Bachelor of Science (Honours)
2024 Deakin University Handbook
| Year | 2025 course information |
|---|---|
| Award granted | Bachelor of Science (Honours) |
| Deakin course code | S400 |
| Faculty | Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment |
| Campus | Offered at Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong) |
| Online | No |
| Duration | 1 year full-time or part-time equivalent |
| Course Map - enrolment planning tool | These course maps are for new students commencing from Semester 1 2025: Course maps for commencement in previous years are available on the Course Maps webpage or please contact a Student Adviser in Student Central. |
| CRICOS course code | 063355G Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong) |
| Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition | The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 8 |
Course sub-headings
- Course overview
- Career opportunities
- Participation requirements
- Articulated courses
- Course Learning Outcomes
- Course rules
- Course structure
- Research and research-related study
- Fees and charges
Course overview
Deakin’s Bachelor of Science (Honours) continues your studies in the exciting world of scientific discovery, while you forge your own unique path through research exploration in either life and environmental sciences, chemistry or mathematics. You will undertake focused research in your area of interest, developing key skills before launching into a successful career.
Honours is an optional year of specialised study that allows you to combine the theory and practical skills gained throughout your undergraduate degree. You will explore research of global significance and develop crucial skills in research design and implementation, critical thinking, data analysis, digital literacy and scientific communication. You will also develop valuable skills for lifelong learning – an essential professional attribute in this ever-evolving field.
Ready to see how far your scientific curiosity can take you?
The coursework component of the honours program provides you with essential knowledge in key principles of research – experimental design, quantitative analysis and science professionalism. The research project component enables you to develop the research skills necessary to investigate your area of interest.
Importantly, you will be guided every step of the way by experts who are leaders in their field. Our teaching staff are active contributors to the science industry, putting them right at the forefront of scientific research and making them well placed to pass on the skills that are most valued by employers. You’ll graduate with skills that provide you with a competitive edge in the job market, or you'll graduate ready to embark on further study and research training (including masters and PhD programs).
Career opportunities
The Bachelor of Science (Honours) will produce high quality graduates with the generic skills, theoretical knowledge, and specialised practical skills to either gain employment in their relevant discipline (biology, chemistry or mathematics) or to succeed in further study such as Higher Degrees by Research.
Participation requirements
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Articulated courses
Course Learning Outcomes
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Graduates will have advanced theoretical and technical knowledge in one of biology, chemistry or mathematics. |
| Communication | Communicate effectively the design and outcomes of research using a range of verbal, graphical and written forms customised for diverse audiences. |
| Digital literacy | Utilise a range of digital technologies and information sources to discover, select, analyse, employ, evaluate, critique, and disseminate outcomes from the research project. |
| Critical thinking | Use critical and analytical thinking to identify problems and the design of solutions using established theories, models, constructs and practice. |
| Problem solving | Apply theoretical constructs, advanced skills and critical analysis to demonstrate well developed judgement adaptability and evaluation of solutions to research problems. |
| Self-management | Develop and apply knowledge and skills in creative ways to demonstrate advanced levels of autonomy, initiative and ethical and professional behaviour in research. |
| Teamwork | Work independently and/or collaboratively within a research team, receiving advice and guidance from supervisor/s that contributes to achieving the outcomes of the Honours project. |
| Global citizenship | Apply scientific knowledge and skills with a high level of autonomy, judgement, responsibility and accountability in collaboration with stakeholders to articulate the place and importance of scientific inquiry in the local and global context. |
Course rules
To complete the Bachelor of Science (Honours) students must pass 8 credit points and meet the following course rules to be eligible to graduate:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in their first study period
- 6 credit points from a research specialisation
- 2 credit points of coursework units
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements. See the enrolment codes and terminology to help make sense of the University’s vocabulary.
Course structure
Core
Students are required to complete all units within one of the following discipline areas:
Biology -unit set code SP-S000066
| DAI001 | Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0 credit points) |
| SLE420 | Honours Biology Research 1A |
| SLE421 | Honours Biology Research 1B |
| SLE422 | Honours Biology Research 2 (2 credit points) |
| SLE423 | Honours Biology Research 3 (2 credit points) |
| SLE451 | Science Professionalism |
| SLE452 | Research Design and Data Analysis |
Chemistry - unit set code SP-S000067
| DAI001 | Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0 credit points) |
| SLE430 | Honours Chemistry Research 1A |
| SLE431 | Honours Chemistry Research 1B |
| SLE432 | Honours Chemistry Research 2 (2 credit points) |
| SLE433 | Honours Chemistry Research 3 (2 credit points) |
| SLE451 | Science Professionalism |
| SLE453 | Advanced Topics in Chemistry |
Mathematics -unit set code SP-S000068
| DAI001 | Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0 credit points) |
| SLE451 | Science Professionalism |
| SLE452 | Research Design and Data Analysis |
| SIT723 | Research Techniques and Applications (2 credit points) |
| SIT746 | Research Project (Advanced) (2 credit points) |
| SIT747 | Research Project (Publication) (2 credit points) |
Course duration
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as failing of units or accessing or completing placements.
Other course information
Projects and Supervision - additional information
As part of your application for this course, you will be required to first contact potential supervisors and discuss projects. Once you have met with a supervisor and agreed on a project, you will need to complete an application form and submit this via the Deakin applicant portal.
Information on how to apply, important dates and the 2025 Honours projects booklet is available at Honours in Life and Environmental Sciences.
Further information
Student Central can help you with course planning, choosing the right units and explaining course rules and requirements.
- Contact Student Central
Research and research-related study
The research project provides the practical skills necessary to deliver a strong foundation in research. Thesis preparation will include an introduction to research methodologies appropriate to the discipline including associated methods, processes and practice. You will work with a member of staff who is experienced in research and who can assist you to gain insight into research and independent investigation. Staff use their research experience and industry skills to ensure that the research projects and course delivery methods are current.
Fees and charges
Fees and charges vary depending on the type of fee place you hold, your course, your commencement year, the units you choose to study, and their study discipline or your study load.
Tuition fees increase at the beginning of each calendar year and all fees quoted are in Australian dollars ($AUD). Tuition fees do not include textbooks, computer equipment or software, other equipment or costs such as mandatory checks, travel and stationery.
For further information regarding tuition fees, other fees and charges, invoice due dates, withdrawal dates, payment methods visit our Current students website.