True, meaningful change for the way we live lies at the crossroads of science and innovation. And those crossroads are encapsulated in Swinburne’s unique Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Applied Innovation double degree.

Tailor your science degree to your liking. Draw on the expertise of leading teachers, researchers and industry experts. And specialise in the discipline of your choice with majors available in applied mathematics, biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, environmental science and physics. With practical application of knowledge through project-based units of study, you’ll develop the skills, knowledge and key theoretical insights required to work in a range of professional scientific environments.

The Bachelor of Applied Innovation amplifies your science-based thinking by developing your collaboration, creativity and problem-solving skills in real-world contexts. Working on activities inspired by your passions and interests, and undertaking placements, internships or industry-based project work, you’ll benefit from interdisciplinary, experiential learning. You’ll tap into your creativity, curiosity and leadership potential as you gain the skills to build a better future.

After graduation, a future in your chosen science field awaits - with the added benefit of future-ready training in professional innovation practices. Pursue the science position you’ve hoped for with the skills and knowledge required by current and projected industry needs, or discover new ways to career fulfilment with innovation roles such as innovation consultant, strategic designer, transformation lead, innovation strategist and innovation manager.

Course learning outcomes

Students who successfully complete this course will be able to:

•  Demonstrate a coherent understanding of science by articulating the methods of science, explain why current scientific knowledge is both contestable and testable by further inquiry and explain the role and relevance of science in society
• Exhibit depth and breadth of scientific knowledge by demonstrating well-developed knowledge in at least one science disciplinary area
• Critically analyse and solve scientific problems by evaluating information from a range of sources, designing and planning an investigation, selecting and applying practical and theoretical techniques for that investigation and collecting, recording, interpreting and drawing conclusions from scientific data
• Effectively communicate science by presenting information or arguments, to a range of audiences, for a range of purposes using a variety of modes
• Adopt ownership of their own learning and scientific work by being independent and self-directed learners, working effectively and safely in an individual or team context, demonstrating knowledge of the regulatory framework relevant to the disciplinary area and practising ethical conduct
• Apply a series of thinking systems, creativity toolkits and innovation frameworks to design contextually-relevant solutions addressing local and global challenges in and outside their discipline
• Identify and articulate opportunities to innovate and create impact informed by user-centred research and/or data
• Adapt their discipline skillsets in new situations in response to complex and changing contexts, including interdisciplinary environments
• Facilitate and contribute to innovation teams that seek solutions to complex challenges, using inclusive collaboration practices to leverage different skills and perspectives
• Navigate commercial, human and technical requirements aided by prototyping and testing to deliver solutions that create value
• Communicate the value of experimentation, ideas and innovation with confidence in developing solutions to investors, potential partners, employers or other stakeholders
• Develop futures-focused innovations that integrate responsible social, technological and environmental factors