University of Western Australia

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Science is typically completed over three years full-time and offers a broad first-year curriculum followed by focused study in one or more majors. Students choose from a wide range of majors such as Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Statistics, Computer Science and Data Science, Earth and Marine Sciences, Environmental Science, Genetics and Molecular Biology, and Neuroscience. Many students combine a primary major with a second major or a minor from another discipline to tailor the degree to career goals.

Typical first-year units provide foundations in scientific method, quantitative skills and discipline-specific introductory courses (for example, chemistry, calculus, programming or biology depending on the chosen pathway). In later years you progress to intermediate and advanced units that emphasise laboratory and field techniques, data analysis, experimental design and discipline-specific theory. Research-led project units and capstone experiences are commonly available in the final year, with the option to undertake an honours year or a research project if entry requirements are met.

Many majors include practical components such as laboratory classes, fieldwork, computational practicums and industry-aligned projects. Elective breadth allows for cross-disciplinary study in areas such as ecology and conservation, bioinformatics, environmental management, geoscience, mathematical modelling, or biomedical science.

Entry requirements

Entry to the Bachelor of Science generally requires completion of an Australian Year 12 qualification or an equivalent international secondary qualification, with selection based on an ATAR-equivalent score. Specific majors may have subject prerequisites — for example, mathematics or chemistry for quantitative and physical-science majors, or biology for life-science majors. Applicants who do not meet direct entry requirements may be eligible via bridging or pathway programs, foundation studies, or recognised tertiary study.

Domestic applicants include school leavers, mature-age students and applicants with TAFE or equivalent tertiary experience. International applicants must demonstrate satisfactory secondary-school credentials and meet the University's English language requirements. Credit may be granted for previous university study or recognised vocational qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Bachelor of Science pursue careers across industry, government, research and the community sector. Typical roles include laboratory scientist, environmental consultant, data analyst, research assistant, field officer, clinical or regulatory laboratory technician, and roles in mining and resources, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Graduates with computational or statistical majors work in data science, software development and quantitative analysis in finance, health and technology sectors.

The degree also provides a pathway to honours and postgraduate study (Master and PhD) for students aiming for research careers or specialised professional roles. With additional professional training, graduates may move into teaching, environmental management, policy and regulation, or commercial research and development.

Why study at University of Western Australia

UWA offers a research-intensive learning environment with access to modern laboratory facilities, field stations and specialist centres that support hands-on training and research opportunities. The University’s location provides proximity to unique terrestrial and marine environments for fieldwork and strong links with local industry sectors such as mining, agriculture, marine science and biotechnology.

Students benefit from small-group teaching in many advanced units, opportunities to undertake honours and supervised research projects, exchange and study-abroad programs, and industry-linked internships. Support services, including academic mentoring and career development, help students transition into employment or further study.