The Bachelor of Science at AUT – Knowledge that works is a future-focused undergraduate degree designed for students who want strong scientific knowledge, practical laboratory experience, research skills, and industry-relevant training. The programme combines theoretical science with hands-on learning, fieldwork, research projects, and modern technologies to prepare graduates for careers in scientific research, environmental management, healthcare, data analytics, marine science, food science, and related industries.

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is one of New Zealand’s leading modern universities and is highly recognised for:

• Industry-connected learning
• Practical education and applied research
• Innovation and technology-driven teaching
• International student diversity
• Modern laboratories and research facilities
• Strong graduate employability

Why Study Bachelor of Science at AUT?

• Access to modern science laboratories and research facilities
• Hands-on practical learning from Year 1
• Opportunities for field trips, laboratory work, and industry projects
• Flexible programme structure with majors, minors, and electives
• Strong links with scientific industries and research organisations
• Research-focused capstone project in final year
• Integration of m?tauranga M?ori (M?ori knowledge systems) into science learning
• Industry-relevant curriculum aligned with global scientific developments
• Excellent pathway to postgraduate study and scientific research careers
• Opportunity to combine science with computing, analytics, sustainability, or other disciplines

Core Courses

Students complete foundational science and interdisciplinary courses.

Year 1 Core Learning Areas

Natural Sciences Courses

Examples include:

• Introductory Astronomy
• Foundations of Life
• Introduction to Biomedical Science
• Chemistry in Our World
• Environmental Science Skills
• Food Science
• Marine Science Techniques
• Physics for Scientists and Engineers
• Climate Action

Mathematical & Computer Science Courses

Examples include:

• Programming Concepts
• Object-Oriented Programming
• Applied Statistics
• Algebra and Calculus
• Introductory Mathematics for Science

Additional Core Courses

• Science and Society
• Collaborative Practices
• Vision M?tauranga: Science Practice in Aotearoa
• Scientific Inquiry

Final-Year Capstone Project

In the final year students complete:

• SCIE707 Science Capstone Project A
• SCIE708 Science Capstone Project B

Majors / Specialisations Offered

Students choose one major, with options to add a second major or minors.

Available Majors

Analytics

Focus:

• Data science
• Statistical analysis
• Data modelling
• Business analytics

Biological Science

Focus:

• Genetics
• Ecology
• Cell biology
• Human biology

Biomedical Science

Focus:

• Human health
• Disease processes
• Laboratory science
• Medical science

Chemistry

Focus:

• Organic chemistry
• Analytical chemistry
• Industrial chemistry

Environmental Science

Focus:

• Sustainability
• Climate science
• Environmental management
• Conservation

Food Science

Focus:

• Food technology
• Food safety
• Nutrition science

Marine Science

Focus:

• Marine ecosystems
• Ocean sustainability
• Marine biodiversity

Mathematical Modelling and Computation

Focus:

• Applied mathematics
• Computing
• Simulation and modelling

Minors Available

Students may also choose science minors such as:

• Astronomy and Space Science
• Biochemistry
• Biodiversity Conservation
• Environmental Sustainability
• Geospatial Science
• Microbiology
• Molecular Genetics
• Pharmaceutical Formulation

Career Outcomes

Graduates may work in:

• Scientific Research
• Biotechnology
• Environmental Consulting
• Food Technology
• Marine Science
• Laboratory Science
• Healthcare Support Industries
• Data Analytics
• Sustainability and Conservation
• Government Scientific Agencies
• Pharmaceutical Industries
• Research Institutions
• Science Education

The programme also provides pathways into:

• Bachelor of Science (Honours)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Science
• Master of Science
• Doctoral research programmes

Programme Highlights

• Flexible science degree structure
• Wide range of science majors
• Practical laboratory and fieldwork experience
• Industry-connected learning
• Research-focused capstone project
• Modern scientific equipment and facilities
• Option for second majors and minors
• Strong postgraduate progression pathways
• Internationally recognised qualification

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Important Notes

• Some science courses may require prior chemistry or mathematics knowledge
• Certain laboratory-based courses may have limited enrolment capacity
• Timetables and course availability may vary yearly
• Optional chemistry pre-tests are available for some chemistry courses
• Depending on selected majors and minors, study duration may extend beyond 3 years

AUT also continues to expand interdisciplinary science areas including:

• Climate action
• Sustainability science
• Data science
• Marine conservation
• Computational science

Student Experience and Industry Learning

Student discussions frequently highlight AUT’s:

• Practical learning approach
• Smaller class sizes
• Strong student support
• Industry-focused teaching
• Assignment and project-based assessments

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students generally require:

• Valid New Zealand student visa
• Official AUT Offer of Place
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Valid passport
• Medical and travel insurance
• English language proof
• Health and character documentation