Bachelor of Science (Honours)
with a major in Biochemistry – Blended learning – on-campus and digital learning
Selected specialisation: Biochemistry
The primary focus of the Honours course in Science at Swinburne is on research skills with a mix of advanced theory, professional training, research training, and a research project leading to a thesis. An Honours degree in Science provides a competitive advantage for employment in research positions and is a requirement for studying at PhD level.
An honours year can improve your job prospects or provide a pathway to postgraduate study.
Register your interest to find out more.
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Start dates
Hawthorn campus
- Semester 1 - 26 February 2024
- Semester 2 - 29 July 2024
As part of my degree I worked at Defence Science and Technology Group (DST Group) for a year, which changed how I view science and taught me to view things from different perspectives.
Tim
Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Course details
- Description, course structure and career opportunities.
Course structure
Successful completion of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) requires students to complete units of study to the value of 100 credit points. All units of study are valued at 12.5 credit points unless otherwise stated.
View course rules and special requirements
A range of research projects are available to honours students in Physics, as well as those in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Environmental Science.
Selected specialisation: Biochemistry
| Units | Unit codes | Credit points |
|---|---|---|
| Honours Lectures Part A * | BCH40002 | 12.5 |
| Honours Lectures Part B * | BCH40003 | 12.5 |
| Honours Project A * | NPS40007 | 12.5 |
| Honours Project C * | NPS40009 | 50 |
| Research and Professional Skills * | NPS40010 | 12.5 |
*Outcome unit – completion demonstrates the attainment of course learning outcomes
- Full-time study: 100 credit points/eight standard units of study per year
- Part-time study: 50 credit points/four standard units of study per year
- One credit point is equivalent to one hour of study per week per semester (including contact hours and private study)
- See the course planner for an example degree structure
Course description
The course is divided into various strands which allow student to focus on their specific discipline. Lectures and, in particular, the research component of the honours degree are expected to focus on that specific discipline.
The following strands are available:
- biochemistry
- biotechnology
- chemistry
- environmental science
- physics
Course learning outcomes
At the completion of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) course, graduates will be able to:
- demonstrate advanced understanding of the methods and processes of science as a creative endeavour
- demonstrate the ability to critically analyse a challenging, complex or multifaceted problem, identify research questions, design and plan a project, complying with any regulatory frameworks and practicing professional ethics
- select and apply practical and/or theoretical techniques or tools to address a research question
- integrate research findings with the current body of disciplinary knowledge/paradigms and demonstrate the potential to make original contributions to scientific knowledge
- communicate scientific ideas and research findings to informed professional audiences using a variety of modes
- demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills to demonstrate autonomy, well-developed judgement, adaptability and responsibility.
Course structure
To qualify for a Bachelor of Science (Honours), a student must complete 100 credit points comprising coursework and thesis units within one area of specialisation:
- biochemistry
- biotechnology
- chemistry
- environmental science
- physics
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) with First Class Honours (H1) for students who achieve 80%-100%
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) with Upper Second Class Honours (H2A) for students who achieve 70%-79%
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) with Lower Second Class Honours (H2B) for students who achieve 60%-69%
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) with Third Class Honours (H3) for students who achieve 50%-59%
Career opportunities
This course equips graduates for careers in a variety of science areas including medical, health, food and beverage, wine, agricultural, sports, chemical and environmental industries. It is also specifically designed as a pathway into higher research degrees (Masters and PhD).
Fees
- Fees for 2023.
Students who participate in a six- or 12-month professional placement will be subject to an increase in total 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 |
How do I pay my fees?
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.
Scholarships
At Swinburne scholarships are about providing opportunity, promoting equity and recognising excellence and achievement. Scholarships are available for both commencing and current students.
How to enter this course
- Entry requirements, credit transfer and recognition of prior learning.
How to apply
Find out more about how to apply.
Closing date for applicants:
It is recommended applicants apply a minimum of one month prior to start of semester. Students will need to confirm supervisor and project as part of the Entry Requirements to this program.