Biological Sciences
Choosing your Courses

Bachelor of Science

A broad spectrum of exciting career opportunities are available to Bachelor of Science graduates. This is the ideal degree for people who want a challenging and rewarding career in which they can make a positive difference to the world. Examples include positions in government, research and business. The work experience opportunities gained as part of the degree foster problem-solving skills, independent thinking and the ability to articulate argument. Graduates also gain experience in working independently and in small teams in a research environment.

The flexibility of Newcastle University's Bachelor of Science degree allows students to specialise in a particular area of study (called a major) but include combinations of units in other sciences, some humanities or interdisciplinary areas. It also enables students to follow expanding modern fields while gaining an appropriate understanding of fundamental science. The disciplines' involvement in several Australian Research Council key Research Centres facilitates - links with research and industry, including global leaders in science and technology.

This major is only available at Callaghan, however some first and second year courses are available at the Ourimbah campus.

For possible course choices in a Biological Sciences Major please see the Suggested PATHWAYS in the Bachelor of Science. These documents have been developed to give an indication of sets of courses meeting program requirements that will prepare students for particular careers. They are not the only sets of courses that will take students to the same careers, and they are not the only careers these sets of courses will prepare students for. The entry for the Biological Sciences major is also provided at the end of this page.

If you are a current or enrolling student, Program Checklists to track your progress and ensure you are meeting the requirements of the program and your chosen major(s) are also available.

Bachelor of Biotechnology

Bachelor of Biotechnology graduates will have an excellent basic knowledge of modern biotechnology, including molecular biology, microbiology, and practical experience in research methods, data analysis, instrumentation, information technology and commercialisation. They will also complete a work placement in a biotechnology environment to broaden their exposure, understanding and abilities in the biotechnology industry.

Graduates may persue careers in fields such as biomedical research, pathology laboratories, biotechnology industries, bioanalytical laboratories in government and industry, reproductive biology industries, plant biotechnology and a range of veterinary and agricultural support industries.

Additional information, answers to common questions and a lab tour are available in the Biotechnology pages.

Suggested PATHWAYS in the Bachelor of Biotechnology are currently being developed. In the interim, to see an example of possible course choices to gain a Bachelor of Biotechnology please view:
Example of BBiotech course choices: Molecular Biologist
NOTE: The Program Handbook is the official document listing all the rules you need to meet, plus courses required or available. The above document is only one example of course choices that may equip you for a career in this area.

Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management

The broad application of principles obtained in the Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management degree will give you a unique understanding of the complexities of contemporary problems and processes in the bio-physical world, and in the environment. The skills and techniques gained through the completion of a Life Science major are highly transferable. In addition, students have the opportunity to complete a professional placement with an outside organization to enhance their project management skills, and broaden their understanding and opportunities in the field of environmental management.

Employment opportunities exist in a wide range of sectors, with graduates participating in environmental problem-solving, policy-making, research, administrative and management occupations.

Suggested PATHWAYS in the Bachelor of Environmental Science & Management are currently being developed. In the interim, to see an example of possible course choices to complete a Life Science major in the Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management program please view:
Example of BEnvScMgt course choices: Natural Resource Scientist
NOTE: The Program Handbook is the official document listing all the rules you need to meet, plus courses required or available. The above document is only one example of course choices that may equip you for a career in this area.

Program Checklists

Program Checklists to track your progress and ensure you are meeting the requirements of the program (and your chosen major(s) if applicable) are available for all the above degree programs.