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Bachelor of Advanced Science

2010 Degree Information

Faculty: Faculty of Science
Course Type: Undergraduate
Campus: North Ryde
Description:

The Bachelor of Advanced Science is designed for gifted and talented students in the areas of biology, chemistry, information technology, mathematics or physics. It has a strong research focus and combines the flexibility of the Bachelor of Science with additional research-focussed, small group units. The degree is designed to foster problem-solving skills, independent/critical thinking and expose students to cutting-edge research from their first year of study.
Key Features:
  • The Bachelor of Advanced Science at Macquarie University has one of the highest UAI cut-offs for a science program in Australia.
  • As numbers are strictly limited, the small number of students in each study program enables you to receive individual attention, get to know the academic staff, and have direct contact with researchers.
  • Opportunity to take part in research and gain practical experience working in research laboratories within the University as part of your degree. Students undertake a research project in third year.
  • Students are offered a scholarship for a vacation research internship with staff in the appropriate discipline, normally during the summer vacation between their second and third years.
  • Each student is assigned a mentor, a member of the academic staff and a more senior advanced science student that supports your needs and interests throughout your degree.
  • Special advanced units form part of the degree that are not available to other students.
  • Many students will go on to an Honours degree by completing a fourth year of study.
Suitable for:

Gifted and talented students in the areas of biology, chemistry, information technology, mathematics or physics.
Accreditation:

Chemistry: Completion of the Bachelor of Advanced Science in Chemistry will satisfy the standards of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) for full membership of the learned society governing chemistry in Australia..


Mathematics: The Bachelor of Advanced Science in Mathematics has been accredited by the Australian Mathematical Society.


Physics: The Bachelor of Advanced Science in Physics will satisfy the
accreditation criteria set out by the Australian Institute of Physics.

Information technology: Depending on the options taken, the degree may
qualify the student for membership of the Australian Computer Society at the professional level.


Biology: No specified accreditation
Major Employers:

Some employers include but are not limited to:

  • Environmental protection authorities
  • Financial institutions
  • Government agencies e.g.
  • Department of Defence, Department of Environment and Climate Change Government laboratories, e.g. CSIRO
  • Hospital research bodies
  • Pharmaceutical companies
  • Research institutes and organisations
  • Science and technology organisations
  • Telecommunication firms
  • Universities
  • Utilities such as Telstra, AGL and electricity companies
Average Starting Salaries:

Median starting salaries for graduates range from $44,000 in the biological
sciences, $46,500 in computing science, $47,000 in physical sciences to $48,200 in mathematics (source: GradStats 2008).
Career Opportunities:
  • Biotechnology industry
  • Computer scientist
  • Drug discovery
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Environmental scientist
  • Financial analysis
  • Forensic scientist
  • Medical research
  • Mathematical modelling
  • Patent law
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Scientific research
  • Software engineering
  • University postgraduate study and research

Requirements

Recommended Prior Knowledge:

Mathematics: HSC Mathematics Extension 1 (Band E3) or HSC Mathematics Extension 2.

Information technology: HSC Mathematics Extension 1 (Band E2) or Mathematics Extension 2, Information Processes and Technology and/or Software Design and Development or their equivalents.

Physics: HSC Mathematics (Band 4) or its equivalent is a subject prerequisite for physics units. Higher levels of mathematics and physics are strongly recommended.

Chemistry: HSC Mathematics, Chemistry and optionally, physics recommended.

Biology: HSC Mathematics, Biology and one other science subject.

Other units taken as part of a degree may require assumed knowledge,
prerequisites or recommended studies and you should refer to the Macquarie University Handbook of Undergraduate Studies for full degree requirements ( www.handbook.mq.edu.au ).
Work Experience:

No work experience required
UAC Code:

300543 CSP
2010 ATAR:

96.00
Domestic Students: How to apply Fee Information
International Students: How to apply Fee Information
English Language Requirements:
  • IELTS (Academic english only): Minimum 6.5 overall, with 6.0 in each section
  • TOEFL (Paper based test): Minimum 580 overall, with 53 Listening, 52 Reading, 59 Structure/ Written Expression, 5.0 TWE
  • TOEFL (Computer based test): Minimum 237 overall, with 19 Listening, 19 Reading, 25 Structure/Writing
  • TOEFL (Internet based test): Minimum 92 overall, with 18 Listening, 17 Reading, 22 Writing, 22 Speaking

Course Details

Minimum Course Duration: 3 years full-time / equivalent part-time
Mode of study:

On campus
Administrative Enquiries:

Ph: 61 2 9850 6000
Fax: 61 2 9850 6565
Email: enquiries@science.mq.edu.au
www.science.mq.edu.au
Academic Enquiries:

Ph: 61 2 9850 6000
Fax: 61 2 9850 6565
Email: enquiries@science.mq.edu.au
www.science.mq.edu.au
Enquiries: Contact us for further information

What You Will Study

  • You will choose to major in biology, chemistry, information technology, mathematics or physics as part of the advanced science program of study.
  • During your degree program you will consider cutting-edge issues and be involved with one or more of the science research groups at Macquarie University.
  • You will complete two advanced science units in addition to the other requirements of the degree.
  • You will gain practical experience working in research laboratories.
  • You will attend regular research-focussed seminars and discussions with academic and research staff.