The primary focus of the Honours course in Science at Swinburne is on research skills with a mix of advanced theory, professional training, research training, and a research project leading to a thesis. An Honours degree in Science provides a competitive advantage for employment in research positions and is a requirement for studying at PhD level.

Course description

The course is divided into various strands which allow student to focus on their specific discipline. Lectures and, in particular, the research component of the honours degree are expected to focus on that specific discipline.

 

The following strands are available:

• biochemistry
• biotechnology 
• chemistry
• environmental science
• physics

---

Course learning outcomes

At the completion of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) course, graduates will be able to:

• demonstrate advanced understanding of the methods and processes of science as a creative endeavour
• demonstrate the ability to critically analyse a challenging, complex or multifaceted problem, identify research questions, design and plan a project, complying with any regulatory frameworks and practicing professional ethics
• select and apply practical and/or theoretical techniques or tools to address a research question
• integrate research findings with the current body of disciplinary knowledge/paradigms and demonstrate the potential to make original contributions to scientific knowledge
• communicate scientific ideas and research findings to informed professional audiences using a variety of modes
• demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills to demonstrate autonomy, well-developed judgement, adaptability and responsibility.

Course structure

To qualify for a Bachelor of Science (Honours), a student must complete 100 credit points comprising coursework and thesis units within one area of specialisation:

• biochemistry
• biotechnology 
• chemistry
• environmental science
• physics

• Bachelor of Science (Honours) with First Class Honours (H1) for students who achieve 80%-100%
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) with Upper Second Class Honours (H2A) for students who achieve 70%-79%
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) with Lower Second Class Honours (H2B) for students who achieve 60%-69%
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) with Third Class Honours (H3) for students who achieve 50%-59%