Diploma of Science (UniLink) (8 months)
Want to know more about how the world around us works? The Diploma of Science (UniLink) gives you an alternative pathway into higher education. You'll learn in a supportive and friendly university environment where you can explore scientific thinking and how it shapes the world we live in.
Study Science to build a scientific career using physics, biology, chemistry and mathematics. You'll learn how to do this as an individual and as part of a collaborative team.
Learn how to conduct scientific research and solve conceptual problems. Get practical skills in data modelling and analysis, as well as computer-based analysis. Develop a broad understanding of laboratory analyses and chemical reactions. This diploma will prepare you for further study towards working in professional scientific environments, such as hospitals, laboratories and education.
Over 8 months, you’ll study content that is similar to a bachelor degree, but in smaller class sizes – so you'll have more one-on-one time with your teachers. When you finish your UniLink diploma, you can move straight into a Bachelor of Science at Swinburne, adding no additional time or money to your studies.
Duration
8 months full-time or equivalent part-time
Intakes
Hawthorn (February, June) - View application and start dates
Study modes
- Full-time,
- Part-time
VTAC course codes
- 3400211101 (CSP)
- 3400211563 (IFP)
Course information in detail
- Course detail, course structure and units of study.
Course description
The Diploma of Science is a Higher Education Diploma normally taking eight months of full-time study or part-time equivalent. The course structure requires the successful completion of both compulsory and elective units. The Diploma of Science is an AQF Level 5 Program under the Australian Quality Framework. Admission to the program is normally based on final year secondary results with an English and Mathematics requirement.
Course structure
- 5 core units of study (62.5 credit points)
- 1 stream composed of 3 units of study (37.5 credit points).
Units of study
Elective units
Careers and graduate outcomes
- Career opportunities, course aims and objectives and graduate skills.
Career opportunities
Aims and objectives

Graduate skills
- think critically and have developed analytical skills so that they can communicate effectively in academic and workplace environments
- develop and display the ability to work independently and/or collaboratively
- think logically and creatively when problem solving within various contexts
- conduct research and present findings in both written and oral formats
- demonstrate an understanding of the core principles of biology, chemistry, physics and maths theory and practice.
Pathways and scholarships
- Pathways, credit transfer, recognition of prior learning and scholarships.
Course fees and requirements
- Entry requirements and non-year 12 entry.
Course fees
2023 rate* | Estimated total cost of the course | Estimated cost of the course per year if studying full-time* | Amenities fee per year if studying full-time* |
---|---|---|---|
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) |
$8,301 | $8,301 | See how your SSAF is calculated |
Full fee |
TBC | TBC | See how your SSAF is calculated |
How do I pay my fees?
FEE-HELP is a loan given to eligible full-fee paying higher education students to help pay part or all of their tuition fees. The Commonwealth Government pays the amount of the loan directly to Swinburne.
HECS-HELP is a loan and discount scheme available to eligible students enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place. A HECS-HELP loan can cover all or part of the student contribution amount.
Find out more about fees.
Entry requirements
- Units 3 and 4 – a minimum study score of 20 in any English or English as an Additional Language (EAL)
- Units 3 and 4 – a minimum study score of 20 in any Mathematics
Non-Year 12 entry
Students admitted to the course with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of this course may be eligible for academic credit.
Applicants without a formal qualification but with significant and relevant work experience will be considered if they can demonstrate that they can undertake the course with a reasonable prospect of success.
The University may determine selection criteria and restrictions in respect of courses to apply in addition to these entry requirements.
Course Prerequisites
- VCE: Units 3 and 4 – a minimum study score of 20 in any English or English as an Additional Language (EAL)
- VCE: Units 3 and 4 – a minimum study score of 20 in any Mathematics.
Meeting the minimum entry requirements for the course does not guarantee offer of a place. See Admissions at Swinburne for general information about the admissions process.
How to apply
Applications for all other intakes should be made directly to Swinburne.
View the Course Admission Information, which includes the ATAR and Student profiles for this course. Swinburne’s general admissions information is also available here.
Find out more
Tel: 1300 SWINBURNE