University of Auckland

What you'll study

The BSc is structured to give both breadth and depth. In the first year students take core science and quantitative courses alongside introductory courses in chosen majors. From the second year you specialise by selecting a major (or majors) such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Statistics, Data Science, Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, Psychology, Ecology and Biodiversity, or Biomedical Science. Students may also combine majors with minors in complementary areas.

Typical modules include:

• Biology: cell and molecular biology, genetics, ecology, physiology, laboratory techniques and fieldwork.
• Chemistry: introductory and organic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical methods and practical laboratory classes.
• Physics: classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum physics, experimental physics and mathematical methods.
• Mathematics & Statistics: calculus, linear algebra, probability, statistical inference, modelling and computational mathematics.
• Computer Science & Data Science: programming, algorithms, software engineering, databases, machine learning and data visualisation.
• Earth & Environmental Sciences: geology, climatology, environmental monitoring, geospatial analysis and sustainability modules.
• Psychology: cognitive, developmental and social psychology, research methods and statistics.

Students can take laboratory classes, field trips and project-based courses; many majors offer a supervised research project or honours-level extension for students who continue to fourth-year study. The degree also supports conjoint degrees, enabling students to combine the BSc with qualifications in commerce, arts, engineering or health sciences.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on meeting the University of Auckland's general admission criteria for undergraduate study. For domestic applicants this typically requires University Entrance via NCEA Level 3 or an equivalent secondary qualification; for international applicants equivalents such as A-levels, IB or recognised national certificates are accepted. Specific majors often have subject prerequisites—for example, Physics or Engineering-related majors normally require a strong background in mathematics and physics, Chemistry-based majors require chemistry, and biological majors often require biology or chemistry.

Applicants who do not meet direct entry requirements may be eligible for alternative pathways, foundation programmes or bridging courses. Proof of English proficiency is required for international students if previous study was not in English (accepted tests include recognised language assessments).

Career prospects

Graduates of the BSc follow a wide range of career paths depending on their majors and experience. Common destinations include:

• Scientific research and laboratory roles in universities, Crown Research Institutes and private sector R&D.
• Environmental consultancy, resource management, conservation and sustainability roles.
• Data science, analytics, software development and information technology positions.
• Healthcare-related careers such as biomedical research, public health, or progression to clinical professional programmes (which may require additional qualifications).
• Teaching at secondary level with completion of a teaching qualification, or further study leading to specialised careers in finance, patent law, policy or science communication.

Many graduates also continue to honours and postgraduate study (Masters and PhD) to pursue specialist research or advanced professional roles. The University provides career services, internships and industry connections to support graduate employment.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is New Zealand's leading research-intensive university with a broad range of science disciplines taught by active researchers. Students benefit from modern laboratory and computing facilities, field resources for earth and environmental science, and access to interdisciplinary research centres. Teaching emphasises practical skills, research methods and critical thinking, with opportunities for supervised projects and industry placements.

The university also integrates Māori and Pacific perspectives in teaching and research where relevant, and maintains partnerships with local industry, government agencies and international institutions to provide students with real-world learning and employment pathways. Support services for academic development, careers and wellbeing are available to help students succeed throughout their degree.