSc you will also be able to select 24 units from scientific discipline areas. These are often referred to as BSc electives, as they provide some scope for freedom in your studies, but are restricted to content relevant to your science degree.

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.

You may have noticed that the BSC does not have any specified “compulsory” courses. There are lists of courses, lists of majors, lists of alpha codes, but no specific course that absolutely must be taken. A major in the BSC might have compulsory courses, but the program itself does not.

Instead, the BSC groups courses in two ways:

  1. The courses that contribute towards the “core” BSC components of the degree.
  2. “ANU electives” which are the courses offered by other colleges and are not specifically listed in the study requirements of the BSC (either as specific courses, themed lists, through the alpha code lists or through the study requirements of majors)

 While you only need to enrol in courses for one BSC major plus associated 1000-level courses, you can use your electives to enrol in 1000-level courses for other BSC majors or minors. That way you keep your options open. Once you've selected courses for a Science major, you should choose electives to make up the balance of your courses per the degree requirements. In this space you could take a Transdisciplinary course or a course from the quantitative course list.

Remember you can choose up to 10 courses from another ANU College if you are undertaking the single Bachelor of Science program. You can try a range of courses or take a major or minor in a non-science subject, such as philosophy, history or computing. The choice is yours.

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. It is advisable that a minimum of four 1000-level courses are taken towards the core requirements of the Bachelor of Science depending on preferences of major/s. Some majors in the Bachelor of Science require more than two 1000-level courses. Guidance on which 1000-level courses to select can be found under the “Study” tab of the major.

Study Options

Year 1 48 units 1000 level BSC course 6 units 1000-level course BSC or ANU elective 6 units 1000-level course BSC or ANU elective 6 units 1000-level course BSC or ANU elective 6 units
1000 level BSC course 6 units 1000-level course BSC or ANU elective 6 units 1000-level course BSC or ANU elective 6 units 1000-level course BSC or ANU 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 Arts (degree B). It is advisable that a minimum of four 1000-level courses are taken towards the core requirements of the Bachelor of Science in first year depending on preferences for majors. Some majors in the Bachelor of Science require more than two 1000-level courses. Guidance on which 1000-level courses to select can be found under the “Study” tab of the major.

Study Options

Year 1 48 units 1000 level BSC course 6 units 1000-level course BSC or ANU elective 6 units Degree B 6 units Degree B 6 units
1000 level BSC course 6 units 1000-level course BSC or ANU elective 6 units Degree B 6 units Degree B 6 units

Academic Advice

For further information on prerequisites and Science disciplines you can:

If you need help on any aspect of university life, our "Need Help" webpage is a good place to start and can link you to services across the University.

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